About Meditation Island
Mindfulness Retreat on Koh Phaluai, Thailand
Meditation Island Thailand is a non-profit meditation retreat under the Makkanuka Foundation, dedicated to sharing mindfulness, simplicity, and compassion through the original teachings of the Buddha.
Located on the peaceful island of Koh Phaluai, part of the Ang Thong Islands in Surat Thani Province, this sanctuary welcomes people from around the world to step away from modern distractions and rediscover the stillness of nature. Surrounded by tropical forests, soft sea breezes, and the gentle sounds of birds, Meditation Island offers a place for sincere practice and deep reflection. It is not a luxury resort but a living monastery environment where participants learn to live mindfully, eat simply, and cultivate the mind through the Noble Eightfold Path.
Each retreat encourages mindfulness in every daily activity Each retreat encourages mindfulness in every daily activity, including walking, eating, working, and resting, helping practitioners return to the true essence of Buddhist practice: awareness, wisdom, and compassion. The environment is peaceful, natural, and free from commercial distractions, providing an authentic experience of Thailand’s forest meditation tradition.
Koh Phaluai
THAILAND'S PEACEFUL SOLAR-POWERED ECO ISLAND
Tucked away in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Phaluai is a peaceful and untouched eco-island celebrated for its sustainable lifestyle and deep harmony with nature. Part of the Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park, the island is surrounded by turquoise waters, lush tropical forests, and abundant wildlife, creating one of Thailand’s most serene natural environments.
Home to a small community of around 450 local residents, Koh Phaluai retains a quiet, traditional way of life rooted in fishing and simple village living. Nearly all of the island’s electricity comes from solar power, reflecting its strong commitment to environmentally friendly and low-impact living.
Visitors can explore pristine beaches, forest trails, wildlife sanctuaries, and peaceful fishing villages where daily life follows the gentle rhythm of the sea. Without big resorts or mass tourism, modern distractions fade away, replaced by ocean breezes, birdsong, and the welcoming warmth of the local community.
Koh Phaluai offers a rare opportunity to experience authentic island life, mindful living, and true stillness. It is an ideal destination for meditation, reflection, and reconnection with nature.
From the day I first asked, ‘Does suffering come from me?’ until today, I have realized the truth. Yes, it does. Because we create the illusion of self and from that illusion, suffering arises.
— Master Prasert Udhayachalerm —
Our Founders’ Vision
Wisdom . Unconditional Kindness . Dedication
Meditation Island was born from the compassionate vision of two devoted practitioners, Ajarn Prasert Uthaichalerm and his mother, Mother Yindee.
Together, they dedicated their lives to spreading the Dhamma and creating peaceful sanctuaries where people can practice mindfulness and discover true inner peace.
Their journey from a life of worldly success and loss to one of spiritual awakening and selfless service became the heart of the Makkanuka Foundation and its network of Buddhist meditation retreats in Southern Thailand.
Through their vision, Meditation Island Thailand continues to serve as a refuge for sincere seekers from around the world who wish to live simply, practice deeply, and walk the Noble Path toward liberation.
