Luang Phor Thuad's Statue
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
Pair your visit. After Luang Phor Thuad's Statue, round out your day in Koh Samui with contrasting stops nearby.
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 092Visitor 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
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.
Nearby Places

Wat Bo Phuttharam
A peaceful Buddhist temple in Bo Put with a moat, feeding carp and turtles, and a Buddha statue on a ship nearby.

Samui international meditation center
Drop in for a single session or stay a week with the monks, and beginners are genuinely looked after here.

Modern Thai Art Gallery
A contemporary Thai art gallery in Fisherman's Village where visitors can browse and buy original works.

Fair House
A beachfront resort hotel in Koh Samui's peaceful Mae Nam area, praised for exceptional staff and stunning bay views.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand

Wat Phra Kaew
Go at 08:30 or don't bother, the Emerald Buddha's courtyards fill up fast and stay full until closing.

Doi Suthep Temple
Go at first light, before the tour vans arrive, and the golden chedi and the whole Chiang Mai valley are yours.

The Grand Palace
Go at 08:30 sharp, cover your shoulders and legs, and give it three hours rather than one.

The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A hand-carved wooden giant still under construction, and watching the carpenters work is half the point.
Where to stay near Luang Phor Thuad's Statue
Find hotels in Koh Samui on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
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
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