Updated on June 16, 2025
With the majority of the country’s population practicing Buddhism, religion plays an important role in the way of life in Thailand. The popular island of Koh Samui is home to many Buddhist temples where devotees gather to honor the Buddha. Everywhere you go, you are sure to catch a glimpse of a temple, a Buddha statue, or even a monk, which shows how significant the religion is to the life of the locals.
For guests at the finest villas on Koh Samui, not only do these temples offer a glimpse into such marvelous design and architecture, they also impart a deeper understanding and appreciation of the cultural impact of these sacred places of worship. Thus, care and guidance is needed when visiting temples in Koh Samui.
Related article: The Fascinating Secret Buddha Garden In Koh Samui
Notable Temples of Koh Samui
Koh Samui’s Buddhist temples are more than just hallowed places for worship; they are also situated in picturesque locations where guests can take in the amazing views of the island. Some of these temples have welcoming communities that allow guests to take part in both secular and spiritual activities, but all of them give eye-opening insights on the role of Buddhism in their native culture.
1. Wat Phra Yai
One of Koh Samui’s most famous temples is Wat Phra Yai, located on a rocky island called Koh Faan. The temple, which is also called the Big Buddha Temple, features a 12-meter-tall sitting golden Buddha statue built in 1972. Wat Phra Yai attracts hundreds of tourists daily, with plenty of vendors selling food, drinks, amulets, religious artifacts, and souvenirs around the statue’s base.
2. Wat Plai Laem
Wat Plai Laem (pictured in the featured photo) features an imposing 18-armed image of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy and Compassion. The religious complex is known for its intricately designed architecture that combines Thai and Chinese elements. It is also surrounded by a lake, which adds to the tranquil and calm ambiance of the site.
3. Wat Ratchathammaram
Also known as The Red Temple, Wat Ratchathammaram is known for its deep-red brick structures. The temple is filled with ornate stone carvings and sculptures, most depicting various scenes from Buddha’s life. The temple is found along Samui Ring Road, between Lamai and Hua Thanon, in the southern part of Koh Samui. It is also referred to as Wat Sila Ngu or “Stone Snake Temple” because of the intricate stone-carved image of snakes around the area.
4. Wat Khunaram
Wat Khunaram is famous for being the home of Luong Pordaeng, a monk who died while meditating in 1973 and whose remains are mysteriously preserved in a mummified state. The mummified monk’s remains are displayed at the heart of the temple and have shown little to no signs of decay over the years.
While the temple is simple and modest, visitors and devotees drop by to catch a glimpse of Luong Pordaeng. The mummified monk is also a source of reverence and reflection among believers and devotees.
5. Khao Hua Jook Chedi
Khao Hua Jook Chedi is a temple on an elevated terrain overlooking Chaweng Lake. Getting to this golden pagoda requires a bit of hiking since it sits on top of a hill. Still, the stunning view of Koh Samui’s coastlines and surrounding mountains will make the trip worth it. Khao Hua Jook Chedi also features a variety of Buddha sculptures, golden idols, and images. Since it is located near Samui International Airport, you can also expect to spot several planes flying by.
Related article: 8 Family-Friendly Attractions You Could Enjoy in Koh Samui
Basic Etiquette for Visiting Temples in Koh Samui
Temples are sacred, and visitors must comply with policies and rules for each temple to maintain order and sanctity of these holy grounds. Here are some essential matters to take note of before visiting a temple:
Dress Modestly
Like in any other church or hallowed dwelling, you must dress decently to avoid offending devotees and other visitors. Keep in mind the following rules before heading to a Buddhist temple:
- Do not wear short pants, mini skirts, revealing blouses, skimpy dresses, swimwear, or similar clothing.
- You must always cover your shoulders and knees. Sleeved shirts and bottoms that fall below the knee (capris, pants, long skirts) are ideal. It is also recommended to bring a large scarf or sarong to cover up when needed.
- You must take your shoes off before entering the temple, so closed-toe and slip-on shoes are ideal. Socks are also ideal since temple floors can get hot, especially during summer.
Act Appropriately
Always remember that you are in a sacred site and should always act appropriately. Here are some codes of conduct that you should take note of inside a Buddhist temple:
- Avoid talking loudly, laughing boisterously, and disrespecting the holiness of the temple by any means.
- Smoking and bringing alcohol are strictly prohibited.
- When inside the temple, ensure that your toes are not pointed toward Buddha’s image or statue. This act is a sign of insult or disrespect since the feet are often considered the “dirtiest” part of the body.
- Ideally, you should sit on your knees or with both legs to one side with your feet pointing backward. Avoid sitting with your legs crossed with your toes pointed outwards.
- When leaving, ensure to back away while facing the Buddha image or statue before turning your back.
Related article: Understanding Real Thai Etiquette
Gain Insight During Your Koh Samui Temple Visits
Visiting temples on Koh Samui gives all guests a glimpse of Buddhism’s role in Thai culture. Thus, a visit or tour of a temple requires a measure of care and sensitivity in order to show respect for all worshipers. It is also important to note that some of these temples may require support from outside visitors as well, so be sure to leave a small monetary contribution when you drop by.
For an insightful temple experience at Koh Samui, we recommend coordinating with Guest Experience Services before your arrival on Koh Samui. They can make recommendations on how to plan tours, what to bring, and even what to do during your visit.
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Featured Image: Oleksandr Pidvalnyi
