Wat Ratchathammaram (Wat Sila Ngu) — Attraction in Surat Thani Province

Wat Sila Ngu Temple or Wat Ratchathammaram is situated on a steep coast by the ring road on the way from Lamai Beach to the settlement Hua Thanon. It is very easy to notice from the road: it catches your eye with its new building – a temple of terracotta colour.

The walls and the roof of this ‘terracotta’ temple are embellished with bas-reliefs and thoroughly executed sculptures. But wait until you go inside! There is Rahu, eating up the sun, above the entrance, sneaking up on you. On the left – sea demons are sticking out their heads from stormy waves and huge fish is swallowing someone. On the right – the warriors of the God of apes Hanuman are fighting. And on a carved wooden shutter, there is a man-warrior is leaving for the jungle on a huge wild boar.

The walls and the ceiling come to life just before your eyes, something important and magical is going on each square centimeter. As for the rest, it is gloomy and empty here. The only exception is big Buddha, painted in imitation of gold, he sits in farthest corner of the temple on the base, made of carved ceramics. They haven’t removed a polyethylene cover from him yet.

Opposite a new temple, at the entrance into the territory of the complex, there is an unusual tree – this is the tree of spirits. It is encircled with golden and white fabric, it is laden with figurines of spirits and statuettes of the royalty. Beneath it, there is Buddha with dark face, his hands are folded in the gesture of meditation. Closer to the sea, there is a high yellow stupa, inside which – like in an oven – there are figurines of Buddha, covered with leaves of braid gold, given by the believers, and at the base of stupa, his relics are kept.

There is a decorated viewpoint nearby, from which one can see the whole coast of Hua Thanon up to the very Mosque of Muslim Village. Downward from the stupa, steps descend, which have two huge golden cobras instead of handrails. On both sides of the stairway there is a small Buddhist cemetery: the ashes lie at rest in little pagodas, adorned with mosaics. Beneath, you will find the canopy of leaves and a sea view. How to find? Wat Sila Ngu Temple is situated at the ring road (4169) between the settlements Lamai and Hua Thanon.

It's a Hindu temple architecture that has sculptures of LORD GANESH, LORD MAHAVISHNU, GARUDA,...

If you're visiting Koh Samui and looking for a serene and culturally rich experience, Wat Ratchathammaram, also known as Wat Silangu, is a must-visit. This hidden gem offers a unique glimpse into the local culture and spirituality of the island.

Location and Ambiance: Nestled in a quiet area, Wat Ratchathammaram is surrounded by lush greenery and tranquility. The temple grounds are meticulously maintained, providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling tourist spots. The serene environment allows for quiet reflection and meditation.

Architecture and Art: The architecture of Wat Ratchathammaram is truly captivating. The intricate carvings and statues, especially the serpent-themed sculptures, are a testament to the skill and artistry of Thai craftsmen. The vibrant colors and detailed designs make this temple a feast for the eyes and a delight for photography enthusiasts.

Cultural Significance: Wat Ratchathammaram holds great cultural significance for the local community. It's not only a place of worship but also a center for community gatherings and festivals. Visitors can witness traditional ceremonies and gain insight into the spiritual practices of the locals.

Tips for Visitors: Dress Modestly: As with all temples in Thailand, it's important to dress respectfully. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. Respect the Sanctity: Be mindful of the sacred nature of the temple. Avoid loud conversations and be respectful of worshippers. Visit Early: To fully appreciate the temple's beauty and tranquility, visit early in the morning when it's less crowded.

In conclusion, ‏Wat Ratchathammaram (Wat Silangu) is a beautiful and serene temple that offers a profound cultural experience. Whether you're a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone looking for a peaceful place to visit, this temple will...

Wat Ratchathammaram, also known as the Red Temple, is one of the most unique and beautiful temples on Koh Samui. Unlike many other temples on the island that are decorated in gold, this one stands out immediately with its striking red terracotta color and detailed carvings. The red tones create a very distinctive atmosphere, especially when the sunlight hits the temple walls and highlights the intricate patterns.

The temple grounds are peaceful and not as crowded as some of the more famous spots, which makes it a wonderful place to walk around slowly and take in the details. The architecture and artwork tell Buddhist stories through delicate carvings and statues, and you can feel the effort and devotion that went into building and preserving this place. The overall atmosphere is calm and spiritual, ideal if you want to reflect or enjoy some quiet moments away from busier areas of Samui.

What I found most memorable was how different this temple feels compared to others — the red sandstone style makes it almost look like a piece of art. It’s definitely worth visiting not only for its spiritual energy but also for its cultural and architectural significance. If you’re exploring temples in Koh Samui, Wat Ratchathammaram...