Wat Khuanaram
Posted by Full mooner on October 1st, 2010 filed in sightseeingWat Khuanaram is located on Koh Samui, which is a beautiful setting for this religious sight. The monastery can be found on 4169 ring road.
The temple is renowned for the mummified monk whose name is Luang Por Daeng Piyasilo. He was alive from 1894 until 1973 and he was born on Koh Samui. Dang Piyasilo was ordained as a monk at the age of 20 and he remained a monk for two rainy seasons. During this time he stayed in the monastery. He left monkhood to get married and he became the father of six children.
At the age of 50, Dang Piyasilo returned to the monastery and began meditating at Yai Cave. He had many disciples and was famous for his meditation practices. He died when he was 79 and it is believed that he could foresee his death. His body remained preserved after his death so it was placed in a casket and the casket is now located in the Nirvana room of Wat Khuanaram.
Dang Piyasilo’s mummified body is displayed upright in a glass container in order to inspire other Buddhist practitioners. Outside the Nirvanna room you will find flowers and incense to offer to Buddha.
Wat Khuanaram is a religious site and visitors should respect the local culture by removing their shoes and wearing appropriate clothing. Outside the building is a placard explaining the history of the monastery and a newspaper article on display provides visitors with insight into Dang Piyasilo’s daily life. Entrance to Wat Khuanaram is free and you can also be blessed by a monk during your visit. Other nearby attractions include Na Muang Waterfall and Hua Thanon.