Wat Khunaram Koh Samui – The Story of Luang Pho Daeng

Wat Khunaram, also known as the temple of Luang Pho Daeng, is one of the most fascinating cultural and Buddhist sites on Koh Samui. Located on Route 4169 in the southern part of the island, between Na Muang and Hua Thanon, the temple is best known for the preserved body of Luang Pho Daeng, a highly respected Buddhist monk. For many visitors, a visit here provides a different experience from Koh Samui’s beaches and viewpoints and offers an opportunity to learn about Thai Buddhist traditions, meditation and the concept of impermanence.

Luang Pho Daeng, whose monastic name was Phra Khru Samathakittikhun, was born on Koh Samui in 1894. He entered the monkhood when he was young, but later left the monkhood, married and raised a family of six children. When he was around 50 years old, he decided to return to monastic life and devoted the rest of his life to Buddhist practice and meditation. He became highly respected for his knowledge of meditation and eventually became associated with Wat Khunaram, where he continued teaching and practising Buddhism.

During his later years, Luang Pho Daeng became particularly dedicated to meditation and Buddhist teachings. According to accounts of his life, he prepared his followers for his death and left instructions concerning what should happen to his body. He stated that if his body naturally decomposed, it should be cremated according to Buddhist tradition. However, if the body remained preserved, he wished it to be kept at the temple as a reminder for future generations.

On 6 May 1973, at the age of 79, Luang Pho Daeng passed away while sitting in a meditation posture. His body was subsequently placed inside a glass case at Wat Khunaram and has remained in a seated meditation position. Today, visitors can see him dressed in traditional monk’s robes. The preserved body has become closely associated with the temple and is regarded by many visitors as a reminder of the Buddhist teaching of impermanence, or anicca—the idea that all physical things are subject to change.

Visitors may also notice that Luang Pho Daeng wears sunglasses. The sunglasses were added by temple caretakers to cover the eye area, which changed during the preservation process, and to make the appearance more respectful and less disturbing for visitors, particularly children. It is important to remember that Wat Khunaram is an active Buddhist temple, not simply a tourist attraction. Visitors should dress respectfully, covering their shoulders and knees, and behave quietly when entering the area where people come to pay their respects.

There is no fixed entrance fee generally required to visit Wat Khunaram, although visitors are welcome to make a donation to support the temple. The temple is located conveniently along Koh Samui’s main ring road, making it easy to include in a sightseeing trip around the southern part of the island. Nearby attractions include Na Muang Waterfalls, Hin Ta & Hin Yai and the Hua Thanon area, allowing visitors to combine several attractions in one private tour.

If you would like to visit Wat Khunaram and pay your respects to Luang Pho Daeng, mySamuiTaxi.com can arrange a private taxi from your hotel, resort, airport or another location on Koh Samui. A private taxi is a comfortable way to explore the island, and you can combine Wat Khunaram with other attractions according to your preferred itinerary. Let our experienced local driver take care of the driving while you enjoy discovering the cultural and spiritual side of Koh Samui.