Wats (Temples)

There are many Wats on Samui, some simple, some grand, but all peaceful places of spiritual contemplation and worship which are, even in todays world, regarded as sacred.

The Buddhist Wat is a highly respected focal point for the local community and a place of worship, usually consisting of various buildings contained within a walled area. The two main buildings are called the Bot and the Wharn or Wihan. The former is the main visual attraction, being a very elaborate building decorated with Buddha icons and, more often than not, various murals depicting the lives of Buddha.This is where religous ceremonies such as ordinations take place This is where you will find the serpentine nagas and giant warriors known as yaks, defending the entrance. The nagas are said to have sheltered the Buddha while he was meditating. The wharn is usually a larger building where the monks and the unordained meet for ceremonies, tuition, merit making and the like.

Monks are supported by the community and much merit can be gained by the community members who make donations or perform other supportive acts for the Monks.

Each Wat will traditionally host very popular anniversary celebrations, with fairs, markets and cultural shows. Not to be missed!

In addition to duties and ceremonies within the Temple the monks are in demand outside to preside over weddings and funerals, plus the blessing of new buildings. Whenever a new building is started a Monk is called to bless the construction and when it is completed a Spirit House is erected and blessed by a Monk to provide a home for any displaced ghosts or spirits.

Please remember that Wats are peaceful places of worship and visitors should show respect by dressing modestly and acting accordingly.Be sure to remove your shoes before entering and be careful not to point your foot directly at either the Buddha or worshipers.

Wat Kiri Wongkaram This temple contains a mummified monk who has been sitting on view for the past 25 years. The entrance to the Wat, on route 4170, is flanked by two impressive elephant statues, known as Elephants Gate. The temple itself is a kilometre or so past the elephants, peacefully set within a coconut plantation.

Wat Khunaram The remains of arguably Samui's most famous Monk, the highly respected Loung Por Daeng, are here on display for public viewing, sitting in the same meditative position in which he died around 20 years ago. Located on route 4169 opposite side of the road to Na Munag falls.

Wat Phra Yai Home of the Samui tourist icon, Big Buddha, a twelve metre high deity built my Samuians to provide visitors with a place to worship. The upper area is surrounded by large prayer bells which you are expected to ring. Providing one of the best photo opportunities on the island, surrounded by statues, souvenier and craft shops and cafes. A very popular place all year long, but especially during the big Thai festivals when the area is full of stalls and celebrations.

Wat Plai Laem Despite being a newer structure this Wat provides an excellent example of the centuries old tradition of Temple art, being a riot of colour and intricate design, with impressive entrance doors made from two decoratively carved very large pieces of Laotian hard wood. Located just down the road from Big Buddha.

Wat Sumret A very old temple, located off the second consrete road on the left, heading west from Hua Thanon on the 4169. Home to a centuries old White Marble Buddha and the Secret Hall of Buddha's. This once contained a celebrated collection of images, many of which, unfortunately, were stolen over the years, thus the Hall is now only opened upon request. There is a wooden antique Chinese meeting hall worthy of investigation within the walls of the Wat.

Wat Laem Sor In the grounds of this temple sits a beautiful and ornate structure of many yellow tiles, combined to produce what looks like a Golden Pagoda or Chedi, sitting on the rocks close to the waters edge, overlooking the sea. Located on the south of the island, on the road to Wai Ki Ki bungalows, near Ban Tale. Definately worth finding!