Wat Samret

Wat Samret is a unique, off-the-beaten-path temple in Koh Samui.

It may be a less popular temple, what makes it unique is that you’ll most likely have it all to yourself when you come to visit.

Wat Samret, Buddhist Temple, History & Address, Na Mueang, Koh Samui

The temple is just a little over a century old, so it’s not as historic as many of Koh Samui’s other temples. However, the main attraction is its small statue of Buddha in a seated position, which has been carved out of a single piece of marble.

Many believe that the statue is the most ancient of all Buddha statues on the island, while others believe that it was brought to Thailand from Burma. A separate building houses another Buddha statue, which is surrounded by around 80 others. The Reclining Buddha is a distinct feature of the temple, while all others are in the Calling the Earth to Witness position, known as the Subduing Mara in Thai Buddhism.

The temple also serves as a present-day monastery, so it’s a common sight to see monks going about their prayers here. A Buddhist cemetery is also found on the temple grounds, which is an interesting sight specifically for the gravestones which have been linked together using a white string; believed to bond the spirits of the monk with Buddha in the afterlife.

Wat Samret is located south of Koh Samui. The quickest way to get here is to hire a taxi or take your own rented transportation. If you are coming from Lamai, make sure to take the second left street off the ring road after seeing Hua Thanon village.

The temple is open during daytime and admission is free. Should you decide to visit this wat, it is essential to keep in mind the proper dress code and behaviour that must be practised as with all other temples in Thailand.