Koh Samui, Thailand may be famous for its pristine beaches and crystal clear water, but one of its most famous landmarks is the huge statue known as Big Buddha. Measuring over 12 meters high, Big Buddha sits on a small island located on the northeastern tip of Koh Samui. Built in 1972, the giant statue of the sitting Lord Buddha is housed at the Phra Yai Temple on Koh Fan, the small island which is joined by a bridge to Koh Samui. The viewing deck at the temple offers spectacular views of both the north face of Koh Samui and the nearby island of Koh Phangan. Visible from several kilometers away, Big Buddha can also be seen by air when arriving or leaving the island’s tiny, but beautifully located airport.

IMAGES VIA: razlan, razlan, soma-samui.com and pansonaut on flickr

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