Wat Khunaram Koh Samui
Home to the remarkably preserved mummified monk, Luang Pho Daeng, Wat Khunaram offers a unique spiritual and cultural experience on Koh Samui.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Wat Khunaram Koh Samui
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to the remarkably preserved mummified monk, Luang Pho Daeng, Wat Khunaram offers a unique spiritual and cultural experience on Koh Samui.
"A unique and spiritually significant temple, best known for housing the mummified monk, Luang Pho Daeng."
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees. Essential for respectful temple visits.
💰 Donations Welcome
Entry is free, but donations support the temple and school.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mummified Monk
Main temple hall
Witness the remarkably preserved body of Luang Pho Daeng, a revered monk meditating in a glass casket.

Temple Grounds
Surrounding the main hall
Explore the serene temple complex, adorned with Buddhist art and statues, offering a peaceful atmosphere.

Spiritual Reflection
Various points within the temple
Engage in quiet contemplation and learn about Buddhist teachings on impermanence and enlightenment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Attire is Key
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees. Essential for respectful temple visits.
💰 Donations Welcome
Entry is free, but donations support the temple and school.
🛵 Easy to Reach
Accessible by scooter or taxi, often combined with other sights.
📸 Respectful Photography
Be mindful when taking photos, especially of the mummified monk.
Tips
from all over the internet
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees. Essential for respectful temple visits.
💰 Donations Welcome
Entry is free, but donations support the temple and school.
🛵 Easy to Reach
Accessible by scooter or taxi, often combined with other sights.
📸 Respectful Photography
Be mindful when taking photos, especially of the mummified monk.
🙏 Light Incense
Participate in the cultural experience by lighting incense and making offerings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wat Khunaram is a unique and spiritually significant temple, primarily known for its mummified monk, Luang Pho Daeng. Visitors often find the site peaceful and a valuable place to learn about Buddhist culture and teachings on impermanence. While some find it fascinating and respectful, others may find the display unsettling.
"Wat Khunaram is a unique and peaceful temple with the famous mummified monk on display. It’s interesting to see and a great spot to learn about Buddhist culture.
The temple grounds are calm and beautiful, making it a nice place for some quiet reflection while visiting Koh Samui"
shay yakobi
"I didn't feel it as a special place, it was even spooky. Wouldn't recommend going there. It must be special for local buddhist surely as reading the story of the monk who was mummified."
Krasimira Valkanova
"The mummified monk of Koh Samui is Luang Pho Daeng, a highly respected Buddhist monk whose body has been remarkably preserved since his death in 1973. His mummified body is displayed in a glass casket at Wat Khunaram.
Luang Pho Daeng's mummified body serves as a poignant reminder of the Buddhist teachings on the impermanence of life and the possibility of transcending the decay of the physical body through spiritual purity and meditation."
Arch S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Khunaram is located in the southern part of Koh Samui. You can easily reach it by renting a scooter, which is a popular and affordable option for exploring the island.
Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or use a ride-sharing app. The journey from Chaweng typically takes around 30-40 minutes by road.Yes, Wat Khunaram is generally easy to find. It's located off the main road, and there are usually signs pointing towards it. Many visitors combine a visit to Wat Khunaram with other attractions in the southern part of the island, making it a convenient stop.
While there isn't direct public bus service to Wat Khunaram, you can take a local songthaew (shared taxi) that travels along the coastal road. You might need to transfer to another songthaew or arrange for a taxi for the final leg of the journey, depending on your starting point.
Renting a scooter offers the most flexibility to explore Wat Khunaram and the surrounding scenic roads, lush scenery, and local villages.
This allows you to discover hidden gems beyond the main tourist paths.Yes, there is usually ample parking available at Wat Khunaram, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car or scooter.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Wat Khunaram. It is a functioning Buddhist temple, and entry is free for all visitors. However, donations are greatly appreciated to support the temple's upkeep and activities.
Wat Khunaram is typically open daily from morning until late afternoon or early evening. While there are no strict closing times posted, it's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the site and ensure the temple is accessible.
You can visit Wat Khunaram during daylight hours. For a more serene experience, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the peak times when tour groups might be present.
No, tickets are not required for Wat Khunaram as there is no admission fee. You can visit spontaneously during its operating hours.
While the temple is generally accessible during daylight, it's advisable to avoid visiting very early in the morning or late at night out of respect for the monks and the sanctity of the site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the mummified body of Luang Pho Daeng, a highly respected Buddhist monk who passed away in 1973. His body remains remarkably preserved and is displayed in a glass casket in a meditative pose, serving as a symbol of Buddhist teachings.
It is essential to dress modestly to show respect. This means covering your shoulders and knees. Avoid revealing clothing, shorts, or tank tops. Light, breathable fabrics are recommended for comfort in the tropical climate.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's important to be respectful, especially when photographing the mummified monk. Avoid flash photography and be mindful of other visitors. Some areas might have signs prohibiting photography.
The temple is described as peaceful and serene, offering a calm atmosphere for reflection. Despite the unique display, many visitors find it a spiritual and meaningful place to learn about Thai Buddhist culture.
Yes, the temple grounds feature Buddhist art, statues, and an area where visitors can light incense and make offerings. There's also a school on-site that the temple supports, and visitors can learn about its fundraising efforts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Wat Khunaram is primarily a place of worship and cultural interest, and it does not typically have on-site restaurants or food stalls. You'll find dining options in nearby towns like Lamai or Chaweng.
While you can bring water, it's best to consume food outside the temple premises out of respect for the sacred site. There are no designated eating areas within the temple grounds.
The nearest towns, such as Lamai, offer a variety of local Thai restaurants and street food vendors where you can sample authentic cuisine. It's recommended to explore these areas for dining after your temple visit.
Many Thai restaurants in Lamai and other nearby areas offer vegetarian options. Look for dishes like Pad Thai, Green Curry, or Tom Yum soup made with vegetables.
While not a primary focus, visitors can make offerings of incense, flowers, or small monetary donations to support the temple. Food offerings are not typically part of the visitor experience at Wat Khunaram.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted at Wat Khunaram, but it's crucial to be respectful. Avoid using flash, especially when photographing the mummified monk, and be mindful of other visitors' privacy.
While not explicitly stated for all areas, it's always best to look for 'No Photography' signs. It's generally understood that extreme close-ups or intrusive photography of the mummified monk might be discouraged.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer lighting conditions, enhancing the visual appeal of the temple grounds. The golden hour light can create a beautiful ambiance for your photos.
You can capture images of the temple's architecture, Buddhist statues, the serene grounds, and, with respect, the mummified monk. The overall atmosphere of peace and spirituality can also be conveyed through your photography.
Always be respectful. Dress appropriately, ask permission before photographing people, and avoid intrusive shots. Focus on capturing the essence and cultural significance of the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep the visit brief and focus on the temple's art and peaceful atmosphere. It's a good opportunity to discuss respect for different beliefs and practices. Consider combining the visit with more child-friendly activities on Koh Samui afterward.
🧘 Spiritual Seekers & Culture Enthusiasts
Take time to absorb the serene atmosphere, observe the rituals, and reflect on the spiritual significance of the site. Engaging with the temple's history and the monk's life can be a deeply meaningful experience. Remember to dress respectfully and approach the visit with an open mind and a contemplative spirit.
📸 Photographers
Remember to be discreet and respectful when photographing. Focus on capturing the essence of the place – its tranquility, cultural significance, and the spiritual aura. Be mindful of any restrictions and always prioritize respect over the perfect shot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story of Luang Pho Daeng
Luang Pho Daeng passed away in 1973 while in a meditative pose. Astonishingly, his body did not decay and has remained remarkably preserved ever since. This phenomenon is attributed to his spiritual purity and deep meditative practices. His mummified remains are now displayed in a glass casket within the temple, serving as a profound symbol for Buddhists.
The mummified monk's body is seen as a powerful reminder of the Buddhist teachings on the impermanence of life and the potential for spiritual transcendence over physical decay. Visitors often come to pay their respects, reflect on these teachings, and learn about the monk's extraordinary life and spiritual achievements.
Experiencing Wat Khunaram: Beyond the Mummy
Visitors can participate in the local customs by lighting incense and making offerings, which adds a layer of cultural immersion to the visit. The monks on-site are often welcoming and can provide insights into the temple's history and the significance of Luang Pho Daeng's mummification. There's also a school associated with the temple, and visitors may learn about their fundraising efforts.
Many travelers find Wat Khunaram to be a unique and meaningful stop on their Koh Samui itinerary, offering a glimpse into the spiritual heart of Thailand beyond the island's famous beaches. It's a place to appreciate Buddhist philosophy and experience a different facet of Thai culture.
Visiting Etiquette and Respect
When inside the temple, especially in the presence of the mummified monk, maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor. Avoid loud conversations or disruptive behavior. Photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful of signs prohibiting it and refrain from using flash, particularly when capturing images of the monk.
It's also customary to remove your shoes before entering certain temple buildings. Observe what locals and other visitors are doing. While entry is free, making a small donation to support the temple's maintenance and charitable activities is a thoughtful gesture.
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