Introduction
Ajahn Achalo is a senior Western disciple in the lineage of the late Ajahn Chah. Known for his deep devotion and extensive training under some of the greatest living masters of the Forest Tradition, he brings a wealth of experience in meditation, monastic discipline, and the art of spiritual pilgrimage. His teachings are characterized by a profound gratitude for the Dhamma and a practical emphasis on finding "peace beyond suffering."
Early Life and Path to Ordination
Born in Brisbane, Australia, in 1972, Ajahn Achalo’s spiritual journey began in his early twenties. His keen interest in meditation led him to Thailand at the age of 21, where he spent two years exploring various meditation centers and monasteries.
In 1996, he took full ordination as a Bhikkhu (monk) at Wat Nong Pah Pong, with Luang Por Liem serving as his preceptor. This began a decades-long immersion in the strict, disciplined lifestyle of the Thai Forest Tradition.
A Lineage of Wisdom: Teachers and Mentors
Ajahn Achalo’s training is distinguished by the time he spent learning directly from several of the most influential teachers in the Western and Thai Forest Sangha. His path has been shaped by the guidance of:
Tan Ajahn Anan: The Abbot of Wat Marp Jan, whom Ajahn Achalo considers his principal mentor and guide for the majority of his monastic life.
Senior Western Elders: He has received personal guidance from Ajahn Sumedho, Ajahn Pasanno, Ajahn Jayasaro, and Ajahn Kalyano.
Beyond the Thai Forest Tradition, Ajahn Achalo has also expressed deep appreciation for the instructions and compassionate example of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, whose teachings he integrates as a valuable complement to his core Theravada practice.
Diverse Training and Pilgrimage
A hallmark of Ajahn Achalo’s monastic life is his varied experience across different contemplative settings. He has practiced in:
International Forest Monasteries: Training in several monasteries within the Ajahn Chah lineage globally.
Remote Forest Retreats: Spending significant periods in the solitude of nature to deepen his meditation.
Traditional Pilgrimage: Traveling to sacred sites to cultivate faith and reflection, a practice that informs his teaching on the "living" nature of the Dhamma.
Anandagiri Forest Monastery
Today, Ajahn Achalo is the Abbot of Anandagiri Forest Monastery in Petchabun, Thailand. Under his leadership, the monastery has become a sanctuary for both monastics and laypeople seeking to cultivate mindfulness and wisdom. He has also been instrumental in various charitable projects, including the development of local infrastructure and support for Buddhist education.