The Big Buddha Temple, or Wat Phra Yai, is one of Thailand’s most famous Buddhist sites. It has two well-known locations, in Koh Samui and Pattaya. There is a huge golden Buddha statue in each temple that attracts both locals and tourists from other countries. The Koh Samui temple is on the small island of Ko Fan and has a 12-meter-high statue of Buddha that has become a symbol of the island. The Pattaya version, which is on Pratumnak Hill, is even taller at 18 meters and has views of the city and coastline from all sides.
History of Wat Phra Yai
The Big Buddha on Koh Samui was built in 1972 and has since become one of the island’s most popular tourist spots. It is still a place of worship and a cultural landmark. The Big Buddha in Pattaya, on the other hand, was built in the 1940s and was first a quiet place for locals to pray. As tourism grew in the area, it became one of the city’s most popular places to visit.
Location & Directions
The Wat Phra Yai temple in Koh Samui is on Ko Fan, a small island off the northeastern coast of Samui. A short causeway connects the two islands. It is easy to get to because it is only a few kilometers from Samui International Airport, Chaweng, and Bophut. The Big Buddha Temple in Pattaya is on Pratumnak Hill, which is between South Pattaya and Jomtien Beach. It is a popular stop on tours of the city.
The Koh Samui temple is easy to get to because it is only three kilometers north of the airport on Highway 4171, which is a side road off of Highway 4169, the island’s main circular route. You can get to the temple in Pattaya by car, taxi, or motorbike. To get to the main statue at the top of the hill, visitors must climb a beautiful staircase with golden naga (mythical serpent) figures on it.
Opening and Closing Time
Most days, both temples are open from early morning until about 6 am. Visitors don’t have to pay to get in, but they are encouraged to leave a donation to help with temple upkeep and activities.
Things to Do and See at Wat Phra Yai in Koh Samui
- Look at the 12-meter-tall statue of the Buddha.
- Ring the bells to bring good luck.
- Get blessings from the monks who live there.
- Check out the souvenir shops and food stalls.
- Look at the traditional architecture of Thai temples.
Tips Before You Visit The Temple
- Wear clothes that aren’t too revealing and cover your knees and shoulders. You have to take off your shoes before you go into holy places.
- The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the weather is cooler and the light is beautiful.
- Be quiet and respectful because this is a place of worship.
- Taking pictures is okay, but don’t pose in a way that is disrespectful.
- Donations are not required, but they are appreciated to help keep the temple clean.
FAQs about Wat Phra Yai
No, there is no charge to get in, but donations are welcome.
The statue in Koh Samui is 12 meters tall (40 feet), and the statue in Pattaya is 18 meters tall.
Yes, monks are often available to give blessings, especially at Wat Phra Yai in Koh Samui.
It usually takes 30 minutes to an hour to see the temple grounds.
Yes, you can take pictures, but you have to be polite and not make rude gestures or poses.
