Introduction
Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha Temple) is located at Ko Phan near Ko Samui. It is one of the major attractions of Pattaya. The gold painted Big Buddha statue here is about 18 m (59 ft) tall sitting in Mara posture (upward facing palm on lap and right hand facing down). It is at a height of about 300 feet. There are naga statues in the staircase. One can have the view of Pattaya city from the top.
Best time to Visit Big Buddha Temple
At Sunset or Sunrise. The stairs will be hot to walk bare foot in the afternoon. Socks may protect the feet. On rainy days, the stairs may be slippery.
November to March. Temperatures between 29C (85F) and 34C (93F)
How to get to Big Buddha Temple
It costs about 50 baht from Bali Hai Pier to Big Buddha by motorbike taxi.
Open timings and Tickets
7 AM to 10 PM. There is no entrance fee.
Dress Code
The dress code requires the body to be covered including legs and arms till elbows. If your dress doesn’t fit the requirement, you can rent or buy the required clothing there.
Time Required to see
About 1 hour
Things to do at Big Buddha Temple
Watch rituals at the base of the statue
Visit Big Buddha beach
Try to make a coin stand in the rock groove
Meditate
View Pattaya city from the top
Buy Souvenirs
Layout
There are various images of Buddha on top of the hill. One can light an incense stick there. There is a Pavilion and benches to sit. One can try to make a coin stand in the groove. Lot of shops below.
Address
Big buddha Wat phra yai Tambon Bo Put, Amphoe Ko Samui, Surat Thani 84230, Thailand
Tourist attractions in Pattaya
Sanctuary of Truth
NongNooch Tropical Garden
Art in Paradise
Pattaya Beach
Jomtien Beach
Mini Siam
Ripley’s Believe it or not
Walking Street
Terminal 21 mall
Tiger Park
Underwater World
Buddha Mountain