Wat Kiri Wongkaram Samui

Located Taling Ngam is Wat Kiri Wongkaram Samui. The mummified body of Luang Por Ruam is displayed here in a glass case. A monk at the age of 21 years later becoming the head monk at Wat Kiri Wongkaram Temple. Luang Por had a formidable presence at the temple. In 1966 Luang Por died at the age of 87. Visit Wat Kiri Wongkaram Samui to discover the history of Koh Samui.

Mummified Monk

The monk’s body is displayed in a sealed glass case. The decomposition of the body did not occur after his death and it has remained in a mummified condition for decades. The hair and the fingernails of the mummified Luang Por continue to grow. Protective charms are made from Luang’s nail clippings. Despite the tropical humidity preservation chemicals were not used on Luang Por Ruam’s body Baffling the scientists, the local superstition and belief, it is a miracle and nothing to do with science.

1879 Luang Por Ruam was born close to Wat Kiri Wongkaram Samui. Journeying to Burma early 20th century he initiated into Buddha practices and life. Returning to Samui Luang Por lead a life of purity and meditation eating only once a day. Luang Por means venerable father. A title for a respected senior Buddhist monastic. The word Luang means royal or vulnerable. The statue may be scary for young children.

Visiting Wat Kiri Wongkaram Samui

Visiting Wat Kiri Wongkaram temple is an opportunity to explore the history and religion of Koh Samui. The beauty and splendour of the temple offer an insight into Thai Culture and their traditions. Locals visit the temple daily offering prayer and worship. The upkeep of the temple relies on donations from the local community and the visiting tourists. Monks dressed in distinctive orange robes spend time in the grounds feeding stray dogs and cats. The monks tend the temple grounds during the day.

Two mummified monks are housed in Koh Samui temples. Wat Kiri Wongkaram Temple and Wat Kunaram Temple located by Na Muang Waterfalls in the Lamai and Hua Thanon area.

Be respectful of people praying, it is a place of worship. Do not take photos of anyone in a temple without their permission especially if they are praying.

Temple Etiquette

• Bow Your Head.
• Remove Shoes.
• Cover Shoulders (wrap or tee-shirt).
• Cover to below Knees  (not shorts).
• Keep noise level to minimum.
• Do not point with your feet.
• Keep your head below the Buddha Statues.
• Do not touch the statues especially on the head.
• Do not Climb on the Statues.
• Refrain from physical contact and public affection.
• Stand up in the worship area if a monk enters, sit again when they finish.
• Donations from visitors are essential for the upkeep of temples. (Optional).