Tao Garden Darkness facility

Master Chia researched modern Darkness technologies for many years. He made visits to darkness retreats in other countries, to gain insights on the best designs for meditation and for comfort. Eventually, the Tao Garden Darkness building was constructed, based on all available information and latest technologies. The facility is the perfect Inner Alchemy Chamber, conducive to meditation and providing comforts and necessities for up to 60 people.

The Tao Garden Darkness is enclosed and encased in a light and sound-proof sheath. The building is constructed of bricks made from the red earth of Thailand, containing all of the properties of natural rock in a cave. The earth was mined and hydraulically pressed into bricks, thus preserving the constituent elements and minerals of the parent materials. The Mother Earth power is retained in the modern structure.

The facility consists of a large, central meeting room for meditation and for dining. Two tiers of bedrooms surround the central area, each with a private bath. The entire facility is ventilated with fresh air intakes and air conditioning systems.

Recommendations for the Darkroom Retreat

During the darkness retreat, you will be completely free from any external light source and all types of animal and dairy protein except for egg-whites to cover your body’s protein and calcium needs. Chlorophylle will be provided daily. Juices, sesame, herbal detox teas, vegetable broth and fruits will be provided to you 3 times per day.

All participants are encouraged to engage in a healthy preparatory diet and bowel cleansing process starting 4 weeks before the retreat. Diet should be rich in Vitamin D, beta-carotene like choleric, calcium (2,000 gm), magnesium (500 mg), and zinc (20 mg/day).

We recommend eating less food 1 week before arrival and check-in at the Tao Garden at least 2 days before the retreat (for additional fee, you can book accommodation in Tao Garden) to prepare the body, clean the colon and do the recommended blood tests (optional).

What is Pi Gu?

Pi Gu is an ancient Taoist method of fasting for spiritual and healing purposes. It translates from Chinese as “stop eating grain.”

Used by ancient Taoist masters during their months or years of solitary retreat in pursuit of enlightenment, the practice centers on a simple diet of fruits, teas, nuts, and eggs paired with special chewing techniques.

During the Pi Gu state, the need for food decreases yet the body’s energy levels actually increase. The body gathers Qi (Life force) not from food but from Taoist practices and the “golden elixir” produced by the special chewing practices. This Qi charges your internal organs, activating the body’s natural healing abilities and enabling you to draw energies from the Earth and Universe. In the pi gu state the body automatically balances itself, the mind is more relaxed, and sleep improves.

During the workshop you will be served with specially prepared food to meet the particular requirements of the body, mind, and spirit in attaining the goals of darkness enlightenment. Fresh juices and soups are served for breakfast and a light organic meal is served in the afternoon. You will also get special herbal detox tea and supplements prepared according to Taoist Darkroom traditions.

Recommended Treatments to Deepen Your Darkroom Experience

Colon Hydrotherapy (Closed or Open System)
Irregular or sluggish bowel movements can impact overall health. Colon hydrotherapy — using either a closed or open system — helps detoxify the large intestine and supports the growth of healthy gut flora.

Chi Nei Tsang Abdominal Detox Massage
Chi Nei Tsang, developed by Master Mantak Chia, is a Taoist abdominal massage that works on the internal organs. By massaging around the navel, it releases stress, emotional tension, and energetic blockages stored in the abdomen.

Why These Therapies?
Colon cleansing clears the digestive system, enhancing clarity and lightness — essential for deep meditation. Chi Nei Tsang harmonizes organ function and balances internal energy.
Together, they prepare your body and mind for a deeper, more focused Darkroom experience. Get 20% off these treatments when purchased with your ticket.

❗️New private rooms

Due to a high demand for Single rooms, we created a darkroom for a few more single (private) rooms. The rooms are fully lightproof and are located in a building next to the Darkroom facility. You will join lectures with Grandmaster Mantak Chia directly from your room, thanks to installed speakers. You will be able to ask your questions by phone installed in the room. You will get food and supplements according to Taoist PiGu diet delivered to your room according to the schedule of the Retreat.

Any questions? Write to [email protected]