Wat Phra Yai

The Big Buddha at Wat Phra Yai is a seated figure about twelve metres high in the Mara-subduing posture, built in 1972 on Ko Faan, a small islet linked to Ko Samui's north-eastern shore by a short causeway. It is finished in gold and sits on a raised terrace reached by a naga stairway, and because it stands close to the airport approach it is the first thing many visitors see of Samui. The terrace gives a view over the sea and back to the island. Around the base is a strip of stalls selling souvenirs, food and amulets, which is now a substantial part of the site and is the subject of most of the complaints visitors make. It is free, takes an hour including the climb, and is on every Samui itinerary, so it is crowded through the middle of the day. Dress code is enforced at the stairway and wraps are lent.

What you actually see

• The seated Buddha - about twelve metres, gilded, on the islet terrace.
• The naga stairway - the serpent-flanked climb to the base.
• The sea view - back over the strait toward the mainland.
• The stall strip - the commercial ring around the base.

When to go

December to April for Samui's driest weather. Early morning or late afternoon avoids both the crowds and the heat on the steps. An hour covers it.

Honest expectations

Heavily commercialised at the base with persistent stall selling. Crowded midday. The statue is modern, from 1972. Dress code enforced at the stairway. Free with donation boxes.

Nearby

Wat Plai Laem is a few minutes away; Bophut Fisherman's Village is west.