A Path of Renunciation, Discipline, and Inner Freedom
The Nun Training Program at Meditation Island, Koh Phaluai is a female-only monastic training program for women who sincerely aspire to live the Dhamma through renunciation, simplicity, and disciplined practice.
Rooted in the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, this program offers a structured environment for women who feel called to deepen their spiritual commitment beyond lay practice. Participants cultivate wisdom, restraint, and compassion through daily meditation, forest living, and adherence to monastic discipline under experienced guidance.
This is not a retreat for rest or self-improvement.
It is a training path for women who are prepared to live the practice fully, within a community grounded in simplicity, responsibility, and sincerity.
Be part of something truly meaningful. Serve, grow, and live with mindfulness on Meditation Island.
Program Duration and Path of Training
The Nun Training Program is generally undertaken for a minimum period of three months. This initial period allows participants to experience authentic monastic training, including disciplined daily schedules, meditation practice, and forest-based living.
During these three months, both the trainee and the community observe suitability, stability, and harmony in daily life.
If a trainee demonstrates readiness, maturity, and sincere aspiration during this period, she may request to continue her training and reside at Meditation Island as a nun, subject to approval by Ajahn Prasert (AJ) and the resident nun community.
Continuation beyond the initial three months is not automatic and depends on:
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Consistent observance of discipline and community guidelines
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Physical and mental stability throughout the training
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Sincerity of intention and attitude
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Mutual agreement between the trainee, the teacher, and the Sangha
This gradual approach supports clarity, safety, and long-term well-being for both the individual and the community.
Who This Program Is For
This program is intended for women only who:
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Have an established foundation in meditation practice
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Have trained regularly at Meditation Island, Koh Phaluai
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Feel a genuine aspiration toward renunciant or monastic life
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Are prepared for simplicity, discipline, and physical self-reliance
Program Structure and Eligibility
To maintain harmony, safety, and depth of practice, applicants must meet the following conditions:
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Completion of at least three regular meditation retreats with Ajahn Prasert (AJ) at Meditation Island, Koh Phaluai
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Willingness to undertake a minimum continuous training period of three months
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Physical health suitable for intensive meditation and forest living
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No diagnosis of depression or conditions that may obstruct sustained practice
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Ability to observe monastery rules and disciplined practices, including one meal per day, forest living, and simple accommodation
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Physical ability to walk independently on hilly terrain, with no vehicle transportation during the training period
A Gradual and Careful Process
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The Nun Training Program follows a gradual and careful approach.
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Meeting the above conditions does not guarantee acceptance.
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All applications are reviewed individually to ensure suitability, harmony with the community, and the well-being of all involved.
Deep Inner Peace
Inner calm
Simple
Living
Few needs
Focused
Practice
Daily training
Supportive Community
Shared path