Taling Ngam (translated "beautiful shore") is an area in the south west of Koh Samui, with its picturesque coastline known as the "Virgin Coast" together with the village, where time seems to have stood still. The natural beauty of this unspoilt area is appealing to those looking for a perfect tropical retreat in a stunning location. Some of our finest luxury Taling Ngam holiday villas are located in this location.
Taling Ngam (translated "beautiful shore") is an area in the south west of Koh Samui, with it's picturesque coastline known as the "Virgin Coast", together with the village where time seems to have stood still. The natural beauty of this unspoilt area is appealing to those looking for a perfect tropical retreat in a stunning location.
Taling Ngam has attracted high end resorts to the area including the Intercontinental Hotel (Formerly Le Meridiian) as well as the development of a few luxury private villas that mainly sit elevated above the beaches on a small headland between two bays.
Ban Taling Ngam is still a fishing village, whereas originally it was the first merchant seaport on Koh Samui set up by the Chinese migrants who discovered the island. Local families go back generations and the old wooden houses they lived in are still in existence, some of which now open up and are converted to grocery stores for the locals as the convenience stores of 7/11 and Family Mart would not have the clientele for this self sufficient village. The nearest market would be further up the west coast in Lipa Noi and Nathon.
The villagers created an "Elephant Gate" with two massive elephants standing either side of the road at the entrance to the village to welcome all who come to visit and to also to protect their temple Wat Kiri Wongkaram.
Village life revolves in and around the temple grounds that house the shrine for the mummified body of a well known monk that has not decomposed since his death many years ago.
This undeveloped area is relatively rural and spread with coconut palms and banana plantations more. Taling Ngam boasts two beaches separated by a rocky headland and a fisherman's pier. It is one of the finest and secluded beaches on Koh Samui, with shallow clear waters and swimming possible most of the year. It is relatively quiet with two or 3 small hotel/bungalow resorts and a few rustic Thai eateries as well as two restaurants offering more fine dining cuisine on the beach.
The stunning views from the beach are another reason for a stay or a visit to Taling Ngam, especially at the end of the day to watch the setting sun over the Five Islands, the Angthong Marine Park and the Thailand mainland beyond.
Taling Ngam is a great place to visit to get away from the tourist hubs and enjoy the untouched beauty and authentic Thai life for a stay in one of our luxury villas or just a day trip.
Beach
Ban Taling Ngam Beach
The beach has more palm trees than resorts and in several places you will see hammocks swinging in the breeze, hanging from the palms leaning over the beach. The sand stretch is quite narrow in places at certain times of the year, but the water is clear and shallow and ideal for both kiddies and adults most of the year. The beachfront residences and restaurant of the Intercontinental Hotel dominate the beach just north of the headland. The popular Five Island Restaurant is situated on the south side.
Spas and Wellbeing
Alongside relaxing on the pristine secluded beaches, you can either indulge in a massage on the beach or in one of Samui's foremost luxury hotel spas. http://www.samui.intercontinental.com/spa-wellness
There are an array of things to do in Taling Ngam. Take an adventure in a boat from the beach to nearby Five Islands and Koh Matsun for unforgettable views, go on a mountain adventure and discover Na Muang waterfalls and the secret Magic Garden.
Boat Trips
The Five Islands Restaurant arrange long tail boat trips out to the Five Islands as well as Koh Matsun and Koh Taen further round towards the south of Koh Samui.
Kayaking
Some of the small resorts may offer Kayaks for hire, to explore the bay. Hobie Cats are on the beach too, however these may be restricted to particular hotel guests only.
Paradise Park Farm
High above Taling Ngam on Koh Samui's highest mountain is the Paradise Park Farm. Originally a bird zoo with different exotic species, there are also now animals spread out over the park in different zones where you can pet and feed them. If not for the park, the view would be worth the trip alone. Take lunch at the restaurant and relax afterwards round the infinity edge pool. Would recommend taking some kind of wrap as the air is cooler at this level.
http://paradiseparkfarm.com/main/
Namuang Waterfall
There are 2 waterfalls. 'Na Muang 1' is 18 metres high and can be reached by vehicle. 'Na Muang two' is about 80 metres high and can only be reached by a 30 minute walk. These waterfalls are the most scenic on the island.
Magic Garden
A serene and quiet place high in the hills of the interior of Koh Samui. The Magic Garden also known as Heavens Garden, with an unusual collection of sculptured ancient Thai figures and animals in lush jungle surrounds. It is recommended this should be taken as part of a tour.
Wat Kiri Wongkaran
A beautiful white temple that features some amazing artwork and unique architecture. Just like any other Wats in Koh Samui, Wat Kiri Wongkaram exudes a peaceful setting. The temple is also famous for the renowned mummified monk Loung Por Ruam. Visitors can view the body that has been kept inside a glass case for many years and has baffled scientists with the lack of decomposition.
Shopping
Taling Ngam, although a secluded part of the island, is well located. Nathon the administrative and ferryport capital is only a 20-minute drive away to the north for shopping. Here you will find banks, many tourist shops and street cafes lining the main one way street as well as a small Tesco supermarket.
There are also some lovely little local restaurants and bars dotted along the coast with resorts or stand alone.
UK:
+44 (0) 208 144 0482
+44 778 785 4850
THAILAND:
+66 (0) 810 039 620
+66 (0) 810 039 620
rentals@ThailandRetreats.com
Thailand Retreats Ltd Trading as Thailand Retreats. Company No. 84649 4 Warwick House, St. Saviour, Jersey, Channel Islands
