Statue of the goddess Guanyin
Standing at the entrance of the Wat Plai Laem temple complex in Bo Put, the Guanyin statue is one of Koh Samui's most visually impressive spiritual landmarks. The multi-armed goddess figure is built onto a platform set within a lake, lending it a serene, otherworldly presence that draws both devoted worshippers and curious travellers. Its proximity to the airport — roughly ten minutes away — makes it an accessible stop at almost any point during a visit to the island.
The statue sits alongside two other notable attractions: the Laughing Buddha and Wat Plai Laem temple itself, all within a one to two minute walk of each other. Visitors can expect a compact but rewarding cluster of ornate religious structures, beautifully constructed and set against the calm water. Some areas of the wider complex remain under ongoing construction, though this does not significantly detract from the experience. Most travellers find that around thirty minutes is sufficient to explore the full area comfortably.
As a place of worship, visitors are encouraged to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees out of respect for the site's religious significance. There is no entrance fee mentioned by visitors, making it an accessible addition to any Koh Samui itinerary. Arriving earlier in the day is advisable to avoid midday heat and larger tour groups.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Statue of the goddess Guanyin, round out your day in Koh Samui with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Goddess Guan Yin at Wat Plai Laem – A Spiritual Highlight of Ko Samui 🌺🛕 Just 10 minutes from Ko Samui Airport, you'll find one of the island's most breathtaking spiritual landmarks—the majestic statue of the Goddess Guan Yin at Wat Plai Laem. Towering gracefully over a peaceful lake, this multi-armed statue represents the Bodhisattva of Compassion, and it's an unforgettable sight for anyone visiting the island. Open daily to locals and tourists, this vibrant temple welcomes all who seek a moment of peace, a touch of culture, or a beautiful photo to remember their journey. 📷 The architecture is a stunning blend of Thai and Chinese influences, and the spiritual energy here is as warm as the island breeze. Families will find plenty to enjoy too—fish feeding in the temple’s lotus-filled pond is a favorite for kids, giving them something fun to do while parents explore, meditate, or participate in traditional offerings. Whether you're a culture enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply looking for a serene stop on your island itinerary, the Goddess Guan Yin statue at Wat Plai Laem is a must-visit destination in Ko Samui. 🕊️✨
These temples are all near each other. The Goddess of Guanyin, Laughing Buddha and Wat Plai Leam are within 1-2 minutes walk. Impressive statues/ figures and beautifully constructed, well worth the trip to see these places and others if you book a tour that includes it. Also noticeable were some Hindu God statues. It would be nice for more shops to be near by as it's a popular tourist destination. Pleased that I got to do it!
The goddess of Guanyin, laughing Buddha and Wat Plai Leam are located next to each other within 1-2 minutes walk. The area are still under some construction. A short 30min tour of this area is sufficient. There isn’t any resting area or shops. There are strays dogs roaming around, be careful of the dogs poo.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 96 reviews on Google.
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Statue of the goddess Guanyin: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Statue of the goddess Guanyin worth visiting?
Statue of the goddess Guanyin holds a 4.8★ rating from 96 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Koh Samui.
What are the opening hours of Statue of the goddess Guanyin?
Statue of the goddess Guanyin is open 24 hours a day — 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 Statue of the goddess Guanyin?
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 Statue of the goddess Guanyin located?
Statue of the goddess Guanyin is at H3C8+9Q3, Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand, in Koh Samui. Getting around Koh Samui: Songthaews (fixed routes around the ring road); Motorbike or scooter rental.
Location Info
H3C8+9Q3, Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320, ThailandVisitor 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 Statue of the goddess Guanyin
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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 Plai Laem
Free to enter, quick to walk, and the 18-armed Guanyin rising out of the lake is the reason to come.
Phra Sangkachai Wat Plai Laem
A serene lakeside Buddhist statue and temple complex near Koh Samui Airport, rich in cultural atmosphere.
Wat Laem Suwannaram
Free to walk in, golden statues by a fish-filled lake, and far fewer people than the beaches.
Art 'n' Design Samui
A charming Koh Samui boutique offering handmade clothing and curated books in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
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 Statue of the goddess Guanyin
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