Probably the most stunning of all islands in Thailand, Koh Samui is the place is to visit if you’re after a tropical heaven delivering spectacular scenery, a pleasing climate and a unique Thai charm. Needless to say, Koh Samui tour packages assure of an unforgettable island experience.
Koh Samui
... packages are a favorite among visitors looking for a vacation with a sublime laid-back feel. The second largest island in Thailand, Koh Samui, or simply Samui, is exceptional and enigmatic, with its dramatic stretches of coconut palm-lined beaches, beautiful waterfalls, lush jungles, and unscathed villages. Unsurprisingly, it is one of the most visited island destinations in the country. But, what’s surprising is that this island was unknown to the outside world till 1970s when its allure and unspoiled charm was discovered by a group of backpackers.
Located off the country’s east coast in the Gulf of Thailand and a part of Surat Thani Province, Koh Samui’s distinctiveness is split; its western side holds some of the most expensive resorts and hotels, but the central part is untouched and occupied by the 635 high Khao Pom Mountain, boasting the Paradise Park Farm. On the island’s northwestern coast is its capital, Nathon, with a fishing port. Its major draw is a string of structures, depicting traditional Thai, Chinese, and Malay architecture styles.
Clean air and pristine waters entice people to the splendid beaches, which are undoubtedly Koh Samui’s trump card. Choeng Mon on the north-eastern part of the island is one of the most popular beaches, mainly because of its quaint atmosphere with isolated bays and calm waters. To the south of Choeng Mon is Chaweng Beach, which is often acknowledged as the island’s best beach, thanks to its eclectic atmosphere with several restaurants, shops, hip night clubs, and other leisure venues. In the west, there is Lipa No Beach - ideal for those in search of a secluded and romantic beach retreat.
Exuberant waters bursting with marine life and coral reefs make this alluring island an undisputed paradise to enjoy many activities, such as scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, swimming, windsurfing, wakeboarding, and jetpack. The island offers several options for visitors who wish to stay on land as well. While shrines like Guan Yu and Phra Khru Samathakittikhun with mummified monk reveal the region’s fascinating culture and legacies, an elephant trekking or hiking tour allows you to identify the region’s rich flora and fauna. If you wish to make your hiking trip more adventurous, consider a canopy adventure ride that rewards you with the unrivalled rainforest views, as you zip on a cable along the jungle.
Against the lush mountainous greenery is Santiburi Samui Country Club - a haven for golf enthusiasts. For a unique experience, you can further undergo a session of relaxing Thai massage or head out to spectacle such mesmerizing performances as lady-cabaret shows or Muay Thai martial arts. So what’s the wait for? With a Koh Samui travel package, leave your chaotic routine behind on a dream-like island swathed in verdant greenery and encircled by spotless blue seas.
Interesting Facts about Koh Samui
Blanketed with over 3 million coconut palms harvesting around 50 million coconuts per year, Koh Samui is aptly called the Coconut Island.
Bounded by several magnificent islands which together make up the astounding Ang Thong Marine National Park, Koh Samui serves as a perfect gateway for island hopping.
Its inhabitants are referred to as Chao Samui.
It is where you can savor fresh, succulent seafood items, especially tiger prawns.
It is home to Central Festival Samui. With over 200 shopping outlets, it is one of the most prominent as well as the biggest beach shopping complexes in Asia.
Don’t Miss
Big Buddha Temple: Known as Wat Phra Yai, the main attraction of this shrine located on Big Buddha Beach is the iconic 12-meter high image of Lord Buddha in Mara position, which indicates pureness, enlightenment, and dedication. Come here not to enjoy this temple complex, but also to experience the sheer tranquility and beautiful vistas surrounding the shrine.
Hin Ta and Hin Yai: Your Koh Samui vacation is incomplete without a trip to Hin Ta and Hin Yai, translated as Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks. Several interesting folklores are associated with these mysterious rock formations on Lamai Beach.
Koh Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo: Visiting this attraction is perhaps the best way to experience the Gulf of Thailand’s beautiful underwater world. Among its many fascinating exhibits are coral fishes, sharks, turtles, and cat fishes. Equally intriguing is its zoo zone with a variety of animal and bird species, including cheetahs, leopards, tigers, hornbills, hawks etc.
Secret Buddha Garden: Located amidst a dense jungle atop one of the region’s highest peaks, this private park is an oasis of greenery and serenity, endowed with many waterfalls, tropical flowers, and plants. But the focal point is its numerous sculptures of varied sizes, shapes and poses, representing the Buddhist mythology.
Snake Farm: From raccoon and Asian cobras to pythons, you’ll see more than 150 types of snakes including several venomous species here. Besides snakes, its residents include scorpions, mongooses, centipedes, crocodiles etc. Many interesting animal shows like cobra fight as well as cock fight are also conducted here.
Ang Thong National Marine Park: Consisting of 40 plus islands, Ang Thong National Marine Park is a protected region, spanning over an area of about 100 square kilometers. Soaked in natural beauty with fertile mangroves, huge limestone mountains, secluded beaches, hidden bays and caves, this is a true tropical paradise, where you can engage in a host of land and water activities.
Know before visit
When to visit?
Weather is good from December through March. While April to September is the hottest, October until November is the wettest season. If Ang Thong Marine Park is your priority during Koh Samui vacation, the best months to visit are April and May when you can spot large whale sharks.
Language
Thai is the main language spoken. Being a prominent tourist center, most people here can understand English.
Currency
Thai Baht (THB) is the local currency. 1US$ is equivalent to THB 30.00.
Cultural Etiquettes
It is vital to dress modestly while visiting religious sites. Don’t wear sleeveless tops and shorts, and instead opt for dresses that cover your arms and shoulders. Besides, remove your shoes before entering a Buddhist shrine. No PDAs and refrain from touching or pointing at Buddhist monks as well as the revered images of Lord Buddha.
Transportation Facilities
From taxis, jeeps, buses, motor bikes, and songthaew to ferry services, the place offers several convenient options to explore its varied wonders. Read more
