One of the more morbid attractions in Koh Samui is the mummy monk of Wat Khunaram. Where the monk is kept in a glass case and can be seen if you visit the temple.
Wat Khunaram
The mummified monk of Koh Samui was Loung Pordaeng who died in 1973 while seated in an upright meditative position. It is in Wat Khunaram which is located close to many a Samui beach resort. His mummified corpse is displayed in a glass case inside the temple. Despite it being 30 years since he died, the monk’s body shows only very small signs of decay.
The Concept of Death
Buddhists in Thailand are not frightened by the concept of death as they believe that it belongs in the natural order of things and features in rebirth.
Loung Pordang’s Philosophy
Loung Pordang is very revered by Thai Buddhists, as he had been very philosophical during his lifetime, telling his followers that if his body decays after his death he should be cremated. If not, to put it in a display so people are inspired to lead a respectable life.
Highlights and Features
If you’re holidaying at Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort, you will be in close quarters to Wat Khunaram which became the monk’s home after he returned to Samui after spending a long time away where having been ordained in his early 20’s, disrobed and became a father to six children. It was after they were all grown that he returned to monastic life.
