Mummified Monk at Wat Khunaram

Koh Samui’s Mummified Monk at Wat Khunaram is an unusual sight that offers a unique insight into Buddhist and Thai culture. The monk Luong Pordaeng died in 1973 in a seated meditative position, and ever since his body has been on display in an upright glass case at the temple. Remarkably, almost 50 years since his death, the monk’s body shows little sign of decay. For some visitors, having a dead man in full view might be a shocking sight, but for Thai’s it is something to reflect upon and revere.

Since this a sacred place of worship, dress politely by wearing trousers or skirts that cover the knee and covering bare shoulders with a shirt, scarf or sarong.