Located in the Surat Thani Province, Koh Samui is the third largest island in Thailand. Blessed with white sandy beaches, coral reefs and natural resources, this paradisiacal island is a popular tourist destination in the country. This island of immense natural beauty and variety flaunts a palm fringed shoreline and fruit and coconut cultivation in the coastal lowlands. With clear blue waters sparkling in the sunlight, against a seamless background of brown road and lush green hills interspersed with various manmade structures, the island has become the most enigmatic chameleon of Asian travel market. Among the most favoured beaches in the island are Lamai and Chaweng.
Located on the east coast of Koh Samui, Chaweng Beach lures in both young and old travellers. The emerald blue waters kiss its powdery white sands. Near the coral reef that borders the beach are two small islands among which one provides ideal kayaking and snorkelling opportunities.
Housing the famous monument of Big Buddha, Wat Phra Yai is another prominent temple in the charming island. Hordes of visitors flock to this temple to marvel at the sheer beauty and size of this remarkable statue. Wat Sumret and the Kunaram Temple featuring a mummified monk are among the other special temples within the island.
