Wat Plai Laem is a modern Buddhist temple complex on a small lake in the north-east of Samui, close to the Big Buddha. Built in the early 2000s, it combines Thai and Chinese design, and its statues and murals are among the most colourful on the island.
Two figures dominate the lake: a white, 18-armed statue of Guanyin, the goddess of mercy and compassion, and a huge, cheerful laughing Buddha (Budai). The ordination hall stands on its own platform over the water, with elaborately painted walls and ceilings.
Top things to do at Wat Plai Laem
Walk the causeways
Raised walkways lead out over the lake to each statue and to the main hall. Take your time over the details — dragons, mythological scenes and bright tilework.
Feed the fish
Bags of fish food are sold for a small donation; the lake is thick with catfish and carp, and feeding them is regarded as a way of making merit. Children love it.
Photograph it in soft light
Early morning brings the calmest water and the fewest tour groups; late afternoon gives warmer colours.
How to get to Wat Plai Laem
- By road: a few minutes’ drive east of the Big Buddha, around 10 minutes from the airport and 15–20 from Chaweng.
- On a tour: included in most half-day island tours — see tours.
Insider tips
- Dress as for any temple: shoulders and knees covered, shoes off inside the halls.
- Entry is free; donations help with upkeep.
- There is little shade on the walkways — bring a hat and water.
Best tours & tickets for Wat Plai Laem
These top-rated experiences are the easiest way to see Wat Plai Laem:
Sightseeing tour from €22 Koh Samui: Half-Day Highlight Tour + Elephant Camp Option
A quick, inexpensive orientation loop of the ring road’s best-known sights, ideal for your first or second day. We would skip the optional elephant-camp add-on and visit one of the island’s observation-only sanctuaries separately instead.
- The island’s main landmarks by air-conditioned minivan
- Temples, viewpoints and the famous rocks in one loop
- Low price and thousands of reviews
Jeep safari from €42 Koh Samui: Mr. Ung’s 4WD Wild Jungle Safari Tour with Lunch
The best-reviewed land tour on the island. An open-backed 4WD climbs tracks that ordinary rental cars and scooters should not attempt, linking the sights of Samui’s mountainous middle in one day. Expect a bumpy, dusty, fun ride; check the listing for the exact stops on your date.
- Open 4WD up steep tracks into the island’s interior
- Typically includes a waterfall, hill viewpoints and the Secret Buddha Garden
- Lunch included
