Wat Plai Laem

One of Koh Samui’s most attractive temples is the Wat Plai Laem. This extremely colorful, fairly new temple was completed in 2004.

Although some of the buildings like the ubosot are in traditional Thai architecture, most of the complex is build in Thai-Chinese style. The Wat Plai Laem temple houses two giant, colorful statues that will immediately catch the eye.

Wat Plai Laem is a Buddhist temple compound on Samui's north-east coast, which features a striking white 18-armed image of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy and Compassion. Close to the Big Buddha temple, Wat Plai Laem offers visitors a view into Chinese-Thai beliefs as well as some elaborate Buddhist-themed art and architecture.

Wat Plai Laem is a living and active temple, where devotees come daily to pay homage to Guanyin and the Buddha, who is also depicted in a number of statues and murals around the temple. The art techniques used in its creation are centuries old and based on ancient beliefs. Adding to its feel of tranquillity, the temple is surrounded by a lake, which is teeming with fish. Visitors who make a donation to the temple are given a bag of food to feed the fish.

Highlights and features of Wat Plai Laem

At Wat Plai Laem, the giant Guanyin statue which is a towering white structure in the centre of the temple grounds forms an imposing and serene presence. It's a showcase of Koh Samui's strong Chinese heritage and the temple's intricate designs were created by one of Thailand's foremost artists, Jarit Phumdonming. The Goddess is flanked by 2 long halls that feature colourful murals and frescoes depicting Buddhist mythological stories.

Guanyin is believed to be a source of unconditional love and a protector of all beings. Her multitude of arms is seen as an illustration of her ability to reach out and provide help across the world. She is also seen as a fertility goddess and many who come here pray for her help in bearing healthy children. As well, Guanyin is believed by some to help protect sailors at sea.

Other standout features at Wat Plai Laem include a large white laughing Buddha statue, beautifully carved teak entry doors, and an elaborate ubosot (ceremonial hall) set on an island in the lake.

Wat Plai Laem is open to visitors all day during daylight hours, and is particularly lively during Chinese festival events such as Chinese New Year.

Since this is a sacred place, polite dress and conduct is a must. Be sure to wear shirts or scarves that cover the shoulders, trousers or long shorts, and avoid wearing beachwear. Worshippers often don white clothing when visiting the temple. Entry is free, but donations are welcome.

To get to Wat Plai Laem, take the main route 4169 up to the northeast region of Samui, then turn off on route 4171. It is very close to the Big Buddha temple, about 3 km directly north of Samui International Airport, 3 km east of Bophut Beach and 7.5 km away from Chaweng Beach.

How to get to Wat Plai Laem

Wat Plai Laem is located on the North Eastern tip of Koh Samui on road 4171 between Big Buddha beach and Choeng Mon beach. It is very close to Samui’s airport and the Big Buddha of Wat Phra Yai.

The easiest way to get there from Chaweng, Lamai, Bo Phuket or Big Buddha beach is by songthaew, a converted pick up truck with seats in the back that is used as a bus. You can flag one down at any point.

Opening hours

The Wat Plai Laem is open daily during sunlight hours.
Since this is a Chinese-Thai temple, it gets busy during Chinese festivals and holidays.

Please dress appropriately, meaning no short sleeved shirts, no bare shoulders, short pants or beach wear.

Admission

Admission to the temple grounds is free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance of the complex.

Wat Plai Laem, Koh Samui

Location: Road 4171, Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand
Date: 2004