The Thai island of Koh Samui is noted for its scenic attractions, with some lovely picturesque beaches available for those who want to bask in the location’s balmy sunshine. On the other hand the interior of the island in contrast features magnificent mountains and tropical rainforests which provide a splendid environment for the nature lover. In addition to natural wonders the visitor will also find many interesting temples and other monuments within this idyllic island.
Visitors to the island are captivated by Koh Samui’s architectural wonders which are up to 100 years old. In fact many amateur historians come to the island attracted by its features of historical and cultural interest. The visitor will find numerous large scale monuments and sculptures formed from carved stone and one such feature is the famed Elephant Gate.
This spectacular structure contains two immense and lifelike statues of elephants which flank either side of the roadway leading to the unspoiled village of Taling Ngam. This amazing creation is a popular attraction in its own right, as well as being a gateway to this part of the island.
The distinctive Elephant Gate was constructed as far back as 1979, when the abbot of a local Buddhist temple decided to create a gateway that would beautify and attract attention to the locality. This monk’s aim was to convince all who arrived to visit the idyllic village with its beautiful and quaint temple.
The pair of elephant statues is life-sized and a faithful reproduction of a local pachyderm. The figures are carefully and meticulously carved using sophisticated techniques. The elephant is a much loved and respected animal in Thailand and is inseparably linked with the region’s culture. Travellers who take the opportunity to visit this pristine area will be entranced by the traditional village and the lovely stretch of beach which it borders.
Koh Samui is a place which greatly rewards the traveller who chooses to visit it. With so many attractions the island never fails to captivate the visitor.
If you are looking for a quality Samui resort an attractive choice would be Anantara Bophut Koh Samui. This outstanding Samui hotel provides well-appointed rooms and courteous service.
Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.
