Back to nature
Koh Samui still has plenty to offer those in search of a more natural island experience. The tropical vegetation, concealed waterfalls, indigenous species and limestone rock formations make for a fascinating ecological tour and the National Marine Park just south of the island is considered a natural wonder of the world by many of those who visit. All this unspoilt beauty constitutes a delicate resource for the region. There are three impressive waterfalls on Koh Samui. Na Muang 1 and 2 in the south western part of the island, and Hin Lad waterfall just outside Nathon town.
Also very impressive are the rock formations. Hin Da and Hin Yai, named Grandfather and Grandmother rock in English. These two ancient stones have been slowly chiselled by sea, wind and rain into surprisingly accurate reproductions of male and female genitalia.
The Overlap Stone is a giant boulder that hangs what seems quite perilously over a steep cliff edge above Lamai beach. Walking up is quite a trek, so take plenty of water and you will be rewarded with a scary balancing act as well as some fine views of the southern part of the island in all its tropical glory.
Wats and Temples
Wat is the Thai word for temple, and thanks to the continued strong influence of Buddhist culture these centres of spiritual contemplation are still regarded as sacred all over the country. Young men are advised by their parents to serve a monk`s apprenticeship in their local Wat, and many local festivals, as well as births deaths marriages and other important events for Thai people always include merit making at a temple. Koh Samui has quite a large number of these elegant buildings for such a small island, which gives foreign visitors ample opportunity to enjoy the flamboyant architecture and peaceful surroundings while they learn a little more about the culture in which they have chosen to spend their valuable free time.