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Temples

There are several Buddhist and Chinese temples on the island. It has been said by some cynics that once you have seen one temple you have seen them all, but most temples are located in lovely settings and offer excellent opportunities to enjoy peace and the beauty of nature. Some of Ko Samui’s temples are listed below:

Big Buddah shrine is probably the single most famous landmark or site to see on the island as it greets all visitors who arrive on Ko Samui by plane. It consists of a 12 meter high golden Buddha a top an equally large base and anchors Big Buddah Beach on the north coast of the island. It is on hill offering a good view of the surrounding area. It is surrounded by other shrines and a very good market.

Wat Khunaram,, south of Lamai Beach, is the “home” of several several mummified monks.

Wat Khao Hua Juk, is located on a 90 meter “mountain “ near Chaweng Beach. It is said to have a replica of the Buddha’s footprint, and offers a great view of the international airport and Big Buddha Beach. It is an excellent location from which to enjoy sunsets.

Wat Laem Sor Pagoda and Pagoda Khao Chedi are located 11 kilometers south of Lamai Beach. Wat Laem Sor, located 200 meters from the sea, is designed as a large boat in a pool of water with a temple on top of it. It can be viewed from Khao Chedi, which is above it in the hills. This is a great location from which to view beaches, the ocean, sunsets and surrounding islands.

Wat Pradoem is located near the Butterfly Garden and contains many ornate carvings and ancient Buddhist scriptures. One can stop here on their return trip from the Butterfly Garden.

Hin Lad Waterfall Temple is located at the beginning of the two kilometer trail to the Hin Lad Waterfall near Nathon.

Zhao Me Guan Im Chinese Temple, dedicated to the Chinese Goddess of Mercy, is a simple building and alter, with lovely paintings that tell the story of the Goddess. It is located at the southwest end of the island and offers an excellent view of the beaches and surrounding islands, including Ko Taeh (Turtle Island).

Hainan Temple and Wat Chaeng are found in Nathon. Wat Chaeng contains an excellent sitting statute of the Buddha.

Secret Buddha Garden: several temples, statues and sculptures, and waterfalls were built in a “hidden” location high in the hills of Samui. The garden can be found and is worth visiting but is difficult to get to. It is recommended that those interested in seeing it visit through a tour.