Temples $$$
Wat Bun Tharikaram
Small, local temple in Bo Phut—between Chaweng and Fisherman’s Village—with shady grounds, a gold-trimmed ubosot, and a few quiet shrines. Free entry. Come early morning or late afternoon for a peaceful pause on your Samui scooter loop.
About
A quiet neighborhood temple on the north side of Koh Samui, Wat Bun Tharikaram sits just inland from the ring road in Bo Phut, between Chaweng and Fisherman’s Village. Step through the gate and the traffic hum fades to the soft clink of bells and the scent of incense. A simple ordination hall glints with gold trim, shaded by frangipani and coconut palms, while a few modest chedis and statue shrines dot the grounds.
Come early, when the air is cool and locals drift in to make merit before work, or drop by late afternoon for soft light and long shadows. You won’t find tour buses here—just a working temple serving its community—so dress modestly, slip off your shoes, and wander respectfully. It’s an easy scooter stop on a Samui loop: about 10 minutes from Chaweng Beach and a short ride from Fisherman’s Village.
Entry is free; donations are always welcome if you’d like to support upkeep. If you’re temple-hopping on the island, pair this with the bigger hitters like Wat Plai Laem and Big Buddha, then swing back here for a quieter moment under the trees.
Location
Bo Phut, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand
Bo Phut