Hanaka – House of Meditation in Almaty

House of Meditation at the foot of the mountains

A space for people striving for inner transformation, creativity, and soulful communication.

What is Hanaka?

Abode of Silence at the foot of the mountains

“Silence is not the absence of sound, but a space where the Essential becomes audible”

In historical tradition, Hanaka is an Abode of seekers... People came to Hanaka for inner cultivation... They could also find rest, shelter, food, and kindred spirits there — those with whom they could share their experience and "take" something meaningful from those who had "gone" further.

Our Hanaka in Almaty is a soulful, non-commercial space for those seeking a balance between an active life in modern society and profound inner transformation.

Who facilitates the practices
Abode of Silence at the foot of the mountains
Practices

What happens in Hanaka

  • Main practice

    Main practice

    Regular authentic meditation practices from the tradition of Sufi orders. Osho therapeutic practices. Every weekend, on Saturdays or Sundays.

    Learn more
  • Body-oriented practices

    Body-oriented practices

    Body-oriented practices. Dance therapy. Releasing physical blocks and emotional tension through active movement and rhythm.

    Learn more
  • “Night in Hanaka”

    “Night in Hanaka”

    A monthly mini-retreat. A deeper format of practice in the atmosphere of the House, with the option to stay overnight. The last Saturday and Sunday of each month.

    Learn more
  • International Hanaka retreats

    International Hanaka retreats

    Multi-day programs with invited Masters of different traditions for deeper inner work.

    Learn more
First visit

How it works

  • Write to us in advance

    Ask us what will happen at the upcoming practice. We will give you a detailed explanation.

  • Arrive a little early...

    If you are planning to attend any of our practices, please arrive a little early... A "margin" of 30 minutes will give you the opportunity to calmly find us (see the address and how to get to us at the bottom of the page, in the Contacts section), look around, and change clothes if needed...
    Please avoid using perfumes and deodorants with strong scents before the practice.

  • Dress comfortably

    You can come to the practice in loose clothing that is easy to move in (preferably made of natural fabrics), or bring a change of clothes with you. We have changing rooms and showers. Not recommended: shorts, mini-skirts, overly revealing clothes.

    For your feet: in the summer you can walk barefoot in the hall, or wear socks/gym shoes/light dance shoes (there are shoe cabinets in the hallway).

    In the winter - if your feet easily get cold, it is better to wear thicker socks/gym shoes/ichigi (but we have warm floors throughout the House!)

  • You will be welcomed

    If you are coming for the first time, you will be guided around the space and helped to find the house. On-site, everything will be shown to you, and your questions will be answered.

  • Practice

    What exactly will happen at the session depends on the type of practice. You will receive additional explanations. The program may be adjusted in the process, depending on the state of the group participants.

  • Tea time

    A cozy tea area is located on the first floor of Hanaka... After the practice, we usually gather to drink tea and have a leisurely chat. This provides an opportunity to gently "switch" from a meditative state to the rhythm and energy of the big city, and often it is over tea that you can get to know other visitors of Hanaka and understand what exactly is happening within its walls.

Facilitators

Who facilitates the practices

  • Gulmira Chetinelli

    Gulmira Chetinelli

    Founder of the Hanaka House of Meditation
  • Ma Dyan Leila

    Ma Dyan Leila

    Facilitator and administrator of Hanaka
  • Zhamilya

    Zhamilya

    Facilitator of Sufi practices
Frequently asked questions

If you are visiting for the first time

Below are brief answers to the most frequently asked questions.

Is any preparation required?

No. The practices do not require special preparation, skills, or knowledge — both those who are here for the first time and those who have been in the practice for a long time come. A separate introduction is held for new participants.

How much does the first visit cost?

The first visit is free of charge. Come to take a look, to get acquainted... The decision to participate or not is up to You.

Our project is non-commercial: the payment goes towards the maintenance of the building and treats. The cost of a repeat visit is 5 000 ₸. A pass for ten visits is 40 000 ₸.

What will happen at the session?

The style and objectives of the practice are announced in advance on WhatsApp and Instagram.

What if it doesn't suit me?

That happens and it's normal. One session gives a "taste" and an impulse — then You decide. No one will force or persuade You to stay. We respect the freedom of choice of every participant.

What to wear and what to bring?

Loose clothing in which it is easy to move, preferably made of natural fabrics. On your feet — socks or gymnastic slippers. In winter, the halls have heated floors. If You wish, You can bring a bottle of water and a change of t-shirt.

Is this an organization? Do I need to join somewhere?

No. It is an open community. Hanaka is neither a club nor a religious organization. You can come to individual practices, meetings, or events — choose what is useful or interesting to You and not visit this place if there is no need for it... We unite people who are interested in meditation, Eastern traditions, body-oriented practices, as well as creativity and self-exploration. Here it is not required to become someone's follower. You can just come... Practice... Socialize...

Why do you ask not to use perfume?

On the day of the practice, it is better to do without perfume, eau de toilette, and strongly scented shampoos and deodorants, as sharp smells distract from meditation and interfere with concentration. Also, among the practitioners, there are people with allergies or heightened sensitivity to smells.

Are there any health restrictions?

Active practices are not suitable for epilepsy and psychiatric diagnoses.
Some physical limitations can also be an obstacle to participation in certain practices. If You have serious diagnoses or have had health issues (injuries, surgeries in the last 2 years), please inform the administrator about this — we will discuss it with You and find a solution.

Is it possible to come with children?

The practices are designed for adults, starting from 15 years old. Exceptions apply only to concerts or certain events where the presence of children is allowed... Ask us the question in advance.

Do I need to change my faith?

No. People of different views come here and no one asks what You believe in.

Contacts

How to find us

Almaty,  Medeu district, Ondasynova street 259/2 (show on the map)
If you want to come

Please leave your name and number — we will get back to you and share what to expect at the upcoming practice. Your First Visit is free of charge.

    The site uses cookies. They are necessary for the site to work and for visitor statistics. Read more in the Privacy Policy