People, who keep knowledge about tourist attractions from around the world, can easily point out that Koh Samui is famous for its beaches and Big Buddha Temple. Yes, the island is famous for its Temple and beaches, but there are several other attractions as well.
The island offers a closer look at marine life, if you are interested to know more about sea creatures and hundreds of fish, you should definitely visit the Samui aquarium and Ang Thong Marine Park. Some other attractions on the island are Na Muang Waterfall area, Wat Khunaram (home to the mummy of island’s most famous monk), Hin Ta & Hin Yai rocks site, and more.
Koh Samui is one of the most popular islands in the Gulf of Thailand. You can reach the island by boat, road or by plane from mainland Thailand. But, if you wish to save time, travelling by plane might prove to be the best option. Once you reach the island, you can either hire a taxi, car, bike or bicycle to travel on the island. So, travelling is not something that tourists need to worry about.
Marine Park
In this era of globalization and so-called “development,” it is very difficult to find a tourist attraction that offers a glimpse of Mother Nature’s true beauty. Perhaps, Thailand’s Ang Thong National Marine Park can take you as close as possible. It is just few minutes away from Koh Samui Island.
This park covers hundreds of acres of land spread across 42 islands from Gulf of Thailand. There are countless lakes, unexplored caves, waterfalls, mangroves, sandy beaches and jungles surrounded by mountains.
You can find almost all the sea creatures and wild animals that you can think about in Ang Thong National Marine Park. You can relax and enjoy sunbathing at one of the beaches, or play water sports like sailing, diving, sea kayaking, hiking, snorkeling, and more.
There is no need to worry even if you do not manage to finish visiting all parts of the park within one day. You can stay at the park by renting camping tents, or simply book a room in one of the hotels inside the park.
Only Government approved tour operators are allowed to offer boat service from Koh Samui to Ang Thong National Marine Park. The entry fee for this park is around $6 for adults and $3 for kids. It is advisable to carry money in Thailand’s currency- Thai Baht. Experts suggest travelers to visit this park between March and October every year.
Buddha garden
Koh Samui is full of treasure for those who love piece of art and ancient statues. The island’s Secret Buddha Garden is home to several statues, combined with exotic waterfalls, streams, temples, and mountains. The garden is surrounded by thick blanket of jungle.
Secret Buddha Garden was created by farmer named Nim Thongsuk during 1970s. Statues resemble several Gods, Buddhist folklore, humans, animals, and garden’s creator Nim Thongsuk. He began working on these statues in 1976, and continued working on them till his death.
Experts recommend travelers to visit this garden in their car instead of motorcycle or bicycle, as the road coming to this garden is bumpy and full of obstacles. The garden is located near Lamai beach in the north western part of the island.
Secret Buddha Garden is also known as Magic Garden and Heaven’s Garden. While on the way to the garden you would come across spectacular range of mountains covered with lush green cover of plants and trees. Reach the garden early in the morning to spend as much time as possible.
