The tropical island of Koh Samui is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand that has a lot to offer tourists. We can guarantee you that you will never get bored during your stay. Aside from the beaches, hilltops, markets, and parties, there’s a lot more to this exotic getaway.

We give you four offbeat ideas that can turn your vacation on Koh Samui into a memorable experience.

Culture and Temples

The ancient temples of Koh Samui are truly breathtaking. Prominent among them are the Wat Plai Laem and the Wat Khunaram with the mummified monk. The Laem Sor Pagoda and the Wat Rattanakosin, nearby on a small hilltop, are the most beautiful temples on the island. Located deep in the south, you can reach them best on a motorbike. Also of note are the Wat Samret or the Khao Hua Jook Pagoda and Wat Kiri Wongkaram near the Elephant Gate in Taling Ngam.

The Magic Garden of Tarnim

Also known as Secret Buddha Garden, it is located on the Khun Nim hill in the interior of the island. The street leading to the garden can be found opposite the Wat Khunaram. The huge exotic garden is decorated with many statues, mostly of Buddha but also others like snakes, birds and legendary creatures. The entrance fee is a mere 80 baht per head, used to maintain the garden.

The roads are in pretty good condition, and you can easily get there on a motorbike. Or you can go there as part of a tour on a jeep.

The Marine National Park at Ang Thong

The Marine National Park with its many natural islands and snorkeling spots in the Gulf of Thailand is located just off the coast of Koh Samui. Several speedboat tours start from the Big Buddha Pier in Bangrak, as also some cheaper tours on wooden boats. The cost of a trip by speedboat is about 2000 baht (50 €), but definitely worth it.

Exploring on two wheels

A motorbike is an ideal way to explore Koh Samui on your own. You can rent a motorbike at most hotels or rentals around the island with the fee of about 150 – 300 baht per day. A ring road around the island will take you to Chaweng, Lamai, Nathon, Maenam or Bophut. You can visit amazing sites like the blue lagoon of Koh Mae Koh for snorkeling, the monkey rock and much more.

An off-road jeep tour is perfect for casual tourists and an excellent alternative to a motorbike trip on your own. You get picked up at your hotel with and are taken to the many sights of the island. You can visit the Namuang Safari Park and Waterfall, the Grandmother and Grandfather Rock, Wat Khunaram, etc. End the trip with a magnificent view from the hilltops of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. The whole trip will cost approximately 1600 baht (40 €) and normally includes Lunch.

So why wait, plan your trip today. Here’s an amazing deal from X2 Samui, a secluded beachfront resort on the south side of Koh Samui island, just for you!(limited period offer)

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