Places to visit in Koh Samui
Places To Go in Koh Samui
Here is the list of best places to visit in Koh Samui:
Wat Phra Yai, or the Big Buddha Temple, as it is called in English, is one of the most famous places to visit in Koh Samui. The temple houses Witness various statues of Buddha in different forms and sizes. The largest attraction is the Mara posture that depicts tranquility and serenity.
Big Buddha temple is a hotspot for tourists because of the architecture and the gorgeously crafted idols. Do check it out if you are in Koh Samui, it will be one of the most unforgettable parts of your trip.
Highlights - Buddha statues, Buddhist architecture with animalism injected in the design
Location - Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - 8 am to 5 pm
Price - Free
Mu Ko Ang thong is an archipelago consisting of over 42 islands and is a must visit for those planning to be amidst nature and indulge in outdoor activities. The islands are known for stunning rock formations and secluded lagoons that you can visit for the stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand.
Locals and tourists flock alike to this famous market of Koh Samui where you can buy everything at a nominal price. The quiet town of Bohut becomes a vibrant and colourful place to visit on weekends, as the Walking Street gets lined with stalls and shops that sell everything from T-shirts to fake jewelry.
If you want to get some souvenirs for your loved ones back home, this is the place to be at. You can get sunglasses, handbags, electrical gadgets, fake branded clothes here. Just remember to check the items before making a purchase as they may be of suspicious origins.
Highlights - Souvenir shops, cheap clothes, fake handbags
Location - Borphud Sub-district Koh Samui District Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - 5 pm to 11.30 pm
Price - Free
The south coast of this intriguing island offers some of the most interesting views. The names mean Grandpa and Grandma in Thai, and the rock formations inspire chuckles from visitors because of their striking similarities with human genitalia.
Tourists flock to the site to witness the unusual sight with their own eyes. And when you have finished giggling at the rocks, the views will keep you enthralled.
Highlights - Clear blue sea stretches out as far as the eye can see, and it is the perfect place to enjoy some much-needed respite from everyday routine.
Location - 126/92 Moo 3 Ko Samui District, Surat Thani
Timings - 6 am to 7 pm
Koh Samui, along with other Thai provinces, is a hub for Buddhist devotees because of its large collection of temples dedicated to the religion. Wat Plai Laem is another Buddhist temple in the city, and it features something unique – an 18-armed statue of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy and Compassion in Thai culture.
The sight is breathtaking and enough to make anyone stop in their tracks to admire its beauty. There are also several statues and murals of Buddha that are worth checking out.
Highlights - a statue of Guanyin that has 18 arms, serene surroundings, murals of Buddha, laughing Buddha statue
Location - Wat Plai Laem, Road Thailand, Thailand
Timings - 8 am to 5 pm
Price - Free
Embark on a journey of beautiful views of breathtaking natural beauty as you take a hike to this waterfall. As you walk along the trail, you will experience serenity and tranquility hitherto unfound in city life. The 2 cascading waterfalls themselves are awe-inspiring.
The first waterfall empties into a calm pool that you can take a relaxing swim in, and the second fall offers gorgeous views of the island from its vantage point. Do check out the place if you love nature in its naked glory.
Highlights - Hiking, swimming, natural beauty
Location - Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - Open 24 hours
Price - Free
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Nestled on top of the Pom Mountain hill, the Secret Buddha Garden is a place that offers a unique combination. Majestic statues that leave the viewer awestruck and lush green woods that infuse a sense of serenity make this place sought after both by architecture enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The garden offers a collection of statues that depict deities in various poses, humans and magnificent animals. Do take a camera when you go here, so you can take some Instagram worthy shots of the statues and jungles.
Highlights - Lush green jungles, statues of deities and animals
Location - Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - 9 am to 5 pm, every day
Price - INR 175/THB 80
Wat Khunaram offers a view of the mummified body of Luong Pordaeng who died in 1973 in a seated meditative position. Ever since then, his dead body has been preserved in the glass enclosure and has become one of the most famous Koh Samui attractions.
You can also check out the Buddhist statues around the temple, buy some trinkets and souvenirs for family and friends, and enjoy the overall serene environs of the place. You can also have fun participating in the daily rituals of the temple. Visit the Wat for a truly unique experience.
Highlights - Mummified Monk, souvenir shops, Buddhist statues
Location - Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84140
Timings - 7 am to 5 pm
Price - Free
Whether you love swimming in the virgin waters or hanging out by the beach – Chaweng beach is one of the best places to visit in Koh Samui. The beach is slowly emerging as a tourist hotspot in Thailand because of its spectacular views and happening nightlife.
Every weekend, people flock to the place to go bar hopping and groove in the nightclub till the morning. There is something for everyone here – do pay a visit and enjoy the wide contrast in day and nightlife at the beach.
Highlights - Nightclubs, bars, swimming
Location - Chaweng, Ko Samui, Thailand
Timings - Open 24 hours
Price - Free
The incredible park lives up to its name – it is indeed a heaven for those of you who are traveling with your family. Paradise is spread over 20 acres and offers a bunch of interesting activities that will keep your little ones occupied while you enjoy a cocktail.
The Thai restaurant serves some delicious local delicacies, as well as European dishes that will make your mouth water. Enjoy the interactive animal experiences, walk up close to majestic beasts, and make your holiday memorable.
Highlights - Interactive wildlife experience, serene surroundings, restaurant
Location - Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - 9 am to 5 pm
Price - INR 870/THB 400 per person
Nestled against the rocky beaches of Bang Kao, the yellow temple of Laem Sor Pagoda makes for an interesting sight. The bright color offers an interesting contrast against the clear turquoise waters of the sea and tourists flock here to take some stunning shots of the same.
The beach is one of the calmest places in Koh Samui and an ideal spot to spend an afternoon far away from the hustle and bustle of city life. You can also enjoy boating here, along with relaxing in the visitor center to restore a sense of peace.
Highlights - Bright gold colored Pagoda, boating, swimming, picnic
Location - Taling Ngam, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - Open 24 hours
Price - Free
Lad Koh is slowly emerging as a tourist hotspot and over the last few years, it has become one of the most famous places to visit in Koh Samui. The vantage point offers the most spectacular views of the east coast of the island and turquoise waters of the sea. Photography enthusiasts and nature lovers will find an idyllic destination at Lad Koh.
Take stunning shots of the natural beauty, enjoy a luxurious stroll along the place, and soak in the natural splendor of Thailand. Make memories you will cherish for a lifetime at Lad Koh.
Highlights - Stunning natural beauty, photography
Location - Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - Open 24 hours
Price - Free
So it is Sunday night and you want to hang out at a place where you can enjoy some local delicacies without being hassled by throngs of tourists. Lamai Sunday market is the perfect place for you. Enjoy a quiet and tranquil evening eating some delicious food without any flashy flights or thumping music.
Everything from prawns and curries, to delicious noodles and fruit, is available here. You can also shop for off-brand clothes and souvenirs here – just remember to bargain a little.
Highlights - Delicious local food, souvenir shops, clothes shops
Location - Had Lamai Rd, Tambon Maret, Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - 5 pm to 10 pm, only open on Sundays
Price - Free
Wildlife lovers rejoice – the Samui Aquarium offers up-close and intimate views of majestic beasts and exotic birds. If you are traveling with kids, a visit to the place will offer them a chance to get close to and learn about some otherwise elusive animals like tigers and cheetahs.
Be a spectator to the scheduled live shows in the zoo which are quite entertaining to watch. The aquarium part of the zoo features marine wildlife including manta rays, catfish, and whirlpools of vibrant exotic fish if you are enthusiastic about that.
Highlights - Daily tiger shows, photography with animals, marine wildlife
Location - Ban Harn Beach, Koh Samui, Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - 11 am to 4 pm
Price - Free
Wat Sila Ngu is one of the most popular places to visit in Koh Samui. The temple attracts devotees of the Buddhist religion from all over the country, along with tourists. The complex is red in color and it has a seating area where you can enjoy the scenic, picturesque views of the island.
It is close to the beach, so visitors can enjoy the cool breeze while enjoying a walk around the complex. Enjoy the 100-year old architecture and take some beautiful pictures of the natural beauty around.
Highlights - Red colored temple complex, beach views, Buddhist architecture, tranquil settings
Location - Bo Put, Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - 9 am to 5 pm
Price - Free
Surrounded by tall groves of palm trees, and clear turquoise waters of the sea, Pink Elephant is a calm hideout nestled away at the beautiful Maenam Beach. If you are traveling with kids, the rides and slides here will keep them busy while you get some much-needed relaxing time at the bar.
The high-quality rides are completely safe for kids and adults, so you can stay worry-free. If you have an adrenaline addiction yourself, there are some adventurous rides for adults too.
Highlights - Jacuzzi, water rides and slides, adventurous rides
Location - Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - 10 am to 6 pm
Price - INR 2600/THB 1200
The exciting adventurous trek to this waterfall is completely paid off by the breathtaking views of pristine waters falling from a height and striking the rocks underneath in a goosebump-inducing experience. The falls here are a beauty no doubt, but there is more.
Enjoy a relaxing stroll around the naturally blessed area, explore the durian plantations, and plan a picnic near the falls with your family. The place is magical to be at, so plan a vacation here today to get away from the humdrum of city life and experience a holiday you will remember for the rest of your life.
Highlights - Beautiful waterfalls, nature walks, picnic area
Location - Wat Thale, Thailand
Timings - 6 am to 6 pm
Price - Free
If you are a wildlife enthusiast or you have a kid who loves the dangerous world of reptiles, check out the Samui Crocodile Farm, one of the most intriguing places to visit in Koh Samui. The farm has all the famous species of crocodiles and alligators – from saltwater crocodiles to Siamese ones, along with a wide array of snakes, lizards, monkeys, and even caimans.
The shows are held three times a day and are a tourist hotspot. Get up close to these dangerous beasts and enjoy the riveting show that is full of danger and excitement.
Highlights - Various species of reptiles, daily crocodile shows
Location - Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - 8.30 am to 5 pm
Price - Starts from INR 1300/THB 600
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Explore the enticing world of Muay Thai boxing at the Phetch Buncha Samui Boxing Stadium. The stadium is beautifully crafted and the architecture itself is breathtaking. Live shows are held during weekdays and weekends where tourists and locals flock to the stadium to witness the glamorous world of Muay Thai Boxing.
The shows lend unique insight into Thai history and culture and offer an exciting and adventurous experience. If you love live boxing, do check out the stadium.
Highlights - Beautiful stadium with live shows of Muay Thai Boxing.
Location - Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - 9 am to 5 pm
Price - INR 2175/THB 1000
Wat Kiri Wongkaram is famous for housing the mummified body of Luang Por Ruam, a monk who was placed at the temple 25 years ago. The body is in very good condition and is preserved in glass casings. Visit the temple complex which also has various statues and murals of elephants, deities, and humans in different positions.
Discover yourself as the offers a place for quiet introspection and solitude for weary souls looking for a salve for their tired minds and bodies. Enjoy a visit here to reconnect with your soul and your body.
Highlights - Mummified preserved body of Luang Por Ruam, relaxing environs
Location - Koh Samui, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - 8 am to 5 pm, every day
Price - Free
The colourful marketplace at Wharf Samui is the perfect place for a shopping enthusiast. Shop to your heart’s content at the mall spread over an impressive 5000 square hectares. The place has a serene and quiet vibe to it, and you will be able to enjoy shopping without the usual throngs of tourists here.
It is very close to the famous Fisherman’s market, so do check that out when you are in the area. In contrast to the Fisherman’s area, you will find high-quality products here.
Highlights - Shopping area with serene vibes
Location - Tambon Bo Put, Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - 12 am to 12 pm, 6 pm to 12 am
Price - Free
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The Samui International Meditation Center is one of the most popular places to visit in Koh Samui, both among tourists and locals. The place offers a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life by engaging in peaceful meditation practices in the center.
Visitors come here regularly to escape from the worries that plague daily lives and get some peace and calm. Do check it out if you are struggling with the stresses of modern city life and want to engage in some mindful meditation.
Highlights - Relaxing environs, meditation
Location - Bophut, Samui, Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - 7 am to 8.30 pm from Monday to Saturday, and from 8.30 am to 2.30 pm on Sunday
Price - Free
Enjoy a walk on the white sand beaches of Lipa Noi and check out the amazing views of the azure sea. Take a few hours’ drive from Koh Samui to reach this mesmerising beach. Enjoy the shallow shores as they are perfect for swimming if you are travelling with kids.
The beach is home to some gorgeous beachfront luxury villas that are available for rent. Visit the restaurants near the beach and offer delicious local dishes and seafood. If you are traveling with your partner, a walk on the beach and a candle-lit dinner under the star-studded night sky can be very romantic.
Highlights - Pristine beaches, swimming, boating
Location - Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - Open 24 hours
Price - Free
Overlap Stone is a place of natural wonder in Koh Samui which is not thronged by hordes of tourists. If you want to check out some off the beaten path tourist destinations, Overlap Stone is the place for you. It features a naturally round boulder sitting on top of another round stone, perfectly balanced without any support.
The site overlooks beautiful Thai beaches and gives a serene and tranquil vibe that is perfect for those of you looking to get away from the humdrum of everyday routine. Take a bicycle ride or hire a taxi to the Overlap Stone and enjoy some mesmerizing views.
Highlights - Serene views, naturally occurring stone sitting on top of a stone
Location - Maret, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - Open 24 hours
Price - INR 43/THB 20
Surrounded by groves of palm trees and beautiful clear blue waters of the sea, Bang Kao Beach is one of the most popular places to visit in Koh Samui. The shallow end of the beach is perfect for exploration if you are traveling with kids. There are also some colourful corals and vibrant sea creatures that give the place a fun vibe.
It is also fun to explore the crustaceans and crabs that roam the beach here. The deeper central end of the shore is stony and has moderate to high tides, ideal for some water sports and swimming.
Highlights - Swimming, crustacean life, corals
Location - Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - Open 24 hours
Price - Free
If you take a walk to this abandoned waterfall in the middle of the deep green woods, you will find one of the most popular Koh Samui attractions. The waterfall is easily accessible by foot, and the walk itself is serene and calming. The falls offer a relaxing atmosphere for those of you looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The scenery is pleasing to the eye as well as the mind, with vines covering the naturally occurring boulders and the sound of water falling on the rocks echoing through the woods.
Highlights - Serene environs, stunning landscape
Location - Lipa Noi, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - Open 24 hours
Price - Free
Buddha’s Footprint Temple features four footprints of Buddha, each one on top of the other and engraved in a beautiful manner. The temple is an iconic building when it comes to Buddhist and Thai heritage, and people visit from all over the country to witness the gorgeous architecture.
Highlights - The temple complex also acts as a vantage point to view the stunning scenery of the island in all its glory – from pristine coastlines to deep woods. Do check out this Wat if you are a cultural buff.
Location - Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - 8 am to 6 pm, every day
Price - Free
Koh Samui hosts a wide array of Chinese temples that are slowly emerging as tourist hotspots over the last few years. The temples are dedicated to Buddhism and feature stunning imagery of Buddha in various forms. If you are a cultural enthusiast or want to explore the religion while in Thailand, this is the perfect place for you to be at.
Not only are these temples magnificent in their architecture, but they also offer a serene and tranquil environment that is perfect if you want to get away from your everyday routine.
Where to visit - You can take a visit to Wat Plai Laem, Wat Nara Charoen Suk, Maenam Chinese Temple etc
Timings - Varies according to the temple
Price - Different for different temples
The Samui Cultural Center is far away from the usual tourist centers, so it provides a calm environment to relax without the noise and pollution of the city. The cultural center is designed like an old Thai house and it has a host of statues of animals and deities that are carved in traditional Chinese style.
There is also a small lake in front of the complex where you can enjoy the views and take a relaxing walk. Much of the house is residential and closed to the public, so do take care of that while exploring the complex.
Highlights - Statues and murals of animals and deities
Location - Lipa Noi, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - 9 am to 6 pm, every day
Price - INR 260/THB 120
The Samret Wat is one of the most offbeat of Koh Samui attractions, and that’s why it is the perfect place to be if you want a quiet afternoon away from the city. The temple is fairly new, less than 100 years old, and it features several statues of Buddha in the complex.
One of the statues is made entirely out of one piece of marble and it is said to be the oldest Buddha statue in Thailand. There is also another section where several statues are placed. The temple complex also has a Buddhist monastery and a cemetery.
Highlights - oldest Buddha statue made of a single piece of marble
Location - Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - 9 am to 5 pm
Price - Free
One of the most popular destinations in Koh Samui, the Shrine is dedicated to Chinese deity Guan-Yu Koh. The temple complex is guarded by beautiful ornate doors and opens up to a large statue of the deity. It is extremely popular among Chinese tourists and it is slowly emerging as a wedding destination.
Do check it out to get some insight into the unique Chinese culture and witness the beautiful architecture of the shrine. Enjoy the gorgeous murals and beautiful dragon sculptures, and take stunning pictures perfect for Instagram.
Highlights - Beautiful statue of Guan-Yu Koh
Location - Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani 84310
Timings - 9 am to 5 pm
Price - Free
Walk through the majestic entrance of Taling Ngam Village, which features magnificent statues of two majestic elephants that seem to adorn the gate, as well as ward off any evil presence. These sculptures, scaled to size and depicting the importance of the beautiful beasts in the local culture of this sleepy hamlet are beautifully crafted, and attract tourists from all over the country to admire their stunning design.
Visit the village as it is secluded and offers the perfect site for some much-needed introspection and solitude tourists may desire after a few days in the city.
Highlights - Life-sized elephant sculptures
Location - Surat Thani, Ko Samui
Timings - Open 24 hours
Price - Free
The art gallery Surat Thani is probably one of the most inquisitive places to visit in Koh Samui, with its wide array of paintings and sculptures inspired by local culture and heritage. If you love art and are also a cultural buff, there is nothing better than spending a day at the Vida Vinci Art Gallery.
Take a walk in the complex and soak in the rich cultural heritage on display. There is also a souvenir shop in the area where you can buy trinkets for family and friends back home.
Highlights - Paintings and sculptures that will reinvigorate your senses
Location - Soi Wat Naphalan, Koh Samui, Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings - 10 am to 11 pm
Price - Free
Located on Koh Samui Island, Thailand, this sanctuary is the first of its kind to treat elephants with respect and dignity. It provides a safe haven for elephants who have worked long and hard hours in the logging and tourism sectors. Visitors to this sanctuary can interact with elephants in a variety of ways, including feeding, greeting, and bathing.
The 250-meter beach called Silver is one of the most popular places to visit in Koh Samui. It lies close to the more popular Lamai and Chaweng beaches and is less frequented by nagging tourists, so if you want some tranquility and quiet time – this the place to be at.
The beach is also famous for snorkeling and deep-sea diving, so if you like adventure sports, do check it out. Enjoy a quiet day at the beach sunbathing with a cocktail, or take a long walk down the white strip of sand.
Highlights - Serene and calm environment, snorkeling, sunbathing
Location - Maret, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani
Timings - Open 24 hours
Price - Free
A beach party in Haad Rin, on the island of Ko Pha-ngan, marked the beginning of the Full Moon festival in 1985. Every full moon, up to 30,000 people from all over the world come to the same beach for the celebrations. It's a night filled with music, art, dancing, beverages, and fireworks, providing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to party with high-spirited partygoers.
Koh Samui Reviews
Koh Samui FAQ's
Which are the famous places to visit in Koh Samui on your honeymoon?
A staircase cast into the mountain leads up to the first fall, where a glittering golden pool nestles idly. Couples can take a quick dip in the waterfall pool, or simply enjoy a picnic amidst its scenic surroundings.
2. Ang Thong National Park: Home to windy beaches and stunning islands, the Ang Thong National Park should be on every couples’ honeymoon itinerary. Composed of 42 islands, the National Park boasts some of Thailand’s most beautiful landscapes.
Snorkel, dive, kayak or simply relax in its many beaches- there is something to do for everyone here, making it one of the most sought after tourist places in Koh Samui.
3. Secret Buddha Garden: High on the hills lies this secret garden, home to ornate statues of deities and animals poised at various poses. The Garden is rightfully called a magical one, for the stunning green views it commands of the forest around it.
One of the most beautiful tourist places in Koh Samui; Buddha Garden can be a great place for a sunset trek; if not, one can merely idle along its well paved roads on a casual stroll.
4. Fisherman’s Village: If you’re a couple with a shared interest in exploring the local Thai culture, the Fisherman’s Village is one of the best places to go in Koh Samui for you. Home to quaint alleyways and Chinese-styled hut houses, the Village appears as an apparition just out of a postcard.
Which are the best beaches in Koh Samui?
4. Taling Ngam: Located on the western edge of the Ang Thong National Park, Taling Ngam is one of the most beautiful beaches in Koh Samui. Apart from its clean coastline and stunning clear waters, the beach is also known for its excellent sunset views.
What is there to do in Koh Samui for 3 days?
2. Explore the night markets: A trip to Koh Samui would remain incomplete without a quick spree across its night markets. As the sun sets, these local markets set up their wares about the streets of Koh Samui, selling everything from gadgets to clothing at budget prices. The Chaweng Night Market and Lamai Night Walking Street are the two most popular night markets here.
3. Take a boat ride to Koh Phangan: A short boat ride from Koh Samui leads one to the rugged Koh Phangan. Unlike its sister islands, the beaches here are rocky, with jagged mountains rising above it. The beaches here, however, are plenty in number, and there are several ways to spend one’s time here- whether it be swimming, snorkeling, or trekking up any of the smaller hills.
4. Explore Wat Plai Leam: Wat Plai Leam is an ancient Buddhist temple dedicated not to Buddha, but to the Guanyin, the ancient Chinese Goddess of compassion and mercy. Despite being a fairly new temple, the Wat is decorated with ancient mural designs. A massive statue of Guanyin with her 18 arms takes up the centre of the temple’s womb.
How many days do you need in Koh Samui?
What is the best time to visit Koh Samui?
How to reach Koh Samui?
By Water: Several catamarans and ferries leave the Thai mainland bound to Koh Samui. Ferry timings usually change from day to day, and must be booked in advance.
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