Get ready to make your travel plans come true! Don’t procrastinate, just fly to Koh Samui. This is Thailand’s second-largest island, which welcomes travellers with many beaches, emerald waters, and lush jungle hills.
You have a mix of vibes here. Chill at beachfront resorts, budget-stay in cosy bungalows, adventure at waterfalls, or, for culture-lovers, explore ancient temples. This Koh Samui itinerary caters to every kind of traveller.
Quick Look at the Koh Samui Itinerary
| Days | Highlights | Key Activities |
| Day 1 | Arrival in Koh Samui | Land at Koh Samui → Hotel check-in → Rest → Explore the beach area |
| Day 2 | Full Day City | Big Buddha Temple → Grandmother & Grandfather Rock → Wat Plai Laem Temple → Lad Koh Viewpoint → Na Muang Waterfall |
| Day 3 | Ang Thong National Marine Park Tour | Full-day boat tour → Island hopping → Kayaking → Snorkelling → Viewpoint hiking → Emerald Lagoon visit |
| Day 4 | Island Hopping | Full Day to Koh Tao + Koh Nang Yuan |
| Day 5 | Departure Day | Breakfast → Last-minute shopping/must-do → Hotel check-out → Airport transfer |
Essential Travel Information for a Trip to Koh Samui
When creating your Koh Samui itinerary, you need to cover all the factors. So, do take notes from this blog and prepare better to see all the amazing things in Koh Samui.
SIM Cards & Connectivity in Koh Samui
Get a SIM card available at the airport immediately upon arrival. Major networks like AIS, TrueMove H, and DTAC offer tourist packages.
Alternatively, there are also eSIMs with the same network, and you can activate them before landing.
Currency & Payments in Koh Samui
Thailand’s official currency = Thai Baht (THB), 1 Thai Baht = 2.72 INR
You can use credit cards, which are widely accepted at hotels, resorts, shopping centres, and upscale restaurants.
However, carrying cash is a must when exploring street food, local markets, local rides, and smaller areas.
You have an ATM across the Chaweng, Lamai, and Bophut areas, and keep an eye on exchange rates.
Language in Koh Samui
Official language = Thai
Since Koh Samui is a tourist destination, English is extensively spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tour operators.
Yet, learning basic Thai phrases can come in handy.
| English | Thai |
| Hello | Sawadee |
| Thank you | Khop khun |
| Sorry/Excuse me | Khor tod |
| Where is the bathroom? | Hong nam yoo tee nai? |
| How much does this cost? | Ra ka tao rai? |
| Vegetarian | Mang-sa-wi-rat |
| Yes | Chai |
| No | Mai |
Visa Requirements
Indian citizens enjoy visa-free entry to Thailand for up to 60 days for tourism and short-term business purposes.
For that, you must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online, and it must be completed within 72 hours of landing in Thailand.
Getting To Koh Samui: Airports & Transportation
Koh Samui = Samui International Airport (USM)
You have many direct international flights and numerous domestic connections from Bangkok.
If you are on a budget, you can fly into Surat Thani Airport. Then take a ferry to reach Koh Samui.
Your 5 Day Koh Samui Itinerary
In this part, you will know what each day in Koh Samui looks like. What activities will you do, and what is the experience?
Day 1 of Koh Samui Itinerary: Arrival & Settling In
- Flight: India → Bangkok → Koh Samui. From Bangkok, you can either take a flight to Koh Samui or Surat Thani. Or an overnight bus from Bangkok and ferries to reach Koh Samui if you are on a budget.
- Land in Koh Samui: Book hotels in Chaweng Beach to have a great tourist experience. Enquire about your hotel’s arrangements for airport or ferry pickup.
- Hotel Check-in: After a long flight and a long trip within the country, relax in the hotel.
- Evening Activities: It’ll already be night. So, just roam around Chaweng Beach and eat some delicious local food for dinner.
Day 2 of Koh Samui Itinerary: Full Day City
Morning Departure: Take breakfast from the hotel and get ready around 8:00 AM. Then you will have operators to pick you up from the hotel.
Stop 1: Big Buddha Temple
This iconic 12-metre golden Buddha statue sits majestically on a small island. You can climb the naga staircase for dramatic, panoramic coastal views.
Once you are up, watch the devotees at work, take a walk through the spiritual atmosphere, and take amazing photos. And many local vendors will be selling the best souvenirs for you to take home as a memory.
Note: When visiting, make sure you are wearing a dress that covers your knees and shoulders.
Stop 2: Grandmother & Grandfather Rocks (Hin Ta & Hin Yai)
These are naturally formed rocks that have become one of Koh Samui’s most photographed attractions. Most people visit here because it’s funny, as these rocks resemble male and female genitalia.
You can take photos of these natural formations, admire the ocean, and learn about the local legend. Plus, you have yummy local food nearby to try.
Stop 3: Wat Plai Laem Temple
Thailand’s temples are really unique. In particular, this Wat Plai Laem Temple showcases a vibrant fusion of Chinese-Thai architecture, featuring an 18-armed Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy).
You can buy fish food and feed, admire the colourful murals and sculptures, and spend some peaceful time in a spiritual atmosphere.
Unlike older temples, you can photograph it, and the colour palette makes it Instagrammable. Once you are done exploring, have authentic Thai cuisine for lunch.
Stop 4: Lad Koh Viewpoint
Short paths lead toward rocky shores where waves crash dramatically. This viewpoint remains free, uncrowded, and ideal for capturing the island’s natural beauty.
This would be the best spot to take picturesque clicks of the landscapes and the ocean view. Then walk up the stairs that take you to the beach. There, you can find fishing spots and try them based on your tour timing.
Stop 5: Na Muang Waterfall
This Na Muang Waterfall is 18 metres high with a natural pool perfect for swimming. For adventurous activities, you will do a 30 – 40 minute jungle trek, followed by a more impressive 80-metre Na Muang 2.
This second waterfall is impressive, and you need to take a 40-minute hike from Na Muang 1. But be prepared, as this one will be challenging.
After all this, you will be dropped off at your hotel around 6 or 7 pm. You can have dinner and rest.
Day 3 of Koh Samui Itinerary: Full Day in Ang Thong National Marine Park
Early Morning Departure: Eat breakfast at the hotel, wait for the pick-up, and get ready for many activities.
Activity 1: Speedboat across the Gulf
You will take a boat offering excellent views of Koh Samui to reach the Marine Park.
Activity 2: Emerald Lagoon Viewpoint Hike
Here, you need to climb approximately 500 steep steps through the jungle. At the summit, see the stunning Emerald Lagoon, nestled within limestone cliffs.
Activity 3: Kayaking Through Secret Coves
Have a fun time paddling, exploring hidden caves, calm beaches, and narrow passages between towering limestone formations. Then have your lunch on the beach.
Activity 4: Snorkelling & Swimming
Jump in the water that has vibrant coral reefs with tropical fish species, parrotfish, clownfish, angelfish, and more.
All snorkelling equipment will be provided. Plus, you can also relax on beaches, sunbathe, or explore tide pools that are close by. After all this, you will be returning to the hotel around 6 PM.
Tip: After a full day of activities, get a Thai massage, enjoy a quiet dinner and head to bed.
Day 4 of Koh Samui Itinerary: Full Day to Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan Island
Early Morning Departure: Again, you have a full-day tour to keep you excited. So, be ready by 8 am.
Activity 1: Speedboat Journey
These 40 – 50 minutes of travel give you opportunities to spot dolphins, flying fish, and occasional sea turtles.
Activity 2: Reach Koh Nang Yuan Island
This island is privately owned, which has three islands within it. And here you will be doing-
- Viewpoint hiking: Take Instagram-worthy pictures
- Beach relaxation: Sunbathe and nap after hiking
- Snorkelling: Three distinct bays with coral reefs that had abundant marine life
- Swimming: Calm waters are ideal for everyone
After all these activities and relaxations, head for lunch on the beach.
Activity 3: Reach Koh Tao
Koh Tao is renowned globally as one of Asia’s premier diving destinations. If you are going privately and staying longer, you can also take a full diving certification course.
Your day tour includes exceptional snorkelling at famous sites such as:
- Japanese Gardens (famous for diverse coral formations)
- Mango Bay (has large schools of fish, which makes this bay good for divers)
- Hin Wong Bay (dramatic rock formations and rich coral reef)
After this, you will take a return speedboat to Koh Samui and be dropped off at your hotel around 6:30 PM.
Since this will be your last night in Koh Samui, you can either rest or keep having fun. Take a short nap, then explore restaurants on Chaweng Beach Road and stores in Fisherman’s Village.
Day 5 of Koh Samui Itinerary: Say Bye to the Island Life
Morning: Have your last breakfast, get ready and check out of the hotel.
Airport Transfer: You can go to Koh Samui Airport.
Depending on your flight timing, you can choose what to do. Take a last swim at the beach, try a local food spot, and buy souvenirs.
Optional Activities to Add in Your Samui Itinerary
The above five days’ activities are just the top activities; you can also change them with the activities mentioned below. If you are staying long, you can do everything.
Attend the Full Moon Party at Koh Phangan
If you visit Koh Samui during full moon time, you have to experience the full moon party in Koh Phangan, which is 115 km away.
Two ways to attend the party
- You can either tour from Koh Samui. You will take a ferry to Koh Phangan at night. Enjoy the party, and then, around 4 am, take a ferry to Koh Samui.
- Instead of staying in Koh Samui for the entire trip, you can book hotels in Koh Phangan. And stay there for one or two nights to explore and attend the party.
Jungle 4WD Jeep Safari Tours
These jeep safaris give you a chance to explore the rugged interior of the island. During this tour, you will see jungle trails, visit hidden viewpoints, encounter rubber plantations, and learn about local life.
These tours will include stops at waterfalls, fruit farms, Buddha sites, and coconut farms where monkeys help the farmers.
Jungle Zipline Adventures
There are adrenaline-pumping zipline courses featuring multiple platforms connected by steel cables, suspended high above the jungle floor. The Zipline Tour combines 15+ ziplines, adventure rope bridges, waterfall swimming, and more.
Ethical Elephant Sanctuary Experiences
You can visit the Elephant Sanctuary to support responsible tourism. By this, you will be prioritising animal welfare over entertainment.
Authentic sanctuaries like Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Samui or Samui Elephant Haven allow visitors to learn about the rescued elephants, feed them, and bathe them.
Budget Estimate for 5 Days in Koh Samui
Planning an itinerary with a budget in mind can make your trip more predictable and help you avoid unwanted expenses.
The costs mentioned below are the major expenses you will face.
- Flights:
- India to Bangkok round trip: 25,000 INR approx
- Bangkok to Koh Samui round trip: 15,000 INR approx
- Accommodation: 4,000 INR per night, approx (Mostly 3-star hotels)
- Food Cost per meal:
- Local Food: 300 INR approx
- Mid-Range Restaurants: 550 INR approx
- Fine Dining: 1200 INR and more
- Activities
| Highlight | Cost in INR (approx) | Inclusions |
| Full Day City | 4,900 | Hotel round-trip transfer + lunch |
| Ang Thong National Marine Park Full Day | 6,300 | Hotel round-trip transfer + tickets + lunch |
| Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan Island Tour | 6,300 | Hotel round-trip transfer + lunch |
| Full Moon Party at Koh Phangan | 4,400 | Hotel transfer+ round-trip speed boat + jeep + ticket |
| Jungle 4WD Jeep Safari Tours | 4,900 | Hotel round-trip + tickets |
| Jungle Zipline + ATV Adventures | 6,800 | Hotel round-trip + tickets |
| Elephant Sanctuary Experiences | 7,600 | Hotel round-trip + tickets |
- SIM Card: 900 INR (approx per week)
- Miscellaneous: 10,000 INR approx (Shopping, souvenirs, snacks, etc.)
Money-Saving Tips
- Travel during shoulder season
- Book tours and activities online in advance
- Eat at street food vendors
- Stay in Lamai or Maenam
- Use songthaews (shared pick-up truck taxis)
- Visit free attractions (Big Buddha, Grandmother & Grandfather Rocks, Fisherman’s Village, and public beaches)
- Bring a reusable water bottle
- Negotiate prices at markets
Conclusion
Your trip to Koh Samui offers an exceptional blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, thrilling adventures, and tropical relaxation.
So, go and explore Buddha temples, try snorkelling, hike to jungle waterfalls, or live the party lifestyle.
This 5-day Koh Samui itinerary balances must-see cultural landmarks with exciting island-hopping adventures, ensuring you experience every single one of these.
You don’t have to plan everything; you can always reach out to us. For Thailand or any other international destination, we can make your vacation smoother.
Frequently Asked Questions on Koh Samui Itinerary
What is the best time to visit Koh Samui?
Travel during May – June and September – October for fine climate conditions. Also, at this time, you have fewer tourists and reasonable costs on everything. However, occasional showers may occur.
You can also travel during other months. You can look into the following to choose your preferred month.
- January and April are the dry season, when you will enjoy the dry season with minimal rainfall, clear blue skies, and calm seas.
- February and March are particularly sunny.
- December and early January see peak tourist crowds and higher prices due to Christmas and New Year holidays.
How long should I stay in Koh Samui to see everything?
A minimum of 3 – 4 days in Koh Samui lets you enjoy the main highlights. You can include cultural sites, a tour of a central marine park, and simple beach relaxation.
8 – 10 days is best for island life. You will have time to take multiple-day trips to Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. Then, try water sports and experience the laid-back lifestyle without rushing.
Can you fly directly to Koh Samui from international destinations?
Yes, you can fly directly to Samui International Airport (USM) from Singapore, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, and selected cities.
However, travellers from India come to Bangkok and board a flight to Koh Samui. And, it’s the convenient option if your travel destination is just Thailand.
What are the must-see attractions in Koh Samui?
There are many things in Koh Samui that will excite you, and the must-visit places are-
- 12-metre Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)
- Chinese-Thai fusion Wat Plai Laem Temple
- Grandmother & Grandfather Rocks
- Na Muang Waterfalls
- Lad Koh Viewpoint
- Ang Thong National Marine Park
- Stroll on Chaweng Beach
- Fisherman’s Village in Bophut
