Wat Plai Laem is a Buddhist temple on the resort island of Ko Samui, Thailand. Like the nearby Wat Phra Yai, or Big Buddha Temple, it is a modern temple created in recent times. Its main statue is not of Gautama Buddha but of Guanyin, the “goddess” of compassion and mercy. The statue is in Chinese style, with 18 arms, and though open-air located within an elaborate ubusot is on a platform-pavilion surrounded by the temple lake. The temple’s design, though modern, incorporates elements of Chinese and Thai traditions and was in part designed by distinguished Thai artist Jarit Phumdonming. In addition to the main Guanyin statue, there is also a white laughing Buddha statue.

Opening Hours: Wat Plai Laem is open to visitors all day during daylight hours, and is particularly lively during Chinese festival events such as Chinese New Year.

Remarks: Since this is a sacred place, polite dress and conduct is a must. Be sure to wear shirts or scarves that cover the shoulders, trousers or long shorts, and avoid wearing beachwear. Worshippers often don white clothing when visiting the temple. Entry is free, but donations are welcome.

How to get there: To get to Wat Plai Laem, take the main route 4169 up to the northeast region of Samui, then turn off on route 4171. It is very close to the Big Buddha temple, about 3 kilometres directly north of Samui International Airport, 3km east of Bophut Beach and 7.5km away from Chaweng Beach.

Credit : www.Samui-blogger.com

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