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Darkness Retreats in Bali
When you go into the dark and this becomes total, the darkness soon turns into light.
Mantak Chia, The Tao
Why darkness?
There comes a point when it’s obvious: the way you’ve been living no longer works. The roles, the pace, the constant stimulation; they’ve taken their toll. You don’t need another distraction or quick fix. You need a reset.
A dark room retreat offers exactly that. In total darkness, your body finds profound rest, your mind unwinds, and your awareness begins to turn inward. Without outer noise, the deeper layers of yourself come forward: clarity, insight, even visions that can reshape how you meet life.
This isn’t withdrawal. It’s a conscious step into an ancient practice, trusted for centuries by mystics and teachers who knew that in darkness, we can finally remember our own light.
What are the living conditions like in the dark room retreat?
The room is basic and comfortable, designed to minimize external stimuli so that the mind can focus inward. It has a single bed, a platform for meditation, and one for meals. The room has a cold shower with a sink and a flush toilet. The floor has enough room for yoga and movement practices. There is a ventilation fan which lets air in and out as you please, plus a small AC unit and a ceiling fan keeping the temperature comfortable. The room is not soundproof but the area is generally quiet depending on the activity in the center. We provide earplugs and drinking water.
Dark Room Retreats at a glance
| Best For | Beginners and experienced meditators who want a safe, structured, yet deeply transformative dark retreat. |
| Duration Options | Minimum 3 days recommended (enough for body & mind to settle). Can extend to 5, 7, or longer, depending on your capacity. |
| Support & Guidance |
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| Comfort & Facilities |
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| Food | Nourishing, plant-based meals delivered twice daily. Designed to be grounding and easy to digest during retreat. |
| Integration / Extras |
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| Safety |
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| Location | Samyama Retreat Center, Ubud, Bali – lush, quiet jungle setting, close to town but secluded enough for deep work. |
| Who It’s Not For | Those with untreated severe trauma, psychosis, or extreme anxiety without prior inner work support. (They recommend screening via conversation before booking.) |
At Samyama, transformation isn’t just taught — it’s lived, together.
From all corners of the globe, thousands have come to Bali and beyond to reconnect, heal, and grow
— not in isolation, but as part of a heart-centered community.
With the compassionate guidance of our dedicated teachers and the support of fellow travelers on the path, our students find clarity,
courage, and a renewed sense of purpose. They leave not just with knowledge, but with lifelong connections and meaningful change.
Each story is a reflection of the authenticity and care that define Samyama — and the lasting impact it creates.
What kind of experiences should I expect?
Each dark retreat is unique. Some days may bring fears or challenging emotions. Others may reveal profound peace, visions, or a deep sense of renewal. Both are part of the healing as you learn to meet whatever arises with gentleness and courage.
On leaving the retreat, allow yourself time to re-emerge slowly. Walk in nature, rest, and savor silence before returning to daily life. Integration is as important as the retreat itself.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Samyama located and what's the neighborhood like?
Samyama is located south of central Ubud, in the Banjar (community) of Kumbuh, Mas. We are off of a quiet road, about a 5-10 minute drive to the center of town (depending on traffic). Our neighbors include local “warungs,” or cafe’s, other resorts and villas, a fabulous health club, one of the best restaurants in Ubud and more all within walking distance. We are approximately a 1.5 hour drive from Denpasar International airport.
How do I get to Samyama? Can you arrange an airport pickup for me?
Most of our retreats and course packages include a pick-up from Denpasar airport. Make sure that you provide us with the flight information (flight number, company, expected arrival time) in detail at least one week before the retreat starts.
If you are coming from elsewhere in Bali, we will also provide a one-way transfer. As above, share details about where you need to be picked up from and when.
If you prefer to use your transfer to take you back to the airport at the end of your stay that is also possible.
Can I leave the dark room if I need/want to?
Yes. The door is never locked. You are encouraged to remain inside for the full retreat to receive the deepest benefits, but you may step out at any time.
How many meals per day will I receive?
You can choose two or three meals per day depending on your preference. Tea and drinking water are always available.
Is the room completely dark?
Yes. The room is 100% light-sealed. Meals and notes are passed through a special hatch that prevents light from entering.
Is the dark room soundproof?
The room is not fully soundproof. You may hear soft background sounds from the retreat center or nature outside. Earplugs are provided, and most guests find the environment quiet and peaceful.
Do I need meditation experience?
Yes, we recommend some prior meditation practice. A dark retreat can be very intense for complete beginners.
What happens when I come out of the retreat?
We encourage you to re-emerge gently. Spend time in nature, move slowly, and allow silence before engaging in conversation or work. Integration is essential to receiving the full benefits.
How is food delivered?
Our kitchen team prepares nourishing plant-based meals tailored to support your retreat. Meals are placed in a secure, light-sealed hatch. A gentle knock on your door lets you know when food has arrived.
What are the dark room facilities like?
Each private room includes a single bed, meditation and meal platforms, space for yoga, and a private bathroom with cold shower, sink, and toilet. The room is air-conditioned with a ceiling fan and has a light-sealed ventilation system.
Can I do laundry during my dark room retreat?
We recommend bringing enough comfortable clothing for your planned retreat. If you are staying more than 10 days, we can arrange for fresh towels or laundry service through the hatch, though same-day service is not guaranteed.
What if I need to communicate something?
You may pass written notes through the hatch at any time. Our staff will respond promptly.
How long should I stay?
A minimum of 3 days is recommended. Many choose 5–7 days or more for deeper effects. Extended retreats of up to 30 days are possible with prior agreement.
Post-Retreat Integration
Think you could use a bit more guidance and support once you are out of darkness?
We know a Dark Retreat can be quite a deep inner journey and can bring intense realizations, emotions, and insights. For an additional fee of US$75, we are now offering 1 hour 1-on-1 sessions with one of our lead teachers to help you to process and integrate post-retreat.
You’ll have an opportunity to discuss your experience and get tips on what may help you get back to day-to-day life.
Please let us know if you’re interested in booking one of these sessions after the retreat.
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