Korea's Buddhist temples are tucked into mountains and forests, far from the noise of cities. A temple stay lets you live as the monks do — waking before dawn, meditating, eating in silence, and learning centuries-old Buddhist practices.
Programs range from overnight stays with basic morning meditation to intensive 3-day silent retreats. Most include barugongyang (formal monastic meals), 108 prostrations, tea ceremony with a monk, and forest walking meditation.
Templestay programs are offered at over 130 temples across Korea, managed by the Cultural Corps of Korean Buddhism. Popular temples include Haeinsa (home of the Tripitaka Koreana), Golgulsa (martial arts temple), and Bongeunsa in central Seoul.
Duration
1 night / 2 days (standard) to 3+ days (intensive)
Price Range
₩50,000–₩80,000 per night
Location
Nationwide — Haeinsa (Hapcheon), Golgulsa (Gyeongju), Bongeunsa (Seoul)