Koh Samui is one Thailand’s most popular islands. It offers relaxation, exploration, spiritual and recreational opportunities for travelers. It has some or the other attraction for every type of tourist.
From water sports, marine life, sandy beaches, to historical monuments, and places of cultural importance, the island offers hundreds of tourist attractions. Snake farm will annoy you, while the Big Buddha Temple will keep you attracted for several hours.
Beaches on this island are tourist-friendly, so, you can enjoy sunbathing, while your loved ones can enjoy the sea waves.
You can reach the island by road, boat or by plane from Bangkok. But travelling on road might prove to be time-consuming. Once you reach the island, you can either rent a car, taxi, motorcycle or a bicycle. There are several companies that offer vehicles on rent to tourists at affordable rates.
Tiger Showified monk and its Aquarium, the Wat Khunaram (home to the body of Samui’s most famous monk), the Na Muang waterfalls area, Ang Thong Marine Park and the archeologically wonderful Big Buddha Temple are some of the top destinations that manage to attract hundreds of tourists every day. Let’s take a detailed look at some of the popular destinations.
Wat Plai Laem Temple
Wat Plai Laem Buddhist Temple is famous for its statue of Goddess Guanyin. The statue resembles 18 arms of this Goddess; she is famous as Goddess of compassion and mercy. The Temple is located on the island’s north eastern coast. Wat Plai Laem also offers architectural work, statues, and artwork related to Thai, Chinese culture, and Buddhism. So, the tourist destination is also visited by followers of Buddhism from around the world.
Hin Ta and Hin Yai rock formations
What will be your reaction if you see rocks shaped like female and male genitalia? This may sound weird and funny, but Hin Ta and Hin Yai rock foundations resemble sexual organs! These rock formations are located in the southern coast of Koh Samui Island. These natural artifacts were discovered several years ago, and they are also known as Grandma (Yai) and Grandpa (TA).
The area surrounding these rock formations is picturesque. It is near the famous Hua Thanon fishing village. The land in the surrounding area is covered with buffalo fields, and some tea plantations. White sandy beach is also visible from the location, but this beach is not good for swimming.
There is no need to worry about food while at this location, as you can easily find food stalls that serve local dishes, snacks and drinks as well.
Purple waterfalls
Purple waterfalls or Na Muang waterfalls prove that Koh Samui is not just about religious and cultural tourist attractions. If you wish to escape from heat for few hours while on the island, you should definitely visit this destination. Na Muang waterfalls are also popularly known as purple waterfalls due to the color of rocks surrounding these waterfalls that are just around 12 kilometers from Nathon Bay.
The spot is popular among tourists. You can visit this destination with your family members, kids would definitely enjoy swimming and relaxing in the clean water.
You can also enjoy elephant ride and some adventure sports in the nearby jungle areas or the Na Muang Safari Park.
Tour operators ask visitors to wear sturdy shoes while visiting this destination, as the road leading to the waterfalls is sleeper and steep. If you wish to walk all the way to the falls, you should be ready to walk considerable number of kilometers. It is advisable to hire a guide, or keep maps for the location with you.
Waterfalls are situated in the southern part of Koh Samui, near Hua Thanon and Nathon mountains.
There is no need to worry about food, as you will find food stalls while on the way for waterfalls.
Food and accommodation on the island
Koh Samui is home to several restaurants, snack centers, pubs, bars, and cafes. You can easily find local and international dishes with ample options for veg and non-veg lovers.
As far as accommodation is concerned, there are many options. You can find both, simple hotel rooms, and expensive as well as affordable world class ocean view luxury villas Samui.