The Big Buddha temple which is known locally as Wat Phra Yaj, is in the north-eastern corner of Samui. The main attraction of the temple is a 12-metre high golden statue of the Buddha. The statue is so large and elevated that it can be seen from several kilometres away, and is often the first thing travellers will see when they arrive in Koh Samui by air. The statue of the Buddha is in the Mara Position, which is an image of the Buddha seated cross-legged, with the right hand on the right knee and the left hand on the right ankle with the palm of the hand facing upwards. The Buddha’s eyes are gazing downwards.
