Herbal sauna revisited – At Wat Pho Temple, Baan Tai village south coast Koh Phangan Island

Time changes everything, including the herbal sauna located at the Buddhist temple Wat Pho in Baan Tai village at the south coast of Koh Phangan.  The sauna was originally established around 2002 by the abbot of the temple, Pra Prassert Titanyano, as a herbal remedy for various illness and as a form of relaxation. The sauna was built by and for the monks, but about 15 years ago it was opened up to foreigners to help detoxify from the various forms of toxification which is perhaps ingested at the great variety of moon-type parties throughout the island.

A mix of different herbs are put in a cauldron of water and heated until it vaporizes.  The steam is then funneled into two chambers, one male one female, where the patient sits and breaths in the herbal steam.  The heat opens the pours of the skin allowing dirt, oil and toxins to escape from the body.  The end result is health, relaxation and an euphoric sense of well being.  Personally I became very happy using this remedy and returned again and again.  I was addicted!

The sauna is beautifully surrounded by a forest and a fish pond.  There are lockers, herbal shop and a comfortable sitting area.  Cold drinks can be purchased and the entire atmosphere is quiet and very relaxing.  As a patron for non-profit endeavors, this little piece of heaven is recommended to all, especially those in need of a ‘party cleansing’.

The herbal sauna at Wat Pho in Baan Tai village is open 7 days a week from 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.  Entrance fee is 100 Thai Baht per person only!

A BIG thank you to our S.E. Asian senior health & wellness correspondent ‘Mighty Peter’ a.k.a. Mr. Hunter for revisiting this little gem on the island of Koh Phangan.