Ko Pha Ngan is one of the most visited islands in Thailand and is known for its complex nature full of contrasts - most of the time it is a quiet and pastoral island, a great place for a romantic honeymoon or a family vacation full of fun attractions, but for a few days during the month it takes on a completely different atmosphere, when parties are held there The famous full-moon and it is filled with bouncy young people and music until dawn.
If so, you won't be surprised to hear that in the southwest of the island, right next to the village of Baan Tai, the place where some of the parties are held, there is a beautiful temple, called by the locals the temple of the "reclining Buddha", aka Wat Phu temple. The name of the place was given to him after the area where Buddha lived in India.
This is one of the most central temples in this area and one of the reasons for this is the traditional steam and herb sauna operated by the local monks. In this sauna, the monks heat a traditional mixture of plants that are attributed healing properties (among others, lemon grass and other herbs of Asian origin) for a long time, and the steam and vapors created in the burning process are filtered and fill the sauna space.
Sitting in the sauna is considered by the visitors to have a purifying effect attributed to the medicinal plants and, among other things, it is reported to relieve symptoms and cure diseases such as eczema and extreme dryness of the skin, lowering blood cholesterol, anti-aging and much more. In addition to the famous sauna, you can enjoy additional treatments provided in the spa complex next to the sauna and bathe in the large pool located on the premises.
Please note that even though this is one of the most popular and beloved attractions on the island, there is nothing to fear from the rush of tourists because, after all, it is a temple that is a sacred spiritual place for the locals, so they are very careful to keep the atmosphere quiet and peaceful and to observe the following rules:
- Be sure to wear appropriate clothing - cover your shoulders and knees
- They took out shoes
- Keep the silence - do not speak loudly and do not shout
- Avoid public displays of affection such as hugs and kisses
- Do not point your feet in the direction of pictures or statues of Buddha
- Smoking is prohibited in the entire temple area
If everything is acceptable to you - don't forget to bring a towel!
Address – The temple is in the southwest of the island, right at the beginning of the road that leads from Baan Tai towards Thong Nai Pan.
Opening Hours - The temple is open all day and the sauna is open from Monday to Sunday from 13:00-15:00 until 18:00-19:00, depending on the season (it is recommended to check beforehand).
Entrance fee – 100 baht.
