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Temples & Culture
Koh Samui

Luang Phor Thuad's Statue

4.4(160 reviews)

Tucked away in the Bo Put area of Koh Samui, this statue depicts Luang Phor Thuad, one of the most venerated monks in Thai Buddhist tradition. Unlike the island's busier temple sites, this location sees relatively few visitors, making it a genuinely quiet and unhurried stop for those curious about local religious culture beyond the main tourist circuit. The statue itself is notably striking — a large dark figure seated within a boat — and holds real devotional significance for Thai Buddhists who come to pay their respects.

Visitors should go in with realistic expectations. Reviews note that the site can feel somewhat neglected, with litter in the surrounding area and a number of stray dogs present, particularly if approaching from the temple side. The access road from the main road is reportedly the better route. There are signs that parts of the site, including a boat structure, may no longer be fully accessible. That said, those who arrive during quieter hours often find they have the place entirely to themselves, which contributes to a calm and contemplative atmosphere.

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Experience hints

Reviews from Google

Today the door to the boat was closed... there was a lot of rubbish everywhere, we were here one year earlier, remember it better and are a little disappointed with the situation... If you go there now, you won't like it!! Update: 14.03 2025 At Samui Local Food Festival Hua Thanon. The square has been transformed into a beautifully decorated place. There is a wide variety of local Thai food and specialties. There are many various attractions for children and their parents. Many different things are offered for sale and in games you can try your luck for money 😉 Of course, you can also pray there and give to the monks a donation. It was an entertaining visit for us... and another crowd of people... 👍🏻😉

Found it completely accidentally, while other attractions were loaded with tourists, this one was only for myself. Interesting definitely, it's black man sitting in big boat 👍👍

Lots of rubbish and stray dogs around. The statue is impressive but seems to have closed down some time ago. Visited at dusk and make a quick escape before it got dark - felt a little creepy.

A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 160 reviews on Google.

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Luang Phor Thuad's Statue: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Luang Phor Thuad's Statue worth visiting?

Luang Phor Thuad's Statue holds a 4.4★ rating from 160 Google reviews — a strong rating for temples & culture in Koh Samui.

What are the opening hours of Luang Phor Thuad's Statue?

Luang Phor Thuad's Statue is typically open 08:00-18:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.

When is the best time to visit Luang Phor Thuad's Statue?

The best months to visit Koh Samui are January – August, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in July – August & December — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: October – December (Gulf Coast monsoon).

Where is Luang Phor Thuad's Statue located?

Luang Phor Thuad's Statue is at H24M+64G, Tambon Bo Put, Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani 84320, Thailand, in Koh Samui. Getting around Koh Samui: Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road); Motorbike or scooter rental.

Location Info

H24M+64G, Tambon Bo Put, Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani 84320, Thailand077 425 092
Opening Hours
Monday08:00–18:00
Tuesday08:00–18:00
Wednesday08:00–18:00
Thursday08:00–18:00
Friday08:00–18:00
Saturday08:00–18:00
Sunday08:00–18:00

Visitor Information

Best time to visit

January – August

Avoid: October – December (Gulf Coast monsoon)

Rainy season

October – December

Avg. temperature

24°C – 32°C(75°F – 90°F)

Crowds

High

Peak: July – August & December

Getting there

Koh Samui Airport (USM) has direct flights from Bangkok and regional hubs (Bangkok Airways monopoly). The ferry from Surat Thani takes ~1.5 hrs and it's cheaper.

Getting around

  • Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road)
  • Motorbike or scooter rental
  • Taxis (metered or negotiate upfront)
  • Grab available in main areas

Where to stay near Luang Phor Thuad's Statue

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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture

Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.

Mind Your Feet

Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.

Ask Before Photographing

Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.

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