info@bia.or.th
TH|EN

PROGRAM

Program & Learning

An exchange between the Pali and Sanskrit traditions through genuinely shared monastic life in host temples across three countries.

Overview

Each cohort invites 15 monks from the Pali and Sanskrit traditions of three countries — Thailand, Sri Lanka, and the Tibetan community in India — together with monks from Myanmar and Laos, about 40 in total. They visit one another, residing roughly 15 days per country in host temples, colleges, and universities for direct, lived learning.

How We Learn

  • Daily monastic routine — living the host tradition’s way, from almsround to daily duties.
  • Dhamma dialogue — exchanging Vinaya, scriptural study, and contemporary Dhamma perspectives across traditions.
  • Meditation practice — learning samatha and vipassana according to each school’s approach.
  • Study visits — visiting sacred sites, monastic colleges, and significant temples of each country.

Eligibility

  1. Ordained as a bhikkhu for at least 5 vassa (rains retreats).
  2. Sufficient grounding in Dhamma-Vinaya for self-reliance and self-development.
  3. Basic scriptural knowledge (Pali, Abhidhamma, contemporary Dhamma, etc.).
  4. Experience in samatha and vipassana meditation.
  5. A positive attitude toward Theravada Buddhism and genuine interest in learning from multiple traditions.
  6. Able to join for the full program, or for a suitable full segment of it.

Note: Good command of English may receive special consideration.

Join the Program

Follow the latest recruitment announcements on our news page, or contact the team directly.

Recruitment news → thaiexchangeteam@gmail.com