Erected in 1972 on the small island of Koh Farn, the twelve-meter-high Great Buddha of Koh Samui is arguably the island's most famous monument. It gave the temple its name, Wat Phra Yai (Temple of the Great Buddha). The golden statue is located on Route 4171 at the edge of the Bang Rak district, just a few kilometers from the airport. It depicts Buddha in the Mara pose: his left hand rests in the statue's lap with an open palm facing heaven, while his right hand rests downwards on his right knee. In the background, a royal ship and the Wheel of Dharma can be seen. The elevated platform with the majestic statue, which can be seen from the airplane window – especially when taking off from Samui Airport – is reached via a staircase whose ramps are shaped like the bodies of two Naga serpents. In front of the staircase, near the water, are statues of legendary Thai figures.

No entrance fee. I recommend combining your visit to the Great Buddha of Samui with a visit to Wat Plai Laem temple. Both are located in the same area.

There is no direct public transport to reach the Big Buddha on Ko Samui. You will need either your own transport (rental car or scooter) or to hire a taxi or VTC (vehicle transport carrier). Alternatively, some agencies offer tours that include several Samui attractions, including the Big Buddha (see below).

The Great Buddha (Wat Phra Yai) is a temple. When visiting a temple in Thailand, there are some rules to observe: appropriate clothing (knees and shoulders should be covered), remove shoes upon entering the building, be quiet, no hugging or kissing, do not point your feet at the Buddha statue, and do not smoke.

How to get there

How do you get to the Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai)? There is no direct public transport to reach the Big Buddha on Ko Samui. You will need either your own transport (rental car or scooter) or to hire a taxi or VTC (Vehicle Transport Carrier). Alternatively, some agencies offer tours that include several of Samui's attractions, including the Big Buddha (see below).