About Songdhammakalyani Monastery
Songdhammakalyani Monastery is a Theravada Buddhist monastery in Mueang Nakhon Pathom District, Nakhon Pathom Province, Thailand, located on Phetkasem Road near Nakhon Pathom city. Founded in 1960 by Voramai Kabilsingh, it is recognized as Thailand's first modern monastery established for the revival of the bhikkhuni (fully ordained nun) lineage. The monastery is notable for its role in women's monastic education, meditation practice, and preservation of Buddhist traditions.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a tranquil, functioning monastic compound with simple temple buildings, prayer halls, stupas, gardens and meditation areas. The setting is quiet and residential, distinct from large tourist temples. Visitors can observe daily monastic life of bhikkhunis, view Buddhist art and architecture, walk through landscaped grounds, and learn about the history of bhikkhuni ordination through displays and informational areas. The atmosphere is calm and contemplative.
Key highlights
- 01
Thailand's first modern monastery for Theravada bhikkhunis, founded in 1960
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Founded by Voramai Kabilsingh and later led by Bhikkhuni Dhammananda (Chatsumarn Kabilsingh)
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Active center for bhikkhuni education, meditation and Buddhist study
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Peaceful temple architecture, prayer halls and gardens on Phetkasem Road