Monastery Monks

Monastery Monks

Led by Ven Panadure Chandaratana Thero NBM USA will continue in the rich tradition of the Nissarana Vanaya Forest Tradition

Venerable Panadure Chandaratana Thero

Venerable Panadure Chandaratana Thero

A Life Dedicated to Dhamma, Mindfulness, and Technology

Born on April, 1972, in Sri Lanka, Venerable Panadure Chandaratana Thero has uniquely bridged the worlds of science and spirituality. With an early academic background in engineering and computer science, he built a successful career in the technology sector before taking monastic vows and devoting his life to meditation and Dhamma teaching.

Most Venerable UdaEriyagama Dhammajīva Mahā Thero

Most Venerable UdaEriyagama Dhammajīva Mahā Thero is the fourth Abbot and Chief Preceptor of Mitirigala Nissarana Vanaya, a renowned meditation monastery in Sri Lanka. A revered meditation teacher in the present day, he is widely respected for his deep knowledge and experience in both Samatha (tranquility) and Vipassanā (insight) meditation, including Burmese traditions.

Most Venerable UdaEriyagama Dhammajīva Mahā Thero

Past Elders


Most Venerable Matara Sri Ñānārāma Mahā Thero

Most Venerable Matara Sri Ñānārāma Mahā Thero

(1901.12.11 - 1992.04.30)

Most Venerable Matara Sri Ñānārāma Mahā Thero was a revered figure in modern Sri Lankan Buddhism and the founding Abbot of Mitirigala Nissarana Vanaya, where he served as Chief Preceptor from 1967 until his passing. His presence was deeply felt throughout the monastery, where his dedication to meditative practice and Dhamma instruction left an enduring legacy.

Venerable Katukurunde Ñāṇananda Mahā Thero

(1940.07.10 - 2018.02.22)

Venerable Katukurunde Ñāṇananda Mahā Thero was a highly esteemed Theravāda Buddhist monk, scholar, and meditation teacher renowned for his profound insights into early Buddhist thought. A monastic of the Meethirigala Forest Tradition, he lived a life of deep renunciation, intellectual clarity, and meditative depth.

Venerable Katukurunde Ñāṇananda Mahā Thero