Sravasti Abbey

Sravasti Abbey is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery set on roughly 300 acres of forest and meadow near Newport, Washington, with meditation halls, gardens, and residential buildings for its monastic community. The layout supports the daily rhythm of practice, with separate spaces for quiet meditation, study, and communal activities.

The monastery was founded in 2003 and named after Sravasti, an ancient Indian city where Buddha taught during monsoon season retreats. This establishment marked a significant moment in creating a Tibetan Buddhist training center designed specifically for Western monastics.

The community gathers for posadha ceremonies every two months, a ritual confession practice that shapes the rhythm of monastic life here. Visitors can observe how these gatherings reinforce the spiritual discipline that guides the residents' daily routines.

The site is located roughly 40 miles from Spokane and offers meditation programs, educational workshops, and residential retreats throughout the year. Plan ahead by checking what programs are available, as offerings change seasonally and the monastery sometimes closes to outside visitors.

The monastery was founded by Bhikshuni Thubten Chodron, making it one of the few Buddhist communities led by a female abbess. This rare leadership arrangement reflects a distinctive approach to how the tradition is practiced here.

Location: Pend Oreille County

Inception: 2003

Website: http://sravastiabbey.org

GPS coordinates: 48.07690,-117.14000

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:01