Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)

Tourist attraction
★ 4.8 (15K+ reviews) • 36K+ booked
Immerse yourself in the spiritual and historical wonders of Wat Phra Yai Koh Samui, also known as Big Buddha Temple. This iconic destination offers a serene and breathtaking experience that will captivate your senses and leave you in awe. Welcome to Wat Phra Yai, also known as the Big Buddha Temple, a captivating Buddhist temple located on Ko Phan, a small island off the northeastern coast of Ko Samui, Thailand. Home to a magnificent 12-meter-high gold-painted Buddha statue, Wat Phra Yai has become a prominent tourist attraction and a significant landmark on the island since its establishment in 1972. Discover the allure of Koh Samui's Big Buddha, a star attraction that captivates visitors with its grandeur and intricate details. Plan your visit to this iconic site and immerse yourself in the cultural and historical significance of this religious landmark.
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H3C5+7XV, Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand

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Why people love Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)

4.8 /5
15K+ reviews
Read all reviews
洪 **
23 Sep
Hotel pick-up and drop-off is provided, and the professional instructor can play with confidence. Free photos are provided and will be sent directly immediately. After the activity, you can choose a drink. The overall activity experience is very good, highly recommended👍🏻
EVGENII ********
23 Sep
Everything is great, the transfer picked up from the hotel, they helped load the bags, you arrive at the pier a little early. Departure is a little late by 15 minutes. Overall, everything is good.
Klook User
20 Sep
The trip was a great addition to our holiday, however i believe that it will be bettter without the rain ruining the trip 🤒. The guide was fun, punctual and took a great care of us. Will definitely recommend this trip for solo traveller / group travellers.
Varun ****************
17 Sep
centrally located .. most hotels provide free shuttle service to and from the harbour .. comfortable, spacious and on time
1+
ng ********
14 Sep
Klook offers a lot of deals. It includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, which is very convenient. There are people who help take photos and take photos. They are so attentive. Both adults and children find it very comfortable. I will participate again next time.
2+
Klook User
14 Sep
It was funny snorkeling and hiking to the viewpoint. However, the lunch needs to be improved in comparison to the lunch offered during the tour to Koh Tao operated by the same tour operator.
Varun ****************
12 Sep
easy comfortable trip .. aptly located from the airport.. can upgrade to indoor seating paying a difference of 100thb.. they have a canteen inside !!
1+
Klook User
12 Sep
The staff was great and really funny, took photos and videos 😊

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FAQs about Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)

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What to know before visiting Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)

Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Big Buddha Statue

The towering 12-meter tall Buddha statue is the centerpiece of Wat Phra Yai, surrounded by intricate details and vibrant colors. The temple itself is a beautiful blend of traditional Thai architecture and peaceful surroundings. The Big Buddha statue at Wat Phra Yai portrays Buddha in a state of calm and purity, symbolizing the triumph over temptation and fear. The temple also houses a smaller statue of the Maitreya of the Future and a collection of bells, showcasing a blend of animism, Brahminism, and Buddhism in its architecture.

Serpent Staircase and Mara Pose

The jeweled serpent staircase leads to a tall platform where the Buddha sits in a Mara pose, symbolizing his journey to enlightenment. The intricate details and symbolism make this a must-see attraction.

Scenic Views and Sculptures

Climb the 72 steps to the top for stunning views of Big Buddha Beach and explore the sandy beach area with unique sculptures, including a mermaid and a green sea horse.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Built in 1972, Wat Phra Yai holds deep cultural and historical significance, offering insights into Thai spirituality and traditional practices. The temple's architecture and artifacts reflect the rich heritage of the region. Wat Phra Yai holds a rich cultural and historical significance, with its intricate temple design incorporating elements of various belief systems. The presence of nāga statues and a bazaar within the temple grounds adds to the unique cultural experience for visitors.

Local Cuisine

After your visit, indulge in delicious local dishes at nearby eateries like The Social Samui, offering stunning views of Big Buddha. Try authentic Thai flavors and vegan options while enjoying a relaxing atmosphere. Explore the vibrant culinary scene around Wat Phra Yai, particularly in the area known as Big Buddha Beach (Bang Rak). Indulge in popular local dishes and dining experiences that offer a taste of authentic Thai flavors.