Understand

Ko Samui, a stunning island in the Chumphon Archipelago, is a tropical paradise bursting with natural beauty and adventure. With its palm-fringed shorelines, lush rainforests, and vibrant coconut and fruit cultivation, this island offers a picturesque escape from the ordinary. Spanning 247 km, Ko Samui is the second-largest island in Thailand and the largest in the Chumphon Archipelago. It is a part of the renowned Ang Thong National Marine Park, home to over 80 islands waiting to be explored. From kayaking through crystal-clear waters to snorkeling amidst colorful marine life, this park offers endless opportunities for adventure. The island's rich history dates back centuries, with fishermen from the Malay Peninsula and southern China being the first to settle here around 1,500 years ago. Over time, Ko Samui evolved into an isolated, self-sufficient community, disconnected from the mainland. In fact, the island didn't even have roads until the 1970s, making it a truly hidden gem. In the early 1970s, intrepid backpackers arrived on Ko Samui, discovering its untouched beauty. Since then, the island has seen remarkable growth and has become the second-most popular island destination in Thailand, after Phuket. However, even with its popularity, Ko Samui has managed to retain its charm and allure. Embark on a journey to Ko Samui, where adventure, tranquility, and natural wonders await!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Pad Thai: Pad Thai is a signature Thai dish consisting of stir-fried rice noodles with a uniquely balanced blend of sweet, sour, salty, and tangy flavors. It typically includes shrimp or chicken (though can be prepared with tofu for a vegetarian version), scrambled eggs, bean sprouts, and is garnished with crushed peanuts, lime wedges, and fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions. The dish is served with a side of som tam (green papaya salad) and mango sticky rice for a complete meal.

Tom Yum Goong: This spicy and aromatic soup is a beloved Thai classic that features a fragrant broth made from stock, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, galangal, lime juice, fish sauce, and chili paste. It's packed with succulent prawns, mushrooms, tomatoes, and other vegetables, with optional additions like snakehead fish or even chicken. The dish is often garnished with fresh cilantro and a sprinkling of pepper.

Mango Sticky Rice: This iconic Thai dessert is a delightful combination of sweet, creamy mango and glutinous rice. The sticky rice is cooked in coconut milk and sugar until it achieves a chewy texture, then served alongside ripe, juicy mango slices. The dish is sometimes garnished with toasted coconut flakes or sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor. It's typically enjoyed during the mango season (May to September) as a sumptuous, refreshing treat.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing