Address
Early registration mandatory!
(if Ajahn Charlee is not there, possibly no one speaks English)
Sorn-Thawee Meditation Centre
Bangkla, Chachoengsao 24110, Thailand.
Location
The very well-known center is surrounded by fields approximately 20 km from Chachoengsao in the district of Bangkla, approx. 80 km east of Bangkok. On the very pleasant grounds there are bungalows, trees, ponds, and a large dhamma hall. Very friendly atmosphere.
Tradition and Focus
Intensive Vipassana meditation in Mahasi tradition.
Teacher
Phra Ajahn Charlee Jaruvanno.
Meditation Technique
Meditators receive individual instructions daily. During the retreat the four bases of mindfulness (observing the body, the feelings, the mind, and the mind objects) are practiced. All arising phenomena are noted mentally. The primary object of meditation during sitting is the rising and falling of the abdomen and during walking the movement of the foot. Formalpractice should be eight to twelve hours daily. All other activities should also be carried out mindfully.
Language(s)
Interviews in Thai or English.
Duration of Retreats and Dates
Since courses are individual there are no particular dates to observe. Recommended duration of stay is 50 days. 20 days are considered minimum. Only meditators staying for at least two weeks are accepted.
Rules
All participants vow to observe the eight silas (moral precepts) and noble silence. Wake-up is at 4:00am.
What To Bring
Before retreat, acquire digital alarm clock, flashlight, flip-flops, water bottle, insect repellant, and toilet articles. A sleeping bag is particularly useful during the cooler season. A warm jacket is recommended for morning meditation.
Lodging
Individual kutis (bungalows) with bath and WC or single rooms.
Food
Breakfast (6:30 a.m.) and lunch (11 a.m.) are varied and of good quality. Bring disinfectant to increase drinking water safety.
Costs
There is a daily fee (it used to be US$ 2) for running costs. Further donations for maintaining the center are welcome.
Climate and Best Time To Go
November to March.
Note
Well suited for beginners and highly recommendable for its excellent conditions, intensive practice and expert individual instruction.
