The forest monks in Asia are dhutanga bhikkhus, meaning ascetic monks.  This manner of cultivation was started by the Buddha.  Living in the forest for most part of the year, sleeping under the trees, subsisting on alms from villagers, and owning only the barest requisites as they trek the forests, these are some highlights of their ascetic practices.  In a tranquil forest environment, they diligently work hard in purifying their mind through rigorous meditation, strict personal discipline and are always mindful of their Bodhi Resolve, that is to get enlightened and get out of samsara, the cycle of birth and death.

Usually without books, or any modern facilities, these dhutanga bhikkhus study the Dharma, practise it, and work very hard to realize the essence of the Dharma, in order to attain enlightenment.

This page presents some of the teaching and wisdom of these forest monks as well as other monks from the Theravada tradition (the School of the Elders).