Our Origins: A Dedicated Thai Temple

The International Insight Meditation Center (IIMC) was established on June 26, 2015, by a group of local Thai community members with the intention of creating a space where both monastics and lay practitioners could engage in meditation and Dhamma practice freely, at no cost. Originally, a 12.5-acre horse property on the outskirts of Redmond was purchased for personal use, but the vision soon shifted toward something greater. The property was dedicated as a Thai Buddhist temple, and Vipassana Master Ajahn Chalee Phumiphak was invited to reside, teach, and help establish the monastery. Later, Ajahn Sanan Grongthong was appointed as the abbot, and the center began taking shape as a home for deep practice. Over the years, various monks have come to live, practice, and contribute to the center’s development. Hundreds of trees have been planted, making the land a welcoming space for both practitioners and the natural wildlife of the area. In 2024, a new building was installed, providing improved housing for the monks as well as a dedicated space for meals and communal practice. With this addition, IIMC continues to fulfill its mission of supporting the monastic community while remaining open as a place of refuge for lay practitioners.

Growing to Reach the Western Community

While IIMC is deeply rooted in the Thai Buddhist tradition, we recognize the growing interest in meditation and Buddhist practice among English-speaking practitioners. As part of this expansion, we now offer regular online practice sessions via Zoom, making the teachings more accessible to those who cannot attend in person. Our Saturday gathering is the heart of our online practice. This is more than just a Zoom call—it is a rare opportunity to take a deep dive into the teachings of the Buddha. We begin with meditation practice and then move into an in-depth examination of the Suttas and the instructions laid out by the Buddha himself. This is a space for serious inquiry, discussion, and reflection, helping us bridge the wisdom of the texts with our daily lives. In addition to online opportunities, we have also begun monthly in-person practice sessions at IIMC, offering a space for meditation, community building, and direct engagement with teachers. These gatherings provide a bridge between traditional monastic training and the needs of a Western audience seeking to integrate the Dhamma into their lives. With these efforts, IIMC continues to honor its roots as a Thai Buddhist temple while embracing new ways to share the Dhamma with all who seek it. If you would like to find out more about joining contact us.