Secret Buddha Garden (Tarnim Magic Garden), Koh Samui: How to Get There
A jungle valley full of stone statues high in Koh Samui's hills. Entrance fee, how to get up the steep road, and what to expect at the Secret Buddha Garden.
High in the hills of Koh Samui, at the end of a road so steep that our scooter barely made it, lies a hidden valley filled with stone figures: Buddhas, gods, dancers, musicians, animals and mythical creatures, half-hidden among jungle trees, streams and small waterfalls.
The Secret Buddha Garden, also called the Tarnim Magic Garden, was created by Nim Thongsuk, a local durian farmer who began building it in 1976, at the age of 77, and kept adding sculptures until he died.
We arrived late in the afternoon, when the light was fading and the garden was empty. Walking down the stone steps into the green, quiet valley felt like stepping into a fairy tale, half Buddhist temple, half Tolkien.
Quick answer: The Secret Buddha Garden is on Khun Nim Peak in the hilly centre of Koh Samui, roughly opposite Wat Khunaram on the ring road. Entry is about 80 THB. The access road is very steep and partly rough, so go with a 4x4 tour, a jeep or a powerful scooter with an experienced rider. Plan 45–60 minutes in the garden.
What you'll see
The garden follows a stream down a small jungle valley. Along the paths you will find:
- Stone figures in and beside the stream, some lying in the water as if turned to stone.
- A circle of dancers and a flute player, the garden's most famous scene.
- Animals: a giant fish, a frog, an old turtle, and a large bird fighting a snake.
- Buddhas and Hindu deities sitting in meditation among the trees.
- Small waterfalls, stone thrones and an old overgrown house.
It is all quite small, and you can walk through it in under an hour, but the atmosphere makes it one of the most memorable places on the island.
How to get to the Secret Buddha Garden
The garden sits on Khun Nim Peak, in the mountainous centre of the island, reached by a narrow road that branches off the ring road in the south, roughly opposite Wat Khunaram.
- By 4x4 tour: the easiest option. Many "jungle safari" tours include the garden together with waterfalls and viewpoints.
- By scooter: possible, but only for experienced riders. The final stretch is very steep, with sharp bends and rough patches. Take a scooter with enough power, go in dry weather and don't attempt it two-up if you are not confident.
- By jeep or car: a small 4x4 handles the road best.
Combine it with the Giant Summit viewpoint restaurant nearby and the Na Muang waterfalls at the foot of the hills.
Tips for your visit
- Entrance fee: around 80 THB per person, which goes towards upkeep.
- Go in the late afternoon for soft light and fewer visitors, but leave before dark; the road down is not fun at night.
- Wear shoes with grip. The steps and paths are uneven and can be slippery.
- Bring mosquito repellent. It is the jungle.
- Respect the statues. Don't climb on them.
More hidden corners: Koh Samui temples worth visiting · the mummified monk of Wat Khunaram · 22 best things to do in Koh Samui.
Sources checked: Home is where your bag is – Koh Samui sightseeing.
About the authors
Dasza — Writer and photographer behind PTraveler. Polish-born, raised in Germany, happiest renting a flat in a new city for a month.
Tomek — Project manager, fixer and tour leader. Plans the routes, finds the free days and tests every street-food stall.
