Visit Khunaram Temple (Wat Khunaram), one of the most interesting Buddhist shrines on the island of Koh Samui. Hordes of pilgrims and tourists descend upon the temple to appreciate the macabre beauty of an embalmed and well-preserved monk. Khunaram Temple aids in highlighting the impermanence of life, one of the core doctrines of Buddhism.
The temple’s most striking feature is the mummified body of Loung Pordaeng, which sits in a glass casket. Ordained as a monk while in his early 20s, Pordaeng left the temple to become a devoted family man before returning to monkhood at the age of 50. Pordaeng went into a meditative state in his later years before dying in 1973. His wish was to be mummified and displayed in the temple to which he dedicated much of his monastic life.
Take a moment to appreciate the significance of the monk and watch as devotees lay flowers and other offerings. In front of the casket are a photograph and gilded sculpture of Pordaeng. Decorating the rear wall are carvings of the Buddhist wheel and tree of life. See a series of Buddha statues depicting the lord in some of his various poses.
Outside, the temple exhibits a traditional Buddhist structure set on a raised platform. Access the site via a small stairway flanked by snake carvings. Peek into the little shops where you can purchase amulets, flowers, incense sticks and other Buddhist paraphernalia.
Find the temple in the Na Muaeng district of southcentral Koh Samui, about 12 miles (20 kilometers) south of Samui Airport. Get here via rented scooter, take a rickshaw or catch a songthaew bus from resorts such as Bophut Beach, Chaweng Beach and Lamai Beach.
Khunaram Temple is open daily and admission is free, although donations are welcome. This is an active temple so dress and act appropriately when visiting. Photography is allowed but take care not to invade the privacy of the devotees. A good time to visit is early in the morning, when you can often listen to the prayer chants of the monks.
