Phra Kru Uthit Thammakun, the abbot of Wat Ma Prao Soong in Uthai Thani, stands in front of the temple’s traditional charcoal-fired crematory. (Photo: Phra Kru Uthit Thammakun)UTHAI THANI - A Buddhist temple in Nong Chang district of this central province has dusted off old wisdom to manage a very modern problem, offering wood-fired cremations as oil supplies tighten and electric furnaces fall silent. Wat Ma Prao Soong, officially named Wat Wang Boraphet, in tambon Thung Pho is among the few temples in the area that has never abandoned its traditional cremation furnace. Wat Ma Prao Soong is stepping in so that families can proceed with last rites without worry, according to abbot Phra Kru Uthit Thammakun, 58, also known as Phra Ajarn Mayom. “If there’s no oil, bring the body here,” he said, adding that the temple’s charcoal furnace remains fully operational and safe.

Source: Bangkok Post March 19, 2026 15:51 UTC