ADDRESS
Tambon Suthep, Amper Muang, Chiang Mai, 50200.
DIRECTIONS
From Chiang Mai, take a red truck taxi (Thai: Si-Lor-Daeng) for 150-300 Baht to go Wat Doi Suthep which is on a mountain, or for 20 Baht to go to the Chiang Mai Zoo (Thai: Suan Satt). From the zoo, shared taxis to the wat are available for 40 Baht/person but there is generally a short wait required.
Tel: (053) 295 012
MEDITATION SYSTEM
Intensive vipassana meditation based on the Four Foundations of Mindfulness. Mahasi Sayadaw techniques are used.
TEACHING METHOD
Instruction and advice are given during daily interviews. Dhamma talks in English are given on the night before Buddha Day.
TEACHERS
Vipassana teacher (thai or westenr monks). Assistant teachers vary.
LANGUAGE
English and Thai.
DESCRIPTION
Doi Suthep is a famed for its serene and peaceful environment, giving visitors the impression that there really might be angels guarding its pristine beauty. Close enough to be seen from Chiang Mai City, and with a breathtaking view of Thailand's Northern Capital, the monastery is quiet and peaceful, with ancient trees, birds and the occasional fog covering the grounds. The meditation center is fully functional and growing always. For current information on the facilities and pictures of the center please see the website above.
SIZE
20 - 35 monks, 5 nuns, 0-5 novices, ca.20 foreigner meditators.
DAILY ROUTINE
Meditators are encouraged to meditate throughout the day and stay mindful during daily life, sleeping only at night (six hours maximum). Meditation techniques are mindful prostration, walking, sitting and loving-kindness. Individual interviews take place daily. Practice typically begins at the 4 a.m. wakeup. Meditators have freedom to determine the schedule that works best for them.
FOOD
Vegetarian food is always available. Breakfast is served at 6:30 a.m., then the main meal at 11 a.m.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Individual rooms with electricity and shared bathrooms.
WRITE IN ADVANCE?
Recommended. Calling or visiting in advance enables you to ensure a space. Busiest time is the winter season (Nov. through Feb.). Preference is given to those planning on staying at least 21 days for the whole course and those who have practiced here before.
ORDINATION
The temple requires foreign male applicants for ordination to complete a basic (21-day) course and two 10-day retreats. Then ordination would be considered after completion of all practices. If those men are allowed to ordain, they may also be required to sign a contract stating that they will follow the orders given by their preceptor. The reason for these measures is that foreigners may not understand about what being a Buddhist monk means and so it is necessary to be sure that they have the good intentions and good understanding before they ordain. Women can ordain as maechees; this centre appears to be an especially good place for the nun's life.
OTHER INFORMATION
The course takes approximately 21 days to complete; a stay of one month allows a complete understanding of the foundations of Vipassana practice. Because practice is individual, meditators can arrive and begin at any time. Meditators will be accepted for shorter periods if space is available. Eight precepts are observed. Traditional white clothing is worn. Socializing is not allowed, and care should be taken not to talk about or disturb others' meditation.
