In short: start with a directory of centres in your country, then look for a weekly evening sitting or a beginners' course. Most groups are free or by donation and welcome newcomers with no experience. Go two or three times before you decide; a good group feels calm, welcoming and clear about what it teaches.
Where to look
- Our directory: browse Buddhist centres worldwide by country, for example the USA, UK, Australia or Canada. Many large centres list smaller affiliated groups in other cities.
- By tradition: insight, Zen, Theravada, Tibetan and Plum Village centres often run local sitting groups.
- Local temples: many temples hold an English-language meditation evening, even if most services are in another language. Ask.
- Libraries and universities: notice boards often list free sitting groups.
Read the full guide
What is a first evening like?
Arrive ten minutes early and say you are new. A typical evening has a short welcome, 20 to 40 minutes of sitting, sometimes walking meditation, then a short talk or discussion and tea. Chairs are almost always available. Nobody minds if you do not know the customs: watch and follow.
What does it cost?
Weekly sittings are usually free or by donation (dana). Beginners' courses may charge a small fee. Retreats vary; see free meditation retreats.
Signs of a good group
- It is clear about its tradition and who teaches.
- Newcomers get simple instructions and are not pressured.
- No large fees for teachings, and no pressure to buy or commit.
- Questions are welcome.
No group near you?
Practise at home and visit a centre for a retreat once or twice a year. Try a 3-minute guided practice, a one-day retreat at home, or read how to choose your first retreat.
Run a group? Add it to the directory for free.
Questions people ask
Is it free to join a Buddhist meditation group?
Most weekly sittings are free or by donation. Courses and retreats may charge, often on a sliding scale.
Do I have to be Buddhist to join a meditation group?
No. Most groups welcome anyone who wants to meditate. You are asked to follow the group's simple customs, such as silence during sitting.
What is a sangha?
Sangha means community. In the narrow sense it is the community of monks and nuns; in everyday use it also means any group that practises the Buddha's teaching together.