COLOURFUL Wat Plai Laem Temple Koh Samui | Things to do in Koh Samui | Buddhist Temple

If you are looking for things to do in Koh Samui, then you should take a trip to Wat Plai Laem temple complex. It is a Buddhist temple but in Chinese style. See Guanyin, the statue with 18 arms as well as the Chinese laughing buddha and other deities.
Suwannaram Temple is a fascinating, yet often overlooked temple on the island of Koh Samui. Known locally as Wat Plai Laem, it features a huge white Buddha statue of some 20-meters in height that is situated in the centre of a picturesque lake. It can be reached by crossing a white stone and marble bridge that makes for a stunning picture for the holiday photo album.
The temple´s construction dates back to about one hundred years ago, with most of the architecture reflecting Koh Samui´s rich Chinese heritage, combined with traditional Thai styles. The main focal point, the huge 18-armed white Buddha, portrays Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy and Compassion. Guanyin also dates back to ancient China, another sign of how the influence of Chinese Buddhism has spread across much of South East Asia.
It is located relatively close to the Big Buddha temple, 3 kilometres north of Samui International Airport, 3 kilometres east of Bophut Beach and 7.5km away from Chaweng Beach.
One thing you might be wondering upon first glance of the statue is why so many arms? The 18 arms of Guanyin represent her ability to reach out and help many people across the world - multitasking if you like, but just on a much larger scale. Online photos simply don't do this colossal structure enough justice - it really has to be seen in person to be believed. In fact, it so big that if you're flying into Samui by plane you might be able to spot the giant Buddha from up above.
*I apologise if I get any names of the statues wrong or the parts of the complex. Our guide dumped us at the complex, gave us no information about the place and then told us we had 15 minutes to look around!*
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