Wat Sok Pa Luang

In a shaded, almost semi-rural setting that is entirely in keeping with its name ( wat paa means ‘forest temple’), Wat Sok Pa Luang is famous for its herbal saunas and expert massage. The masseurs are usually lay people who reside at the temple. After a relaxing sauna, you can take herbal tea on the veranda, then opt for a massage. You’re not supposed to wash away your accumulated perspiration for two or three hours afterward to allow the herbs to soak into your pores. A few women have commented that some masseurs may cover more territory than is comfortable. The sauna (US$1) and massage (US$2) operate from 1pm to 7pm daily.