Wat Kiri Wongkaram

The Wat Kiri Wongkaram is a picturesque white temple in Koh Samui that is distinct for its elegant white colour. The roof is built with vibrant tiles in green, yellow, and red colours. It houses some beautiful art, and its architecture is extraordinary.

The temple is easily accessible from Koh Samui’s main ring road; just 3.5 kilometres away.

Wat Kiri Wongkaram, Buddhist Temple & Mummified Monk, Koh Samui

A small Buddha statue greets visitors at the entrance. The temple is renowned for the famous mummified monk known as Loung Por Ruam. Visitors to the wat can view the body of the monk, as it’s stored inside a glass case, which has been kept in the same position for almost three decades, ever since his death. What’s shocking is that the body of Loung Por Ruam is kept in such a good condition! Learn about the monk’s life through the illustrations, and don’t worry if you don’t speak Thai; English captions are also available.

Aside from this remarkable attraction within the wat, the temple grounds are worth exploring. It is maintained very well; with manicured gardens and pretty pathways. Numerous photo opportunities await you here, both in and out of the temple.

The temple is not only an important religious monument, but it’s also a terrific cultural and historical attraction. It’s a great place for kids and adults alike to visit while in Koh Samui.

Compared to the other temples on the island, this one is less touristy; it offers an authentic experience that you don’t have to share with hoards of other travellers. And because of the unique mummified monk, you won’t find this kind of attraction in many other places (another Mummified Monk is located at Wat Khunaram).

Wat Kiri Wongkaram is open daily during daylight hours and is located along Nara Taling Ngam Road, Koh Samui. Admission is free.