This is the adorable moment a calm wild monkey appeared to meditate beside praying monks in Thailand.

The friendly primate entered the temple during a Buddhist ceremony and sat between the orange-robed men in Udon Thani province on November 11.

However, locals were amused when the chubby male creature appeared to copy the monks as they received offerings from followers.

Footage shows the quiet monkey resting on the cushion next to the monks as locals gave them drinks while praying.

Monk Phra Vinaithorn Sirapong Prarakkamo said: ‘Maybe the monkey thinks that he will also be given sweet drinks if he prays and chants. He is a smart animal.'

After sitting at the praying area, the monkey walked up to the corner where the meals were being kept.

He then took a few bites of the salad and some fruit.

The monk added that the creature started to come to the temple last year.

He said: ‘We named him Choi, but we didn't keep him. He comes and goes whenever he likes.

‘Choi was known in the village to attack people. Here, he is as calm as a meditating monk.'

After the ceremony, the monk said the free-spirited monkey had left the compound.

Monk Phra Vinaithorn said: ‘The free-spirited monkey went outside to wander again.'