Pa-Auk Forest Monastery
Mon
The Pa-Auk Forest Monastery, locally known as Pa-Auk Tawya, is a prominent Theravāda Buddhist monastery located in the village of Pa-Auk near Mawlamyine in Mon State, Myanmar. Situated amidst the lush tropical forests along the Dawna Range, it serves as the main complex and meditation center of the extensive Pa-Auk Group, which includes over 40 branches across Myanmar and internationally. Since 1981, the monastery has been led by the Most Venerable Bhaddanta Āciṇṇa, following the tenure of Ven. Phelhtaw Sayadaw Aggapañña. The monastery offers an ideal environment for long-term meditation practice, attracting a seasonal population ranging from approximately 1,500 to 2,500 residents during festive periods. This diverse community includes more than 300 foreign monks, nuns, and lay practitioners from over 20 countries, emphasizing its global spiritual significance. The monastery’s serene forest setting and structured meditation programs make it a unique sanctuary for dedicated practitioners seeking profound insight and tranquility.
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Tip: Visitors aiming to engage in meditation practice at Pa-Auk Forest Monastery should consider the timing of major Buddhist festivals when the resident population peaks, offering a vibrant communal atmosphere. It is advisable to arrange stays or retreats well in advance, especially for foreign practitioners, to secure accommodation and participation. The monastery promotes long-term practice, so prospective visitors should prepare for extended stays and adhere to monastic codes of conduct. While there is no mention of entrance fees, donations and voluntary contributions support the monastery’s maintenance. Modest, respectful attire and mindfulness of local customs enhance the visit experience.
Interesting facts
- •The monastery hosts between 1,500 and 2,500 residents seasonally, including over 300 foreign monks and practitioners from more than 20 countries.
- •It is the main center of the Pa-Auk Group, which has over 40 branches across Myanmar and internationally.
- •The abbot since 1981, Most Venerable Bhaddanta Āciṇṇa, succeeded Ven. Phelhtaw Sayadaw Aggapañña at his request.
- •The monastery is situated within the tropical forests along the Dawna Range, providing a serene environment for meditation.
History
The Pa-Auk Forest Monastery was established as a Theravāda meditation center in the village of Pa-Auk, Mon State, Myanmar.
Over time, it has grown into the central hub of the Pa-Auk Group, which now encompasses over 40 branches throughout Myanmar and abroad.
Leadership transitioned in 1981 to the Most Venerable Bhaddanta Āciṇṇa, following the guidance of the previous abbot, Ven.
Phelhtaw Sayadaw Aggapañña.
The monastery's expansion reflects its increasing prominence as a meditation and spiritual center, attracting practitioners worldwide.
Throughout its history, it has maintained a focus on forest monastic traditions and meditative discipline, contributing significantly to Theravāda Buddhism's contemporary practice.
Place Guide
Main Meditation Halls
The central areas where monks, nuns, and lay practitioners engage in intensive meditation sessions, fostering deep concentration and insight.
Forest Surroundings
The tropical forest environment surrounding the monastery offers a tranquil setting conducive to meditation and spiritual practice, embodying the forest monastic tradition.
