Dhamma Āloka Vipassana Meditation Centre

It was definitely worth the wait. The first time around I wasn't able to get in as there were no available spot left in the centre. But I was able to get in when I applied for the second time. My experience at Dhamma Āloka Vipassana Meditation Centre in Woori Yallock in Melbourne taught by S.N. Goenka using audio and visual recordings, was nothing short of life-changing. From the moment I arrived, I felt a sense of tranquillity and serenity that set the tone for an incredibly enriching retreat.

The surroundings of Dhamma Āloka are simply breathtaking. Nestled amidst nature, the centre's serene environment exudes a profound sense of calmness that fosters introspection and inner peace. The well-maintained gardens and peaceful walking paths complemented the meditative atmosphere, making it easy to connect with the teachings and delve into meditation. The Dhamma teacher Justin's wisdom, compassion and gentle demeanour also create a warm and welcoming environment for everyone. Thank you so much Justin and really appreciate your kind guidance 🙏🙏🙏. The daily meditation sessions were thoughtfully structured from 4:30 AM to 9:00 PM, combining ancient Vipassana techniques with practical guidance on applying mindfulness in our daily lives.

The accommodation at Dhamma Āloka was also comfortable and provided all the necessary amenities, allowing the Dhamma students to focus wholeheartedly on the meditation practice. The Dhamma servers and the managers were incredibly attentive and compassionate, always ready to assist and ensure a seamless experience for all Dhamma students. The vegetarian meals served at the centre were not only delicious but also prepared with mindfulness and gratitude. Sharing meals in silence with fellow Dhamma students further enhanced the sense of unity and connectedness throughout the retreat.

One of my most favourite aspect was the noble silence during the majority of the retreat. This silence allowed me to dive deep within myself, to confront my thoughts and emotions and to develop a heightened awareness of the present moment. It was a transformative experience, allowing me to explore my inner self with clarity, equanimity and non-judgment. The daily discourses by S.N. Goenka were enlightening, truly exceptional and provided valuable insights into the nature of the mind and the practice of Vipassana meditation. His teachings resonated with me on a profound level, leaving a lasting impact that continues to shape my approach to the right mindfulness and personal growth.

Leaving Dhamma Āloka, I felt rejuvenated, more in tune with myself, and equipped with a set of powerful mindfulness tools. The benefits of this retreat have extended far beyond my time there, as I continue to integrate the practice of Vipassana into my daily routine and continue to meditate every morning and evening.

If you're seeking a genuine and transformative meditation experience, Dhamma Āloka is the ideal place. The centre's serene ambiance, insightful teachings and dedicated staff create an environment conducive to profound self-discovery and inner peace. This was my second time and I did the first time in Yangon/Myanmar in Feb 2020. I cannot recommend this centre highly enough and I am grateful for the positive impact it has had on my life. Thanks so much Karen and all the volunteers Dhamma servers 🙏🙏🙏 and I am looking forward to become a server myself in the near future.

Had a 3 day Vipassana course at this centre. Loved the location, facilities and many thanks to the staff for the fantastic experience! Highly recommending the 3-day for everyone that has finished a 10-day course as a refresher and easy to squeeze in during hectic life.

My life has changed totally happy after the course here.

Discovering Vipassana has revolutionized my life. This centre is beautiful and peaceful. 💗

Nice environment, well structured facilities, well organized course. Friendly careing staff. Best place to learn how to bring peace into your life in long term.

Some tips that were shared with me before I did the first 10-day course that I benefited from; keep an open mind, stay for the entire course, use a yoga chair/back support, and roll up blankets under the knees to have a more comfortable knee height, get there early to get to know people before Nobel Silence begins, ear plugs (some people sleep talk/snore), an eye mask(for daytime naps), start getting up closer to 4am to save jetlag feelings and begin sitting cross legged on the sofa while watching tv/using computer to get the body comfier with this position.

To my past self I would say: "Learning to tame your mind will be one of the hardest challenges you've ever faced, this contains the teaching of Buddha from 483 B.C. that has survived for so long for good reason. The rewards are worth the persistence, patience and diligence."

I recently volunteered in the kitchen .I thoroughly enjoyed the peace and quiet atmosphere.The whole centre was very serene .I enjoyed working with other team members .The synergy in the group was amazing .The wonderful food came together for the fellow meditators in most peaceful manner and infused with good vibes too .I loved the meditation hours for the volunteers too .

Wow amazing! Try it, the technique is great!

Pro tips: bring a meditation chair, a picnic rug, areogaurd is important if you spend time outside at say background things night. For my experience, the middle shower works best.

Life changing, I have just been for 10 days course and come out completely different mind set. Best place to refresh your mind. You will get free accommodation, nice meals, very calm atmosphere and they provide the opportunity to change your life.

Difficult but profound experience for me and I'm very, very glad I did it. I feel like everyone should give it a go once in their lifetime. The centre is set in nice surrounds, the room was comfy enough, and meals were healthy and delicious. Amazing given that the place is run by volunteers.

Go in with an open mind and the intention to make a change in your life, and you may be surprised with what you end up finding here.

"Life changing"would be an understatement! This is not a usual business. This is a place were life changing work happens. I was only going for a usual explore and glad to have found this practice and really help me see the world in a different light. We all subconsciously know how to live a good life, this practice put them in perspective and this is not for everyone - like everything else in life. The more people that practice this, the world will be a better place😀.

Not for the faint-hearted .. but once you are through .. you live in a different dimension .. beyond beliefs, dogmas, creed .. bhavtu sabab mangalam 🙏🙏

A true blessing to be on beautiful lands such as these and guided by teachers and helpers to go deep within yourself. A must gift to yourself in this life. Be happy 😃 ☀

I have completed 10 days course recently. It was great experience. Now I understood the true meaning of meditation. I am getting and understanding most of the things as they are. It’s real. I know the true meaning of happiness and peace now. Must go, go with empty mind without any previous experience or any perception. May you bless the real happiness and real peace 🙏🏼

Highly Recommended.

One of the global Vipassana centres in Melbourne. Beautiful, serene and peaceful location. Matured with positive meditation vibes making this a better place to meditate and advance in your spiritual journey.

If you are looking for the superhighway to enlightenment, this is the place for you. Good things take time but great things happen straight away! One ten day course will transform your life forever.

Beautiful and peaceful Dhamma place

A perfect place for a retreat and to learn about vipassana meditation. The people are very nice and amazing. The centre is also very clean and well-maintained.

Life-changing indeed! It's undoubtedly the greatest experience of my life so far. Awesome place, amazing people and loads of learning (self-realization). One would relish being in the lap of nature - in its true beauty, and enjoy some really delicious food while learning Vipassana - the greatest form of meditation ever. If you are still pondering over it, wait no further; just go for it! TRANSFORMATION GUARANTEED. May all be happy.

With lots of metta,
Partha