Frequently Asked Questions

Information for Meditators

Below is a list of FAQ's by people coming to meditate at Doi Suthep IBC.
If you can't find the information you need on this list, please email us.

Frequently-Asked Questions:

Where is Doi Suthep? What is the best way to travel to it? [top]

Wat Phradhatu Doi Suthep is located above Chiang Mai, East of the Chiang Mai Zoo.
The easiest way to arrive is to rent a red truck for 200-300 Baht from anywhere in Chiang Mai City to take you all the way up the mountain by yourself. Just tell the driver "Doi Suthep".
The more affordable way is to take a red-truck to the Chiang Mai Zoo for 15-20 Baht, then wait for the red trucks there to go up the mountain with other passengers for 40 Baht each. This method is only possible during the day.
Once you have arrived at Wat Doi Suthep, you can climb up the 306 stairs from the road or take the elevator.
Where will I practice? [top]

The meditation center is located within the Wat Phradhatu Doi Suthep Temple area in a quiet and peaceful location. During your stay at the International Buddhism Center you have your own room with shared modern bathrooms.
Should I reserve in advance? [top]

Yes. Please try to book one week in advance so we can reserve a room for you. November to February is high season and many people come to meditate. Please fill out our application form.
What do I need to bring? [top]
- Photocopy of information page of your passport and current visa.
- Two sets of loose, modest, non-transparent white clothing.
- An alarm clock and a countdown timer (for timing meditation sessions).
- Toiletries, towels and personal items.
What is a countdown timer? [top]

Counts down any selected time minute by minute and has an alarm. An individual numbered pad is simple to use. We found a shop in Chiang Mai on Thapae Road (on the right hand side if you walk down from Thapae Gate) that sells a selection of countdown timers.

Example 1 Example 2
Can I eat vegetarian/ vegan food? [top]

Our food is vegetarian and includes both Thai and Western dishes. Please let us know in advance if you have any special dietary needs.
How much do the courses cost? [top]

The courses at Wat Doi Suthep are free of charge. We follow the ancient Buddhist tradition of freely offering teachings without expecting payment. The donations given by meditators when they finish their courses enable new meditators to begin theirs.

Note: If you have paid or are intending to pay a fee to a third-party to come to practice at the IBC, please be aware that the IBC has no involvement with or support any such activity and does not gain any financial benefit from such parties.
Do I have to be Buddhist to practice Vipassana? [top]

No. Vipassana Meditation isn't a religion and can be practiced by people of any faith or belief.
Will I have to follow any rules or local customs while practicing Vipassana? [top]

There are signs in English around the temple area explaining how to behave in a Thai Temple. Meditators undertake eight training rules while practicing here. Please click here to read the eight training rules.
Can I practice other forms of meditation, yoga or martial arts while practicing Vipassana? [top]

In order to gain the most benefit from their Vipassana Meditation Practice, we ask meditators to set aside other activities while they are here.
Is there a possibility to ordain as a monk or nun at the IBC? [top]

It is possible to ordain as a monk or nun for a short or long period of time at Wat Phradhatu Doi Suthep. We advise meditators considering ordination to complete the Foundation and Advanced Review Course.
Meditators who wish to ordain for the duration of the meditation course should contact the International Buddhism Center in advance.
What is the schedule for meditators? [top]

Please read more about the Daily Routine at this meditation center here.
Can beginner meditators practice at the IBC? How much attention is given to meditators? [top]

Yes. Meditators are given individual guidance everyday to help them make the most of their stay here. Once a day they meet with their teacher and discuss their practice and any problems they may be having. If they have a problem outside of this time our staff are happy to help. All our staff are experienced meditators.
Is the interview or meeting with the teacher in English or Thai? [top]

The teacher speaks both English and Thai. If you have the feeling your English is not good enough to understand the instructions during the meditation course please ask for a translator.
Can I meditate if I am unable to sit on the floor or cross-legged? [top]

Yes, you can. Sitting on a chair is just as beneficial as sitting cross-legged on the floor, the most important thing is keeping the back as straight as possible and remaining alert during sitting practice.
Do you have wheelchair access? [top]

There is wheelchair access around the temple itself, unfortunately the IBC has no wheelchair access at the moment.
Can people on medication or with prior mental illness, practice Vipassana? [top]

Yes, they can. Please let us know when you fill out the application form so we can tailor the Course to your needs. If you are on medication and have to eat after 12 noon please let us know so that we can inform the kitchen staff.
Do you have any other Meditation Centers for Westerners in Thailand? [top]

Yes, we are building a new meditation center at Wat Phradhatu Sob Fang.
Where is the Center at Sob Fang? [top]

The Meditation Center at Wat Phradhatu Sob Fang is located at Sob Fang near Thaton. It is in a mixed bamboo and deciduous forest on a hilltop.
Buses go from the North gate bus station (Chiang Puak) in Chiang Mai to Thaton several times a day.
Meditators interested in practicing at Wat Sob Fang may also contact the IBC for possible transportation arrangements from Doi Suthep.