Temple
Big Buddha & Wat Plai Laem
A 12-metre golden Buddha on a small island off Samui's north coast, next to the elaborate Wat Plai Laem.
WhereKoh Samui
Time needed45–60 minutes
Best timeLate afternoon
CostFree
The setting — a causeway, a lake, a giant golden silhouette — is more photogenic than most temples in Thailand. It is free and takes an hour.
How to visit it well
- Combine with the north-coast beaches in one afternoon.
- Feeding the fish in the lake is a hit with children.
- Cover up; this is an active temple.
