As is the case in many parts of Thailand, Samui’s temples offer some of the best site seeing and photographic opportunities on the island. The “wat” is an integral part of Thai life and, as well as being the centre for religious ceremonies and worship, these ornate locations also host local council meetings and act as venues for fun fairs and concerts. A visit to the temple provides an interesting insight into local life, particularly the temple fairs which pass from village to village throughout the year. The temple fair is probably the only place where you can buy a new pair of flip flops, watch a Kung Fu film, have your fortune told and indulge in a bag of deep-fried grasshoppers all in one evening.
Wat Phra Yai
The number one sightseeing attraction on Samui is perhaps Wat Phra Yai where the famous golden Buddha statue graces the headland separating Baan Plai Laem from Big Buddha beach. The 15 meter smiling deity dominates the temple grounds and offers some excellent photo opportunities, particularly at sunset. The temple was built in 1972 and the upper platform is lined with huge prayer bells. In Thai “phra” means “monk” and “yai” means “big”.
Wat Baan Plai Laem
Another temple, which is very close to Big Buddha, is the newly constructed and ornate temple of Baan Plai Laem. It was designed by a Thai artist, the outside of which features a huge multi-limbed statue of the Goddess Shiva, while the inside walls are decorated with pictorial representations from the life of the Lord Buddha. The elaborate entry doors are made from 2 giant slabs of hardwood and are again carved with images from the life of the Buddha. Thai artist, Jarit Phumdonming, spent more than 3 years adding the finer details to the temple’s external walls and has produced a kaleidoscope of color and design. The tradition of temple art dates back centuries and Wat Baan Plai Laem provides a good example of the influences and styles that are still important in modern Thai religious architecture. There is also a small lake filled with catfish and, for a small charge, food can be purchased with which to feed them.
Wat Khunaram
Wat Khunaram is Samui’s famous shrine to the mummified monk, known when alive as Lung Padaeng. This highly respected monk was carefully preserved when he died in 1973 and today sits mediating in a glass case. You can see nearby the ancient numerology sticks, which are used to read your fortune.
