Secret Buddha Garden, also known as the Magic Garden or Tarnim Magic Garden, is a private sculpture garden hidden in the jungle-covered hills of central Koh Samui. Built by local fruit farmer Nim Thon
Secret Buddha Garden, also known as the Magic Garden or Tarnim Magic Garden, is a private sculpture garden hidden in the jungle-covered hills of central Koh Samui. Built by local fruit farmer Nim Thongsuk from 1976 onwards, it features more than 100 moss-covered statues of Buddhas, deities, mythical creatures and scenes of rural Thai life scattered around small waterfalls and winding paths. Perched atop Pom Mountain (Khun Nim Peak), one of the island's highest points, it offers a peaceful, spiritual escape from Koh Samui's beaches.
The story
A little history
Nim Thongsuk, a retired durian fruit farmer, began building the garden of statues in 1976 at the age of 77 and continued working on it until his death at 91. Using hand-cast concrete, he filled his hillside land atop Pom Mountain (also called Khun Nim Peak), one of the highest points on Koh Samui, with over 100 statues of Buddhas, deities, animals and scenes of everyday Thai life. Today the moss-covered garden, complete with waterfalls and jungle paths, remains one of the island's most unique hidden attractions, and Nim Thongsuk's tomb still sits on the site.
What to look for
Why it stays with you
- Hilltop statue garden atop Pom Mountain
- Over 100 hand-cast statues of Buddhas, deities, mythical creatures and rural scenes
- Moss-covered sculptures set in lush jungle greenery
- Small waterfalls and a stream running through the garden
- Statue of founder Nim Thongsuk and panoramic mountain views
Before you go
Plan your visit
Entrance fee
80 THB per person (adults)
Opening hours
Daily 8:00-17:00
How long
1 hour
Best time
Dry season mornings
Parking
Small parking area near entrance
Accessibility
Steep paths; not wheelchair accessible
From the field
Tips & notes
- Get there by 4WD jeep, a guided jeep safari, or as an experienced scooter rider — the final road is steep, narrow and partly unpaved
- Go early in the morning (around opening time) for cooler weather, the best light and the smallest crowds
- Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip; the mossy steps and paths are slippery, especially after rain
- Bring water and insect repellent — nothing is sold inside the garden itself (only a small cafe at the parking area)
- Allow 20-40 minutes of driving from the coast, and skip the visit during or right after heavy rain
The place