May 2026 Chiang Mai Thailand

May 2026 Chiang Mai Thailand

A Three-Week Meditation Retreat · May 1–21, 2026
For This Retreat, We Are Practicing At A New Venue
The InternationalBuddhist Study and Vipassana Meditation Center,Located about a 30-minute drive from downtown Chiang Mai, this serene and beautiful setting offers an ideal environment for meditation and retreat practice. The venerable abbot of the meditation center, Phra Saneh, a long-time friend of ours, has kindly provided generous support for this program.
Opening of the Retreat
The opening ceremony marks the beginning of the Chan retreat. During this session, participants are introduced to the rhythm of retreat life and guided through the main practices that will continue throughout this event, including tea drinking, the opening ritual, walking meditation, and sitting meditation.
the Heart of the Retreat Is Sitting and Walking Meditation
Sitting quietly in meditation.
Sitting quietly in meditation.
Sitting quietly in meditation.
Sitting quietly in meditation.
Beginning with a slow walk.
Gradually picking up the pace.
Stopping suddenly in the middle of movement，to embrace the stillness.
The meditation monitor guiding the walking meditation.
Outdoor Sitting Meditation on Sunny Days
Practicing quietly on the grass, in the shade of the trees, or before the Buddha statue.
Group Photos Before the End of the First Week
Some participants were only able to join the retreat for the first week due to work commitments, so we took both full group photos and smaller team shots before their departure.
Daily Life During the Retreat
The Work of the Volunteers
Signing in at the front desk upon arrival.
Registering for the retreat and checking in.
The volunteers thoughtfully prepare a selection of basic medicines and first-aid supplies.
Daily Life At the Retreat
Talking about the Dharma in the rain.
Pausing to take a closer look.
Evening walks together are also a simple joy.
The Flowers and Plants Around Here Added Warmth to Daily Life