The Temple of the Sitting Monk in Phang Nga Province
When you come to Phuket for the sea, sun, and beaches, take a couple of days to explore the island’s surroundings. There are many unique places nearby that you simply must visit. For example, just a 30-minute drive from the island, in the neighboring Phang Nga province, is a very unusual temple — the Temple of the Sitting Monk (Wat Kaeo Manee Si Mahathat). Just call our manager, and we will gladly take you to this unique place.
The Manee Si Mahathat temple complex is located outside Phuket, in Phang Nga province. It takes about 20-30 minutes to drive north from Phuket. The temple stands out from afar because of the majestic statue of a black sitting monk, which contrasts starkly with the temple’s rich decoration through its ascetic simplicity.
On a huge pedestal sits a meditating monk in a lotus pose, enlightened and capable of miracles — healing the hopelessly ill, helping the poor, and predicting the future. This state is achieved through renouncing worldly life, practicing asceticism, and meditation.
The holier and more miraculous a monk is, the more grand the statue built in his honor after death. Judging by the size of this statue, the monk truly possessed extraordinary abilities.
At the base of the statue are two large gongs — if you make a wish and then rub the gong, it will produce a beautiful deep sound. Only those pure in heart and mind can create such a sound.
When visiting Thai temples, it is important to follow certain rules: clothing should cover shoulders and knees, swimwear, shorts, and short skirts are not allowed. Shoes must be removed at the entrance. Do not step on the threshold but step over it. Avoid touching others. Women are forbidden to touch monks or hand them anything directly — offerings must be given through a man or with the help of a cloth.
