Joanna James
Koh Samui is one of the popular islands in Thailand and is beset by amazing beaches and tropical scenery. Amid all this, there are a few iconic locations that you have to experience as a visitor to this island paradise.
Koh Samui has many temples, like most places in Thailand. A visit to Samui won't be the same if you don't visit the shrine at Big Buddha, known as Wat Phra Yai for the locals. The temple sits grandly on a little rocky promontory off the northeastern coast of Koh Samui near Bophut. The golden seated Buddha statue is 12-metres in height and was made in 1972. Located on Koh Faan, one has to travel via a highway to reach the island. The monumental sculpture of the Buddha can be identified from a distance and is the first sight you will encounter when flying to Koh Samui by air. A Koh Samui beachfront resort is something you can find quite easily. The likes of many nice resorts such as SAii Koh Samui Choengmon can be found close to the most popular landmarks.
Hin Ta and Hin Yai are famous rocky landmarks, and the locals call them grandma and grandpa rocks! The rocks have a striking resemblance to certain body parts, and according to legend, it was the site where a newly married couple got stranded in the sea! Stories aside, the stones are quite the handiwork of Mother Nature!
This vibrant and elaborate temple north of Wat Phra Yai is a popular spot on the tourist trail. At the centrepiece is a unique white image of an 18-armed Guanyin striking a pose, who is believed to be a Bodhisattva according to Chinese Buddhist tradition. The temple is heavily influenced by Chinese elements and deviates from the usual wats in Thailand. A statue of the Buddha can also be found close to the picturesque lake nearby. The tranquil and colourful temple setting is the ideal place for some calm and respite after a day of sightseeing.
There are two waterfalls called Na Muang 1 and 2 in Koh Samui and both are found roughly an hour's drive from Wat Phra Yai. There is no public transport available to visit these waterfalls, so a taxi or a scooter will have to be arranged to get there. September to November is the best time to visit, with the rainy season descending on the island. Na Muang 1 has a natural rock pool, which is great for swimming. However, it can get crowded during the peak seasons. To reach Na Muang 2, trek 30 minutes uphill, which is far more secluded.
A famed location on Samui is Fisherman's Village, which is located near Bophut beach. The fishing town has become quite touristy as of late; however, it can make for a fun excursion. You will get to explore all the stylish bars, bistros, rustic structures and small corner side shops. When Friday rolls around, the whole area morphs into a mega market with vendors selling loads of wares, curios, mementoes, clothes, and food items.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
