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Top 6 Meditation Retreats in Thailand
If you’re dreaming of a getaway that involves more “om” and less “on-the-go,” you’re in the right place. Thailand, with its tropical vibes and spiritual energy, is a hotspot for meditation retreats.
No need to go on a mindfulness treasure hunt — we’ve got your back. Straight from the tranquillity playbook, here’s the lowdown on the top meditation retreats in Thailand. Get ready to trade your daily grind for some serious peace of mind!
1. Indriya Retreat
Services: Loving-Kindness Retreat, Vipassana Retreats
Website: http://www.indriyaretreat.org/
Address: 66/9 Moo.5, Koh Phangan, Surat Thani 84280, Thailand
Contact Details: +66835933597
Operating Hours: Daily 4:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Google reviews score | 4.9/5 |
Facebook reviews score | 5/5 |
Total reviews | 5/5 |
Score consistency | 4.9/5 |
Program Diversity | 5/5 |
Experienced Instructors | 5/5 |
Location and Environment | 5/5 |
Duration and Flexibility | 4/5 |
Pricing(A higher score means a better value) | 5/5 |
Pros
- Has diverse program catering to meditators of all levels
- Has experienced instructors
- Has kind and helpful volunteers
- Provides transparency in retreat structure, pricing, and schedules
- Ideal for learning about Buddhism and improving meditation practice
Cons
- Inconsistent retreat durations,
Nestled amidst the natural beauty of Koh Phangan, Indriya Retreat offers a haven for those seeking profound inner journeys.
From what we’ve seen, their diverse program blends traditional mindfulness practices with modern techniques, catering to meditators of all levels — which is a big plus in our books!
We also appreciate that experienced instructors are there to guide individuals through a medley of techniques, helping unlock the secrets of their mind.
After checking out the center, we were happy to see that it’s simple yet comfortable, providing the support we needed to stay mindful and make progress.
Another aspect we appreciated there was the volunteers who were kind and incredibly helpful, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere!
We also appreciate the breadth of information they offer. We think that having their retreat structure and upcoming schedules available on their website is a great way to keep potential participants well-informed and prepared.
However, and it’s a bit of a downer, the only thing we noticed is that their retreats are not consistent. For instance, some previous patrons mentioned that the retreats can vary in duration, being either too quick or very long at times.
Nonetheless, we think their pricing transparency is a standout aspect. For us, it’s always a relief when we can easily find and understand the costs associated with a retreat.
In addition, many people we surveyed mentioned that if you want to learn about Buddhism and improve your meditation practice, this is the place to come!
2. Dipabhāvan Meditation Center
Services: Meditation Retreat
Website: http://dipabhavan.org/
Address: 438/123 Village No. 1 Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84310, Thailand
Contact Details: +66969936955
Google reviews score | 4.9/5 |
TripAdvisor reviews score | 4.5/5 |
Total reviews | 5/5 |
Score consistency | 4.7/5 |
Program Diversity | 5/5 |
Experienced Instructors | 5/5 |
Location and Environment | 4/5 |
Duration and Flexibility | 5/5 |
Pricing(A higher score means a better value) | 5/5 |
Pros
- Led by seasoned meditation masters
- Retreats offered in three languages: Thai, English, and Russian
- Serene and beautiful retreat centre
- Offers free-of-charge teachings
Cons
- Few reports on dissatisfaction regarding accommodation
Dipabhāvan, which means “Development of Light Hermitage,” is more than a meditation centre—it’s a sanctuary for spiritual growth. Tucked away in the heart of Koh Samui, this centre follows the Dhamma practice.
The first thing we loved about this centre is it’s led by seasoned meditation masters. But what really caught our attention is that they offer retreats in three languages!
We found it exciting that customers can choose from Thai, English, or Russian retreats, making the experience accessible to a diverse range of individuals.
After checking out the place, we were amazed at how serene and beautiful the retreat centre is.
Plus, we commend how well it’s run, from the schedules to serving food. It seems like they’ve got the logistics down to create a harmonious and tranquil environment for participants.
Now, here’s what we think is very commendable: You won’t have to dish out any cash to join the courses. Following the Buddhist tradition, all teachings come free of charge!
At the end of the retreat, though, if you’re happy with the retreat and feel like giving back, the centre is more than happy to accept donations.
Your contribution will support essentials like food, electricity, water, petrol, maintaining the place, and compensating the Thai staff. It’s a chance to keep the good vibes flowing!
But we did encounter one minor hiccup here. Some patrons we chatted with mentioned their beds were on the hard side, and the rooms weren’t top-notch in maintenance—just a heads-up for those who like a bit more comfort in their meditation retreat digs.
3. Mahasiddha Yoga
Services: The New Online Esoteric Yoga Course, Silent Retreat w/ Yoga (onsite at our yoga resort), Tantra Immersion Retreat (onsite at our yoga resort), and many more
Website: https://tantrayogathailand.com/
Address: Mahasiddha Yoga 100/1 Moo 10 On Tai, San Kamphaeng Chiang Mai 50130 Thailand
Contact Details:
- tantrayogachiangmai@gmail.com
- 0613-784-194
Operating Hours: By appointment basis
Google reviews score | 5/5 |
Total reviews | 5/5 |
Score consistency | 5/5 |
Program Diversity | 5/5 |
Experienced Instructors | 5/5 |
Location and Environment | 5/5 |
Duration and Flexibility | 5/5 |
Pricing(A higher score means a better value) | 5/5 |
Pros
- Beginner-friendly
- For all age groups
- Experienced tantra and yoga teachers
- Retreats in the countryside of Chiang Mai, a retreat center with big garden and pool
Cons
- Do not provide transport from the airport
We recently attended a retreat with Mahasiddha Yoga and were impressed by the exceptional quality of their services. The instructors were highly knowledgeable, guiding us through profound meditation and yoga practices that deeply enhanced our spiritual journey.
Moreover, the efficiency of the program was remarkable. Each session was well-organized, starting and ending on time, ensuring we maximized every moment of our retreat.
Additionally, the affordability of Mahasiddha Yoga’s retreats is commendable. Despite the high quality of instruction and facilities, the prices were reasonable, making this spiritual experience accessible to many.
Furthermore, the facilities provided were outstanding. The serene environment, clean accommodations, and beautiful surroundings created a perfect atmosphere for relaxation and introspection.
Transitioning to the support staff, we found them to be incredibly helpful and attentive. They were always available to address our needs, enhancing our overall experience.
Additionally, the variety of activities offered kept us engaged and enriched throughout our stay. From early morning yoga sessions to evening meditation, each day was filled with opportunities for growth and learning.
Lastly, the sense of community at Mahasiddha Yoga was profound. We connected deeply with fellow participants, sharing our experiences and forming lasting friendships that added immense value to our retreat.
4. Sorn-Thawee Meditation Centre
Services: Meditation Retreat
Website: https://www.meditationthailand.org/
Address: M69C+PX2, Samet Nuea, Bang Khla District, Chachoengsao 24110, Thailand
Contact Details: +66943515964
Operating Hours: Daily 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Google reviews score | 4.8/5 |
Total reviews | 4/5 |
Score consistency | 4.8/5 |
Program Diversity | 5/5 |
Experienced Instructors | 5/5 |
Location and Environment | 5/5 |
Duration and Flexibility | 4/5 |
Pricing(A higher score means a better value) | 5/5 |
Pros
- Provides various teachings
- Offers diverse programs catering
- Surrounded by lush greenery and tranquillity
- Offers online guided meditations led by experienced instructors
- Provides Meditation Teachings for free
- Offers transparent pricing for the entire retreat
Cons
- Lack of information on the languages used in on-site meditation retreats
Nestled in the serene landscapes of Chachoengsao, the Sorn-Thawee Meditation Centre stands as a haven for those seeking profound inner transformation.
From our surveys, we found out that the centre provides vipassana meditation retreats, Dharma practices, and teachings from experienced instructors.
We also think it’s notable that they provide online guided meditations led by MC Brigitte, a pro in Vipassana Meditation and other techniques.
As for their programs, we appreciate the diversity of offerings! We like how they can cater to novice and experienced meditators who are at different stages of their spiritual journeys.
When it comes to schedules, you can just hop onto their website, which we think is super helpful and saves you from spending too much time searching around!
Plus, we think it’s commendable that MC Brigitte offers all Meditation Teachings for free. However, you’re welcome to pitch in with donations to support her work and social projects.
Now, to cover the essentials like food, accommodation, and access to facilities, the cost for the entire retreat is 3,000 Thai Baht (approximately 85 EU or 90 USD and 500 THB per day) — which we think is reasonable.
On the flip side, we think it would be great if they could provide more information on their website about the languages used in their face-to-face meditation retreats.
As of now, it only specifies the languages used in their online retreats, leaving a gap for individuals browsing for in-person meditation retreats who may find such details helpful.
Other than that, we believe that Sorn-Thawee Meditation Centre is a great place for meditation retreats!
5. Pa Pae Meditation Retreat
Services: Meditation Retreat
Website: https://www.papaemeditation.org/thailand/
Address: Pa Pae, Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai 50150, Thailand
Contact Details: +66840938383
Operating Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Google reviews score | 4.9/5 |
Facebook reviews score | 5/5 |
TripAdvisor reviews score | 5/5 |
Total reviews | 5/5 |
Score consistency | 4.9/5 |
Program Diversity | 5/5 |
Experienced Instructors | 5/5 |
Location and Environment | 4/5 |
Duration and Flexibility | 5/5 |
Pricing(A higher score means a better value) | 5/5 |
Pros
- Open for everyone
- Offers the opportunity to learn directly from experienced monks
- Located in a quiet village with a mountain view
- Provides flexibility with a variety of retreat styles
Cons
- Tourist vibes overshadowing meditation serenity
Di Pa Pae Meditation Retreat is in the heart of Chiang Mai (row 618), where traditional Thai meditation meets modern mindfulness. We like how it’s open for everyone, whether you’re a meditation newbie or a seasoned pro, to embark on a journey of self-discovery.
But for us, what sets Pa Pae Meditation Retreat apart is the chance to learn directly from experienced monks about meditation and Buddhism. We think that this adds a unique layer to every individuals’ spiritual exploration.
As if that’s not enticing enough, we’re amazed that the centre is nestled in a wonderful, quiet village, offering a mountain view that enhances the overall serenity of the retreat.
Upon checking out their offerings, we think Pa Pae Meditation Retreat is truly commendable for their flexibility in catering to diverse preferences.
In our books, it’s awesome that patrons can choose from a variety of retreat styles, including the 3-Day Structured Retreat, Flexible Retreat, and the Koh Samui 3-Day Retreat.
This variety allows individuals to tailor their meditation experience based on their schedule, preferences, and the level of immersion they’re seeking—big plus for us!
However, we were quite iffy that some patrons didn’t quite get what they were seeking at Pa Pae Meditation Retreat.
For instance, one customer we spoke with expressed disappointment, mentioning that the centre felt more like a tourist destination than a tranquil meditation retreat.
Nevertheless, we still think Di Pa Pae Meditation Retreat is a great meditation centre because of its variety of retreat styles and atmosphere.
6. Pai International Meditation Center
Services: Meditation Retreat
Website: http://www.paimeditationcenter.org/
Address: 175 Moo2, Ban Pong Ron Road Mae Hi, Pai District, Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand
Contact Details: +66911191892
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Friday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Google reviews score | 4.8/5 |
Facebook reviews score | 5/5 |
Total reviews | 5/5 |
Score consistency | 4.9/5 |
Program Diversity | 5/5 |
Experienced Instructors | 5/5 |
Location and Environment | 5/5 |
Duration and Flexibility | 5/5 |
Pricing(A higher score means a better value) | 4/5 |
Pros
- Offers teachings in English
- Provides free daily meditations and options for longer retreats
- Monks are not only teachers but also friendly
- Offers stunning surroundings
- Has well-maintained rooms
Cons
- Prices may be on the higher side
Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Pai, Pai International Meditation Center is like a meditation haven blended with nature’s charm.
From what we’ve heard, this place is a special, calm, and wonderful spot in Pai, and we’re pleased to confirm that it lives up to its reputation.
We like that they’re all about inviting anyone, no matter your meditation street cred, to find inner peace. For instance, one patron shared that despite having no prior experience with meditation, he felt included at Pai International Meditation Center.
Plus, we also value how the monks throw down teachings in English that are not just fascinating but crystal clear and deep! We were fine with understanding what they were saying.
Questions? No problem, they’re open and generous with their answers — which we applaud.
We also like that Pai International Meditation Center has options where patrons can join free daily meditations or opt for a more extended retreat for a more in-depth experience in inner work.
Now, let’s shift our focus to the centre itself. We genuinely love that it’s surrounded by nature’s A-game — a beautiful lake adorned with lotus flowers, expansive green spaces, and a vibrant array of flowers.
The rooms? Pleasant, clean, and just plain beautiful. Plus, we appreciate that the staff here helps with everything for a few days of deep diving, including some top-notch vegetarian and vegan food.
In a nutshell, we like the whole vibe – from the meditation offerings to the stunning surroundings.
However, we think it’s worth mentioning that they are on the pricier side, charging a minimum of 1,000 THB per person per day to cover subsistence expenses and other service costs.