A Thai Forest tradition monastery in northern California, open to families, guests and residents. This guide is compiled from the monastery's own published information; we have not visited, and it is not a review.
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The place
Abhayagiri is a Buddhist monastery in Redwood Valley, California. Its origins are in the Thai Forest Tradition of Theravada Buddhism, and it describes itself as open and respectful to all traditions that embody the central elements of the Buddha's path: generosity, virtue, mental cultivation, wisdom and compassion.
Who lives there
At its heart is a community of monks (bhikkhus), novices (samaneras), postulants (anagarikas) and devoted lay male and female residents. Monastics from other branches of the Buddhist world often stay for periods of time. The monastery says it exists as a dwelling place for residents, a sanctuary for regular visitors and a spiritual presence in the world.
What it offers
- A place for individuals, families, guests and residents to meet the principles of the Buddha's teaching.
- Traditional monastic training as its foundation, with an opportunity for men and women to live the forest life of simplicity, meditation and self-discipline.
- Teachings shared freely, in the spirit of dana. See what dana means.
Before you go
- Read how to stay at a Buddhist monastery and temple etiquette.
- Learn how to offer food to monks and how to donate.
- Check visiting guidelines on the monastery's own site before you travel.
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