Koh Samui Guide
Koh Samui is one of the most reputed islands in Thailand, similarly to Phuket;
it possesses the characteristic beauty and offers a wide variety of activities.
Originally, Koh Samui was only the area of coconut plantations, but after being
discovered by backpackers who found it a peaceful and magnificent paradise,
Samui Island started to be invaded by tourists. For better or worse, its
charming beaches together with scenic nature can always attract and enchant
people that they cannot help going back there more than once. Here below is the
basic information for you to appreciate this appealing island.
Geography
Koh Samui is the third-largest island (247 square kilometers); lying on the
eastern coastline of the Gulf of Thailand with a low plain that encompasses the
mountainous area in the center. The island is 84 kilometers eastwards from
Suratthani, its mainland, and 685 kilometers from Bangkok. Along the coastlines,
there are various lovely beaches, fringed with green coconut trees that enhance
the picturesque landscape.
Climates
There are four periods of which the temperature is different from one another:
December-April: The temperature gradually rises from 30°C between
December and February to 40°C between March and April.
May-June: The temperature dips and there are some rainy periods.
July-September: The temperature rises again to 35°C. There are usually
some tropical downpours.
October-November: The temperature dips to around 25°C during these two
months, and there are usually rain and wind.
Generally, the high season in in Samui ranges from December 15th to April 30th
and from July 15th to September 30th, whereas the low season from May 1st to
July 15th and from October 1st to December 15th.
The best time to go there is between January and May. Today, there are an
increasing number of tourists coming to Koh Samui during low season months when
the heat from the sun is not so intense.
Koh Samui is not only the beach resort, but contains many attractions
such as the Waterfalls, Snake Farms, Pearl Farms, Butterfly Garden, and etc.
Nah Muang Falls:
10 kilometers south of Nathon, nature lovers will find Nah Muang Falls. This
area is accessible from the village of Ban Thurian via an unpaved road. There
are actually two waterfalls: Nah Muang, which is 18 meters high and reachable by
vehicle; and Na Muang Two, which is about 80 meters high, requiring a 30-minute
walk to get to the top. The waterfalls are the most scenic place on the island
and a great place to have a picnic.
Hin Lad waterfall:
Located 2 kilometers south of Nathon on the eastern coast. It takes about a
3-kilometer-walk from the main road. You will be refreshing with its green rain
forest and cold water in the large pool below.
Snake farm:
It is located in Taling Ngam Beach; the shows feature snakes indigenous to
SamuiIsland, as well as some of the more poisonous and scarier species found
throughout Asia. Included are displays of centipedes and scorpions, as well as
demonstrations of the famous Thai Cock Fighting show.
Naga Pearl Farm:
This is where you can discover how pearls are cultured, a 30-minute-boat-ride
from Thong Krut Beach. There are lots of pearl shops offering many varieties of
pearl products as well as special local handicrafts. It is a good idea to go
shopping here.
Butterfly Garden:
A must for all visitors. The garden houses numerous species of butterflies,
including the rare and endangered species.
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