Dead Thai Monk mummified in a glass coffin

There are many Thai temples throughout Thailand that preserve the tradition of mummifying dead monks that then become revered icons and subject to devotion and pilgramage as well as reminding us all of the frail mortality of our lives.

I remember one particular story which personally sums up for me the gob-smacking magic and surprise of Thailand. We had been holidaying in the south of the country on the coast and had arranged for a car and driver to take us to the airport and stop at places along the way. I had been watching sensationalist Thai TV the night before which had a programme featuring a dead monk preserved in a glass coffin complete with dark sunglasses ! I had seen one before -the same one as in the video below - as they are quite common around Thailand. As we drove along I started to think I wouldn't mind seeing a dead monk ! And it was at exactly this point the driver said in Thai "would you like to see a dead monk?". Of course we agreed !

Wat Khao Suwan Pradit was home to one of South Thailand's most famous Buddhist monks. Phra Kru Suwan Praditkan or Luang Phor Choi was the chief Abbot here and had this temple restored. His mortal remains are preserved in a glass coffin in the temple which lies at the foot of the mountain.

What We Think We Become - The Buddha

The Buddha's Face

The best place to buy wholesale and retail Buddha statues,sculptures and wall panel decor for both the home and garden

Bespoke design available, from small buddha statues to large buddha wall art in colours from natural wood to gold ,all carved by our Buddhist artists and 100%fairtrade.

Visit our Buddhism 101 Enlightenment Project