Thailand Vipassana Centre Dhamma Abha
The relatively new (as of 2005) S.N. Goenka center is situated on a picturesque, lush green plateau. In the background, mountains rise in the east. The actual center is located on the central part of the 61-hectare site. The buildings were constructed in modern Thai style. There are many ponds, a bamboo grove, and many fruit trees.
Tradition and Teacher
S. N. Goenka received teaching authorization in 1969, after 14 years of practice, from his teacher U Ba Khin. Since there are more than 50 meditation centers worldwide in this tradition, Goenkaji’s instructions are shown on video or transmitted from tape.
Meditation Technique
Silent retreats with intensive sitting meditation and one discourse daily.
The first three days: Anapanasati, i.e., observation of breath. Concentration on inhalation and exhalation. The breath is only observed, not manipulated. From the third day: Vipassana meditation according to U Ba Khin. In the “Step by Step” or “Body-Sweeping” method, bodily sensations are systematically observed. Once the body has been examined from head to toe, another round follows in the reverse direction. Sensations should not be judged, only observed. The course concludes with an exercise for developing loving-kindness.
Rules
Each participant commits to completing the entire retreat (not leaving the grounds), maintaining silence for the first nine days, not reading or writing, refraining from sexual activities, not performing rituals, prayers, or other meditation techniques, accepting the instructions of the teacher and management, and observing the five or eight silas (moral precepts) (for new or old students respectively). White or light-colored clothing is desired; conspicuous or short clothing is to be avoided. Wake-up is daily at 4 a.m., formal practice ends between 9 and 10 p.m.
Course Duration and Dates
Courses are offered throughout the year. A ten-day course is recommended for new interested persons. Schedule and registration form can be requested.
Language(s)
Course language: Thai and English.
Meals
The food is vegetarian. Those who want to be sure about the drinking water should use a brought-along water purification agent.
Costs
On a donation basis.
Note
Good for serious practitioners with retreat experience and the desire for intensive practice. Also suitable for beginners who have no major problems with prolonged sitting and are willing to integrate into an intensive, regulated daily routine.
Further information at the German center:
Dhamma Dvara
Alte Str. 6
08606 Triebel
Tel.: +49 37434 797 70
Fax: +49 374 34 79771
E-Mail:
Internet: www.dvara.dhamma.org
Further centers of the Goenka tradition in Thailand
Thailand Vipassana Centre Dhamma Kamala
200 Baan Nerrnpasuk, Tambon Dongkeelek, Maung District, Prachinburi 25000, Thailand Tel/Fax: (037) 403 515
Contact address in Bangkok: C/o Nirand & Sutthi Chayodom,
65/15 Soi 1 Chaengwattana Road, Bangkok 10210, Thailand.
Tel: Res: (02) 552 1731, Office: 521 0392, Fax: (02) 552 1753,
Email:
Thailand Vipassana Centre Dhamma Kuta
c/- Mrs Pornphen Leenutaphong, 929 Rama 1 Road, Patumwan, Bangkok.
Tel: (02) 216 4772, Fax: (02) 215 3408
Book Recommendation
“The Art of Living”, Fischer TB-Verlag.
Center Details
Address:
Vipassana Centre Dhamma Abha
Baan Huayplu
Tambon Kaengsobha
Ampur Wangthong
Phitsanulok 65220
Thailand
Contact:
Tel: +66 02 552 1731