Practical Information for Your Visit to Gomde

Arrival and Check-in
Check in with the retreat coordinators as soon as you arrive at Gomde. During check-in, you will be shown your sleeping area or where to set up your tent. You will also receive a small daily service task and essential information about walks, food, showers, and other practicalities. This process applies whether you are staying at Gomde or elsewhere.

The check-in area may change depending on the seminar, so look for clear directions upon arrival. If you plan to arrive a few days before the course begins, remember to check in as your first task upon arrival at Gomde.

Accommodation
Gomde consists of the main buildings close to the temple and Strandgaarden, located 15 minutes away by foot or 4 minutes by car.

If you have booked a single room, double room, or dormitory, you will be accommodated in either of these. During larger seminars, expect that accommodation may be at Strandgaarden. If commuting by car, please coordinate rides with others whenever possible.

Tent or Caravan
There are designated camping areas available. For caravans or wagons, the staff will direct you to a suitable spot. We cannot guarantee that there will be a power supply available for caravans.

Parking
Park along the designated areas near the road leading to Gomde, ensuring access for food deliveries and emergencies. Electric car charging is currently unavailable.

What to Bring
Rooms: Linen are provided in rooms and dormitories. Towels maybe rented but please bring your own and personal toiletries.
Tent: Camping accommodations require you to bring your own tent and sleeping gear.
Clothing: Gomde’s nature-rich surroundings and proximity to the ocean mean outdoor clothing and footwear are essential. Sandals or slippers are handy for moving between buildings.
Meditation Equipment: A limited number of cushions are available in the temple. Bring additional cushions if needed for comfort.

Donation for the Teachings
Seminar fees cover accommodation, meals, and maintenance. Teachings and empowerments are gifts, and it is customary to offer a monetary donation to the teacher. Donations can be made during registration or at the seminar’s end. Please bring cash for donations. It is not possible to withdraw cash at Gomde.

Meals
Three daily plant-based organic meals are served buffet-style. If the weather permits, meals can be enjoyed outside. Consider bringing your own supplies for specific dietary needs, as specific dietary requests cannot be accommodated.

Norlha House Boutique & Café
The Norlha Shop & our Cafe will be open daily during the seminar. 

Substance Policy
The use of any drugs, alcohol, marijuana, or similar substances is not permitted at Gomde. Smoking tobacco is allowed only in designated outdoor areas.

What to Expect

Volunteering at Gomde offers a unique and transformative experience that changes with the seasons. Winters are quiet and reflective, fostering solitude and contemplation, while summers are vibrant, social, and dynamic. The number of volunteers varies—sometimes there are many, other times just a few. Life at Gomde alternates between regular workdays and the different rhythms of seminars and retreats, each with its own schedule and atmosphere.

Daily life includes opportunities to join group practice in the temple during scheduled hours, share lunch with residents, guests, and fellow volunteers, and enjoy free time outside of work hours. Volunteering is more than just contributing—it’s an opportunity to deepen your meditation and dharma practice. If you seek guidance, Erik is available to discuss your practice and life, though his presence at Gomde cannot always be guaranteed.

Working at Gomde

Volunteer work generally takes place between 10:00 and 17:00, though the schedule may shift during seminars and events, requiring flexibility. Depending on the needs, you may work independently or as part of a team. Tasks include:

Indoor work
Cleaning, cooking, organizing, or assisting with specific projects.

Outdoor work
Gardening, maintaining the grounds, tidying up, or supporting construction and repairs.

During seminars and retreats, the focus is often on cooking, cleaning, and creating a supportive environment for participants. These events can be high-energy and fast-paced, where teamwork is key. If you enjoy collaborating in a dynamic setting, you’ll thrive here.

Practical Information

Arrival
A resident volunteer will welcome you, introduce you to the center and group and provide an orientation.

Accommodation
Sleeping arrangements depend on the occasion and duration of your stay.

Meals
Lunch is shared with the community, while breakfast and dinner may vary between communal and individual dining.

Clothing
Outdoor clothing and sturdy footwear are essential for the natural surroundings and proximity to the ocean. Sandals or slippers are handy for moving between buildings.

Books
Gomde’s library is filled with treasures, and you are welcome to borrow books during your stay.

For any questions or specific needs, feel free to contact us at gomde@gomde.dk.

Substance Policy
The use of any drugs, alcohol, marijuana, or similar substances is not permitted at Gomde. Smoking tobacco is allowed only in designated outdoor areas.

Arrival
Upon arrival, find one of the residents to receive you and guide you to your room. Feel free to ask any questions in relation to your stay, and if you wish, you may request a preliminary guidance from Erik Pema Kunsang on your retreat.

Accommodation
All but one room are located on the first floor. Shared bathrooms and showers are available upstairs and downstairs. Linen and towels are provided.

Temple and Practice
The temple is open 24/7 for practice, with cushions and pillows available. You are encouraged to join at least one of the daily group sessions.

Meals
Meals are served in the main dining room. Guests typically enjoy lunch together, but a second dining area offers a quiet space for meals.

Amenities
Bookshelves with treasures are available for browsing or borrowing during your stay. Sandals or slippers are practical for moving between buildings. The Norlha Shop and Cafe will be open at certain times.

Read more and book individual retreats here.

Substance Policy
The use of any drugs, alcohol, marijuana, or similar substances is not permitted at Gomde. Smoking tobacco is allowed only in designated outdoor areas.

Practical Information for your stay at Gomde

Gomde consists of two main principal areas: the retreat center with the main temple and Strandgarden with two halls for yoga and meditation. Each place has its own unique atmosphere, and together they form one harmonious sanctuary.

The Temple Is Always Open
Gomde's sacred temple contains blessed statues with holy relics, and the scriptures containing all the Buddha's words. It is a hall where many teachings have been given and tantric ceremonies held for more than thirty years. You are welcome to sit, reflect or rest any time.

The Temple Gong
The temple gong sounds ten minutes before each session begins. Be there five minutes before teaching and meditation sessions. During a large retreat, the temple is a silent area.

Parking
Park your car in the designated parking areas and never inside the gate. Make sure to park your car so that it allows most space for the cars around, and never block another car.

Shoes Indoors
Do not wear shoes inside any buildings. Exceptions: the main kitchen and Copper Dining Hall.

Respect for the Space
Please close doors gently to maintain the peaceful environment.

No Open Flames
For safety reasons, open fire is not allowed in your room or dormitory. This includes candles and incense.

Your Retreat Task
It's important to remember the retreat task you have been given and to be at the right place at the right time. This supports the retreat atmosphere and helps everything flow smoothly. If you have a retreat task right after a meal, you are welcome to skip the food queue to make it.

Café Etiquette
There is no self-service in the café or the shop. Wait to be served by the person in charge.

Keeping the Area
Make sure to bring your belongings with you at all times. If you have used any of Gomde's things such as cups, cutlery or blankets, always bring them back. You can keep necessary things at your spot in the temple.

Meals at Gomde

All meals at Gomde are organic and plant-based, prepared with care to nourish both body and mind.

Meal Bell
Listen for the bell, which rings when it's time to come for meals. When finished eating, rinse your cutlery, cup and plate at the dish-washing area, and place them in the trays.

Hand Hygiene
Before eating, take a moment to wash your hands thoroughly and use the hand sanitizer at the meal stations.

Activities at Gomde & Surroundings

Gomde Beach lies five minutes walk from Strandgarden. Many people begin their day with a refreshing dip in the sea. Join them and soak your body in the cool ocean, and take a walk through the peaceful landscape.

Scenic Views
From the hilltop at Gomde, enjoy the wide-open view across the bay towards Aarhus, Ebeltoft and the island of Samsø.

Walking Trails
A map with walking trails is available at the check-in area. Feel free to explore the beauty around you.

Rideshare & Transport

Offer a Lift - Share the Journey
If you're arriving by car, you're encouraged to offer a lift to fellow participants who may not have transport. This simple act of kindness can make a big difference.

Facebook Rideshare Group
Gomde has a Facebook rideshare page, where you can connect with others to arrange shared transport. Link to group.

Taxi, Flexbus & Public Transportation
You can find a document with practical information at the check-in area if needed.

Rideshare Sheet for Big Events
For larger retreats and events, a rideshare sign-up sheet is placed at the check-in area. Offer or request a ride there. 

Check-out Information

Check-out is usually at 12.00 noon on your departure day. Please place your used linen in the laundry baskets located under the overhang in the courtyard before you leave. If you stayed at Strandgarden, remove the linen and place your used linen on the bed.

Lost & Found
Lost something? Check the Lost & Found box, located in the check-in area.