A Land of Faith: Buddhism in Rural Thailand Thailand is deeply steeped in Buddhist tradition, with over 90% of the population identifying as Buddhist. This strong faith is particularly evident in rural areas like Suan Phueng, where Buddhist devotion permeates every aspect of daily life. A Monastery in Every Village: The landscape is dotted with Buddhist monasteries, often appearing every few kilometers. These sacred spaces serve as spiritual...
A Tapestry of Blessings: Poojas and the Spirit World in Rural Life In the vibrant tapestry of rural life, rituals and traditions hold a special place. Among them, poojas – offerings and prayers – play a vital role in connecting with the unseen world. Seeking Blessings for New Beginnings: When a new car arrives, glistening under the morning sun, or a family moves into a newly built home, a pooja is often performed. These rituals are not just...
A Feast of Faith: Sharing Meals with the Monks Beyond the daily alms round, a special form of hospitality flourishes in rural communities: inviting monks to share a meal at home. This is more than just a social gathering; it's a profound act of generosity and a deeply spiritual experience. A Ceremony of Giving: When monks are invited to a home for a pooja or blessing, a sacred meal becomes an integral part of the ceremony. The hosts...
A Tapestry of Respect: Reverence for Monks in Thai Society Monks are an integral part of the fabric of Thai society, deeply interwoven with the everyday lives of the people. This reverence extends far beyond simple respect; it's a profound acknowledgment of the monks' spiritual guidance and their role as pillars of the community. Acts of Reverence in Everyday Life: Encountering a monk on the street is often met with heartfelt gestures of...
A Path of Exploration: The Journey of Ordination in Thailand In Thailand, the line between monastic life and lay life is fluid and permeable. The path to ordination is open to men of all ages, from young boys embarking on a spiritual exploration to older men seeking a period of intense reflection. A Lifelong Journey of Faith: Ordination is not a one-time event but a potential turning point in a man's life. Some men may choose to ordain for a...
Chat Pa Wai town in Suan Phueng is only 10 minutes away by car. Here you can find small food shops, some banks, a small hospital and the nearest market. The Thai language is predominant here. Few people speak English. However, you can be sure of a smile and a warm welcome. People will do their best to help you. There is also a big reservoir, open to the public, which is a nice place to relax and watch nature.
Escape to the Countryside, Yet Stay Connected: Exploring Ratchaburi Just a short 40-minute drive from the peaceful tranquility of our retreat center lies the bustling city of Ratchaburi. This vibrant hub offers a fascinating blend of modern conveniences and traditional Thai charm, providing a convenient base for any necessary excursions during your retreat. Modern Amenities Within Reach: Should the need arise, Ratchaburi offers a range of...
Your Retreat Haven: Comfortable and Private Accommodation At Bodhicitta Suan Phueng, we prioritize your comfort and well-being. Each retreatant enjoys private accommodation, whether it's a cozy retreat room or a charming mini-bungalow. Designed for Retreat: All our accommodations are thoughtfully designed with your retreat experience in mind. The buildings are modern and well-maintained, constructed with solid materials to ensure a peaceful and...
A Sanctuary of Tranquility: Exploring the Grounds of Bodhicitta Suan Phueng Nestled amidst a verdant landscape, the Bodhicitta Suan Phueng retreat center occupies land that once bloomed with vibrant flowers. This idyllic setting, bordering a picturesque agricultural canal with a cascading waterfall, offers a haven of peace and tranquility. A Tapestry of Life: The grounds are teeming with life, home to a diverse array of wildlife. Numerous...
Finding Your Sanctuary: Solid Construction for a Peaceful Retreat At Bodhicitta Suan Phueng, we understand that a peaceful and undisturbed environment is crucial for a successful meditation retreat. That's why we prioritize solid construction in all our accommodations, ensuring a serene and comfortable experience for every retreatant. Your Choice of Sanctuary: You have the option to choose between two types of accommodation: Private Bungalows:...