The Vat Suan Dok is a vast temple of the Chiang Mai city where a major Buddhist university has been built. Young monks native from all South-East Asia come here to study for four years.
These religious are there to enhance their practice and knowledge of Buddhism as well as to learn the English language. During monk chats, tourists can ask questions about Buddhism and the monk’s everyday life. People who are keen on Buddhism can even learn the basics of the Buddhist meditation during a two-day retreat.

The Chiang Mai area was originally the ancient kingdom of Lanna that was conquered by Birmania in 1558. The university is the last place where this culture survives. The monks living there are the last guardians of the languages and the writings taught in Chiang Mai.