Wat Phra Yai This temple is the home of the Big Buddha, Samui’s most famous landmark. Visible from several kilometres away, even from the plane when approaching or leaving the island, the 12-meter tall image stands proudly. It is just magnificent, especially when lit up at night. At the base of the structure, shops and restaurants cater for the needs of devotees and tourists alike.

Wat Bophut is located in the North of Koh Samui, at the intersection between the Chaweng road and the coastal road of Bophut. Once you pass the red and golden gate, you'll find a large park bordered by many shade-providing trees, several wooden houses and the main two temples whose red colour contrasts beautifully with the tropical blue sky and the many palm trees surrounding the area.

Wat Kiri Wongkaram is renowned partly for the mummified body of the Buddhist monk Loung Por Ruam, which rests there in a glass case. This venerated monk was prepared as an exhibit for public viewing upon his death 25 years ago, and his body still remains in remarkably good condition. To get there, drive down the 4170 road South from Ban Saket, then turn right between the two giant elephant statues and look for the temple another kilometre away on the right hand side.

Wat Khun Aram is on a road between the Na Muang waterfalls and Hua Thanon. The body of Samui’s most famous petrified monk, Loung Pordaeng, is on display here in a building that was built to commemorate him. After his death more than 20 years ago, he was placed in a meditation position. To this day, he still holds that posture and his body shows only few signs of decay.

Wat Samui is a very quiet temple on the central road of Samui. Even though many temples look alike, each of them has its own character and history. The monks’ houses near the temples can be quite interesting, some of them for their antique style. The place is usually very peaceful, unless there is a ceremony or a festival and you will always appreciate the shade provided by the enormous and ancient trees.