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Where can I do a meditation retreat in Thailand?

Wat Suan Mokkh (Surat Thani), Doi Suthep Monk Chat & Meditation (Chiang Mai), Wat Pah Nanachat (Ubon Ratchathani), and Vipassana Dhura (Bangkok) are major options.

Thailand has strong meditation traditions across multiple Buddhist schools.

Wat Suan Mokkh (Suan Mokkh, Surat Thani) runs the famous 10-day silent international retreat every month, 1st–10th. Free of charge (donation-based). No phones, no talking, daily Dhamma talks. Very physically demanding — sitting and walking from 4am to 9pm. International applicants welcome.

Doi Suthep International Buddhism Center (Chiang Mai) offers 5–21 day retreats with monastic discipline. Donations only. English-speaking instructors.

Wat Pah Nanachat (Bung Wai, Ubon Ratchathani) is the international monastery of the Ajahn Chah Forest Tradition. Daily life with monks. Application required, multi-week stays.

Vipassana Dhura Meditation Center (Bangkok) runs 7-day retreats accessible from the city. Less strict than Wat Suan Mokkh but still meaningful.

For beginners uncomfortable with monastic settings: many yoga retreats (above) include daily meditation. Start with 3 days before attempting 10-day silent retreats.

Bring: loose modest clothing (white preferred at monasteries), no jewelry, mosquito repellent.

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