Yes and no.
The Monk Life Project is rooted in Theravāda Buddhism, and participants temporarily ordain as monks.
However, the teachings focus on universal principles such as mindfulness, discipline, and clarity of mind.
You do not need to convert or hold any particular belief.
You do need to respect and follow monastic customs during the program.
The program is open to:
• Male participants only
• Age 16 and above
• All nationalities
• All religions or belief systems
• Beginners and experienced meditators
No prior Buddhist knowledge or meditation experience is required.
No.
The Monk Life Project involves temporary male monastic ordination, which follows the traditional Theravāda monastic system in Thailand.
Women are not eligible for this program, though separate meditation and retreat programs exist elsewhere within the iRETREAT ecosystem.
No.
Beginners are welcome.
All training is progressive, structured, and guided by experienced monks.
Yes.
Head shaving is required for all participants as part of the ordination process.
This is a traditional monastic practice symbolizing humility, simplicity, and letting go of personal identity.
Yes.
For the duration of the program:
• Phones
• Laptops
• Tablets
• Electronic devices
will be securely deposited.
This is essential for mental detox, focus, and transformation.
In emergencies, staff will assist with communication.
Yes.
• Chiang Mai is one of the safest regions in Thailand
• The monastery environment is structured, supervised, and supportive
• Senior monks and staff are present throughout the program
No.
This is a monastic training program, which is stricter and more disciplined than a meditation retreat.
Participants live according to monastic rules, daily routines, and ethical conduct. Meditation is central, but it exists within a broader framework of monkhood.
A helpful mindset includes:
• Humility
• Patience
• Openness to feedback
• Willingness to slow down
• Respect for silence and structure
This is not a performance-based experience and not about achievement.
Yes.
As a monk, you represent Thai Theravāda Buddhism, which includes religious and cultural customs such as:
• Bowing to Buddha images and senior monks
• Removing shoes in sacred spaces
• Holding hands in prayer position during blessings
• Wearing and caring for robes properly
• Not touching the head or shoulders of other monks
• Avoiding pointing feet toward sacred images or people
You do not need to identify as Buddhist, but you must observe these customs.
Failure to do so may result in dismissal from the program.
Participants must be:
• In good physical health
• Emotionally stable enough for silence and introspection
• Free from infectious diseases
This program is not a replacement for medical, psychiatric, or detox treatment.
Yes.
• A mental health screening questionnaire is mandatory
• A general health check-up is required
• Blood test for HIV
• Urine analysis for illicit substances
These checks must be completed before arrival.
If screening indicates the program is not suitable at this time, participation will be discouraged for safety reasons.
No.
iMONASTERY is not:
• A rehab center
• A detox facility
• A mental health treatment provider
Applicants who are detoxing from substances or managing serious mental health conditions must consult their medical provider before applying.
Yes.
You must provide a criminal background report from:
• Your home country, or Thailand (if you have been residing here)
Details will be provided after acceptance.
All teachings, guidance, orientation,
and communication are conducted entirely in English.
Program Fee (Donation)
• THB 30,000 for the 30-day program
• THB 25,000 (non-refundable) if payment is made within 10 days after interview approval
The Fee Covers:
• Accommodation
• Daily meals (according to monastic tradition)
• Ordination
• Teaching and guidance
• Robes and basic necessities
• Local program-related transport
Important Financial Notes
• The registration fee does not cover the full cost of hosting each participant
• The remaining costs are supported by the General Arthit – Phornsan Kamlang-ek Foundation (GAPKF)
• The Monk Life Project does not provide financial aid for:
– Flights
– Personal expenses
– Visa fees
Participants may apply to remain as monks after completing the 30-day program.
Monk Life – Day by Day (Extension)
• THB 12,000 per month
• Available for the first 3 months only
After this period, eligible participants may apply for the Monk Life Scholarship Program, subject to discipline, suitability, and commitment.
• During the first 12 months, all participants are responsible for their own visa and extension costs
• Visa costs typically range from THB 2,000–8,000, depending on visa type
• Visa assistance is provided administratively, but fees are not covered
Passport Recommendation
If you are open to staying longer than 3 months, your passport should be valid for at least 2 years. Passport renewal while in Thailand can be difficult for some nationalities.
• 60-Day Tourist Visa, extendable by 30 days
• Allows sufficient time for applying for a 1-year Religious Education Visa if staying longer
If you already reside in Thailand, Retirement Visas or Non-Immigrant B Visas may be used for the 30-day program.
Detailed travel instructions are provided after acceptance.
Common Options:
• Flights: Bangkok (BKK/DMK) → Chiang Mai (CNX)
• Shared Minivan Pickup:
Organized from CNX airport (Gate 5) at 1:00 PM, one day before program start
• Taxi / Grab: 600–1,000 THB (approx.)
• Pai Bus + Shuttle: Stop at Pa Pae, then monastery pickup
Support is available for international travelers.
Required items:
• Open-toed sandals (brown or black, no heel straps)
• Toiletries
• Personal medications
• Digital watch
• Flashlight
• Warm clothing (brown/orange/tan tones)
Provided items include:
• White clothing
• Monk beanie
• Chanting book
• Notebook and pen
• Water bottle
• Bedding and towel
• Storage box
To minimize distraction, participants must deposit:
• Phones and electronic devices
• Jewelry and valuables
• Cash, passport, wallet, IDs
Items are securely stored and returned after completion.
Monks eat food offered by lay supporters during alms rounds, or prepared by our monastery kitchen.
This may include meat and non-vegetarian dishes.
Vegetarian options are sometimes available but not guaranteed. Flexibility is required.
Yes, but it is strongly discouraged.
Full benefit comes from completing the full program.
Early departure may affect eligibility for future programs or extensions.
For the first 5 years of monkhood, monks must train under supervision and cannot travel freely without permission.
In emergencies:
• Travel may be coordinated with staff
• In rare cases, temporary disrobing may be required
• Up to 100% of fees will be retained if a participant withdraws during the program
• 50% refunds only apply if withdrawal occurs 30 days before start or due to failed health screening
• Refunds are issued in THB, to the original paying account only
• Participants must give 48 hours’ notice before exiting
• All provided items must be returned upon exit
The Monk Life Project does not seek to impress.
It seeks to serve — through discipline, integrity, simplicity, and care.
If you feel ready, the path is open.
