The Forest Hermitage (วัดป่าสันติธรรม) is a branch of Wat Nong Pah Pong (วัดหนองป่าพง), the late Luang Por Chah’s principal monastery in North East Thailand. Set in the Heart of England it is a small, peaceful Buddhist hermitage and comprises Santidhamma, the original property where the monks live and where occasional events open to the public are held, and Bhavana Dhamma, which is for nuns, female devotees and guests. The Forest Hermitage Trust and the Buddha-Dhamma Fellowship are responsible for both properties. The community is led by Ven. Chao Khun Bhavanaviteht (Luang Por Khemadhammo) OBE, whose blog, News & Musings, can be found here.
Latest News
-
Entry to the Vassa
On Sunday 17th July we will celebrate the Buddha’s First Sermon and the Entry to the Vassa (monastic Rains Retreat). Also by coincidence the 17th is Luang Por Khemadhammo’s birthday. You are all welcome to join us at the Hermitage on that day !
Schedule:
- 10:00 am: Food preparation
- 10:30 am: 5 Precepts ceremony followed by Pindapat (Rice alms round)
- 10:45 am: Meal sharing (vegetarian)
- 1:00 pm: Dhamma talk
Setting-up the Event
We are looking for volunteers to set up the event on the day before, Saturday 16th July in the afternoon starting at 1pm. This includes setting up:
- Marquees
- Decoration
If you would like to participate, please contact us.
With Metta,
The Forest Hermitage

Meditation
Monday and Friday meditations are happening at the Hermitage at 8pm. There is simultaneous online meetings using zoom:
- https://bit.ly/3l0NwFT
- Meeting ID: 928 2943 2020
- Passcode: 909442
Opportunities
Opportunities exist to live in and train with us at The Forest Hermitage.
Contact us if you’re interested or apply to stay overnight at the Forest Hermitage.
Support
We have a small community to feed every day, two properties to look after, retreats to manage and events to organise.
If you think you can help, please get in touch. We offer a beautiful place and a great opportunity for some worthwhile practice.
