Wat Khao Tham

Wat Khao Tham is a temple complex situated on elevated terrain across Ko Pha-ngan island, with meditation halls, monks' quarters, and prayer rooms spread over multiple levels. The grounds contain various areas designated for spiritual practice and religious ceremonies.

The temple traces its roots to a meditation center founded in the 1960s by monk Emmanuel Sherman and Ajahn Praderm Komalo. It was formally established as a temple in 1994, formalizing decades of spiritual practice on the site.

The temple serves as a meeting point where Thai visitors and international guests practice meditation and engage with Buddhist teachings together. Daily activities center on mindfulness practices that shape how people experience the space.

The temple is open during daylight hours with various areas where visitors can meditate in peace or observe religious ceremonies. Plan your visit for earlier in the day to experience the grounds when they are less crowded.

The grounds feature artistic representations including replicas of Buddha footprints and a statue of Buddha in the Palilai posture. Notably present are sculptures of Mother Earth squeezing her hair, which serve as artistic interpretations of local spiritual beliefs.

Location: Ban Tai

Inception: October 5, 1994

Address: P258+4G6, Ban Tai, Ko Pha-ngan District, Surat Thani 84280, Thailand

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 09:00-18:00

Website: https://kowthamcenter.org

GPS coordinates: 9.70761,100.01628

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:26