Practice Meditation and Unseen Temple Visit

Enjoy the serene ambiance of unseen Buddhist temples and embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery through guided meditation sessions. Experienced monks will lead you in exploring the essence of mindfulness, unlocking profound insights into the timeless teachings of the Buddha. Step away from the crowds and venture into these sacred sanctuaries, where the intricate architecture and palpable spirituality will captivate your senses. Prepare to deepen your understanding of the Buddhist way of life and uncover a newfound sense of inner peace. As you explore this enriching experience, anticipation builds for the profound impact it will have on your perspective.

Key Points

• Participate in guided meditation sessions led by experienced Buddhist monks to cultivate inner peace and focus.
• Explore the serene interiors of lesser-known temples like Umong Temple and learn about the symbolism of Buddhist statues.
• Engage in thought-provoking Dharma discussions with the resident monks to deepen your understanding of Buddhist philosophy.
• Enjoy the rich traditions of Thai Buddhism by making offerings to monks and understanding the significance of these practices.
• Enjoy a private, air-conditioned tour with hotel pickup, ensuring a comfortable and seamless cultural experience.

Trip Overview and Details

For this meditation and temple visit experience, the price starts from Kč2,508 per person for an 8-hour private group tour.

The experience is offered in English and Chinese, with pickup from your hotel lobby in Chiang Mai.

There’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.

The itinerary includes making offerings to monks, visiting temples for meditation and Dharma talks, and engaging in discussions with Buddhist monks.

Included are a private air-conditioned vehicle, insurance, entry tickets, lunch, and drinking water, along with a donation to the temples.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable clothing, and certain items like weapons and alcohol aren’t permitted.

Itinerary Highlights

Commencing at 7:00 am, guests will meet at their hotel lobby before making offerings to monks at the Kruba Srivichai Monument.

They’ll then enjoy breakfast at 8:00 am before arriving at Phrathat Saengchan temple for meditation and a Dhamma talk.

Next, they’ll visit Umong Temple to learn about Buddhist statues and have lunch at 11:45 am.

The tour will conclude at Chedi Luang Temple, where guests will participate in a Dharma Discussion Program.

Throughout the day, you will enjoy Buddhist practices, engage in enlightening discussions, and explore the architectural wonders of unseen temples.

Activities and Learning Objectives

Throughout this captivating tour, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy a range of enriching activities and learning experiences. During the meditation session at Phrathat Saengchan temple, you will learn proper techniques and gain insights into the transformative power of mindfulness. Exploring the intricate Buddhist statues at Umong Temple will deepen their understanding of symbolic religious iconography. Plus, the Dharma Discussion Program at Chedi Luang Temple encourages engaging dialogues with knowledgeable monks, allowing guests to explore the profound teachings of Buddhism.

Activity	Learning Objective
Practice Meditation	Cultivate inner peace and focus
Examine Buddhist Statues	Understand religious symbolism
Participate in Dharma Discussions	Explore Buddhist philosophy

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a private air-conditioned vehicle, 1st class insurance, entry tickets, lunch, drinking water, and a donation to the temple.

These inclusions ensure a comfortable and seamless experience for participants. Lunch, provided mid-tour, offers a chance to refuel and experience local cuisine. Drinking water is available throughout the day, keeping everyone hydrated.

The donation to the temple is a way to contribute to the upkeep and preservation of these sacred spaces.

However, the tour excludes personal expenses, so participants should budget for any additional items or souvenirs they wish to purchase during the excursion.

Important Information and Guidelines

Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing for the day’s activities.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 2 or babies under 1 year. Weapons, sharp objects, smoking, drinks, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited in the vehicle. Tight clothing isn’t allowed either.

This is a private group experience, so participants should be mindful of their behavior and respect the temples and monks.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, but travelers with mobility issues should inform the organizers in advance.

Following the guidelines will ensure a smooth and enriching cultural experience.

Offerings to Monks

At the Kruba Srivichai Monument, participants begin the tour by making offerings to the local monks. They present the monks with alms, which typically include cooked rice, curries, fruits, and sweets.

This ritual, known as "making merit," is a fundamental practice in Buddhist culture, allowing devotees to accumulate good karma and strengthen their connection with the monastic community.

The participants learn about the significance of these offerings and the reverence shown to the monks, who dedicate their lives to spiritual cultivation and teaching.

This meaningful experience sets the tone for the rest of the temple visit, immersing the group in the rich traditions of Thai Buddhism.

Meditation and Dhamma Talk

Arriving at the Phrathat Saengchan temple, the group settles into a serene meditation hall, where an experienced Buddhist monk guides them through a tranquil meditation practice.

The monk’s soothing voice leads the participants through deep breathing exercises, focusing their minds and releasing any distractions.

As the meditation progresses, the monk offers a Dhamma talk, sharing insights into Buddhist philosophy and its relevance to daily life.

The group listens intently, pondering the monk’s words and reflecting on how to apply these teachings.

This immersive experience provides a profound connection to the spiritual essence of Buddhism, leaving the participants feeling centered and enlightened.

Dharma Discussion Program

The Dharma Discussion Program at the Chedi Luang Temple sees the visitors eagerly gathering, ready to engage in thoughtful exchanges with resident Buddhist monks.

Led by the wise and insightful monks, the discussion delves into the profound teachings of Buddhism, exploring its principles and their practical application in daily life.

Visitors actively participate, asking thought-provoking questions and sharing their own perspectives, fostering a dynamic and enriching dialogue.

The serene temple setting provides the perfect backdrop for this immersive learning experience, allowing participants to fully enjoy the wisdom and tranquility of the Buddhist tradition.

Through this engaging program, the visitors gain a deeper understanding of the Buddhist philosophy and its transformative potential.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photographs During the Visit?

Yes, participants can take photographs during the temple visits. However, they should be mindful and respectful, avoiding any disruptions to the monks or ongoing activities. Photography is generally permitted, but participants should follow the guidelines provided by the tour organizers.

Is There Any Dress Code to Be Followed?

The tour has a dress code requiring visitors to wear comfortable, modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Tight or revealing attire is not allowed out of respect for the temples and monks.

Is the Transport Wheelchair Accessible?

Yes, the private air-conditioned vehicle used for this tour is wheelchair accessible. The tour itinerary and transportation are designed to accommodate guests with mobility needs, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout the day.

Can I Book This Tour for a Larger Group?

Yes, this tour can accommodate larger groups. The website states it’s a "private group experience," so you can book it for your group. Just be sure to check the capacity limits and make your reservation in advance.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required?

The trip has a private group experience, so there’s no minimum number of participants required. Travelers can book this tour for a group of any size to enjoy the personalized itinerary and activities.

Recap

The journey to unseen Buddhist temples offers a profound opportunity to deepen one’s spiritual practice. Guided meditation sessions with experienced monks cultivate mindfulness and tranquility, fostering insights into the essence of Buddhist teachings. This immersive experience in the serene and sacred environments of these hidden sanctuaries provides a transformative connection to one’s inner self and the rich heritage of Buddhism.