'Love and Compassion are the true religions to me. But to develop this, we do not need to believe in any religion.'

― HH Dalai Lama XIV

Karuna Retreat Center was inspired by the teachings of HH Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, HH Dudjom Rinpoche, Kangyur Rinpoche and Tulku Pema Wangyal Rinpoche and conceived by Dr. Balkrishna Maganlal after he completed a 3 years meditation retreat

Following a visit to Portugal in the early 90s, Tulku Pema Wangyal Rinpoche suggested the creation of a retreat/mediation center in Monchique, Construction work started in 1992 and by 1997 many renowned teachers started coming to Karuna. Karuna was built thanks to the generosity, love, effort and hard work of many friends from different backgrounds and nationalities.

Throughout the years, and for the benefit of all sentient beings, many teachers have visited and shared their wisdom at this place. Amongst those teachers we'd like to mention: Tulku Pema Wangyal Rinpoche, Trulshik Rinpoche, Jigme Kyentse Rinpoche, Norbu Rinpoche, Mingyur Rinpoche, Swami Ajay, amongst others.

Karuna hosts, on a regular basis, meditation, yoga and other retreats.