Overview
The Big Buddha Temple, also known as Wat Phra Yai, is a famous landmark on the island of Ko Samui in Thailand. The temple is home to a 12-meter tall golden Buddha statue that sits atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
The Big Buddha Temple is one of the most important religious sites on Ko Samui and a symbol of the island's Buddhist heritage.
Location
Address
Tambon Bo Put, Ko Samui, Surat Thani
Neighborhood: Bo Put
Coordinates
9.530467, 99.981821
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
November to February
Best Time of Day
Early morning
cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
hot and humid
summer
hot and humid, rainy
autumn
cool and dry
winter
cool and dry
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees)
- Remove shoes before entering temple buildings
- Be respectful of worshippers and religious ceremonies
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low
- • Stairs to reach the Buddha statue
- • Hot and humid weather
Medical facilities: First aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash (THB), Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
Currency
Thai Baht (THB)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Modest clothing (cover shoulders and knees), Comfortable shoes for walking, Remove shoes before entering temple buildings, Revealing clothing, Hats inside temple buildings
Booking Tips
- • Not required, but recommended for guided tours
- • Online travel agencies or local tour operators
- • Varies by tour operator
- • Not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Ko Samui Tourist App
Size: 50 MB
Features: Map, Attraction info, Tours and activities, Transportation
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe
Charging Stations: Not specified
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Ko Samui International Airport (USM)
Distance: 3 km
Travel Time: 10 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: The Big Buddha Temple is a symbol of Ko Samui's Buddhist heritage and a place of worship and reflection for the local community.
Historical Significance: The temple was built in 1972 to mark the end of a period of unrest on the island. The golden Buddha statue is said to bring peace and prosperity to the island.
Insider Tips
- Visit the temple early in the morning to see monks chanting and performing rituals
- Donate to the temple to support its maintenance and the monk's livelihood
- Try the local Thai dishes sold by street vendors near the temple
Local Recommendations
- • Try local Thai dishes at the food stalls near the temple
- • Visit nearby beaches and attractions such as Chaweng Beach and Lamai Viewpoint
- • Hire a local guide to learn more about the temple's history and significance
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Thai, English, Chinese, Russian
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main Buddha statue
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon
Tips: Capture the statue from below to emphasize its size and grandeur
Result: Iconic shot of the Big Buddha statue with a clear blue sky or lush green mountains in the background
Viewpoint near the statue
Best Time: Sunrise or sunset
Tips: Capture the panoramic views of the surrounding area and the temple complex
Result: Breathtaking views of the island and the temple complex with the golden Buddha statue in the foreground
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Chaweng Beach
Distance: 3 km
Walking: 45 min
Type: Beach
Lamai Viewpoint
Distance: 5 km
Walking: 1 hour 15 min
Type: Viewpoint
Hin Ta Hin Yai (Grandfather Grandmother Rocks)
Distance: 7 km
Walking: 1 hour 30 min
Type: Natural landmark
Reviews
Based on 1,200 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere"
- "Dress modestly and respectfully (cover shoulders and knees)"
- "Don't forget to bring water and sunscreen, as there are limited facilities on-site"
Contact Information
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Available Tours
66
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
1,200
Adult Entry
Free (donations welcome)