The most famous monument in Koh Samui is the temple of the Big Buddha. This huge golden statue is located northeast of Koh Samui. It is 12 meters high and was built in 1972. Due to its size it is visible even from miles away and if you arrive in Koh Samui by plane it will be your first landmark.
The Great Buddha Temple is located on a small rocky island off the northeast corner of Koh Samui. Known locally as Wat Phra Yai, its golden statue of the seated Buddha. Located on Koh Faan, the Big Buddha Temple can be reached by a causeway that connects it to the main island. The Big Buddha can be seen several kilometers away and is often the first landmark that people see when they arrive in Samui by plane.
The Big Buddha sits in Mara’s position, with the palm of his left hand resting on his lap and his right hand pointing downwards, with his fingers hanging over his knee and touching the ground. It represents a moment in Buddha’s journey towards enlightenment when, meditating and remaining calm, he manages to subdue the temptations and dangers that are thrown at him by the figure of the devil Mara. The pose is a symbol of firmness, purity and enlightenment.
