Practice meditation in a center in Thailand

If you want to take advantage of your stay in Thailand to learn meditation in a meditation center or temple, here are some useful tips and addresses.

See also :
Learn to meditate : complete meditation course
Meditation Centers in Thailand

Meditate to find inner peace

Meditation is an exercise for people from all walks of life, from all religions and can be practiced in everyday life, as it helps to find inner peace, a state of perfect tranquility, beyond material satisfactions.

It's an experience that will be extremely beneficial to you, especially if you continue to practice at home afterwards.

Different meditation techniques

The two forms of meditation in Buddhism

This does not mean that they are completely distinct, as there is no awareness without concentration.

The techniques of samatha meditation are numerous, some pre-dating Buddhism, others developed after the time of Buddha.

Among those most commonly practiced are:

Anapanasati meditation

That is to say, "attention to breathing". This technique was mentioned by the Venerable Buddhadasa Bhikhu (1903-1993), founder of the Suan Mokkh monastery in Surat Thani.

Those who follow this technique at Suan Mokkh (the Garden of Liberation) practice according to the 16 levels of anapanasati, in accordance with the Pali texts.

Mantra meditation

Which consists of reciting a few words tirelessly is practiced widely as well.

Those who practice it can pronounce » Bhuddh » while inhaling, and « dho » while exhaling. There are several other words to recite, the goal being to help focus attention.

Another technique, kasinas, is also taught to concentrate. It consists of fixing an object in front of oneself, the flame of a candle, or a crystal ball for example.

Vipassana meditation

Which consists of being aware of the movements of one's body and mind. Sati (consciousness) is the key to vipassana meditation.

This method involves training oneself to become aware of the movements of one's body, of one's chest when one inhales, when one exhales, of one's feet and legs when one walks, as well as of one's sensations and thoughts, in order to achieve a state of consciousness

Meditation while walking, sitting or standing are just a few of the techniques.

When the mind is not trained, concentration can be interrupted by the slightest stimuli, noise, smell, pain, anger, etc.

It is then important to be aware of it, but not to dwell on it. A novice can avoid such distractions, which is why Vipassana retreats are usually held in isolated and peaceful places.

You can easily find a meditation center in Thailand, attend a class in a monastery where it is taught, an afternoon or a morning.

The Wat Mahadhatu, near the Grand Palace, for example, has two meditation training centers open to Thais and tourists.

You can also participate in a vipassana retreat, which usually lasts a weekend, sometimes more. Some retreat centers, mostly in the provinces, organize basic intensive courses lasting up to four weeks.

Respect the Precepts

You must accept to respect the Five Precepts, that is to say not to kill, not to steal, not to have sexual relations, not to lie or make incorrect statements, and not to drink alcohol or take drugs or intoxicants that disturb the mind

To participate in certain retreats, you will have to accept to respect the Eight Precepts, that is to say the five aforementioned, and in addition, to abstain from dinner (no meal after noon), from entertainment, from wearing decorations and from sleeping on a luxurious bed.

Follow the meditation technique taught

Once engaged in a course, it is important to follow only the technique taught there. Mixing several techniques leads to confusion.

In general, instructions are given every day, and one reports on their progress or failures to the meditation master the next day.

Advice is then given, and instructions to follow, either the same as before or new ones.

Attire and accommodation in a meditation center

White attire is mandatory, so it is necessary to check if one can procure white clothing on site, or if it is necessary to bring some with you.

In most monasteries, simple accommodation and food are provided, without any financial consideration.

Talking, reading, and writing during the stay are discouraged, as it distracts from meditation. Participants are not allowed to leave the retreat site except in case of emergency, it is advisable to check that you have taken enough change of clothes, toiletries, etc... for the duration of the stay.

Address of meditation center in Thailand

The addresses of temples and meditation centers (Vipassana, Anapanasati...) in Thailand.

Sorn-Thawee Meditation Center in Chachoengsao

Meditation is practiced in accordance with the Four Foundations of Mindfulness, according to the teachings of Mahasi Sayadaw. Participants are invited to continue the practice on their own.

Address
26/9 Chompol Lane, Bangkla, Chachoengsao, Thailand
Tel
038-541-405 /084-351-900

Suan Mokkh, meditation center in Surat Thani

Founded in 1932 by the Venerable Buddhadasa Bhikku, Meditation Master, Suan Mokkh organizes 10-day meditation retreats on a permanent basis. During the retreat, participants study dhamma and meditation. The teaching of meditation is based on breathing (annapanasati), a method used and taught by Buddha. All participants are invited to attend dhamma lectures that take place every day. English-speaking facilitators offer support for meditation practice and other aspects of the teaching.

Tel(66-77)431-596, Zul 431-552, 431-661-2
E-mail : khun.reinhard@gmail.com
Website http://www.suanmokkh-idh.org/

International Buddhist Meditation Center of Wat Mahadhatu

The IBMC is the vipassana teaching center of Mahachulalongkorn Buddhist University.

English classes take place during the day, from 1 pm to 6 pm, except during Buddhist holidays and Sundays.

The center also organizes vipassana retreats at Buddha Monton, Nakhon Pathom, generally during the long Buddhist holidays and long weekends.

Dhamma lectures may be organized.
Section Five, Wat Mahadhatu
Tel: (662) 222-6011

Thais and foreigners have been coming to Wat Mahadhatu for a long time to learn meditation.

The classes are held from 7 am to 10 am, from 1 pm to 4 pm and from 6 pm to 8 pm. They are intended for everyone; at each session come beginners and practitioners, monks, Thais and tourists.

You can come for a three-day retreat or more. Meals and accommodation are possible on site for a financial contribution. You need to bring enough changes of clothes and toiletries, etc. Donations are accepted, but not solicited.

Tel: (662) 623-6326, 623-6328

Wat Pah Nanachat Meditation Centre

The meditation teaching method used is anapanasati (attention to breathing).

Participants spend a day in groups, then each continues alone, following the advice given to them.

At Wat Pah, "Forest Temple", only a limited number of meditators can be accommodated, and each must conform to the monastic way of life.

There is no telephone at the temple, nor in the surrounding area.

Address:
Bahn Bung Wai, Warin Chamrab, Ubon Rachathani, Thailand, 34310

Website :
http://www.watpahnanachat.org/

Meditation Center at Wat Phra Dhatu Sri Chomthong

This temple is led by Dr. Pra Supromyanathera (Acharn Thong). Retreats are held permanently.

The temple provides two daily meals at 6am and 11am, accommodation in cells for men and women, most having their own bathroom.

You can buy suitable clothing at a shop attached to the monastery.

It is advisable to book in advance, as retreats attract a lot of people during Buddhist holidays and the Vegetarian Festival.

There are sometimes French-speaking trainers.

Transport: The temple is located 1 hour from Chiang Mai city. You can take the blue and white bus or yellow pick-ups from Chiang Mai gate (or in Thai: patou Chiang Mai).

Address
Moo 2, Tumbon Baan Luang, Chomthong, Chiang Mai, Thailand, 50160
Tel
(66-53) 826-869

Website :
watchomtong.org
northernvipassana.org

The Middle Way Meditation Retreat in Chiang Mai

Surrounded by picturesque hills and high mountains at 1,120 meters above sea level.

The Middle Way Meditation Village offers magnificent views, fresh mountain air, and our facilities provide immaculate and comfortable accommodations, all designed to allow you to learn and practice meditation while living in close contact with the natural beauty that surrounds you.

You will learn the Dhammakaya meditation method, which is both the simplest and oldest known technique in the world, taught by highly qualified and experienced Buddhist monks!

Address
Wat Suan Dok, Suthep, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Tel: 0 5321 1424

Wat Bhaddanta Asahba Theravada & Sommitre Pranee Vipassana Center

Meditation Master: Ajahn Bhaddanta Asabha, Ajahn Somsak Sorado.

Capacity: 30 people (it is recommended to book in advance.

The retreat is open to both beginner and experienced meditators.

During the retreat, all meditators are required to maintain silence at all times, except when giving meditation reports.

All meditators must respect the eight training precepts.

Meditators should only bring modest clothing (preferably white), personal hygiene accessories, and essential medications.

Ajahn Asabha was the main meditation master at the Vivek Asom Meditation Center (Chonburi, Thailand), where he taught Vipassana meditation for 37 years.

In 1999, Ajahn Asabha became the president of Wat Bhaddanta Asabha Theravada and the chief meditation master at Sommit Pranee Vipassana Meditation Center, where he currently resides.

Ajahn Somsak Sorado, a disciple of Ajahn Asabha, has been teaching vipassana meditation at the Vivek Asom Meditation Center for over 5 years.

He spent two years in the United States as a Buddhist missionary and is now permanently stationed at Wat Bhaddanta Asabha Theravada.

Address
Moo 1, Baan Nong Pru, Nong Pai Kaiw, Baan Bung, Chonburi, Thailand
Tel
0 3829 2361

The meditation center of Wat Rampoeng, Northern Insight Meditation Center (Tapotharam)

The Northern Insight Meditation Center has been teaching meditation for over twenty years to thousands of tourists and Thais.

Some monks speak English, and nuns and volunteers work there.

The center offers a 26-day inner meditation retreat. Tourists must present two photos, two copies of their passport and entry visa, and dress in white.

The simple white attire can be purchased at the temple shop.

Accommodation in cells and meals are provided.

Donations are accepted but not solicited.

The Northern Insight Meditation Center has been teaching mindfulness meditation to thousands of tourists and locals for over 20 years.

It employs monks, nuns, and English-speaking volunteer facilitators.

The center permanently offers a 26-day basic course.

After completing this course, you can participate in the 10-day Insight Meditation Retreat.

Tourists must present two identity photos, two copies of their valid passport, and a visa with an entry stamp.

Modest white clothing is required; it can be purchased at the temple shop.

Dormitory accommodation and meals are free.

Donations are accepted but not solicited.

Phone
(66-53) 278-620, 810-197

POP House: The Middle Way Meditation Retreat

The Peace Power House (POP House) invites you to participate in its meditation course.

During the three days you spend with us, you will learn to meditate to relax your body and mind in a peaceful natural environment and a family atmosphere.

The program will introduce participants to the concept and practice of meditation.

The meditation method we use at POP House is the meditation technique of the Middle Way (Dhammakaya), one of the oldest meditation techniques in the world.

Its simplicity, originality, and effectiveness have made the Middle Way one of the most popular meditation techniques in Thailand, and its international popularity continues to grow.

Middle Way meditation focuses on self-discovery, relaxation, and purification of the mind.

This meditation does not conflict with any religion or belief.

It is a meditation that you can use in your daily activities and will create peace in your life.

Address
POP House, Klongsong, Klongluang, Pathumthani, Thailand
Tel
08 7495 1616

The Young Buddhists Association of Thailand (YBAT)

YBAT was founded by a group of young men and women who wanted to learn more about Buddhism and spread it in Thai society.

The Yuwabuddhiga group has successfully organized Sunday activities on Dhamma and meditation classes.

The elderly Buddhists congratulated them for showing the young people the importance of Buddhism in their lives and for showing that Buddhism is not just for the elderly, but is also suitable for the younger generation.

YBAT has been active in promoting meditation practice for over five decades.

Five YBAT meditation centers have been established with the support of lay Buddhists and former participants in the mental development courses for peace and wisdom of Mother Dr Siri Karinchai.

Address
4 Phetchkasem Road Soi 54 Bangduan, Phasicharoen, Bangkok, Thailand
Tel
0 2455 2525
Website
http://www.ybat.org/

You can obtain the list of temples where English is taught in all Thai tourist offices, if you have an address to share you can indicate it in the comments or on the forum.