Excursion Insight ko samui & herb garden tour at Ko Samui

Explore the history, culture, and traditional lifestyles of the Samui people during this scenic and informative, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Ko Samui, Honey Rose Herb Garden, Guided Tour, Interactive Activity, Gift Shop, Shopping

Depart the pier for the short drive to the Honey Rose Herb Garden. Upon arrival, receive an herbal drink and then take a guided tour of this Thai organic herb garden. Along the way, learn about the benefits of Thai herbs such as coconut, turmeric, kaffir lime, and ginger, and how local organic farmers process them into cosmetic and natural spa products utilising natural methods. Afterward, you are invited to make a Thai herbal compress ball of your own and observe a demonstration about how to use it. Before you leave, stop by the gift shoppe to browse a selection of virgin coconut oil and herb-based products.

Sila Ngu Temple, Red-Clay Hall, Bas-Relief Sculptures, Golden Pagoda, Sacred Bodhi Tree, Stupas

Next, re-board your bus for a picturesque sightseeing drive en route to Sila Ngu, a Buddhist temple renowned for its red-clay hall. Upon arrival, take a guided tour of the temple, which is perched on a steep coast by the ring road on the south side of Ko Samui and decorated with a fascinating display of bas-relief sculptures. A golden pagoda containing relics of Sakyamuni, and a sacred bodhi tree, can be found on the temple’s grounds. From the pagoda, steps head down to a collection of stupas commemorating former monks.

Refreshment Stop, Island View Bar, Offshore Islands

Leaving the Sila Ngu Temple, re-board your bus and head to idyllic Taling Ngam Beach for a refreshment stop at the Island View bar. Upon arrival, enjoy a refreshing beverage and breath-taking views of the islands in the southwestern part of Ko Samui. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your bus and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 219 yards (about 200 metres), at times over uneven, natural, and cobblestone surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the bus and 25 steps at the Sila Ngu Temple. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, bottled water, and US Dollars, local currency, or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Proper attire is required to enter the Sila Ngu Temple; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted, and skirts must cover the knees. Tight or see-through blouses are not permitted, even if a jacket is worn over them. Tight-fitting trousers or leggings are not permitted, and trousers must cover the knees. Hats and shoes must be removed when entering religious sites; bring an extra pair of heavy socks for comfort, as the pavement may be hot. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.