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Renowned as one of the most curious sights one comes across in Koh Samui’s Lamai Beach the Hin Ta and Hin Yai rock formations have become somewhat of a fixture in the island’s vibrant touristic landscape. Located on the southern shorelines of Lamai Beach this cause of wonder and humour was discovered by locals decades ago and the intriguing shape of the rocks dubbed Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks of Koh Samui has caused much debate among visitors and islanders alike who are amazed at the naturally sculpted rock formations that closely resemble male and female genitalia.
Imposingly nestled between Hua Thanon Beach and Lamai the Hin Ta represents the “grandfather” rock formation while Hin Yai stands for “grandmother” in the local tongue. Due to the curious shapes of the rock, their positioning on a popular beachfront has given rise to a plethora of myths and legends over the years. One of the most closely held beliefs is pegged on a legend full of tragedy and triumph concerning an elderly couple named Grandma Riem or Yai Riem in Thai and Grandpa Kreng (Ta Kreng). Folklore dictates that the only son of the couple was of marriageable age and thus the family sailed to meet Ta Monglai who lived in a nearby district dubbed Prachuap Khiri Khan to ask for his daughter’s hand in marriage. But the seafaring joinery proved arduous as a storm capsized the boat killing the elderly couple who were unable to swim to shore. It is said that they instead transformed in to rocks and thus stand on the beachfront to denote their pure intentions to the family of the bride.
Visitors exploring Hin Ta and Hin Yai today can witness stunning views of the ocean and islands scattered across the water while the beach itself is ideal for rest and relaxation after a day of sightseeing. The clear waters of Lamai Beach also make it ideal for spotting marine creatures that appear to be a few centimeters below the surface of the water. Food and souvenir vendors also occupy the beach selling scrumptious treats and postcards with the images of Hin Ta and Hin Yai while the nearby Islamic fishing village in Hua Thanon is also open to visitors who wish to discover pastoral settings complete with plantation fields and buffalos.
Travellers in search of a luxury Samui resort in Thailand should not look beyond Anantara Bophut Koh Samui. Ideally positioned in a picturesque area of the city this Samui hotel provides elegant accommodation for holidaymakers as well as business travellers.
Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
