KAMALAYA'S PHILOSOPHY
The story of Kamalaya began in 1982, in the far jungles of the Himalayas, when Kamalaya founders John and Karina Stewart first met. They conceived the idea for Kamalaya eleven years later, soon after they married, when they committed to creating a place that would be of service to the world.
Kamalaya was inspired by the 16 years John spent devoted to a life of service and spiritual studies in a Himalayan community and by Karina’s lifelong study and practice of diverse Asian healing and spiritual traditions, including her background as a doctor of Traditional Chinese medicine. The vision manifested as Kamalaya, a sanctuary for transformation and holistic healing with the dream of supporting you to truly flourish.
Kamalaya entered a new chapter in November 2021, when founders John and Karina sold the sanctuary to Khun Chakrit Sakunkrit. Having spent months here as a guest, Khun Chakrit experienced the profound impact of Kamalaya’s philosophy first-hand and was inspired to ensure its preservation. Today, as the owner, he regards Kamalaya as a philanthropic investment-a heartfelt commitment to safeguarding its founding principles and supporting its mission to be a place of healing, connection, and growth for all who visit. After continuing to offer their guidance and presence in the years that followed, John and Karina have stepped fully into retirement since 2024, confident in the sanctuary’s future and the continuation of their vision under Khun Chakrit’s guidance.
