Introduction
Luang Por Tiradhammo is among the most senior Western monastics in the lineage of Ajahn Chah. With a monastic career spanning over 50 years, he has played a foundational role in establishing the Forest Sangha across three continents: Europe, Australasia, and Asia. Known for his calm, steady presence and deep meditative insight, Luang Por is a "monk of the world," currently traveling globally to share the Dhamma with a focus on practical mindfulness and the wisdom of the forest masters.
Early Seeking and Ordination
Luang Por’s spiritual journey began in his student years during a period of travel through Sri Lanka, where he first encountered the Buddha's teachings. This spark led him to Thailand, where he began meditating at the historic Wat Umong in Chiang Mai.
In 1974, he took full ordination at Wat Meung Man with Venerable Tong. Shortly after, in 1975, he moved to Northeast Thailand to train under the legendary Ajahn Chah at Wat Nong Pah Pong and was among the early residents of Wat Pah Nanachat (the International Forest Monastery).
The Life of a Forest Wanderer
During his formative years in Thailand, Luang Por Tiradhammo embraced the Tudong life. He undertook several arduous journeys on foot through the rugged mountains of Chiang Mai and the plains of the Northeast. These travels allowed him to seek out and learn from many of the most famous forest meditation masters of the era, refining his practice in the crucible of nature and seclusion.
Pioneering the Dhamma in the West
In 1982, Luang Por was invited to the United Kingdom to assist Luang Por Sumedho with the burgeoning Western Sangha. His leadership was quickly recognized, leading to several key appointments:
England (1982–1987): Served at Chithurst Monastery (Cittaviveka) and led Harnham Vihara in Northumberland.
Switzerland (1988–2005): He was instrumental in establishing Dhammapala Monastery near Bern and later oversaw its move to the Alpine village of Kandersteg, serving as the senior monk for nearly two decades.
New Zealand (2005–2012): He assumed the abbotship of Bodhinyanarama in Wellington, providing stability and guidance to the community in the Southern Hemisphere.
A Traveling Teacher
Since 2012, Luang Por Tiradhammo has lived as a "monk of no fixed abode," embodying the ancient tradition of the wandering teacher. He travels extensively throughout Asia, Europe, and North America, conducting meditation retreats and giving Dhamma talks.
His teachings are deeply influenced by his years of solitary practice and his interactions with the great masters of the 20th century. He is a frequent and beloved visitor to Malaysia and Singapore, where he is known for his ability to relate the profound truths of the Forest Tradition to the challenges of modern urban life.