Constructed as recently as 1972, Koh Samui's Big Buddha has quickly become one of the island's most visited and iconic attractions. Wat Phra Yai, as it is known to locals, is the epicentre of Buddhist prayer on this Thai island yet, despite its primary function as a religious site, tourists are warmly welcomed.
One of the best times to visit the statue is in the early morning, at sunrise. This is when the locals carry colourful arrangements of flowers and fruit and place the offerings at the Buddha's feet. This is also the only time of day when the monks perform their prayers and chants. The sound of their solemn chanting mingling with the scent of incense in the early morning light is an intoxicating experience not be missed.
The miniature island on which the statue sits is connected to the mainland via a short causeway and sits 12 metres above the ground. As the day progresses, various food and souvenir stalls pop up around the Buddha's base, and the area can get particularly busy on holy days. It is also the site of many Buddhist festivals throughout the year, when people come from all over Koh Samui to celebrate their faith.
If you would rather an opportunity for some quiet contemplation, the time to visit Wat Phra Yai is in the evening. Lit from below, the golden Buddha subtly changes hue. Visiting at this more peaceful time of day can be a good way to avoid the crowds.
Located in the northern part of Koh Samui, the Big Buddha can be found just to the east of Bang Rak beach and a mere 3 kilometres north of the airport. As this is a religious site, visitors should dress appropriately – clothing should cover the shoulders and long pants should be worn to avoid offence.
Big Buddha Statue Tours and Activities
Visit Big Buddha Statue
Plan a trip to see Big Buddha Statue
Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Bandara Resort and Spa, Samui
per person
19 Jun - 25 Jun
Return direct flight included
Sydney (SYD) to Ko Samui (USM)
9/10 Wonderful! (869 reviews)
Loved the layout of the property. Our villa(with plunge pool) was very close to the main pool and we never had any trouble getting a sunbed. Another pool was located right on the beach near the bar/restaurant area-it was perfect. All of the staff were very friendly and helpful especially Tim, she gave us directions, suggested places to eat and really looked after us. There wasn’t anything to dislike and we shall recommend it to others.
Reviewed on 10 May 2024
Top Big Buddha Statue Hotel & Accommodation Deals
Check availability on hotels close to Big Buddha Statue
Deva Beach Resort Samui
69/34 Moo 5, Bophut Choeng Mon Beach, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
Hyatt Regency Koh Samui
99/11 Moo 5, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui
9/123 Moo 5, Tambon Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
Kimpton Kitalay Samui, an IHG Hotel
10/78 Moo 5, Bo phut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
Tango Luxe Beach Villa Samui
79/100 Moo 5 T. Bopud A., Koh Samui, Surat Thani
Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui
84 Moo 5, Bo Phut, Koh Samui, Surat thani
U Samui
86 Moo 4 Bo Phut, 5, Koh Samui, Surat Thani Province
Sasitara Thai villas
79/60 Moo 5, Thongsai Road, Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
Holiday Inn Resort Samui Bophut Beach, an IHG Hotel
Moo 2 Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
- Holidays and getaways similar to Big Buddha Statue
- Are there hotels near Big Buddha Statue?
- Hotels near popular Koh Samui Attractions
- What kind of hotels are in Big Buddha Statue?
- Expedia's Latest Trends
- Hotels near Chaweng Beach
- Hotels near Lamai Beach
- Hotels near Nathon Pier
- Hotels near Fisherman's Village Plaza
- Hotels near Bo Phut Beach
- Hotels near Choeng Mon Beach
- Hotels near Chaweng Noi Beach
- Hotels near Silver Beach
- Hotels near Haad Rin Nok Beach
- Hotels near Central Festival Samui
- Hotels near Haad Yuan Beach
- Hotels near Crystal Bay
Hotels
Caravan Parks BinningupFuramaXclusive Ocean Beach, Seminyak, BaliWoolwich AccommodationHistoric Hotels in ParisMeriton Suites ChatswoodCheap Hotels in DarwinQuestServicedApartments Hotels in CranbourneFamily Hotels in MelbourneGarden HotelHotels near Ken Rosewall ArenaCeningan Island accommodationRadisson Blu Hampshire Hotel, LondonMcLaren Vale Studio ApartmentsCody accommodationMEX Airport HotelsSofitel Kuala Lumpur DamansaraDolphin LodgeHospitality Esperance, SureStay Collection by Best Western45 Times Square Hotel
Flights