This was an affiliate event. Our affiliates are people with whom we have a previous working relationship, but who operate independently of Kleiwerks International. Therefore, Kleiwerks International does not assume responsibility for content or quality, but we wished this program and project the best of luck!

Thailand Archives
Wongsanit Ashram: The 1st Earthen Building Workshop in Thailand; 1 hour north of Bangkok; January 9-14, 2003

Wongsanit Ashram is a 20-acre activist hub and training ground for the 'Spirit in Education Movement' and the 'International Network of Engaged Buddhists.' Wongsanit has been around for over 20 and is home to the Grassroots Leadership Trainings, Thailand's first International Earthen Building Workshop, and many other endeavors. They have a big community center, offices, a large kitchen, gardens, and cottages for visiting guests and monks. They are located 1 hour north of Bangkok.

During the winter of 2002 Kleiwerks International teamed up with the wonderful folks at Wongsanit Ashram and the Spirit in Education Movement for a very successful first time cob construction experience. Over 40 people from 8 countries joined together for 10 days to build this (above) round meditation hut. News traveled fast through radio, newspaper, television and magazines as our building became an attraction and inspiration for a new movement in the region...building with earth.

The space (above) has a 17' exterior diameter with 15 arches, 5 niches, wrap-around interior and exterior ledges, an earthen floor, a hand-made recycled wooden door and donated old temple tile roof. Thanks so much to the beautiful spirits who came together to make this happen. Blessings on the Baan Din (that's 'Earth House' in Thai).

Community Center at Wongsanit Ashram, 2003
As earthen building has continued at an impressive rate, several dedicated indiviuals who were at the first 2 workshops have continued to work throughout the country. They share their experience with as many villagers who want to know, which are many thousands. Below is the first building they got to design. The new community center at Wongsanit Ashram was built in 2003.

For more information visit www.sulak-sivaraksa.org or email ashram@cscoms.com.

To visit or stay at Wongsanit Ashram click here.

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