Wat Suwan Khiri Khet, often known as the Karon temple, is about 500 metres from Karon Beach on Patak Road. Founded in 1895, it is a good place to escape the crowded beaches and meditate in peace.
Its Buddhist architecture combines Chinese and Thai designs, and its garden, decorated with dragons, is a calm place to relax. The temple grounds also host the Karon market.
A traditional Buddhist temple
At Wat Suwan Khiri Khet you are welcomed by two giant serpents known as nagas, which guard the main temple. Their bodies wind around the whole building. Another building in the temple grounds is guarded by two fierce blue figures known as yaks, which are believed to scare off evil spirits and protect the Buddha images inside. Inside the temple is a black Buddha image, along with several Hindu-style images, such as a goddess riding a cow.
The inside of the temple is richly decorated with paintings and murals of the life of the Buddha, including his path to enlightenment and the stories of his ten previous lives. The doors and windows are also decorated with paintings. There are three Buddha images in the ordination hall and another 17 in a large hall used for sermons.
The temple is also known for hosting the Karon market in its grounds. This lively market sells a wide range of goods and is a good chance to experience local culture and food. There is plenty of Thai street food to taste, and you can buy your favourite dish and eat it in the temple garden. Apart from food, there are souvenirs, jewellery, shoes, handbags, swimwear, watches and T-shirts.