Wat Pa Ban Tat (Forest Monastery of Ajahn Maha Boowa)

About this Place

Wat Pa Ban Tat is a revered forest monastery in the Thai Forest Tradition established by the late Ajahn Maha Boowa Nanasampanno — one of the most venerated Buddhist monks of the 20th century and a direct disciple of Ajahn Mun Bhuridatto, the founding master of the Thai Forest Tradition. The monastery remains an active meditation centre attracting monks, nuns, and dedicated lay practitioners from Thailand and around the world seeking instruction in vipassana and samadhi practice. The immaculately kept forest grounds contain meditation huts (kuti) positioned at respectful distances through the trees, maintaining the silence and seclusion required for sustained practice. Ajahn Maha Boowa gained international recognition in 2003 when he launched a personal campaign to stabilise Thailand's economy — his moral authority mobilised citizens to donate gold and currency in vast quantities. His simple samadhi (cremation monument) in the grounds has become a place of pilgrimage for Thai Buddhists. Visitors are welcome but modest dress is strictly required, silence is expected, and visitors should not disturb monks. A profoundly peaceful and spiritually significant place.