Wat Khunaram

For those inclined, the island of Koh Samui has a lot more to offer than just its beautiful beaches.

While it may not necessarily be among the most impressive Buddhist temples in Thailand, Wat Khunaram, or Phra Wihan Luang Por Daeng, more than makes up for it with its special guest – the mummified body of Luang Pho Daeng, commonly known by his Buddhist name Phra Khru Samathakittikhu.

Koh Samui’s most famous monk was ordained as one in his early twenties. Then, after spending two years studying in the monastery, he disrobed, married a local woman, and went on to have six children with her. It is only once all of them had grown up did he, again, return to his monastic life.

Before his death in 1973, he left instructions with his disciples that should his body decompose, then they were to cremate him at once. However, if his body did not decompose, he wanted it to be on display. It was his way of reminding people of the briefness of their very existence and encouraging them to follow the ways of the Buddha.

And just in case you are wondering whether he passed away wearing sunglasses, well, he did not. Because his eyeballs have dried out, they do not make for a pleasant sight.