Temples and shrines in Koh Samui

Sacred Sites & Spiritual Havens

Ko Samui’s spiritual landscape features a diverse collection of Buddhist temples, forest monasteries, and Christian churches. Significant sites include the 12-meter golden Big Buddha on Ko Phan, the mummified monk at Wat Khunaram, and the intricate terracotta carvings of the Red Temple, Wat Sila Ngu. Visitors can explore the multi-armed Guanyin statue at Wat Plai Laem or find quietude at the jungle-shrouded Wat Hin Lad near the waterfall.

Sacred Sites & Spiritual Havens — Map

Maksim Sundukov / CC BY-SA 3.0

A

Big Buddha

Wat Phra Yai, known in English as the Big Buddha Temple, is a Buddhist temple on Ko Phan, a small island offshore from the northeastern…

Per Meistrup / CC BY-SA 3.0

B

Khunaram Temple

Wat Khunaram is a Buddhist temple on the island of Ko Samui in Surat Thani Province, Thailand.

Elena Stankevich / CC-BY-SA

C

Wat Plai Laem

This colourful temple holds huge fish tank full of lively koi koi. Dominated by several quite remarkable, huge statues.

Elena Stankevich / CC-BY-SA

D

Laem Sor Pagoda

This stunning sight is rather off the beaten path, therefore not spoiled by crowds of tourists. Well worth exploring for those interested.

E

Hin Lad Waterfall Temple

A forest monastery and temple situated at the base of a waterfall, featuring meditation paths and a peaceful jungle environment.

Elena Stankevich / CC-BY-SA

F

Pagoda Khao Hua Jook

This golden hilltop pagoda houses a replica of the Buddha's footprint and provides panoramic views of Chaweng Lake and the island's coastline.

Elena Stankevich / CC-BY-SA

G

Wat Sila Ngu

Known as the Red Temple, this site is constructed from terracotta-colored clay and features detailed carvings depicting Buddhist folklore.

H

Samui Merci Church

A local Christian church providing weekly services and community gatherings for the island's Protestant residents and visitors.

I

Saint Anna Catholic Church

A Roman Catholic church located near Nathon, featuring modern architecture and serving the local community with regular Mass services.

J

Shrine

Shrine

K

Shrine

Shrine

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