Suan Mokkh is one of the most famous meditation retreats in Thailand. I visited this place for the first time back in 2018. Immediately I knew that this would be the place I would want to go back often. I was there last year, and I was looking forward to going this year as well.
During the lockdown, from march, all temples and retreats were closed for the visitors, and so was this retreat. As I got there every August, I was a bit worried that I will need to postpone this trip.
But a few days ago, I saw that retreat is open again, and that the first meditation will be held in August. I was lucky.
I am now preparing for my trip and look at what else I can do when visiting that part of Thailand.
Suan Mokkh temple
Suan Mokkh temple and retreat is in Chaiya, near Surrat Thani in southern Thailand, in the Thailand Bay, some 250 km from where I live. As every year, I will ride my motorcycle. It is 4 hours of smooth drive and a lot of rest. The scenery along the road is stunning because the trail goes through Khao Sok mountain, which is also a National Park.
I plan to arrive on the day of registration because I expect this event should be quite a small one. It is organized for foreigners, and there is really not a lot of them in Thailand today. The borders are still closed for tourists, but everyday life is more or less back to normal. We are all wearing masks all the time, but here this is not really an issue. Thai people were wearing masks even before Pandemic to protect themselves from pollution. Also, it is easy to maintain social distancing because this part of the country is not densely populated and does not have any larger cities.
Is it safe to go?
Thai culture is known for not having any physical contacts in public. They do not shake hands, using the Wai greeting instead. Wai (ไหว้) is the traditional Thai greeting, and it consists of a slight bow, with the palms pressed together in a prayer-like fashion.
They do not kiss and hug with friends on the street, so contact is really minimal. In this situation, I find it extremely helpful. Honestly, I don’t miss that part of western culture either.
Anyway, I expect that in Suan Mokkh we would be able to keep a distance. It is a vast property so that everyone can find a quiet place for themselves. The sleeping quarters are arranged as single rooms. The dining hall, as well as Dhamma hall, are large. They are meant to accommodate about 150 people, and I do not expect to have more than 50 people there this time.
Last year, after the retreat, I visited Koh Samui Island, and this year I would like to go to Koh Phangan. It is nearby, and it would be a shame not to visit while I am in the vicinity.
I hope that I will have a great story to tell when I return.
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