Samui Elephant Sanctuary, Koh Samui

Wat Sila Ngu is one of the most popular places to visit in Koh Samui. The temple attracts devotees of the Buddhist religion from all over the country, along with tourists. The complex is red in color and it has a seating area where you can enjoy the scenic, picturesque views of the island. It is close to the beach, so visitors can enjoy the cool breeze while enjoying a walk around the complex. Enjoy the 100-year old architecture and take some beautiful pictures of the natural beauty around.Highlights - Red colored temple complex, beach views, Buddhist architecture, tranquil settingsLocation - Bo Put, Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani, ThailandTimings - 9 am to 5 pmPrice - Free

The Samret Wat is one of the most offbeat of Koh Samui attractions, and that’s why it is the perfect place to be if you want a quiet afternoon away from the city. The temple is fairly new, less than 100 years old, and it features several statues of Buddha in the complex. One of the statues is made entirely out of one piece of marble and it is said to be the oldest Buddha statue in Thailand. There is also another section where several statues are placed. The temple complex also has a Buddhist monastery and a cemetery.Highlights - oldest Buddha statue made of a single piece of marbleLocation - Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, ThailandTimings - 9 am to 5 pmPrice - Free

Koh Samui, along with other Thai provinces, is a hub for Buddhist devotees because of its large collection of temples dedicated to the religion. Wat Plai Laem is another Buddhist temple in the city, and it features something unique – an 18-armed statue of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy and Compassion in Thai culture. The sight is breathtaking and enough to make anyone stop in their tracks to admire its beauty. There are also several statues and murals of Buddha that are worth checking out.Highlights - a statue of Guanyin that has 18 arms, serene surroundings, murals of Buddha, laughing Buddha statueLocation - Wat Plai Laem, Road Thailand, ThailandTimings - 8 am to 5 pmPrice - Free

Wat Kiri Wongkaram is famous for housing the mummified body of Luang Por Ruam, a monk who was placed at the temple 25 years ago. The body is in very good condition and is preserved in glass casings. Visit the temple complex which also has various statues and murals of elephants, deities, and humans in different positions. Discover yourself as the offers a place for quiet introspection and solitude for weary souls looking for a salve for their tired minds and bodies. Enjoy a visit here to reconnect with your soul and your body.Highlights - Mummified preserved body of Luang Por Ruam, relaxing environsLocation - Koh Samui, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, ThailandTimings - 8 am to 5 pm, every dayPrice - Free

Wat Khunaram offers a view of the mummified body of Luong Pordaeng who died in 1973 in a seated meditative position. Ever since then, his dead body has been preserved in the glass enclosure and has become one of the most famous Koh Samui attractions. You can also check out the Buddhist statues around the temple, buy some trinkets and souvenirs for family and friends, and enjoy the overall serene environs of the place. You can also have fun participating in the daily rituals of the temple. Visit the Wat for a truly unique experience.Highlights - Mummified Monk, souvenir shops, Buddhist statuesLocation - Na Mueang, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84140Timings - 7 am to 5 pmPrice - Free

The art gallery Surat Thani is probably one of the most inquisitive places to visit in Koh Samui, with its wide array of paintings and sculptures inspired by local culture and heritage. If you love art and are also a cultural buff, there is nothing better than spending a day at the Vida Vinci Art Gallery. Take a walk in the complex and soak in the rich cultural heritage on display. There is also a souvenir shop in the area where you can buy trinkets for family and friends back home.Highlights - Paintings and sculptures that will reinvigorate your sensesLocation - Soi Wat Naphalan, Koh Samui, Surat Thani, ThailandTimings - 10 am to 11 pmPrice - Free