Temples & Beach
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Port
Nathon (Koh Samui), Thailand
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$149.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 5½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Board an air-conditioned motorcoach and embark on a drive that takes you through the tropical countryside. You'll drive through Hua Thanon -- a traditional fishing village set amid a paradise of green trees, golden sand and glistening ocean. Snap the photogenic beauty of the fishermen's Kor Lae boats, ornately painted in bright colors.
Nearby, you'll also enjoy the beauty of Plai Laem Temple. Once part of the Big Buddha Temple, Wat Plai Laem is home to a superb statue of Kwan Yin (or Guanjin), the 18-armed Buddhist avatar of Mercy, and to a massive, vibrantly-colored Smiling Buddha. The temple is also famous for the hundreds of big fish that live in the lake. Take time out to feed them -- food is available at the temple for a small donation.
Towering, golden, and featuring a benign smile, a 39-foot-tall golden Buddha welcomes you as you visit one of the island's most popular spots -- the Big Buddha Temple. Situated on the northeastern tip of the island, it has become a major meditation center for locals and visitors alike. Climb the stairs to the viewing platform to take in superb vistas of the northern coast -- a perfect photo opportunity. Browse among the local handicraft stalls located within the temple complex to search out souvenirs and gifts.
Take a break to indulge in a delicious international buffet lunch at a beach resort set along a pristine stretch of white sand. There's time for a swim after lunch at Koh Samui's most popular beach.
Notes:
Terrain includes 82 steps to visit the Phra Yai (Big Buddha). Modest attire is required to visit the temple complex: knees must be covered and you must remove your shoes. Minimum age is 6 years. Wear your swimsuit under your clothing; bring a towel, reef-safe/biodegradable sunscreen, light clothing to act as a full cover-up for further protection from the sun, and a hat. Swim at your own risk. Your guide/tour escort will make every effort to communicate in English, but please be prepared to be patient and understanding if language difficulties arise. The transportation provided may be basic and may not meet the standards found in other ports. Participants should be in good physical condition and realistically assess their fitness and ability before booking, as the weather can be extremely hot.