//
Photo: Abrget47j, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Wat Phra Yai, commonly known as the Big Buddha Temple, is situated on Koh Faan, a small island connected to the northeastern coast of Koh Samui by a causeway. The temple is renowned for its impressive 12-meter-tall golden Buddha statue. This statue, depicting the Buddha in the Mara posture symbolizing steadfastness and enlightenment, was constructed in 1972 and has since become a symbol of peace and spiritual devotion for both locals and visitors. Visitors can ascend a staircase flanked by ornate Naga serpents to reach the base of the statue, from where panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the Gulf of Thailand and nearby islands, can be enjoyed. The temple grounds also feature smaller shrines, meditation areas, and a variety of shops selling souvenirs and local handicrafts.
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 area of Ko Samui, Thailand, connected to that island by a short causeway 3 kilometres north of Samui International Airport. As its name indicates, it is home to a giant, 12-metre-high (39-foot) gold-painted Buddha statue. Since being built in 1972, it has become one of Ko Samui's main tourist attractions and a major landmark.
© OpenStreetMap contributors