
Wat Bo Phuttharam
A serene Buddhist temple in Koh Samui, known for its peaceful grounds, a revered 'Black Monk' statue, and a unique fish-feeding moat.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Wat Bo Phuttharam
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Buddhist temple in Koh Samui, known for its peaceful grounds, a revered 'Black Monk' statue, and a unique fish-feeding moat.
"A quiet, less crowded temple offering a unique fish feeding experience and a glimpse into local life."

🐠 Feed the Fish!
A must-do! Buy a small bucket of food for 10 THB and enjoy feeding the fish and turtles.
🚶♀️ Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this sacred site.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Buddha Statue
Main temple grounds
A magnificent Buddha statue, a central focus of devotion and a stunning sight for visitors.

The Moat and Fish Feeding
Surrounding the temple
A unique experience where you can feed carp, catfish, and turtles for a small fee.

Architectural Details
Various buildings
Explore intricate statues and diverse buildings within the temple complex.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Respectful Attire
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐠 Feed the Fish!
A must-do! Buy a small bucket of food for 10 THB and enjoy feeding the fish and turtles.
🚶♀️ Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this sacred site.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The temple offers many picturesque spots, especially during the golden hour.
🧘♀️ Embrace the Calm
It's a quiet, less crowded temple perfect for reflection.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐠 Feed the Fish!
A must-do! Buy a small bucket of food for 10 THB and enjoy feeding the fish and turtles.
🚶♀️ Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for this sacred site.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The temple offers many picturesque spots, especially during the golden hour.
🧘♀️ Embrace the Calm
It's a quiet, less crowded temple perfect for reflection.
👟 Remove Your Shoes
Always remove your footwear before entering temple buildings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Wat Bo Phuttharam for its peaceful atmosphere and the unique, fun experience of feeding fish in the moat. It's appreciated as a less crowded, more authentic local temple. Some note that the temple grounds could benefit from a bit more tidying, but the overall experience is highly positive for those seeking a quiet cultural stop.
"If you love fish or feeding fish you must visit. It's only 10BHT for a bucket of fish food which you can throw to the carp, catfish and turtles in the moat surrounding the buddah. We spent a good hour just feeding fish it was so much fun. Apart from that the temple itself needs a little tidying"
Nelson Yiap
"Quiet place worth to stop by. I visited it during special day for Thai community, there was x-ray bus, I assume for some kind of health check up. People were coming and praying at the temple."
Katarzyna Kucharska
"Great place without nobody. Its very quite not crowded place. You can stay here how long you want. On the beginning it looks not very interesting but In the end you will see it in its full glory. 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏"
Ales Bacmanak
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Bo Phuttharam is located in Bophut, Koh Samui. You can reach it by taxi, songthaew (local shared taxi), or by renting a scooter. It's often visited as part of a temple tour around the island.
While not as heavily signposted as some other attractions, it's generally accessible by following directions to Bophut. Using a GPS or asking locals can help.
If you are staying in the Bophut area, it might be walkable depending on your exact location. Otherwise, local transport is recommended.
It's located near the Ejsaka food market and clothes market, and not far from Fisherman's Village.
Yes, it's a relatively quick stop, especially if you're interested in the unique fish feeding experience or a peaceful atmosphere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Wat Bo Phuttharam is generally free, making it an accessible cultural experience.
The temple is typically open from 8:00 AM to 7:30 PM, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific holiday hours.
Some videos show the temple at night, suggesting it might be accessible or at least visually appealing after dark, though official hours usually end in the evening.
No advance booking is required as entry is free and it's not typically a ticketed attraction.
During special Thai community days, events like health check-ups have been observed at the temple.
📸 📸 Photography
The main Buddha statue, the moat with feeding fish, and the intricate architectural details of the various buildings offer great photo opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed in the temple grounds, but always be mindful and respectful, especially inside prayer halls.
Early mornings or late afternoons provide softer light, ideal for photography and avoiding harsh shadows.
There are no specific mentions of drone restrictions, but it's always advisable to check local regulations before flying drones in temple areas.
While you might see monks, it's best to be discreet and respectful when taking photos of people, especially religious figures.
🎫 🧘♀️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the Buddha statue, feed the fish and turtles in the moat, explore the various temple buildings, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
It's generally considered a quiet and less crowded temple compared to others, offering a more serene experience.
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is required out of respect for the Buddhist traditions.
The temple is frequented by locals, offering a glimpse into their community and religious practices.
The 'Black Monk' or 'Grandfather Monk' statue and the moat with fish feeding are unique features that set it apart.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the temple itself doesn't have dining facilities, it's located near the Ejsaka food market, offering various local food stalls.
Yes, you can purchase buckets of fish food for a small fee, typically around 10 THB, to feed the carp and turtles.
The Ejsaka market offers a variety of local Thai street food and snacks, popular with residents.
The Bophut area, including Fisherman's Village nearby, has numerous restaurants offering diverse cuisines.
While not explicitly mentioned for this temple, offering food to monks is a traditional practice in Buddhism, but visitors typically observe rather than participate directly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the 'Black Monk'
One of the captivating stories associated with Luang Por Tuad is his ability to perform miracles, such as turning saltwater into fresh drinking water by dipping his foot into the sea. This tale highlights his divine powers and further solidifies his revered status among Buddhists. Visiting Wat Bo Phuttharam offers a chance to connect with this rich local folklore and the spiritual significance of the 'Black Monk'.
A Tranquil Escape: The Moat and Its Inhabitants
This interactive experience is a highlight for many, offering a fun and engaging activity that can easily occupy an hour. It provides a peaceful contrast to the spiritual solemnity of the temple itself, allowing for a moment of lighthearted enjoyment amidst the cultural exploration. The sight of the fish and turtles eagerly awaiting their food adds a lively element to the serene temple environment.
Beyond the Tourist Trail: A Local's Perspective
Travelers who appreciate a quieter, more contemplative experience often find Wat Bo Phuttharam to be a refreshing stop. It's a place where you can wander at your own pace, observe local customs, and appreciate the intricate details without feeling rushed by crowds. The temple's less commercialized nature makes it a valuable addition to an itinerary for those seeking a deeper connection with Thai culture.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit