Frequently Asked Questions

I've never been to a retreat before, what's it like?

A picture is worth a thousand words, right? Here are a few photos we took this year at the precamp visit:

During the retreat, we will try to live the Sikh way of life for a few days--doing paat, kirtan, playing sports, and having detailed discussions on various aspects of Sikhi. As perpetual students, we will engage each other in respectful dialog as we grapple with the True message of the Gurus as it applies to our lives.

The goal of any Sikh Retreat is to create the experience of sangat--a community of humble people interested in reaching the Divine. That's why we chose sangat as our first theme back in 2005. We want to create an environment where questioning and developing our understanding of our faith is welcome, an open community forum where we can dive deep into Sikhi, find others on the same path, and have fun.

Where is the camp located?

This year SSR will be situated along the scenic coastline of Longbrach, WA at Camp Colman. Here's the exact location:

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Is this an annual affair?

Yes, the retreat happens every Memorial Day Weekend, and is now in its 5th year.

What’s the focus or theme of this year's retreat?

The theme is "Ice the Vice." We'll cover the subject of the five vices and how gurbani enables us to transcend these unenlightened behaviors.

Who is the target audience? Kids? Youth?

It's targeted to Young Professionals and Students Age 18-39. No one under the age of 18 will be admitted to the Seattle Sikh Retreat. Sorry, this is a strict rule, no exceptions. If you're looking for a Youth Camp look no further than the West Coast Sikh Youth Alliance or the outstanding programs organized by the Seattle Gurdwara.

What sort of food will be served?

We'll have vegetarian cuisine. It's not "langar" however -- expect most (but not all) meals will be prepared by the Camp Colman kitchen.

I'm planning to fly in, what's the airport?

Seattle-Tacoma airport, code SEA. See the directions page for more travel info and requested flight times.

Are you looking for sponsors?

Great question. Yes we are. The retreat is entirely funded by registrations and generous donors like you. The Seattle Sikh Retreat is a registered charity in the State of Washington. If you would like to help by sponsoring/donating one of the meals or the flights for some of the speakers, or in any other way, please contact us at seattlesikh @ gmail.com.

I'm Canadian. Can I attend?

Yes. Anyone can attend. The philosophical prerequisites are an open mind, and a desire to increase your Sikhi quotient.

What should I bring?

Here's a short list of things you may need:

1. Ample clothes for 4 days, warm/hot days and cool nights/mornings.

2. Towel

3. Toiletries (Brush, Shampoo, Soap, Toothpaste, Deodorant, ect)

4. Pillow, Bed Sheets or Sleeping Bag (Matress Provided)

5. Rumaal, bandanna, patka, keski, dastaar (keep your head covered while at the retreat)

6. Rain Jacket

7. Jeans

8. Sweatshirt

9. Runners

10. Socks

11. Undergarments

12. Tshirts

13. Shawl (optional)

14. Flashlight (optional)

15. Alarm Clock

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