Learning To Meditate With The Monks In Thailand: Everything You Need To Know Before Going to Pa Pae Meditation Retreat

Tucked away in the lush mountains between Chiang Mai and Pai, Pa Pae Meditation Retreat offers a quiet escape for anyone looking to unplug and reconnect with themselves. Whether you're a seasoned meditator or just curious about the practice, this retreat provides a rare opportunity to experience monastic life in a simple, peaceful setting.

Unlike many structured retreats, Pa Pae offers flexibility—you can choose a set three-day program or stay as long as you’d like. I opted for the latter and spent about a week immersed in the experience. Here’s everything you need to know before you go.

How to Book Your Stay

Pa Pae keeps things refreshingly low-tech. There’s no flashy booking system—just a Google Form that you’re directed to on their website based on the type of retreat you choose. Once you submit your request, they’ll follow up with the details.

No prepayment is required, and everything is handled in person when you arrive.

The Cost

You pay 500 THB per day (~$15 USD) in cash upon arrival. This covers your accommodation, clothing, daily meals, and participation in all meditation sessions.

Getting There

Pa Pae is accessible from both Chiang Mai and Pai, and the journey is part of the adventure.

1. Take a van from Chiang Mai or Pai (book HERE)

   1. Tell the driver to drop you off at Aw Baw Dtaw Pa Pae (very important!).

2. From there, you have two options:

   1. Walk about 1 km to the retreat grounds.

   2. Arrange for a retreat member to pick you up (recommended if you have a lot of luggage).

What to Expect at the Retreat

Simple but Comfortable Lodging

You’ll stay in cozy shared bunks, and while the beds aren’t exactly luxury, you won’t mind—early wake-up calls and full days mean you’ll be too tired to care. You might have a roommate, or you might get lucky with a solo space. Note that accommodations are separate for men and women, even for couples.

A Structured but Relaxed Routine

Daily life at the retreat revolves around meditation and mindfulness. There are several opportunities to meditate with the monks:

• 5:30 AM – Morning meditation

• 11 AM – Meditation and Q&A with a monk

• 5 PM – Evening meditation

Beyond that, you have plenty of free time to explore the grounds, reflect, read, or chat with other retreat members.

This was my favorite viewpoint on the grounds–just a short hike in good company

Meals and the Practice of Simplicity

Meals are simple but nourishing, following the traditional monastic routine:

• Breakfast at 7 AM

• Lunch at noon

• No dinner provided (though there are places to eat in town if necessary): skipping dinner is recommended, as it deepens meditation practice and aligns with Buddhist traditions. That said, coffee, tea, and snacks are available if you need something light in the evening.

Morning Alms and Community Connection

One of the most humbling experiences is joining the monks for morning alms, where you walk with them as they receive offerings from local villagers. It’s a beautiful tradition that fosters gratitude and connection. You may even be blessed by one of the locals!

Morning alms with the monks

Dressing the Part

The retreat provides white clothing for all participants, which helps cultivate a sense of unity and mindfulness.

Final Thoughts

This was definitely an experience worth doing, especially for the price. If you’re spending time in Northern Thailand, I highly recommend it.

I left feeling grounded, connected, and challenged.

Am I a meditation expert now? No. Truthfully, I don’t even feel much more experienced than when I arrived. But the experience planted a seed, and that’s how all growth starts. Even if you walk away with nothing more than a few moments of stillness, that alone makes it worth it.