A forest tradition in Isan
Wat Nong Pah Pong grew from the austere forest setting where Ajahn Chah taught monks and laypeople. The monastery's story is one of disciplined practice, simplicity and teaching in the Theravada forest tradition.
Wat Nong Pah Pong
Wat Nong Pah Pong is a forest monastery near Ubon Ratchathani and the principal monastery associated with the Thai forest teacher Ajahn Chah. Its importance lies in practice, lineage and community rather than ornate architecture.
A lineage with an international reach
Accounts from the Ajahn Chah monastic tradition describe branch monasteries developing in Thailand and overseas, including communities for English-speaking monks. Visit as a working monastery: check whether a public area is open, dress modestly and avoid treating meditation practice as a tourist performance.