Arco Isis Sanctuary

Mountain Sanctuary Tea Temple

The Mountain Sanctuary Tea Temple is a temple devoted to the Way of Tea and Chinese Tea Arts.

We practice inner alchemy through plant medicines and embodied practices.

Our ethos is rooted in Chinese Gong Fu Tea traditions as well as Zen, Taoist and contemporary energy arts.

The Mountain Sanctuary Tea Temple is a temple devoted to the
Way of Tea and
Chinese Tea Arts.

We practice inner alchemy through plant medicines and embodied practices.

Our ethos is rooted in Chinese Gong Fu Tea traditions as well as Zen, Taoist
and contemporary energy arts.

Located within the mountainside retreat center of Arco Isis Sanctuary above San Marcos La Laguna, the Mountain Sanctuary Tea Temple holds breathtaking views of Lake Atitlan in a tranquil forest setting.

We offer workshops, classes, silent tea meditations, private and group tea experiences, as well as home to the largest collection of rare and vintage puerh on Lake Atitlan.

Check the events schedule or send us a message to book your Tea experience, schedule a tasting, private event, or shop our Tea collection!

The Way of Tea

 

Cha Dao (茶道) is a term in Chinese that translates to “The Way of Tea.” It refers to a set of practices and principles that are associated with the preparation and consumption of Tea, which have been developed over millenia in China and other countries in East Asia.

At its core, Cha Dao emphasizes the importance of mindfulness, simplicity, and respect for the natural world. It involves a range of rituals and techniques that are designed to bring out the best qualities of Tea, and to create a sense of harmony and connection between the tea drinker, the tea, and our environment.

Cha Dao is more than just a way to prepare and drink tea. It is a way of life that emphasizes slowing down, being present in the moment, and finding beauty and meaning in simple things.

Offerings at The Mountain Sanctuary Tea Temple 

 

Below are examples of offerings and workshops that we have here at the space.

If you are in San Marcos La Laguna, you can check our schedule for open events, or reserve a private event for you or a small group!

We also have accomodations and personal retreat style offerings here and within the rest of the property at Arco Isis Sanctuary.

Silent Bowl Tea Meditation

This practice is a more meditative way of experiencing Tea through a silent meditative sit. Ambient music will be played and occasionally songs are shared. This is an opportunity to quietly receive the magic of Tea as a plant spirit medicine and open deep portals of peace and presence.

These sessions are offered regularly for the public and also can be requested for privates/small groups.

Gong Fu Cha Sessions

Gong Fu Cha is the Chinese art of making and serving tea with skill. These sessions can be silent/meditative or casual/ conversational, and is a way to showcase the brilliance of the Teas themselves.

In a single session we will brew 2-3 different teas and explore the physical and energetic aspects of Tea. Special Vintage teas are available upon request. Sessions typically last 90 minutes or so.

Check the schedule or arrange your private/small group sit today!

Private Gong Fu/Bowl Tea Instruction

Learn to prepare and serve tea skillfully as a means of self cultivation. Explore the basics and nuances about the Way of Tea and/or Gong Fu Cha. Taught by Matthew, our founder. To schedule a course send us a message.

Tea Tasting - Shop The Collection

 

The Mountain Sanctuary Tea Temple is home to one of the most extensive Wild and Ancient Tree tea collections in Lake Atitlan, and perhaps all of Guatemala. We specialize in Puerh, and offer a selection of other teas as well.

Tastings or showings can be scheduled to visit our collection. We accept cash and most payment platforms.

Private Retreat at Mountain Sanctuary Tea Temple

The Mountain Sanctuary Tea Temple is available for 2 day, 3 day or 5 day personal retreats. Your stay will include 2 tea type offerings a day, and access to the entire 4 acre property of Arco Isis Sanctuary. (pending other retreat use)

Depending on the time of year, meals may or may not be provided. We have a private kitchen on site that meals can be prepared if the chef is not here, and ingredients can be delivered up the mountain.

Send us a message to inquire about what dates/ what is available at that time.

Also depending on the time, other offerings such as yoga, meditation may be available.

Book your custom personal tea retreat with us!

Contact Us

Send us a message to schedule your private/small group tea experience or private retreat.

Directions to The Mountain Sanctuary Tea Temple/Arco Isis Sanctuary
We are located in San Marcos La Laguna, Lake Atitlan Guatemala, on the mountain above Barrio 2 and Eagles Nest at Arco Isis Sanctuary. It is a 10-15 minute challenging hike to get here.

We have detailed direction/video instructions on Arco Isis Sanctuary IG here: Directions to Mountain Sanctuary Tea Temple