Top 5: Buddhist Monasteries in Thailand

Thailand is a focal point for the practice of Buddhism and home to many monasteries and temples. It’s hard to decide which ones are worth seeing, so we narrowed it down for you.

Wat Sriboonruang © Nikolay Grachev | Dreamstime

Wat Sriboonruang

Wat Sriboonruang International Temple was specifically designed with the foreign traveler in mind as a way to bridge the gap between traditional Buddhist teachings and visitors. It offers multi-week stays that include meditation, temple stays and discussions on the principles of Buddhism.

Wat Marp Jan

Wat Marp Jan is home to upward of 30 monks and is located in the National Forest in Rayong, near Khao Yai Da. It hosts festivals and events throughout the year so you can explore the life of a monk from the outside looking in, rather than attempting to be one yourself.

Wat Suan Mokkh © Pimkanchanapong | Flickr

Wat Suan Mokkh

The Suan Mokkh International Dharma Hermitage offers strict, 10-day meditation retreats to visitors from around the world. The retreat focuses heavily on the concepts of mindfulness and breathing and aims to teach visitors the basics of the Noble Eightfold Path. They even provide a free stay overnight for visitors who arrive a day early.

Wat Pah Nanachat

Wat Pah Nanachat monastery is located in the forests of northeast Thailand. It follows the teachings of the Dhamma-Vinaya and allows visitors who’ve never experienced Buddhism a sample of monastic training. Be warned, they require you to wake at 3 a.m.

Wat Arun © Komain Intarakamhaeng | Dreamstime

Wat Arun

Wat Arun is one of the oldest temples in Bangkok and towers over the skyline along the Chao Phraya River. While a visit here is a treat at any time, witnessing the temple lit up at night is truly a spectacle.