Getting close to nature in Koh Samui
Are you looking to get up close and personal with nature when you stay with us in Koh Samui? The island features stunning natural surroundings, exceptional beaches, turquoise waters and much to be explored throughout the interior. If getting close to nature is on your holiday agenda, Koh Samui is the perfect spot to get away from it all and immerse yourself in all of the splendid beauty the island has to offer.
Koh Samui is Thailand’s second largest island, and it is well known for its coconut groves, palm-fringed beaches and dense, mountainous rainforest. The island is an exotic paradise for beach bums and luxury travelers alike. Whether you choose to spend your time lolling about on the beach, or adventure off into the island’s jungle-clad interior, Koh Samui really does have something to offer everyone.
CHASING WATERFALLS
There are a number of waterfalls in Samui, however, the two most scenic include Hin Lad Waterfall and Na Muang Waterfall. While these waterfalls may not be the tallest you find in Thailand, they are blessed with a distinctive charm and they are definitely worth a visit during your stay.
Hin Lad Waterfall can be found by walking along a riverside path that twists and turns through lush greenery. The scenic beauty of the hike is captivating and takes approximately two hours and features an easy passage that even inexperienced hikers can enjoy. Upon reaching the waterfall, you will be astounded by the sight of the river water rushing down the orange hued rocks. Don’t forget to take a refreshing dip in the natural pool before making the hike back down again.
Na Muang Waterfall has earned the name the “purple waterfall” due to the striking shades of purple the rocks under the waterfall emit. It is a twin cascade tucked amongst the lush jungle with close proximity to both Nathon and Lamai beaches. There are numerous trekking trails that can be taken to reach the waterfall. The first of the waterfalls is easy to reach, but the second can be a bit more challenging. Best to explore Na Muang Waterfall between September and November, and note that you can spend the entire day swimming and exploring its beautiful surroundings.
SECRET BUDDHA GARDEN
Known by a variety of names including Magic Garden, Heaven’s Garden and Tarnim Magic Garden, the Secret Buddha Garden is a private sculpture park located atop Pom Mountain which is one of the highest peaks on all of Koh Samui. Set amidst lush jungle surroundings and commanding incredible views, the Secret Buddha Garden is home to an unusual collection of statues. This garden of statues and temples is the creation of an old Samui fruit farmer who began erecting the various statues and temples around his family’s land in 1976.
The statues depict a variety of deities, animals and humans in various poses. Due to the fact that they are surrounded by dense, lush jungle, the Secret Buddha Garden really has an ancient feel. There is a water stream that flows through the gardens which gives it a very serene and peaceful atmosphere. The view here at both sunrise and sunset is amazing. If you do intend to hike to the Secret Buddha Garden, understand that the trail can be a bit challenging so best to come prepared with the right shoes, water, a hat and sunscreen.
SPECTACULAR VIEWS
Samui is home to sweeping landscapes and stunning views, but two of the most spectacular viewpoints on the island are certainly Mae Nam Viewpoint and Emerald Lake Viewpoint.
Mae Nam Viewpoint is a popular spot for adventure lovers and photographers. It is an easy trek that rewards with an outstanding view of the island. The path shadows the mountain rim and cuts through diverse vegetation which leads to a stunning view of Nathon and the Samui mountains. The viewpoint is famous for its panoramic view of the gorgeous turquoise waters. While the hiking trail is rather easy and short, it can get slippery so do ensure you wear a decent pair of shoes.
Emerald Lake Viewpoint is one of Thailand’s must-do hikes and is actually a day trip from Samui. The lake is in the middle of Ang Thong National Marine Park. The climb to the viewpoint is a series of stairs, and once you reach the top, this view of a turquoise lake and azure waters against the backdrop of limestone cliffs will leave you breathless.
Tour operators across the island arrange daily trips to Ang Thong National Marine Park, so do not miss the chance to catch all of the beauty that Emerald Lake Viewpoint offers.
HIKING NATHON MOUNTAIN RIDGE TRAIL
It is best to start this hike early as the Nathon Mountain Ridge Trail is a 13-kilometre loop around the entire Nathon Valley. There are loads of photo opportunities along the way as you will pass through coconut plantions, jungle vegetation and thick canopy of evergreen forests. It truly is an amazing trail and one of the most sought after hikes in Samui. Closer to the top, the trail narrows so for those of you who are true adventurers, you will really get the true jungle experience.
Before heading off to hike and explore Nathon Mountain Ridge Trail, do ensure you’ve packed a few munchies, plenty of water, sturdy shoes and sunscreen. Make sure that your telephone battery and camera batter are both full, as after three to four hours, you will be rewarded with some outstanding views upon completion of the hike.
Do try and get out and explore all that Koh Samui has to offer, no matter how tempting it is to stay on the beach planted in the sand. A day exploring the uniqueness of the island will make your appreciation for nature as well as your love for Samui that much brighter!
