Odiyan Retreat Center

THE ODIYAN EXPERIENCE

Become a Resident Work-Study Volunteer

Odiyan is a dynamic community of 30 to 40 volunteers who range in age, background, nationalities and commitment. The residents work in service of balance and harmony for all life through the creation, preservation, and activation of ancient wisdom symbols and teachings.

Our lifestyle is physically and mentally strenuous. It includes a regime of (mostly) organic vegetarian food, valuable hard work, and creating beauty within the Odiyan mandala. And, most of all, cultivating the treasures within us, based on the Buddhist teachings.

Join our unique sacred art projects,  our organic vegetable gardens or contribute your skills in grapic design, marketing, social media, or volunteer outreach.   Besides the challenging and fulfilling hard work, the Work-Study program offers Buddhist classes; mantra, Tibetan yoga and more.

What is Odiyan Work?

Work activities:

  • vegetable gardening, landscaping
  • construction
  • welding and concrete casting
  • foundry work
  • cooking and food preservation
  • sacred art in various materials 
  • animal care 
  • temple care and maintenance 
  • admin, marketing, web development 

Work-Study Program

A coordinated program of work on our many projects and ongoing support activities,  along with Buddhist studies and practice.

Program length: Preferably  8 months commitment. Minimum is 6 months. 

Entry dates now availalbe for 2026!

Who Could Be an Odiyan Worker?

   Please apply if you:

  • are eager to explore work and daily activities as a path to inner freedom.
  • are interested in engaging the fundamental practices of Buddhism. 
  • can work independently.
  • are self-motivated and thrive on a full schedule of work and learning. 
  • are good at working with your hands, and physical work.
  • Have experience with working with tools.