Shasta Abbey is a treasure! They are a welcoming spiritual home to one and all, those new to Buddhism and those seeking to deepen their practice, offering a variety of retreats year round. It is a place of true peace. read more

Shasta Abbey is a Buddhist Monastery, specifically Soto Zen. It's open to people interested in studying Buddhism at introductory or advanced levels. Those new to the Abbey are asked to first attend a weekend beginner's retreat. Then a person can attend advanced retreats or arrange to stay at almost any time of the year. For people who live locally, there are occasional Dharma Talks and other events open to the public. This is a wonderful place to learn more about Zen Buddhism, mindfulness, and meditation -- or simply as a place to escape from the world and reflect for a few days. There are also million dollar views of Mt. Shasta and Black Butte. And I can't say enough about the monks, who are very kind people. read more

Shasta Abbey - Buddhist Temples Near Me - Mount Shasta, California

I went to try out their free Introductory Retreat over the weekend and I felt that the place was very peaceful, serene, and clean. I stayed for the whole weekend learning how to meditate and just to see what is a day in the life of a Buddhist monk. Mind you, I've never tried meditating and for some who think it is foolish, well, I can't change your mind. I can only change myself. I recommend anyone who is interested in Buddhism to check this place out. This is a semi-silent retreat, meaning, you don't have to be silent all the time. There is a bit of ceremonials, actually, I was expecting more. Hoping to use the tools and instructions shown to me in the working world. I appreciate this Abbey for the priceless instructions they gave me. More power to ya! :) Homage to the Buddha. Homage to the Dharma. Homage to the Sangha. :) P.S. Location is awesome. Mount Shasta is right outside the window. P.S. Food and lodging are free. The guest rooms are very clean. The food they serve is whatever they get from donations. Expect a simple, non-flashy, nourishing, and satisfying vegetarian meal. They provide tons of books that you can take for free as well. read more

Shasta Abbey is a very beautiful and peaceful place. Meditation instruction and Buddhist teachings are offered by monks during retreats and dharma talks. It is asked that one attend a beginner's retreat, regardless of experience, first, and then you are welcome to attend other retreats or even come for a personal retreat at other times. I have been going once a year for a personal retreat for around four years now. Everything is by anonymous donation, and there is rarely, if ever, verbalized requests for money. Having attended other temples with a more consistent focus on money, and who charge ( a lot )for every class and workshop, and certainly retreats, I value Shasta Abbey's approach to Dana, or donation, very much. There have been times I simply could not attend pricey retreats in other temples. Shasta Abbey turns no one away for lack of funds. In fact they simply work on the honor system of pay what you can. When I have less I put less cash in the unmarked envelope, when I have more I give more. Shasta Abbey exists solely on donation, including much of their food and daily living needs, and have faith they will be supported. This has worked for many years. In turn, they strive to use donations very mindfully, wasting nothing. The monks are extremely kind. While you are there, you generally help out with the daily chores. I am always authentically thanked by a few different monks in passing for my ( small) assistance in the kitchen etc. The rooms are spotless and the beds comfortable. The meditation space is very nice. While eating a meal, Mt. Shasta sits splendidly before you through the window. I truly admire the monks at Shasta Abbey. They truly walk the Buddhist talk of mindfulness and compassion. read more