About us
Our centre & our path
Dhamma Nikethanaya — “the abode of the Dhamma” — was founded to give the community of Letchworth Garden City a calm and welcoming home for Buddhist practice. We follow the Theravada tradition, but our doors are open to everyone, of any faith or none.
From quiet morning chanting to children’s Dhamma school, from meditation classes to the great festival days of Vesak and Poson, life at the centre moves to a gentle, steady rhythm. We are sustained entirely by the generosity of our community.
Open to allWhatever your background or beliefs, you are welcome to practise, learn and share with us.
Rooted in traditionWe follow the Theravada tradition, keeping the rhythm of chanting, meditation and the festival days.
Sustained by communityA charity run on generosity — every offering supports free teaching and the upkeep of our centre.
For every generationFrom children in our Dhamma school to elders who have practised for decades, all generations find a home in our community.
Our head monk
Venerable Akurala Samithasiri Thero
Venerable Akurala Samithasiri Thero is the resident monk and spiritual guide of our centre. With wisdom, compassion and dedication, he leads meditation practice, teaching and all spiritual activities.
Spiritual GuideGuiding with wisdom and compassion
Meditation TeacherSupporting mind cultivation and inner peace
Dhamma TeacherSharing the timeless teachings of the Buddha
Community LeaderNurturing a harmonious and kind community
Registered charity
Dhamma Nikethanaya Buddhist Academy
England & Wales