Wat Plai Laem Temple

Wat Plai Laem is one of the most visually spectacular temples in all of Thailand. Located near the Big Buddha at the northern tip of Koh Samui, the temple is set on a series of platforms over a large pond. Its most striking feature is an enormous multicoloured 18-armed Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy) statue that towers over the serene lotus pond, her many hands outstretched in blessing. A giant laughing Buddha and other ornate shrines complete the complex. Visitors can purchase bags of fish food to feed the enormous koi carp in the pond below. The vibrant colours and unique architecture make it one of the island's most photographed sites.