Why should you go there and how do you do it right?

The International Dharma Hermitage Suan Mokkh is the most popular location for ten-day silent retreats in Thailand. Founded by the reform monk Buddhadasa Bhikkhu, the hermitage is situated in a forest near Chaiya on the mainland of Surat Thani province, about 90 minutes north of the Samui ferry terminal in Donsak. A course is held there monthly, starting on the 1st and ending on the 11th of each month. Registration is only possible in person on the last day of the preceding month between 7:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Advance registration, shorter versions, or late entry are not possible. During peak season, courses fill up quickly, so early arrival on the registration day is recommended.

The practice is Anapanasati, mindfulness of the breath, taught according to the teachings of Buddhadasa. The daily routine begins at 4:00 a.m. with a wake-up call and ends at 9:30 p.m. with lights out. Ten days are spent in silence, without speaking, reading, writing, or music. Cell phones and laptops are handed in upon registration. There are two vegetarian meals daily and a hot drink in the evening. Each day includes a task, which can range from using the toilet to gardening. Each participant stays in a single room with a bed made of concrete or wood, a straw mat, and a wooden pillow, on which they then write. Clothing covers the shoulders and knees. Participants are asked for a contribution of approximately 2,000 baht for the ten days, which covers all costs. Hygiene products are sold in a small shop.