Introduction
Luang Por Viradhammo is a senior monastic in the Thai Forest Tradition and the most senior Western-born monk of this lineage currently residing in North America. A direct disciple of the legendary Ajahn Chah, his monastic career spans over 50 years. He is widely respected for his deep understanding of the Dhamma, his skill in guiding meditation, and his pioneering role in establishing forest monasteries in the West.
Early Life and Meeting the Path
Born in Germany to Latvian parents, Luang Por Viradhammo eventually emigrated to Toronto, Canada. His spiritual search began in the early 1970s while he was working as a teacher in West Africa. This journey eventually led him to India and then to Thailand, where he encountered the life and teachings of the forest monastics.
Training under Ajahn Chah
In 1974, he received full ordination as a Bhikkhu from Ajahn Chah at Wat Nong Pah Pong. As one of the earliest Westerners to arrive in the Ubon province of Northeast Thailand, he was a founding resident of Wat Pah Nanachat (The International Forest Monastery), established by Ajahn Chah specifically to train Western disciples in the traditional Thai forest way.
A Global Pioneer of the Forest Sangha
Luang Por Viradhammo has spent much of his monastic life at the forefront of the "Forest Sangha" expansion. His leadership has been instrumental in founding and guiding monasteries across three continents:
United Kingdom: He assisted Ajahn Sumedho in the early years of Chithurst (Cittaviveka) and Amaravati Buddhist Monasteries.
New Zealand: In 1985, he was invited to Wellington to establish Bodhinyanarama Buddhist Monastery, where he served as Abbot for many years, helping the tradition take root in the Southern Hemisphere.
Canada: Returning to his home country, he founded Tisarana Buddhist Monastery in Perth, Ontario. As the Abbot, he continues to guide a thriving community of monastics and lay practitioners.
