Knowing Buddha Foundation

On Nut, Bangkok

Bodhidhammayan

Kaeng Khoi, Saraburi

Bodhidhammayan

Hat Yai, Songkhla

Bodhidhammayan

Phuket
- Irene
“Thank you to Master Acharavadee for sharing such profound wisdom — truly inspiring. Grateful to all who made this course possible.”
- Anonymous
“Coming here was spontaneous, but felt like destiny. As a beginner, it was tough at first, but with the teacher’s guidance, I found focus and peace. I’d love to return someday.”
- Chew Khek Kiong
“An inspirational retreat that fulfills its purpose — mindfulness, focus, and liberation. Deep thanks to Master Acharavadee and all who support this sacred path.”
- Khun Aelanna Ade’
“Grateful for every journey that led me here. Thank you to the seen and unseen, the teachers, the staff, and the space. What a beautiful reunion — this is true community.”

1 day Anapanasati Meditation Course

Course Schedule
Saturday 3 May 2025
Saturday 14 June 2025
Saturday 5 July 2025
Saturday 16 August 2025
Saturday 13 September 2025
This is an important opportunity not to be missed.

Let’s learn how to practice Anapanasati meditation and mindfulness, for the understanding of the Mind at the energy level, explainable in a scientific way.

Give yourself a chance to the path of awakening in the Middle Path according to Buddhist teachings. Pause your journey through the external world for a moment, and bring yourself inward by practicing meditation at the Bodhidhammayan Retreat, Saraburi.

Now accepting applications for those interested in learning Anapanasati meditation in a one-day course, from 8:45 to 17:15. There is a van providing service from Bangkok to Saraburi (roundtrip) with a cost of 200 baht per person. If you would like to visit Manasikarn Hall during lunch break, please inform our staff to reserve a time to visit between 12.30 – 13.00. The entrance fee is 120 baht for adults and half price for senior citizens.

Bring your body and Mind into the tranquility of nature, with close supervision by a Venerable monk and teacher assistant. The meditation course is provided with a break and lunch, at no cost.

This allows practitioners to learn the basic principles of mindfulness and meditation, which help calm and strengthen the Mind, making it a driving force in your life. It enhances efficiency in work or studying, improves memory, and helps alleviate depression, as the Mind gains strength to stand firm and move forward.

ONE DAY with Real Meditation to Real Awakening. 

This is REAL.

Applicants must review and understand the schedule before registering and agree to comply fully.

Rules During Training:

  • Observe noble silence and refrain from using any communication devices.
  • Large items, especially communication devices, must be deposited with the designated staff. 
  • Participants please wear white top with collar and sleeves only. Clothing must not be sheer and fit. Long pant must be loose-fitting and in suitable colors such as white, beige, grey, brown, dark blue etc. which are comfortable for sitting and wear easy-to-remove shoes. 
  • Women must neatly tie their hair and avoid leaving it loose.

  • Sleeveless tops and shorts are prohibited, including for those dropping off participants.

Hair and Appearance:

  • Applicants with dyed hair can join unless the color is overly vibrant or trendy. Natural or soft shades are acceptable. Extremely bright or unnatural tones may disturb others seeking tranquility.

Additional Guidelines:

  • All participants must bring their own reusable water bottle. Plastic bottled water will not be provided by the center.
Time Activity MORNING SESSION
08:45
Registration and briefing on the principles of the practice
09.00 – 09.40
Orientation and understanding of the Mind Energy
09.50 – 10.50
Taking the precepts, Acceptance of learning ceremony and starting the practice
11.00 – 12.00
Practice with group check up
12.00 – 13.30
Rest & Lunch Break**
Time Activity AFTERNOON SESSION
13.30 – 14.00
Listen to teaching guidance and then Practice
14.00 – 14.50
Listen to Dhamma Discourse. Understand more about the Buddha’s Teachings
15.00 – 16.20
Practice and Learn Walking meditation
16.30 – 17.15
Learn How to make a firm wish and Sharing loving-kindness and course closing
The practice is in noble silence throughout the course.

** If you would like to visit Manasikarn Hall during lunch break, please inform our staff to reserve a time to visit between 12.30 – 13.00.
The entrance fee is 120 baht for adults and half price for senior citizens.

Anapanasati Course 4 Days 3 Nights

Course Schedule
Thu. 6 – Sun. 9 March 2025
Thu. 3 – Sun. 6 April 2025
Thu. 22 – Sun. 25 May 2025
Thu. 26 – Sun. 29 June 2025
Thu. 10 – Sun. 13 July 2025
Thu. 7 – Sun. 10 August 2025
Thu. 4 – Sun. 7 September 2025

Anapanasati Meditation Course is conducted by assistant teachers. Master Acharawee Wongsakon does not teach directly, but participants will listen to Master’s Dhamma discourses through pre-recorded audio specific to each course.

Registration Conditions:

  • New applicants must be between 17–70 years old.
  • Applicants with facial or head tattoos are not permitted to join the training as it may affect other participants.
  • Those with tattoos on other body parts (e.g., arms or legs) must dress modestly to cover the tattoos.

To register for the Anapanasati meditation course, write your intention stating:
“I would like to reserve a seat for the Vipassana Meditation Course from [start date] to [end date].”
This will allow staff to reserve your seat, enabling you to continue attending Vipassana meditation courses in the future.

  • On the first day, participants must arrive at the Dhamma center for registration between 8:00–9:00 AM.
  • The course ends at 9:00 AM on the last day

FREE of charge
(Except for transportation provided by foundation to the meditation retreat)

Important: Please read all rules and regulations carefully.

Applicants must review and understand the schedule before registering and agree to comply fully.

Rules During Training:

  • Observe noble silence and refrain from using any communication devices.
  • Large items, especially communication devices, must be deposited with the designated staff.
  • Participants please wear white top with collar and sleeves only. Clothing must not be sheer and fit. Long pant must be loose-fitting and in suitable colors such as white, beige, grey, brown, dark blue etc. which are comfortable for sitting and wear easy-to-remove shoes. A shawl is recommended as the air-conditioned rooms can be cold.
  • Women must neatly tie their hair and avoid leaving it loose.

  • Sleeveless tops and shorts are prohibited, including for those dropping off participants.

Hair and Appearance:

  • Applicants with dyed hair can join unless the color is overly vibrant or trendy. Natural or soft shades are acceptable. Extremely bright or unnatural tones may disturb others seeking tranquility.

Additional Guidelines:

  • All participants must bring their own reusable water bottle. Plastic bottled water will not be provided by the center.
Time Day 1 Activity Day 1
09.30
Registration and check-in
10.10
Briefing on proper conduct at the meditation retreat
10.30 – 11.40
Orientation, Acceptance of learning ceremony precepts, and beginning practice
11.40 – 13.00
Lunch break and rest
13.00 – 13.50
Listen to Dhamma discourse and practice
14.00 – 14.50
Practice with group check up
15.00 – 15.50
Practice and mindfulness practice through chanting
16.00 – 16.30
Practice and learn the principle of walking meditation
16.30 – 17.00
Walking meditation and absorbing nature’s energy
17.00 – 18.45
Rest
18.45 – 19.20
Group practice
19.30 – 21.00
Listen to Dhamma discourse, chanting, and rest
Time Day 2-3 Activity Day 2-3
05.00 น.
Wake up
05.20 – 05.50
Morning practice
06.00 – 06.30
Walking meditation and absorbing nature’s energy
06.30 – 08.00
Breakfast and rest
08.00 – 08.50
Listen to Dhamma discourse and practice
09.00 – 09.50
Practice with group check up
10.00 – 11.00
Practice and mindfulness practice through chanting
11.00 – 12.30
Lunch break and rest
12.30 – 14.00
Listen to Dhamma discourse and practice
14.00 – 14.50
Practice and mindfulness practice through movement
15.00 – 15.50
Practice with group check up
16.00 – 16.30
Practice
16.30 – 17.00
Walking meditation and absorbing nature’s energy
17.00 – 18.45
Rest
18.45 – 19.20
Group practice
19.30 – 21.00
Listen to Dhamma discourse, chanting, and rest
Time Day 4 Activity Day 4
05.00
Wake up
05.20 – 05.50
Morning practice
06.00 – 06.30
Walking meditation and absorbing nature’s energy
06.30 – 07.45
Breakfast and rest
07.45 – 09.00
Final Orientation Making a Wish ceremony, sharing loving-kindness and closing

*Noble silent throughout the course

Last day ends at 09:00 AM

Vipassana Course 8 Days

Course Schedule
Sun. 16 – Sun. 23 March 2025
Sun. 4 – Sun. 11 May 2025 (for alumni)
Sun. 15 – Sun. 22 June 2025
Sat. 19 – Sat. 26 July 2025 (for alumni)
Sun. 17 – Sun. 24 August 2025
Sun. 14 – Sun. 21 September 2025

The course is conducted by assistant teachers and Master Acharavadee Wongsakon.

Registration Conditions:

  • New Students: Must be between 17–70 years old.

    • New applicants must have attended at least one Anapanasati meditation course at Bodhidhammayan before registering for Vipassana meditation.
    • Additionally, they must practice Anapanasati meditation at home for at least 30 hours before attending the Vipassana course.
  • Returning Students: Must demonstrate consistent meditation discipline.

    • Anapanasati students preparing for Techo Vipassana courses must meditate at home for 1 hour daily, 5 days a week, before the course.
    • Similarly, Vipassana alumni preparing for their next course must also meditate for a minimum of 1 hour per day, 5 days a week.

Schedule:

  • Participants must arrive at the meditation center by 9:30 AM on the first day of the course.
  • The course concludes by 7:30 AM on the last day.

FREE of charge
(Except for transportation provided by foundation to the meditation retreat)

Important: Please read all rules and regulations carefully.

Tattoos:
Applicants with tattoos on the face or head are not permitted to join, as it may disturb other participants. Those with tattoos on other body parts, such as arms or legs, must wear modest clothing that fully covers the tattoos.

Understanding and Compliance:
Participants must thoroughly review the schedule and agree to adhere to it.

Silence and Communication:
Maintain noble silence and avoid all forms of communication, both with other participants and the outside world, throughout the course. Communication is only allowed with instructors or staff for essential questions.

Attire:
Participants must wear white meditation clothing only. The fabric must not be sheer, and pants must extend below the knees, with a loose and comfortable fit.

New and returning students should prepare themselves to meditate with focus and humility.

Proper attire includes white tops (no T-shirts) and white long pants or skirts. This attire symbolizes a monk-like dedication to the path, rather than merely seeking merit or comfort.

Prohibited Items:
Do not bring books, radios, electronic devices (e.g., computers, iPads, smartphones, music players), or valuables.

Mobile phones must be handed over to staff for the entire 7-day period and cannot be used for any reason. Staff can assist in urgent communication if needed.

Hair and Appearance:
Avoid brightly dyed hair, such as platinum blonde or vivid red, as it may distract others. Neutral hair colors are acceptable. Women must tie their hair neatly and refrain from leaving it loose.

Dress Code for All Visitors:
Sleeveless tops and shorts are prohibited, including for those dropping off participants.

Commitment to the Course:
Participants must stay for the entire duration of the course. Early departures are not allowed under any circumstances unless authorized by the instructor in cases of urgent medical necessity.

Sustainability Reminder:
All participants must bring their own reusable water bottles. The center will not provide plastic bottled water.

Things to Be Aware Of

The Vipassana meditation training is an intense practice aimed at purifying the mind at a profound subconscious level. By igniting the fire element within the body to burn away defilements, this practice brings immense merit and benefits to the practitioner, both in this life and the next. This meditation technique targets the complete eradication of latent defilements, leading to liberation from the cycle of existence.

Participants must strictly adhere to the rules, as they are crucial for success. Observing silence is a fundamental rule, as it minimizes distractions and facilitates mental focus. This training is not merely about observing precepts, chanting, or engaging in menial tasks at the meditation center. Instead, it is an advanced meditation practice aimed at achieving freedom from the suffering that has bound countless lifetimes.

Practitioners must bring unwavering determination and true effort to attain the path and its fruits.


Mental Preparation

Prepare your mind with a strong commitment to this serious meditation practice. Let go of all worries and distractions to allow your mind to achieve peace and clarity. Recognize that this is a rare and valuable opportunity to embark on the path to liberation. Even at the beginning stage, the power of Vipassana practice can uplift the practitioner’s life and positively influence their family.

Although temporarily stepping away from duties and concerns may be challenging, it is a profoundly meaningful act compared to remaining endlessly entangled in mundane responsibilities and emotional burdens.


Items to Bring

  • Personal essentials: soap, toothpaste, shampoo, towels, winter clothing, socks, and mosquito repellent.
  • Comfortable sandals or flip-flops.
  • Adequate clothing for changing or washing during the stay.
  • A scarf or shawl (white only) is recommended for all seasons due to strong winds.
  • At least one white sweater or jacket and socks for the winter season, as it can be very cold.

The center provides basic medical supplies. However, if you require specific medications, ensure you bring enough for the entire course. Avoid medications that induce drowsiness, sleeping pills, or any substances that impair alertness during the training.

Time Activity
04:45 AM
Wake up
05:00 AM – 06:00 AM
Group practice
06:00 AM – 06:30 AM
Mindfulness walking practice
06:30 AM – 08:00 AM
Breakfast and personal time
08:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Morning practice (10-minute break every hour)
11:00 AM – 01:00 PM
Lunch and rest
01:00 PM – 04:30 PM
Afternoon practice and Mindfulness practice (10-minute break every hour)
04:30 PM – 05:00 PM
Mindfulness walking practice
05:00 PM – 06:40 PM
Light dinner. Rest, nap, or walking exercise at will
07:00 PM – 07:30 PM
Group practice
07:40 PM – 08:30 PM
Listen to Dhamma discourse
08:30 PM – 09:00 PM
Dhamma talk and chanting
09:00 PM
Retire to your own room – Lights out

*Noble silent until the 7th day

Last day ends at 07:30 AM

Alumni Course 3 Days

Course Schedule
Fri. 23 – Sun. 25 May 2025

Vipassana Meditation Training
Conducted by assistant instructors.

Application Conditions:
Participants must be alumni who have completed at least one prior Anapanasati or Vipassana meditation course at Bodhidhammayan Retreat.

Arrival and Departure:

  • Participants must arrive at the meditation center no later than 9:30 AM on the first day of training.
  • The course will conclude no later than 3:00 PM on the last day.

FREE of charge