Koh Samet's
lost Gold
You can enjoy all your stay on Samet without ever leaving the beaches.
But if you venture into the wooded centre of the island you'll
come across thick primeval jungle, narrow pathways and some strange sights.
Samet has a high point which offers a good view. It is a hot exhausting
climb, pushing through thick growth in temperatures starting at 30 centigrade
(90 F) to the peak at 112 metres.
At the summit you may come across the gold pit. This mysterious hole was
dug out of solid stone to a depth of 8 metres over 100 years ago, and is
surmounted with ruins of a brick wall. It is known as bor thong meaning 'golden well'.
The Thai government geological survey said it was a well. But look at the
width of the hole, and wonder why anyone would dig such a wide well through
dry stone at the summit of a hill. Local legend suggests it was dug
to hide gold rescued from a Chinese junk that foundered on nearby rocks.
Others claim it was used by pirates to store their booty.
In the 1940's a nobleman came with a treasure map and used dynamite
in his search, without finding anything. But the legend of fabulous
wealth still lying concealed in Samets interior continues to attracts
adventurers and the curious. And those wandering away from the perfect
silver beaches are said to be on the lookout for gold.
- Introduction
- Arriving at the airport
- Travelling to Koh Samet
- Where to stay
- Legend of Koh Samet's lost gold
- Beaches
- Food and drink
- Did you know?
- Links
If you have any questions please ask them on the guestbook, and if you have been, please tell us your hints and tips and travellers tales.
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email me at kohsamet@oocities.com
http://travel.to/samet