The old Chinese shophouses that line Bophuts narrow streets have been converted into trendy guesthouses, bars, restaurants, and shops. Plan Your Trip to Koh Samui Today - Thailand Starts Here Including ourelectronics and camera gear, must-havemedical items, andlong flight essentials! Ultra Luxury Conrad Koh Samui Private villas overlook Aow Thai Beach for the ultimate luxury getaway! Oh, and its possible to fly straight in from Bangkok! 10 mistakes to avoid on your first trip to Thailand - The Koh Samui Guide Koh Samui | terrys Kyle Hulme 29 March 2018 View With its own airport and shopping centre, it's easy to forget that Koh Samui is an island after all but don't for a second think it has lost any of its island charm. Enjoy the spa and pool area while also having a scenic view from your balcony. I have been wanting to go to Koh Samui for a while so this is great info! The next morning, I went for a stroll to the Big Buddha. The 7 Best Breakfast Places and Restaurants in Koh Phangan, Is Krabi Worth Visiting? 11 Wonderful Reasons to Visit Koh Samui, Thailand - Culture Trip Plai Leam Temple I spent the first four days in Koh Samui in the south at Samahita Retreat wheremy days were filled with yoga, meditation, and eating healthy vegan food. is a writer for TPG and TPG UK covering travel, news, points and miles and more. We saw so many families enjoying their time on Koh Samui. Dry season months can dry up this waterfall, so its best to check with the locals if its worth the visit. Here are the specific ways to move to Koh Samui island you can refer to: To move to Koh Samui island from Bangkok you need to do the following 2 steps: Step 1: Move from Bangkok to Surat Thani airport. Watch as your kids cut loose in the play area, explore the cool attraction of the Pirate Adventure Horror House, and let teens have heaps of fun in the gaming zone. Be sure to check out our epic travel itinerary for Koh Samui to plan your trip before traveling there! Sandy beaches, abundant snorkeling and diving opportunities, and a vibrant . Final Verdict: Im split on this one and overall I would lean towards yes, it is overdeveloped. Day trips to nearby Ang Thong National Park, an archipelago of 42 islands full of pristine beaches, limestone cliffs and palm trees, are easy to arrange. Soak up the views before descending the steps to explore the rest of the temple. If you ever spot a man with a cat shirt and a beard, it's probably me :). Yes, Koh Samui is definitely worth visiting but you should make sure to have the money to spend. Call into one of the seafood restaurants for a delicious meal using the freshest haul and shop for souvenirs in the cute stores. Though both the UK and Australia have both been homes to her, her heart still belongs in Thailand and the bristling chaos of Asia. Koh Samui might just have the biggest array of hotel options in Thailand. Places to visit: Get some quiet time at the beach Enjoy some fine Thai food with your feet in the sand Watch a stunning sunset over the Gulf of Thailand These are the BEST Places to Visit in Koh Samui! Top up your tan, read a good book, and lap up the ambience. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers. In addition to swimming and enjoying the scenery, you can use scuba diving services with prices ranging from 200-400 THB. If you have the time in Southern Thailand, it should definitely make it . You can walk across the rocky ground for a close-up view of the stone formations. Koh Samui Pig Island Tour: Ultimate Guide | Travel Hiatus Pattaya or Koh Samui: Which Destination is the Best? - Travel Snippet While the beach itself is beautiful, I was constantly pestered by people trying to sell me trinkets; everything from inflatables and ice cream to sarongs and beach towels. The 15-meter-high golden Buddha overlooks the landscape, bestowing a calm ambiance around the temple grounds. Its a Party Island: Make no mistake, even though Koh Samui is family-friendly, its got its fair share of party animals, too! Why it is awesome: Koh Samui isnt known for being cheap, which is why budget travelers will love this attraction (pair it with a stay in some of Koh Samuis best hostels and youre all set). Koh Samui is a fantastic holiday destination. Koh Samui vs Krabi: Best Times to Visit Koh Samui vs Krabi: Nightlife Koh Samui vs Krabi: Dining Thailand is known for having some world-class destinations, but it has to be said that Koh Samui and Krabi are both right at the top when it comes to what they can each offer overall. The wet season gives the most spectacular water flow and the large pool is suitable for swimming. Is Pig Island Worth Visiting Koh Samui? Ang Thong National Park is certainly one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Koh Samui. Youll see that the monk is still wearing his saffron robes and sits in a pose of contemplation and meditation. You get gorgeous beaches to suit all sorts, from families to partiers, theres a wild nightlife scene in Chaweng and in the fishing bazaars of Bophut, not to mention some of the best hotel offerings in the Land of Smiles. . When it comes to how many days in Koh Samui you should spend, most travelers dont devote an entire week. Likewise, if you only have a day, youll probably need to focus on just one area (likely Chaweng or Lamai), rather than seeing the entire island. It's like a trip to Thailand every week, right in your inbox! You can buy Seatran tickets from either Surat Thani Airport, Surat Thani town or Donsak. Development is real! Another reason people go to Koh Samui Thailand is its close proximity to 2 other incredible islands. Locals often refer to Wat Plai Laem as the Floating Temple because of its water-surrounded setting. With a weekend in Samui, you can explore more broadly than youd have been able to do in a day. How about a ride on a banana boat?! Wander through the pretty gardens, seeing the diverse flowers and statues, and pass through the elaborately carved teak doors to peek inside the main temple building. While the famous beach used in the movie is actually over in the Andaman Sea, in the Phi Phi islands, some of the filming locations are here in the Thai Gulf. The Thai island of Koh Samui is an idyllic destination with a mixture of natural and man-made attractions worth seeing. The exciting Secret Falls Canopy Adventures is a cool place to see in Koh Samui with friends. Had booked Thai pass flight to KS, but am not sure if it is really worth the trip. #h, G I V E A W A Y April 30, 2022 Thailand Is Koh Samui Thailand Worth Visiting? Negative bias much. Awesome, thanks for letting me know. Massive Island: As we mentioned earlier, Koh Samui is huge! Pros, Cons, & Things to do Planning a trip to Thailand and wondering if you should go to Koh Samui? You can even have a complete The Beach experience and stay overnight on Ko Wua Talap Island. And thats precisely what you get, plus loads, loads more. What to do there: Learn more about the stories that surround the rude rocksIt is said that an elderly couple from the Thai province of Nakhon Si Thammarat set out to search for a suitable wife for their son. Take A Day Trip To Ang Thong Marine Park 6. The months that are considered to be the golden tourist time of Koh Samui are January to March or June to August every year. Is Koh Samet Worth Visiting? An Ultimate Koh Samet Travel - BringYou You can easily take the Koh Samui ferry to both of these unique islands. There is also an international airport in Koh Samui Thailand! It comes to life on Friday nights thanks to its uber-famous evening bazaar. This lively district has plenty of bars and restaurants to explore, as well as a nice sandy beach to take on the role of dancefloor when the sun goes down. Whether you come for the beaches, scenic viewpoints, Thai food, or cultural marvels, you won't regret coming here. All rights reserved. Koh Samui is Thailands second-largest island. How long does it take to go around Koh Samui. The price increased 10 baht to 240 baht, but that was totally fine. The Big Buddha temple is located on a small rocky island called Koh Faan, north of Bophut. Milan or Rome? It has many resorts and restaurants tend to be more expensive. Scenic waterfalls, such as the two cascades of Na Muang and Hin Lat Waterfall, are among the most picturesque natural attractions in Koh Samui. If you don't have enough points, it's okay lodging on the island is extremely cheap, which brings me to my next point. Try Some Water Activities 9. Book a meditation session at the onsite dharma centre, visit the fortune tellers if you want to see into the future, peruse a large collection of Buddhist amulets, and take a stroll along the sandy beach. Get a quote below or read our in-depth review! Is Koh Samui worth visiting? The best time to visit this iconic collection of islands is between February and April. For more than nine years, Joe has worked as a freelance travel writer. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products. 2. Other Asian festivals to enjoy besides Daegu lantern, Travel Sapa Vietnam 2019 (Part 1) Detailed, Best time to visit Cambodia: Weather by month, 8 Famous destinations to visit in Bali Indonesia, Ubud Indonesia Travel Restrictions and Guideline 2021, Things you need to know about Travel bubbles, Cherry blossom in Japan 2019 Difference between, Songkran Pattaya 2022: 6 Fun Things To Do, Songkran Party List 2022 : 15 Constantly Updated, Songkran Party 2022 In Thailand: A Complete Guide, Travel Bubbles Explanation For International Tourists. Is Koh Samui worth visiting? Aow Thai Beach for the ultimate luxury getaway! Koh Samui is a paradise of sandy beaches and palm trees at every turn, a tropical island in the Gulf of Thailand that's definitely worth a visit. Go snorkelling or diving to get up close and personal with an array of sea life, marvel at the coral reef around Koh Sam Sao, soak up the vistas, and be wowed by pure, natural beauty. I think Koh Samui is the perfect introduction to the Thai Island experiences. Required fields are marked *. Thats the Thailand people get wrapped up in a bubble with I think. Its one of the most fabulous Koh Samui vacation ideas for couples looking for a romantic escapade too. You can swim in the refreshing blue waters, scramble across the rocks, and strap on a snorkel and mask to view a rainbow of colourful fish swimming just below the waters surface. Receive the latest tips and guides via email. In which case it would be too touristy, the whole place is built around tourists. Need a place quick? Preferably together. Whether youre in Phuket, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or Koh Samui, one thing is for certain the food will be incredible. Today, visitors can see the large and unusual collection of statues in their scenic surroundings. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. The many arms of Kunyin are said to represent her ability to reach anyone who needs her help. Even riding an elephant in the forest gives you a very new experience. Regarding day tours in Koh Samui, Pig Island is . The Fishermans Village Market is held on a Friday so no doubt it gets way crowded then but while I was there there werent many people floating about at all. His writing and explorations have brought him to various locations, including the colonial towns of Mexico, the bustling chowks of Mumbai, and the majestic Southern Alps of New Zealand. Its easy to stay close to all the conveniences and jump on tours organised right there where other tourists go. Koh Samui Guan Yu Shrine also an is Instagram-worthy spot for taking photos because this place mostly is not crowded and there is magnificent colorful architecture that make your photos lively! See what a point or mile is worth with our appraisals of a loyalty programs currency, based on redemption values. Here's why you should be planning your own trip here right now. For example, you can spend a day on one of the islands beaches, then a day doing something more cultural, such as visiting the Big Buddha or exploring Bo Phut Fishermans Village. Is Koh Samui Worth Visiting? Is Koh Samui Still Worth Visiting? about; work; contact; about; work; contact No Comments. Koh Samui - What you need to know before you go - Go Guides Many of the islands in Thailand require a hot, sweaty ferry experience, but not Koh Samui. While its more pleasant and less seedy than Phuket, its beaches arent as nice as those in Krabi, and certainly not as pristine as the ones in Koh Similan, or even nearby Koh Tao. Tap here to plan your post-Covid Thailand trip. The temple is filled with other smaller statues of the Lord Buddha in various poses, as well as statues that depict characters from Thai mythology. And with its easy access from major cities like Bangkok, planning a trip to this tropical paradise has never been easier. Although Koh Samui is a year-round destination, the best times to visit Koh Samui weather-wise are from December to February. If you prefer a quieter stay, head to a different area of Koh Samui or visit this fishing village in the low season period. 7 Reasons Why the Answer is Yes! Take plenty of pictures of the cool and interesting statues as you come across all manner of mythical creatures and beautiful Buddha images in a variety of postures. Take a boat tour of the 42 islands that make up Ang Thong Marine Park. It's on the southeastern shoreline, fronted by perfect gold-white sand beaches and clusters of towering coconut palms. There are enthralling temples and shrines here that are sure to wow. The surrounding waters are teeming with schools of colourful fish, and diving and snorkelling are popular activities. Id suggest going to Tropical Spice (at the bottom of the restaurant in the link) for a really good quality meal at reasonable prices. Appreciate the red and gold details of the main temple building and see a variety of Buddha statues throughout the small complex. 2023, The Broke Backpacker. One good thing about Koh Samui is that its super easy to get to from all over Thailand! Fun Vacation Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort Located on Bophut Beach and close to Fishermans Village, the Anantara is the perfect stay for couples. Here are 10 reasons why visiting Koh Samui is worth it. Join us as we cover the best things to do in Koh Samui, how to get there on the ferry, and the pros and cons of visiting. What to do on Koh Samui 2022? Whether you prefer a luxury villa on the beach or a hostel in the main party area, Koh Samui has what youre looking for! Koi Samui was on my mind .probably I should check on some other destination.we visited krabi and Phuket last year..Here is my blog on the same http://www.madhuonthego.com. Europe: Albania Austria Croatia Czech Republic Germany Greece Hungary Italy Malta Montenegro Norway Poland Portugal Slovakia Slovenia Spain Sweden Turkey , Asia: Cambodia Indonesia Malaysia Myanmar Singapore Sri Lanka Thailand Vietnam , Americas: USA Mexico Guadeloupe St Kitts Argentina Bolivia . FAQ on the Best Places to Visit in Koh Samui, Enjoy some fine Thai food with your feet in the sand, Watch a stunning sunset over the Gulf of Thailand. A religious tourist destination, so you need to pay attention to your clothes when coming here. If you drive without stopping, it takes around 90 minutes to circumnavigate Koh Samui. Cool post Jub! Its no secret that its the beaches that really keep the crowds flocking to Koh Samui. So, is Koh Samui worth visiting? We do not represent World Nomads. Samui isnt spectacular, but it isnt without its merits. Millions of people flock to this isle in the Thai Gulf each year precisely because its up there with the most alluring tropical hotspots in the world, not just Southeast Asia. Chilled water cascades into clear rock pools that feed directly into the Gulf of Thailand. That's if you're traveling as a couple, based on an average outgoing of between 1,300-2,025 THB ($40-60) on hotels, up to 440 THB ($13) for food each day, and a total daily spend of up to 675 THB ($20) on transport . This is a noodle stir fry traditionally served with sweet-savory-sour sauce and crushed peanuts. In my opinion, Ang Thong National Park is the most beautiful area in Koh Samui with pristine beaches and lush blue water. This is Thailand. Compared to other areas in Thailand, Koh Samui is expensive. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); Why its awesome: The spectacular Ang Thong National Park boasts some of Thailands most striking and dramatic scenery. The last morning I went on a classic tiki tour, following a random road up and up the middle of the island. Have you been to Koh Samui or any other Thai islands? What to do there: Book a boat trip to travel to Koh Samuis spectacular Ang Thong National Park and discover some of the gorgeous islands and islets that help to create the picture-perfect setting. Take a dip in the glimmering sea and cool down as you splash in the gentle waves. 7 Reasons to Visit Peniche. Forget New Yorkthis is the true "City That Never Sleeps", Discover the charms of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, Find peace in Thailand's iconic tropical paradise, The magic of the Golden Triangle Starts Here, Popular Patong Beach is only the beginning, Eat spicy som tam papaya salad in its birthplace. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). The monk, LuangPho Daeng, died in 1973 while meditating, and has been on display since. Your email address will not be published. It can come with chicken, pork, seafood, or be kept vegetarian. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Your email address will not be published. 3. Follow our daily adventures on Instagram@nothingfamiliar! The largest and most popular waterfall on Koh Samui is 18 meters high. 1. The average cost of a holiday to Koh Samui Photo by Envato Elements. Any trip to Thailand is not complete until youve tried one or 10! Local legends surround the curious rocks. This place is simply breathtaking. However, the unique feature making visitors visit this temple is the mummy of a Zen master. Two full days in Koh Samui will allow you to get to know popular areas like Chaweng, Lamai and Bo Phut, and maybe even to be able to explore lesser-visited destinations around the islands periphery or in its interior. Read Privacy Policy or view sitemap. Post was not sent - check your email addresses! Koh Samui: Expectations vs. Reality Visiting My First Thai Island Chiang Mai Lantern Festival 2021 (Yi Peng): Where, Bangkok Ultimate Travel Guide 2021 Everything Visitors, #1 Visting beautiful beaches in Koh Samui 2022, #3 Visiting Big Buddha (Big Buddha statue), #5 Visiting Angthong National Marine Park, #7 Short trekking to see Na Muang Waterfall, 7 Islands in Thailand you might not know (Updated 2022), Koh Samet 2022 Travel A detailed guideline. Located to the south, the highest point of the island has several waterfalls all easily reached and close to each other. Want to make sure your Thai island hopping adventure is one for the record books, no matter which islands you visit? You may also choose to visit waterfalls within the islands underrated interior. Koh Samui is Thailand's second-largest island. Steep greenery clad limestone karsts rise majestically from the shimmering sapphire waters, many eroded into interesting shapes over the passage of time. 10 Helpful Things to Know Before Visiting Koh Phangan Thailand, Koh Tao Thailand Guide: 12 Important Things to Know Before You Go. So is Pig Island in Koh Samui worth visiting? The nice part is that Bangkok Airways is an awesome airline, offering all passengers even in economy! Climb to the nearby viewpoint to enjoy the incredible coastal vistas. 2. It doesnt take too long to get away from everyone though. Its likewise important to give your itinerary breathing room if you plan to visit nearby islands such as Koh Pha Ngan, Koh Tao and Ang Thong Marine Park. We felt as if we always had to hunt out good local meals instead of them being regularly available like the pizza and British pubs. So you can come here by two main means of transport: plane and ferry. And theres no better place for that on Koh Samui than in Chaweng. My Reality: Expensive is relative of course. In fact, it serves as the jumping-off point to the rest of the popular Gulf Islands! Ko Samui Thailand. Taxis are also quite expensive compared to other parts of Thailand a 15 minute drive from the airport to Chawengwillcost you 300 THB and 900 THB to the south of the island. Yes, crime exists here. Maybe it was simply seeing a friend for the first time in 10 months, or being back on a scooter. Yep, Koh Samui has risen and risen in the last 10 years or so to become arguably the vacation mecca of the country. EPIC KOH SAMUI Itinerary! (2023 Guide) - The Broke Backpacker The views from the base of the Big Buddha are amazing. Why it is awesome: A Koh Samui must-see for anyone that loves combining beautiful architecture with fine beaches and great dining, Bophut has a long history and a charming ambiance. Outdoor Activities: As youll see in our things to do in Koh Samui section, this island has an abundance of great outdoor activities! The beach at the end of the road leading to Samui Orchid is incredible! Find the right card for you. No matter how many days in Koh Samui you plan to spend, a good base is essential. Also known as Wat Phra Yai, the golden, 12-metre-tall, seated Buddha statue was built in 1972 and remains one of Koh Samui's most popular attractions. Angthong National Marine Park is one of Thailands largest national parks and nature reserves. Getting there: 15-minute car ride by taxi or Songthaew from Amari Koh Samui. Its one of the most pleasant points of interest in Koh Samui. After all, who wants their beach holiday to be spoiled by storms? The gentle blue sea is very suitable for families, especially with small children. Chaweng The main party beach but still downright lovely, with slanting palms and plenty of beach bars to get through. With famous local and international cuisines, excellent diving spots, and several peaceful religious and cultural sites for you to explore, Koh Samui welcomes everyone to visit. And there are oodles, oodles more to get through besides: Keen to chase some waterfalls? Shaped like the sensitive parts of a man and a woman. The Seatran ferry terminal isnt in the touristy area so its likely 30-50 minutes to get to your accommodation stillsomething to keep in mind. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); I hope Tiki Touring Kiwi isn't making your day too miserable. Still, Koh Samui is big enough that you can avoid these areas if youre not into it. I chose to stay in Chaweng for a few reasons: it was cheaper than the other areas of Samui, I was simply curious about the area I had heard so much about, and I wanted to have a different, more lively experience compared to the one I just had on my retreat. Boutique Hotel Rockys Boutique Resort If youre looking for something truly unique, check out this beautiful boutique resort! We'll run a soft credit check to find special offers, but it wont affect your credit score. Dont miss out on the stunning Na Mueang Waterfall. Samuis Namuang Waterfall range should satisfy the craving. What to do there: Take a stroll through the quiet and peaceful grounds and sit for a while in tranquil reflection in the shade of the lush foliage. Its no wonder why it sparked inspiration for Garlands exotic novel. Is Koh Samui worth visiting for young adults? While some islands are set so far off the beaten path they don't have any properties where you can use your points, Koh Samui isn't one of them. - Black Island This is a perfect spot for day trips when visiting Koh Samui and is definitely worth seeing! Packing Lists:Find all the inspiration you need with ourAmazon packing lists. It turns out theres a severe water shortage on Koh Samui. Opinions expressed here are the authors alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. Which is the best month to visit Koh Samui? This temple is much less prominent when compared to its brother Wat Phra Yai. Koh Samui and all the islands get lots of tourists for a reason! Is Koh Samui worth visiting? Here youll find some great street food, clothing, and arts and crafts. The credit card offers that appear on the website are from credit card companies from which ThePointsGuy.com receives compensation. 14 years ago Save we are a 55 year old couple with a few days to spare after BK, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. 3 Best beaches on Koh Samui for kids 3.1 Bophut Beach 3.2 Lipa Noi 3.3 Taling Ngam 3.4 Crystal Bay or Silver Beach 3.5 Lamai Beach 3.6 Ta Yai beach 3.7 Chaweng Beach 3.8 Maenam 4 Best day trips on Koh Samui with kids Went to some Muay Thai training this time around. Ferries leave all day from Donsak Pier on the mainland so you will have no problems getting there. Thats how we found flights from Bangkok to Phuket for $12 USD, and Thailand to Vietnam for less than $50! Half my time in Samui was spent at a wellness/yoga retreat in the south and the other half was spent in the popular area of Chaweng two very different experiences. You should stay for a few days because traveling during the day will be tiring. Taxis are also quite expensive compared to other parts of Thailand - a 15 minute drive from the airport to Chaweng will cost you 300 THB and 900 THB to the south of the island. Im sure there are other parts of the island that are much more chilled out and tranquil, so it would definitely be worth it to look into alternative locations on Samui. Would reality live up to the expectations? On our recent trip, we started at the furthest one (Koh Tao) and worked our way back towards the mainland ending in Koh Samui. Its harder to access, so elderly or young children may struggle. In between all the culture and sightseeing, a cocktail on the beach never goes amiss. Sadly, they died in a storm at sea and never completed their mission. Can barely swim. Were here to show you, however, that a trip to Koh Samui is not only possible at all times of the year, but fun too! 14 years ago Save we are a 55 year old couple with a few days to spare after BK, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Ill be honest: Koh Samui isnt my favorite Thai island. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads usingthis link. So good in fact that you will probably never want to leave! At the end of the day, there was nothing special or unique about Koh Samui (cue the hate-mail). When you go to the beach, do look around to see if there is a taxi coming or not. I thought I was just headed on a "typical beach vacation", so I was surprised at how badly wrong I got the Thai dress code. Youll hit your 2k goal in no time , Your email address will not be published. The enchanting gardens were the work of a local farmer, Nim Thongsuk. I refrained from answering last time, but am going to lean towards no. Indeed, the massive statue has led to the temple being nicknamed the Big Buddha Temple. Update: I visited Koh Samui again in April 2018 and have added a few thoughts at the bottom of the post. On the other hand, living in Koh Samui is probably the surest way to gain an authentic window into the real Samui, whatever that is. Subscribe to email updates. Accommodation:Compare multiple sites to get to the best deal such asBooking.comandAgoda! Relax on the beach all day or use the kayaks and SUP to get out on the water. If you're a young adult looking for a beach vacation destination that offers a mix of relaxation and excitement, Koh Samui, Thailand might just be the perfect place for you. We kick off this Koh Samui 5 days itinerary with a bout of hard-earned R&R. It comes courtesy of probably the second best-known resort on the isle: Lamai. But Ill definitely be back to a Thai island in the future. Koh Samui is the biggest islands of the Gulf of Thailand, and the second largest of the country. Why is it awesome: The unusual rock formations of Hin Ta and Hin Yai are among the most famous places in Koh Samui and will be present on most backpacking Thailand travel guides. The wet season can be a difficult time to visit Koh Samui. Couples should stay in the north/west region of Koh Samui to escape the crowds and have the best sunsets. The temple is surrounded by a shimmering lake and there are numerous other smaller statues throughout the grounds too.