History

The Hermitage was founded in 1998 as the 'Sanghāloka Forest Hermitage'. The Hermitage was begun under the auspices of Luangta Maha Boowa's advice, and one of his disciples, Ajahn Ian Ariyesako, was the first abbot. Luangta Maha Boowa's original words of advice are something that still reverberate in the hearts and minds of the community here:

Keep it small and simple!

In 2004, Ajahn Khemānando assumed the position of abbot and changed the name of the Hermitage to Vimokkharam Forest Hermitage. During his time here, Vimokkharam also became an official 'affiliated monastery' of the Wat Pah Pong tradition of Ajahn Chah - or the 'Forest Sangha', as it is known in the West.
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Ajahn Khemānando resigned from Vimokkharam and returned to Thailand after the January 2014 fire which destroyed all the main facilities here.

Click on the photos below for descriptions.