Wat Plai Laem

Wat Plai Laem sits on the north-eastern corner of Ko Samui a few minutes from the Big Buddha, and its buildings stand on a lake, connected by walkways so the halls appear to float. The two large figures are the reason people stop: a white Guanyin with eighteen arms, the Chinese bodhisattva of compassion in a form representing the many ways she reaches those in need, and a large laughing Budai, the figure often mistaken for the Buddha in the West. Both are recent - the temple's construction dates from the 2000s - and the style through the site is Chinese-Thai, reflecting the substantial Chinese-descended population of Samui and the Gulf coast. Murals in the main hall depict Buddhist narrative. Fish in the lake are fed by visitors from bags sold on site. It is free, takes an hour, and is quieter than the Big Buddha next door.

What you actually see

• The eighteen-armed Guanyin - the white figure standing over the lake.
• The laughing Budai - the large seated figure, often mistaken for the Buddha.
• The lake setting - halls linked by walkways over the water.
• The Chinese-Thai style - reflecting Samui's Chinese-descended community.

When to go

December to April. Early or late avoids the tour groups coming from the Big Buddha. An hour covers it.

Honest expectations

Entirely modern, from the 2000s. Fish food is sold persistently and overfeeding is a problem. Free with donation boxes. Dress code applies. It is a short visit usually paired with the Big Buddha.

Nearby

The Big Buddha at Wat Phra Yai is a few minutes away; Chaweng is south.