Ko Samui (or Koh Samui) and often pronounced as Samui (as it is referred to by locals) is beautiful off the east coast of the Kra Isthmus in Thailand. The island is situated close to the mainland town of Surat Thani in Surat Thani Province. Having an area of 228.7 square kilometers, it is the second largest island in Thailand, after Phuket. Being an island, Ko Samui is rich in natural resources, such as white sandy beaches, coconut trees, and coral reefs. It is also a part of Mu Ko Samui (a group of islands in the Gulf of Thailand). While planning a tour to Thailand, you must pay a visit to Koh Samui Island and if it is the first trip then read on to know about the popular attractions of Koh Samui.
Wat Phra Yai & Big Buddha
A home to Koh Samui’s most famous landmark the Big Buddha, this temple is one of the most visited tourist attractions on the island. As the name suggests, this temple houses a giant 12-meter-high golden statue of Buddha, which was established in the year 1972. Most of the visitors come here to appreciate this remarkable statue and pay their regards. One can find several shops and restaurants which cater to the needs of devotees as well as tourists. Wat Phra Yai is located in the Northeast of Samui on route 4171 near the airport.
Na Muang Waterfalls
Na Muang Waterfalls, a majestic set of two cascades on Koh Samui, prove that the island’s beauty doesn’t only lie in its beaches but also can be found in its waterfalls. Located about 12 kilometers southeast of Nathon Bay, the Na Muang falls can be reached by taking a walking path from the entrance to the park. Of the two parks, the first one, Na Muang 1, flows down into a pretty natural pool which provides a cool escape from the heat. Around 30 minutes by foot further uphill is the smaller yet equally beautiful Na Muang 2. Namtok Na Muang, or ‘Purple Waterfalls’, is named so because of the remarkable purple shade of their rock faces. There are many other waterfalls on Koh Samui but these two are considered to be the most spectacular waterfalls.
Hin Ta – Hin Yai
The one-of-its-kind natural wonder, Hin Ta and Hin Yai are some fascinating rock formation located on the south coast of Koh Samui that has been a source of amusement to the visitors on this island. It has been said that art often imitates nature but here nature is imitating Art, specifically the art of the ribald. But, when you are in Thailand anything is possible and these specific rocks are known as Grandpa (Ta) and Grandma (Yai), appear, respectively, like male and female genitalia.
Apart from these, there are many tourist attractions in Koh Samui such as the pristine white beaches (Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach, Bophut, and Maenam), Hin Lad Waterfall, and Na Thian Butterfly Garden, Lat Ko Viewpoint, Samui Aquarium, and Tiger Zoo. Log on to Thaiarrivals.com for great discounts and exciting package deals while planning your holiday in Thailand.
