The Big Buddha in Koh Samui
The Big Buddha statue is one of Samui's most popular attractions.
Known in Thai as Wat "Phra Yai", it is located on the
Northeast part of the island on route 4171 close to the international
airport.
Sitting 15 meters high, the statue was constructed in 1972 by locals
to give visitors a place to pay respect to The Lord Buddha.
Within the temple grounds you can find a number of shops selling
souvenirs, T-shirts, protective amulets and refreshments.
Hin Ta and Hin Yai
These rock formations are known as the Grandfather and Grandmother
rocks. The site is a popular attraction for locals and tourist alike
for their close resemblance to male and female genitals.
Their formation and shape has been personified by a local tale
describing their existence on the island. The story goes that old
couple whose ship was wrecked in the bay sank and their body's were
washed ashore to create these remarkable rock formations.
Secret Buddha Garden
The secret Buddha garden is hidden in the hills of Samui. You can
see several statues, temples and waterfalls which were built by
one man in the last 20 years.
The only access road to the temple is on a military road and getting
there can be difficult if the access road is closed.
The only other way to get to the site is by four-wheel-drive where
you traverse through jungle, rivers and mountains. Beginning in
Lamai at the back of the main temple, the journey takes around 2
hours. If you are intent on exploring the temple, make sure you
are experienced in cross country and off road driving otherwise
carry a mobile phone if you get stuck.
Another and perhaps less stressful way of getting to the site,
is by joining one of the many jungle tours offered by travel agencies
and resorts.
Hin Lad Falls
"Hin Lad" Falls are located 2 km south of Nathon Town
on the eastern side on route 4172. From the main road it is about
2-3 kilometers walk down a jungle path to get to the falls.
Its recommended that you have tough shoes and leg protection for
the walk.
The falls are situated in a lush tropical rainforest setting. There
are several cascades which tumbling down into a large pool below.
At the bottom the water is cold and indeed very refreshing. If you
feel adventurous enough carry along your swimming togs and cool
off after a balmy trek.
Namuang Falls
Situated off the islands main circular road are the "Na Muang"
Falls, which are located 10 km south from Nathon. The falls are
accessible from the village of Ban Thurian on an unsealed portion
of road.
There are 2 waterfalls - Na Muang which is 18 meters high and can
be reached by vehicle; and Na Muang two, which is about 80 meters
high and can only be reached by a 5 minute walk. The waterfalls
are the most scenic on the island, and are at their best during
the raining season.
Butterfly Garden
Perched on a hillside on the south eastern corner of the Island,
is "Na Tian" Butterfly Garden.
Here you can see some of the most spectacular butter fly species
on earth.
There are also other interesting features in the garden including
a bee house which allows the visitor to observe the activities of
bees and an insect museum, where colorful and weird shaped insects
from Thailand and other countries are on display.
Snake Farm
A definite must see for all those visiting the island. Follow the
road signs for show times commencing at 11.00 and 14.00 everyday
in "Talingngam" south of Nathon.
Shows feature snakes indigenous to Samui as well as some of the
more poisonous scary species found throughout Asia. Included are
displays of Centipedes and Scorpion and of course the famous Thai
Cock Fighting show.
The programs are both informative and entertaining in typical Thai
fashion - Great for the entire family! Just follow the signs to
get there, as displayed throughout the island.
Naga Pearl Farm
Discover how pearls are cultured. A 30 minute boat ride from "Ban
Thong Krut" landing will bring you to Koh Matsum and the Naga
Pearl Farm.
After you learn about pearl culture, you will enjoy eating Thai
food and spend the afternoon on the white sandy beach. Don't miss
the Naga Pearl Shop, located at 81/1 Ban Thong Krut, where all varieties
of pearl and pearl products are offered. Pearl shells and special
handicrafts are very nice souvenirs to bring back home.
Ancient House
A house made of teakwood without any nails at "Ban Thale".
This is the oldest house on the island, built approximately 150
years ago. It is constructed of teak planks and shows off many beautiful
woodcarvings.
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