Luang Pho Daeng
A monk mummified since 1973.
Roma Neus — CC BY 3.0 · Nick Steemans — CC BY 3.0 · Per Meistrup — CC BY-SA 3.0
A small temple in southern Koh Samui that visitors seek out for one strange reason: the naturally mummified body of the monk Luang Pho Daeng, seated in meditation inside a glass case. The monk is said to have foretold the time of his death; he died in 1973 while meditating and asked that his body be kept on show to remind people of the Buddha's teaching on the impermanence of life. The body has barely decayed and still sits in its orange robe; the monks placed sunglasses over his eyes after they dried, making it a familiar image in photos of the island. Thais come to offer flowers and pray before him; for them it is a place of veneration, not a curiosity. Entry is free and donations are welcome. Modest dress is expected: shoulders and knees covered, and shoes off inside the halls. The sight may disturb some visitors, especially young children, so decide before going in. Behave respectfully and do not stand in front of worshippers. It is on the ring road near Na Muang waterfall, so pair them on a tour of the south of the island.
A monk mummified since 1973.
The Buddha's teaching on life.
On the waterfall round.
On the ring road in south-east Koh Samui, near Na Muang waterfall
It displays the real body of a deceased monk, which may upset young children, so parents should decide before going in.