Is there an entrance fee for Big Buddha Samui? Big Buddha in the mountains of Koh Samui and our extreme climb up the mountain on a bike. Excursion to the Big Buddha

Big Buddha on Samui (Samui, Thailand) - description, history, location, reviews, photos and videos.

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Most Thais practice Buddhism and the country has many places of worship, temples and other places of worship, erected by adherents of this religion. No exception and marvelous Koh Samui, where in a relatively compact area there are a lot of attractions related to Buddhism. But, probably, one of the largest is a huge gilded statue of a deity, which is called “Big Buddha” due to its size. Its height reaches, for a moment, as much as 12 m. The pose of the huge statue is quite traditional: Buddha is depicted sitting in the lotus position.

This, without exaggeration, is a monumental structure located on Fan Island, which is connected to Samui by a narrow strip of land. By the way, this giant can be seen from the window of an airplane that is preparing to land on the island. Local residents reverence this place and treat it with reverent awe. Big Buddha is a unique symbol of Samui, and for crowds of tourists it is one of the important attractions that should definitely be included in the travel itinerary.

Local residents reverence this place and treat it with reverent awe. Big Buddha is a unique symbol of the island, and for crowds of tourists it is one of the important attractions.

The Big Buddha statue was erected in 1972, and from that moment the inhabitants of the island count down the beginning of an era of prosperity. It is believed that as soon as the monument was built, the island was taken under the protection of unearthly beings. And since then, sunny and carefree Samui has avoided all troubles and sorrows. Those who want to get closer to the Big Buddha statue will need to climb a rather long staircase of 60 steps, after removing their shoes. These are the local customs. Those who climb the stairs will not only be able to see the monument up close, but will also enjoy a wonderful view of the beautiful azure sea and picturesque shores.

The statue is made with many interesting details that can be studied for a long time. Not far from the Big Buddha there is a Buddhist temple. In addition, there is a market where anyone can buy beautiful and skillfully made traditional clothes of the local people. Or, of course, a miniature copy of Big Buddha.

Address: exact address It’s not common on Samui - it’s easier to get to all the attractions using landmarks, and Big Buddha is no exception. The statue is located 10-15 minutes from Maenam beach, on Fan Island. Finding the sculpture is not difficult - it is visible from afar.

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Koh Samui may be a small island, but there are more than 20 temples and pagodas on it, some free-standing and some entire complexes. In this video we talk about several temple complexes on Koh Samui that are worth visiting.

In the article below you will find detailed description temples with photographs, their location on Koh Samui and interesting ways make wishes.

Wat Phra Yai Temple and Big Buddha Statue | Wat Phra Yai & Big Buddha

One of the main attractions of Koh Samui is Big Buddha statue. It is located on the territory Wat Phra Yai temple. For local residents, this is the most sacred and revered place, bearing a deeply religious meaning. They come here on weekends to cleanse themselves of their sins. It is believed that Samui is protected as long as the Buddha statue is intact.

We are with our friends from St. Petersburg on the square in front of Big Buddha

The statue has already become a symbol of Samui, and how could it be otherwise, because it can be seen within a radius of several kilometers from different points on the island. Even landing planes cannot “pass it by” and fly directly over it when landing.

This is the same embankment road that is clearly visible from above

The gilded statue of Big Buddha was installed in 1972 and since then it has begun to serve as a reliable talisman against all kinds of problems and water misfortunes. There is a belief that with the construction of the Big Buddha statue, the island began to be under the protection of heavenly patrons and all sorrows and hardships began to bypass it. And indeed this is so - every year Samui is noticeably developing and prospering.

The height of the Buddha is as much as 12 meters. Behind the Buddha statue there is a wheel with 12 spokes, each of which represents nidana - a link.

Behind the Buddha statue there is a wheel with 12 spokes, each of which represents nidana - a link

A long staircase, 60 steps, leads to the foot of the statue. Before using it, you must take off your shoes and even socks. This rule applies when entering all temples, as well as when approaching revered statues.

Exception for this temple: from 10:00 to 16:00 is the time when the steps of the stairs are so hot that you are allowed to climb them in shoes.

Advice: When visiting Buddhist temples, avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Try to cover your shoulders and knees.

We first took off our shoes and, satisfied, took photos together.

On both sides of the stairs, instead of railings, there are snake-like mythical creatures - naked - with a fan of snake heads.

Serpent-like mythical creatures - nagas - with a fan of snake heads

If you are interested in Buddhism, to the left of the stairs under the awnings sit monks who, for a donation, put a blessed rope on your hand for good luck and bless you. You can also buy incense sticks, gold foil and flowers from them. At the top, send large incense to the Big Buddha, 7 small sticks to the small Buddhas, decorate the golden statues with foil.

The monks put a blessed rope on your hand for good luck and bless you

Big Buddha sits in the lotus position and carefully watches everyone who rises to him. His gaze is directed precisely at the newcomers climbing the stairs. When you rise to the Buddha, you get the impression that he is looking exactly at you. Having overcome the stairs and climbed to the Buddha, you need to look at him and make a wish.

When you rise to the Buddha, you get the impression that he is looking exactly at you

Upstairs open area with bells and stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand and Koh Phangan ( Koh Phangan). You can walk around its perimeter, knock on all the bells with a special stick (issued on the spot for free), thereby attracting good luck and clearing karma. Make a wish, it will definitely come true. In the evening, many come here to admire the beautiful sunset.

Top view | The Biggest Buddha | Big Buddha on Koh Samui and other temples | Big Buddha Samui

You can be alone with your thoughts or ask Buddha to fulfill your desire.

Ask Buddha to grant your wish

Advice: Try not to turn your back to the Big Buddha statue, and when sitting down, do not point your feet towards the sculpture.

The statue is located on the top of the small island of Fan, which is connected to Koh Samui by a causeway. Not far from the statue is Bangrak Beach, or as it has recently been called Big Buddha Beach.

Top view | The Biggest Buddha | Big Buddha on Koh Samui and other temples | Big Buddha Samui

Wat Phra Yai temple is active Buddhist temple. There is a school at the temple. At the school, anyone can learn the basics of Buddhist philosophy and learn meditation techniques.

The monks accept donations to build new walls for the temple. At the foot of the Big Buddha you can buy tiles from them, thereby making a contribution to the history of Samui. Write your name and wishes on it, then return it to the monk. These painted tiles are then used to cover the roofs of houses. And the bright tiled roofs of the buildings of the temple itself are built very skillfully and form a wonderful unity with the flowering trees around.

You can write your wish on these tiles and take part in the construction of the temple.

There is a picturesque Thai market around the temple. Here you can buy souvenirs and light white clothes made of natural fabric, jewelry made of semi-precious stones, local sweets and drinks, including the famous Thai pancakes. There are also many shops and stalls with handicrafts from local craftsmen scattered here.

A very unusual store. It's a pity that photography is prohibited inside

I was especially impressed by these iron giants and small figures assembled from various spare parts: nuts, chains, parts from bikes and other things. Busts of Buddha, recognizable cartoon and movie characters, elephants and much more were created. The cost of the most large statues 100,000 - 200,000 baht (100-200 thousand rubles)

We decided to come back here later and buy one for our dacha

If you walk straight from the Big Buddha statue to the water, you will see an unusual sculptural composition.

The most memorable statue is a Woman with fangs and a naked torso, eating her enemies. It immediately becomes clear what they are asking her for. local residents.

Just a woman with fangs and a naked torso

The smaller sculptures are not particularly impressive: it is a green animal (with antlers and a body like a deer, a fish tail and a dragon's head), on which a rider sits.

What they symbolize, it seems to us, not even all Thais know

Mermaid with a naked torso.

Just a bare-chested mermaid

Opposite her is an old man.

I liked the old man the most, he is the cutest of all those presented here

And a couple more strange sculptures.

Someone sits and plays an inaudible melody, and someone dances nearby

All the sculptures stand in the water, but at low tide you can also find them on land.

Who knows what these figures represent? Write to us in the comments, it’s interesting

Entrance to the temple territory is free.

9.57069, 100.06035

It is worth extending the tour to a place that is more interesting in our opinion - Wat Plai Laem Temple, which is located a 15-minute walk away.

Another pearl of Samui is Wat Ban Plai Laem, an extremely beautiful temple complex not far from the Big Buddha statue, created by Thai artists. Today this temple is the most modern creation Buddhist architecture on Koh Samui. It was erected in 2004 entirely with donations from believers. The temple building consists of three parts, each of which, according to the architect’s idea, is made in its own style: classical Thai, Chinese, Indian. Temple complex is located on the lake, and thanks to the work of the designers, it gives the impression of floating on the water.

The center of Wat Plai Laem is the beautiful Bot - a richly decorated room for general meetings and prayers. This building, like the two main sculptures of the temple, is located on an island in the shape of a lotus flower and looks especially good at sunset, when the last rays of the setting sun paint it in warm colors.

The eight boundary stones (Bai Sema) around it are small, brightly decorated turrets with stylized Botke tree leaves inside.

Everything is gilded, shimmers beautifully and shines in the bright sun.

Indescribably beautiful, the entrance doors of the temple were made from two giant tree trunks and covered with carved paintings from the life of Buddha. Thai artist Khun Jarit Phumdonming spent more than three years decorating the outer walls of the temple with the finest details, thanks to which they turned into a real kaleidoscope of colors and ornaments.

Inside Botha, according to tradition, there is an altar with a golden statue of Buddha. The walls of the room are decorated with colorful frescoes reflecting various events of Buddhist mythology. The interiors of the temple make you admire the picturesque paintings on the walls, which tell about episodes from the life of Gautama Buddha.

Entrance doors of the temple of indescribable beauty | Temple complex Wat Ban Plai Laem | Wat Ban Plai Laem

To the right and left of Bot, on separate islands, there are 12-meter statues, which perfectly symbolize the influence that the teachings of neighboring regions had on Thai Buddhism. On the one hand, this is the Eighteen-Armed Guanyin (the same “many-armed Buddha”) the goddess of mercy, protector of the weak, patroness of the female half of the house and the feminine principle. She is a character from Chinese mythology and is also known as Guanzizai.

On the island on the other side is the “Laughing” or “Fat” Buddha, who is none other than Hotei - one of the most famous heroes of netsuke, miniature figures originally from Japan. According to legend, a fat monk named Qi Qi wandered around the world, making his living by making predictions. All his few possessions consisted of a staff and a canvas bag (in Japanese, Hotei). The monk's huge belly was considered the center of vitality.

According to legends, wherever Hotei appeared, luck, prosperity and good health came to people. In Japan, he is one of the seven deities of happiness, and in the Buddhist religion - the incarnation of Maitreya Buddha. In order for this deity to fall in favor with you, you need to rub his stomach, although this is extremely difficult to do in this particular case, given the size of the statue. However, you can limit yourself to purchasing a miniature figurine of Hotei in a local souvenir shop.

The "Laughing" or "Fat" Buddha, who is none other than Hotei

No less picturesque are the other buildings of the Plai Laem Temple - Wihan (another place for prayers and meetings), the bell tower, bright sculptural compositions depicting the Dharmachakra - the Wheel of Life, the most important symbol of Buddhism, as well as the crematorium, noticeable with its tall chimney.

Insanely beautiful Vihan building (another place for prayers and meetings)

Sculptural compositions depicting the Dharmachakra - the Wheel of Life

Wat Ban Plai Laem also called "fish temple". By purchasing fish food for 10 baht (10 rubles), you can cause a real stir in a seemingly quiet lake. The neighboring pigeons are also not averse to enjoying the treats, but you should not encourage them - traces of their vital activity will not decorate the paths to the islands, which, by the way, must be walked barefoot. For a nominal fee you can rent a catamaran in the shape of a swan and admire the temple and statues from the water.

In addition to visiting religious buildings, it’s simply a pleasure to walk around the spacious grounds of the Wat Plai Laem monastery. The territory of the complex is decorated with many sculptures. All of them are made in different styles: some are gilded, some are painted, and some look almost alive. Entering its territory, it seems that this is the scenery for a fairy-tale film. In our opinion, this is the most beautiful temple complex on Koh Samui.

Numerous sculptures on the territory of Wat Ban Plai Laem | Wat Ban Plai Laem

Visiting the monastery is absolutely free. The amount of donations is entirely at your discretion. A standard set of a bouquet, three candles and the same number of incense sticks usually costs 20 baht (20 rubles).

Advice: Avoid too revealing clothes bare shoulders and knees, remove shoes when entering the temple and in front of the paths leading to the statues.

On the territory of the temple you can also feed yourself delicious pancakes with various fillings. We recommend trying it with tuna and cheese.

The temple is located near the Big Buddha statue and is quite easy to find.

GPS coordinates on Google map: 9.571361,100.067207

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The most popular attraction is the Big Buddha on Koh Samui. However, it's not easy tourist place, but a temple complex that is revered by local residents and come here to worship their Deity. After all most of Thais are Buddhists. In this article we will take a short tour of the temple complex and I will tell you what is interesting here and why this place is worth visiting.

The Big Buddha temple complex is located on the small island of Fan, which is reached by a paved road. On the island there are numerous shops and retail outlets, as well as a couple of cafes. Here you can buy souvenirs, jewelry and clothing, as well as many varieties of Thai tea.

There is also an interesting store with huge iron sculptures.

In addition, on the territory of Big Buddha there are unusual figures that most likely symbolize something, but I don’t know what exactly. The figures stand directly in the water.

Closer to the Big Buddha statue is the Wat Phra Yai temple, and you can also see a monk there. If desired, he will tie a string on your hand for good luck and wish you happiness.

A little further there is a table with slabs from which the temple will be built in the future. You can write your wish on the tile or wish health, happiness and prosperity to your loved ones. According to legend, it is believed that if your wishes are written on the temple, they will definitely come true. Next to the tiles there is a donation box and, as far as I understand, such a ritual costs 50 baht.

Big Buddha statue

The statue of Big Buda rises at the very top, to which a staircase with snakes, consisting of 60 steps, leads. You must take off your shoes in front of the stairs, as this is considered a holy place. However, there is also a sign here that says that during the scorching sun hours from 10:00 to 16:00 you can climb in shoes. This was the first time I didn’t see this sign and climbed the stairs with the hot tiles barefoot.

The Big Buddha statue sits in the lotus position and is covered in gold. The statue was built in 1974 and is recognized to protect the island from problems and natural disasters. At its foot, Thais light candles and pray.

Around the Big Buddha on Koh Samui there are bells hanging, and next to them there are sticks with which to ring the bell. It is believed that you need to walk around the Big Buddha, hitting each bell with a stick and making intangible wishes, and then all the wishes you make will surely come true.

How to get there?

Getting to Big Buddha is easy. If you are traveling to own car or a bike, then moving along the main road, you reach the traffic light, which is located in the Bo Phut area and turn off main road and go straight until you see the arch. Then you drive through this arch and drive along the road that leads to Fan Island. And that's it, you're there.

You can also get to Big Buddha by tuk-tuk or taxi.

See the map for the exact location of Big Buddha on Koh Samui.

Operating mode

The temple complex is open every day during daylight hours. The entrance is free.

Perhaps Big Buddha is the most famous attraction on Koh Samui and many people recommend going there at least once. Since I don’t disdain visiting almost any place, I stopped here too, especially since I was passing by anyway.

The temple complex is located on a small island connected to land by an embankment and an asphalt road. This island is a couple of shopping streets with all sorts of things for tourists, such as souvenirs and clothes. Eating places, of course, are also present; it wouldn’t be Thailand if you couldn’t eat on every corner. Big Buddha himself sits on a hill, where a traditional staircase with nagas (snakes like that) leads.

To prevent the sun curtain from flying away, hang a weight!

Next, I again did not climb to Big Buddha, but walked around the hill on the other side. Here we can see the second most interesting place on the island, from which we get excellent photos with views of the Gulf of Thailand and the island of Koh Phangan on the horizon. The stones someone laid out in a single line and the pillars from the old pier sticking out in the distance give a special beauty.

Having found nothing else of interest, all that remained was to climb the stairs up the hill. To be honest, I expected the statue to be bigger/taller. Whether the statue set such a bar, or not, I don’t know. In general, a typical Thai temple with stairs, a hill, and a Buddha statue. It may be a revered place among the Thai population, but there is not much to see here. Transformers are even more interesting. Therefore, coming here is more like going to a temple to think about lofty things, and then do a little shopping and eat.

By the way, it’s not really possible to take photographs from above, because there are no views - construction and trees are in the way. However, even without construction it’s not so great, so to get views, as I wrote above, you need to go down and go behind the Buddha.

Where is it and how to get there

It's not difficult to get there. You just need to come to Bo Phut beach and drive along the coast. Not far from one of the piers from where ferries depart to Koh Tao, there will be an arch, you need to drive into it, and the road to the island will immediately go there. In general, it is difficult to miss and not notice.

One of the main attractions of Koh Samui is the huge 12-meter statue of the Big Buddha, which sits on the top of Fan Island in the lotus position. This statue can be seen from anywhere in Koh Samui. Big Buddha, in addition to its enormous size, is also covered in gold and was built in 1972.


When visiting Big Buddha, it seems that it is separated from the main island only by a gate, but in fact Big Buddha is located on a separate small island Phan, which locals connected by a dirt road to Koh Samui.

For local residents, the Big Buddha statue sacred place, where they come to cleanse themselves on weekends. There is also a belief among the locals that since the Big Buddha statue was built, the island of Koh Samui has become under its protection and protects it from misfortunes and natural disasters. And it’s true, Samui is becoming more and more popular among tourists every year and is developing rapidly.

To get to the Big Buddha statue itself, you need to climb the stairs, which you need to step on without shoes, but in front of the stairs there is a sign saying that if you come during the heat of the sun from 10 to 16 days, you can use shoes. Climbing to the top to the Buddha himself you will see beautiful view to Koh Samui and neighboring island Koh Phangan, if you have a residence permit in Thailand, be sure to buy a house in the Big Buddha area - incredible beautiful views and The Big Buddha is surrounded by other gilded, man-sized statues.

In front of the stairs, locals wash smaller Buddha statues with water.

At Big Buddha there is a temple called Wat Phra Yai, as well as a school where, if desired, you can study the philosophy of Buddhism and learn meditation. Near the statue there are also sellers of things, drinks and fruits, naturally, tens of baht more expensive than in a regular place.

Photo of Big Buddha on Koh Samui




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