Tourist Attractions in Koh Samui
Visit the Koh Samui Elephant Sanctuary
If you love elephants and you are looking to see them in an etical way, then the Koh Samui Elephant Sanctuary is where you should go. This elephant sanctuary is the first of its kind in Koh Samui and is dedicated to providing a safe and loving retirement home for elephants who have worked exhaustively in the tourism and logging industries.
There are no elephants rides at this sanctuary. But instead, you’ll be able to feed, walk with and observe the elephants as they roam, bathe and interact in the peaceful envirement that they deserve.
Explore the Fisherman’s Village
Situated in the historiucal part of Bophut is Koh samui’s fisherman’s village.
Housing boutique shops and a abundance of restaurants and rustic-style buildings along the narrow beach road, Bophut attracks large numbers of shoppers coming from all over the island looking for unique finds and a spirited atmosphere.
Treat Yourself to a Spa day
You’ll already be aware that Thailand is famous for its massages, but Koh Samui is home to an abundance of luxurious spas designed to pamper you.
From deep cleansing facials to aromatherapy massages, the spas will have you feeling rejuvenated in no time !
Swim in the Na Muang Waterfalls
From Hin Lad to khun Si there are several waterfalls on Koh samui, but the Na Muang Waterfalls are arguably the most pictoresque. Located next to each other there are two waterfalls available, Na Muang 1 and Na Muang 2.
Na Muang 1 is a waterfall that runs down rocks with the water flowing into a swimming hole below. It’s an easy walk to get to and is the perfect spot for a chilled place to cool off. But if you’re looking for something a little more strenuous, then Na Muang 2 is the waterfall for you.
Featuring incredible views from the peak of the waterfall, there’s a private rock pool which overlooks incredible views and where you can bathe whilst you take it all in.
Visit the Secret Buddha Garden
Situated atop Pom Mountain is the secret Buddha Garden, a private sculpture park featuring an unusual collection of statues. Often referred to as Magic Garden, heaven’s garden and Tarnim Magic Garden, the secret Buddha Garden is situated on one of Koh Samui’s highest peaks, and as a result, features lush jungle surrounds and incredible views.
The sculpture park was created back in 1976 by fruit farmer Nim Thongsuk who began the sculpture park when he erected several statues and temples on his family’s land and since then the collection has grown into what you see there today.
Pay your Respects at Wat Plai Laem
Featuring ornate décor and Guanyin, the 18-armed Goddess of mercy, Wat Plai Laem is a temmple that’s both colourful and interesting. Offering a view into Chinese-Thai beliefs the temple is surrounded by art and a large Chinese Buddha on the lake. Each day devotees go to Wat Plai Laem to pay homage to both Guanyin and Buddha and feed the fish that circle in the lake.
View the Mummified Monk at Wat Khunaram
If you’re looking for something a little unusual to see, then the mummified monk at Wat Khunaram is what you’re seeking, because here you’ll find the body of Luang Pordaeng.
Luang Pordaeng was a monk who died in 1973 whilst meditating.
As per his instructions, his body was placed into a glass case, which had been specially designed for posterity-and his body has remained there ever since, showing minimal signs of decray.
Admire Koh Samui’s Big Buddha
Situated on Koh Samui’s northern coast is the Big Buddha shrine – one of koh Samui’s most well known landmarks. Standing at 12 meters tall the golden Buddha can be seen from kilometers away and serves as a beacon, inviting people across the island to view the ornate Buddhas and many shrines. In adition to the Buddha, there’s also a market complete with food stall and boutique stalls selling charms and other wares.
Go and Explore Ang Thong National Marine Park
Situated in the gulf of Thailand, Ang Thong National Marine Park is comprised of 42 islands which make up the pristine archipelago, filled with white sand beaches, hidden coves, lakes and thick jungle each island offers something different, and thanks to the boat tours operating in the protected waters, you’re able to explore them.
Dive Down and Scuba
With clear waters and diverse corals there is an abundance of places in Thailand to go snorkeling or scuba diving, and Koh Samui offers multiple aquatic playgrounds to choose from.
For snorkeling the unspoled islands of Koh Tan and Koh Madsum are worth a visit.
If you are looking to dive, on neighbouring islands of Koh Pangan and Nang Yuan on Koh Tao, you’ll able to explore some of most beautiful waters.
Wet and Wild with Watersports
Whether you like to play beneath the surface or on it, Koh samui offers an incredible amount of things to do when it comes to watersports. Whether you’re looking to paddleboard around Koh Samui’s coastline, hire out for your own privite boat, jetski or take it all in with aerial view whilst parasailing, Koh Samui’s got you covered on all fronts.
Try your Hand at Muay Thai
The combat sport that uses the fist, elbows, knees and shins to create a striking stand-up technique, is Thailand’s national sport.
Each event features fighters who have dedicated numerous hours to perfecting this sport, and you can watch as they go toe-to-toe with each other to see who will be victorious.
Alternatively, if you don’t want to watch and would rather get involved, there are numerous gyms on Koh Samui where you can take a Muay Thai class to give the sport a try for yourself.