Discovering Koh Samui’s Cultural Gems: Unique Activities and Places to Try

This is one of Samui’s most iconic shrines and landmarks, which features a 12-metre-tall statue of the Buddha seated in the Mara posture. The statue stands as a symbol of steadfastness and purity, as it depicts a time during the Buddha’s journey when he successfully resisted temptations and dangers on his way to enlightenment. You can reach the base of the statue through a long staircase decorated with colourful dragons, at the top of which you’ll find a courtyard and vendor area where you’ll find religious clothing, artefacts and souvenirs. 

The Fisherman’s Village is worth a visit for those looking to get a sense of the historical side of Bophut. The area is filled with rustic-looking buildings that feature boutique stores, restaurants, and small hotels. It is called ‘Fisherman’s Village’ in reference to a fishing community that once thrived in the area. You’ll find traces of this community through the wooden shop houses that remain, as well as the narrow alleys that run between them, giving the area a charming look and feel. 

This tranquil garden is the result of the work of an old Samui fruit farmer Nim Thongsuk, who began building several statues and temples around his family’s land in 1976. The statues are of various deities, humans and animals in different poses, including one of himself, sitting on a rock in a relaxed position. The surrounding jungle contains its own beauty with a waterfall and a stream that flows through the garden. With statues in all shapes and sizes built across the garden, every turn you take will likely reveal a unique monument to marvel at. If you’re lodged at Avani+ Samui Resort, you’ll be a short drive away from the Garden which is located up in the hills of Koh Samui.

The Lamai temple serves as a major cultural temple for the Thai community, as it hosts several temple fairs, weddings, religious festivals and funerals throughout the year. If you are in Koh Samui during a festival or fair, visiting Wat Lamai is one of the best things to do in Samui. The temple also features the Cultural Hall inside of which you’ll find a collection of artefacts from Samui’s history, including earthenware and brass vessels, agricultural tools, cooking utensils, swords, ancient bicycles and more. It also contains a 2000-year-old metal ceremonial drum that was discovered in the Lamai village. Although these artefacts have no accompanying anecdotes or information, they certainly provide an insightful glimpse into the old ways of life on Koh Samui.

Participating in a cookery class is one of the best ways to explore Thai cuisine, which is a significant aspect of the local culture. You’ll learn to make several local favourites like Phad Thai, Tom Yum, Som Tam, various curries, stir-fries, spicy salads soups and more. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, you’ll have the chance to visit markets to learn about ingredients and get familiar with various cooking styles and techniques, including the art of balancing contrasting flavours and making use of the right combinations of ingredients.