About Suan Mokkhaphalaram
Suan Mokkhaphalaram, also known as Wat Suan Mokkh, is a forest Buddhist monastery in Chaiya District, Surat Thani Province, southern Thailand. Founded in 1932 by Buddhadasa Bhikkhu and relocated to its present forested site in 1943, it is renowned as a center for Theravada Buddhist study and meditation. The monastery features simple natural architecture, Dhamma halls and the Spiritual Theatre, attracting visitors interested in Buddhist philosophy, meditation retreats and tranquil forest surroundings.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a tranquil forest monastery set in preserved woodland with open-air meditation halls, simple monk kutis, lotus ponds and shaded walking paths. The compound includes the Spiritual Theatre displaying Buddhist art and teachings, Dhamma lecture areas, a library and exhibition spaces. Visitors can walk the quiet grounds, observe monastic life, view religious artworks and exhibitions, and join short meditation or Dhamma talks when scheduled. The environment is quiet, natural and contemplative.
Key highlights
- 01
Forest monastery founded by renowned monk Buddhadasa Bhikkhu in 1932
- 02
Spiritual Theatre (Rong Mo Horosophit) with Buddhist murals and sculptures illustrating Dhamma
- 03
Center for Theravada Buddhist study and 10-day silent vipassana meditation retreats
- 04
Natural forest setting with lotus ponds, open-air halls and simple architecture
- 05
Dhamma library, museum and bookshop with teachings in Thai and English
History of Suan Mokkhaphalaram
Founded in May 1932 by Phra Dharmakosacarya (Buddhadasa Bhikkhu) at his birthplace in Chaiya, initially at Wat Trapang Chik, and relocated in 1943 to its present forested site of about 150 rai to create a natural monastery for study and practice. It became a major center for modern Theravada reform, Buddhist scholarship and the dissemination of core Buddhist teachings in Thailand.
Culture & Context
An important center for Theravada Buddhism and vipassana meditation, known for promoting understanding of Dhamma through simple living, nature and art. It hosts internationally known silent meditation retreats and Dhamma teachings, and the Spiritual Theatre serves as an educational art complex explaining Buddhist principles to Thai and international visitors.