Satun is located on the Malay Peninsula, on the shore of the Andaman Sea. It is separated from Songkhla Province by the Nakhon Si Thammarat mountain range, and from Malaysia by the Sankalakhiri mountains.
The Ko Tarutao and Ko Phetra marine national parks are part of the province. Close to the border with Malaysia is the Thale Ban National Park, a big freshwater swamp area.
Map of Satun province, Thailand, with the district (Amphoe) numbered.
1. Mueang Satun
2. Khuan Don
3. Khuan Kalong
4. Tha Phae
5. La-ngu
6. Thung Wa
7. Manang (sub-district)
Sights
Satun Central Mosque or Mambang Mosque
It is a place for religious services. The mosque is in a modern style of architecture. Its white building is decorated with glazed tiles, marble, and glass.
Satun National Museum – Kuden Mansion
During 1997 – 2000, the Fine Arts Department renovated the Kuden Mansion into a western two-storey brick building. Curved doors and windows are in the European architectural style of art. Its Thai-styled hip-roof is covered with Spanish terra cotta roof tiles. The top of the pediment is adorned with a star-shaped vent in accordance with Islamic architecture.
Khao To Phaya Wang Public Park
This park offers a distinctive atmosphere unlike other parks.
Wat Chanathip Chaloem
This is the first Buddhist temple in the town of Satun. The Ubosot (ordination hall) has distinctive features, unlike an ordination hall in general. It is a Thai-styled two-storey building. The first storey is a brick building used as a preaching hall. The second storey is a wooden building for religious practice by Buddhist monks.
Laem Tanyong Po and Hat Sai Yao
is a cape jutting into the Andaman Sea where there is a fishing village. Its long sandy beach is fringed with coconut trees and fishermen’s houses.
Tarutao National Park
It is the first marine national park of Thailand. The park is renowned for its history and natural beauty. The area was declared a national park on 19 April 1974, and ASEAN Heritage Parks and Reserves by UNESCO in 1982. Attractions in the Tarutao National Park:
Ko Tarutao
It is the largest island of the park, covering an area of 152 km². Most of the areas are mountains with a moist evergreen forest, interesting species of plants and wildlife. Some part of the area is a mangrove forest. There are many bays, both small and large, with beautiful beaches. Attractions on Ko Tarutao:
Ao Phante Melaka It is a bay with a clean long white beach. The headquarters of the Tarutao National Park is located here.
Ao Chak This small bay is next to Ao Phante Melaka.
Ao Mo Lae The bay possesses a clean white sandy beach. There is a beautiful grove of coconut trees amidst tranquility.
Ao Son This curve-shaped bay has sandy beaches which are interspersed with rocky beaches. It is also an egg-laying ground for sea turtles.
Ao Talo Wao It is a historical area where the reformatory estate for detention and critical prisoners was established. Nowadays, the park has imitation buildings of the past.
Ao Talo Udang It is a bay located to the south of the island, 8 km from Ko Langkawi. The Park’s Ranger Station To To 2 (Talo Udang) is situated here. In the past, it was where political prisoners from the Bowondet and Nai Sip rebels were detained.
Namtok Ludu It is a small beautiful waterfall, around 3 km from Ao Son. There is a nature trail from Ao Son to Namtok Ludu.
Tham Chorakhe It is a cave of 300 m in depth. Inside, beautiful stalactites and stalagmites can be found in different forms.
Pha To Bu Viewpoint Pha To Bu is a cliff 60 m above sea level. The viewpoint is behind the park’s headquarters, overlooking the beach of Ao Phante Melaka, Ko Bulon, Ko Klang, Ko Khai, Ko Adang, Ko Rawi, and Muko Phetra.
Ko Khai
It is an island to the west of Ko Tarutao. This small island is located between Ko Tarutao and Ko Adang. The famous feature of Ko Khai is its natural stone arch which is used as the symbol of the Tarutao National Park. Coral reefs are commonly found in the sea around Ko Khai.
Muko Adang – Rawi
These are the islands located 40 km to the southwest of Ko Tarutao, or 60 km from the town of Satun. Ko Adang The island has an area of around 30 sq km, with many beautiful beaches of fine sand. It is surrounded by small islands, and is an ideal place for skin-diving.
Ko Rawi This island has an area of about 29 sq km, with beautiful beaches, crystal clear sea, and serenity.
Ko Lipeh or Ko Lipe
There is a community of Moken (Chao Le or Andaman Sea Gypsies) here. Most families earn a living by fishing. Most importantly, the villagers will build boats from Rakam wood and perform a ceremony to float the boat, according to their belief in the prediction of their fishing. Ko Lipe is becoming a major tourist destination with many bungalow complexes on the two main beaches, Pattaya and Sunrise Beach.
Ko Hin Ngam
It is a small island located to the southwest of Ko Adang. On the beach, there are smooth black stones in different shapes and with beautiful patterns. The stones will be bright and glossy when wet.
Ko Yang or Ko Kata
The sea is crystal clear and it is a source of beautiful hard corals, such as staghorn coral, leaf coral, and brain coral.
Ko Chabang
It is a small island. Deep down around the submerged rocks is the habitat of soft corals, sea anemones, and schools of colourful fish.
Muko Dong
It is the islands on the farthest outer ring of Muko Adang – Rawi, around one hour from Ko Adang. There are coral reefs in both shallow and deep sea. Around Ko Dong are 4 – 5 satellite islands. One of them is Ko Hin Son, which prominently looks like superimposed rocks.
Tham Lot Puyu
This passable cave is like the one in Ao Phang-nga. Khlong Tha Chin or Tha Chin Canal flows through the cave. Mangrove forests flank the canal throughout its course. Inside the cave, there are some stalactites and stalagmites.
Thale Ban National Park
Most of the areas are a complex of mountains and dense woods. Wild animals found here include serow, elephant, tapir, common wild pig, monkey, gibbon, and Khiat Wak, or Ma Nam (Giant Asiatic toad or Malayan giant toad). Attractions in the Thale Ban National Park:
Bueang Thale Ban It is a freshwater lake located in the middle of a valley flanked by the Chin and the Wang Pra Ranges.
Namtok Ya Roi
It originates from a source in the Hua Kraming Forest.
Namtok Ton Plio It originates from Mount Chin. This large and beautiful multi-tiered waterfall flows from a high cliff.
Thai – Malaysian Border Zone or Wang Prachan Checkpoint
It is just 2 km from the park’s headquarters. Located here is the Thale Ban National Park Ranger Station.
Namtok Thara Sawan Forest Park
The area was declared a forest park by the Royal Forest Department on 23 July, 1996. Regular rain causes an abundant evergreen forest here.
Namtok Panan
It is located in Tambon Thung Nui, 39 km from the town of Satun. The waterfall originates from Mount Kaming. The surrounding nature is still intact. It has water flowing all year round. A power generating dam of a medium scale has been built in the waterfall area.
La-ngu Local Museum
The museum building has 2 storeys. On the ground floor, there are local handicrafts and sweets for sale. A museum on the upper floor displays brassware, earthenware, silverware, etc. which are the private collection of Mr. Chaiwat Saikun.
Muko Phetra National Park
Most of the areas are high and steep mountains with valley plains and beaches. The national park has forests, mountains, wildlife, and colourful coral reefs. It is composed of large and small main islands. Attractions in the Muko Phetra National Park:
Ao Nun
It is a bay where the park’s headquarters is located. Ao Nun lies on a vast bay curve in serenity.
Hat Rawai The beach is fringed with lines of pine trees.
Ko Lidi Lek
The Park’s Ranger Station is located here. A white sandy beach lies on the island. A virgin mangrove forest grows at the island’s side where various aquatic animals inhabit.
Ko Bulon
There are scattered spots for snorkelling and scuba diving, such as Ko Ayam and Ko Hin Khao. At night, hermit crabs and ghost crabs can be seen on the beach.
Namtok Wang Sai Thong
The beauty of this waterfall is the limestone in the shape of multi-petalled lotus flowers settling on the bottom of the pools at each of its tiers.
Namtok Than Plio
It originates from Mount Lung Khroe in the provincial areas of Satun and Trang. This two-tiered waterfall has a pool of 40 m wide and 50 m long at its base. The surrounding area is shady with various plants.
27 February, 2010
TRANG
Trang is located on the coast of the Andaman Sea, and contains 46 islands together with the mainland area. There are only few plains, and most of the area is hills. The Khao Luang and the Banthat mountain range are the sources of the two main rivers of the province, the Trang River and the Palian River.
It has along western coastline of about 119 kilometres. The province consists of an archipelago in the Andaman Sea with over 46 islands. Of these, 12 are in Amphoe Kantang, 13 in Amphoe Palian and 21 in Amphoe Sikao. The best time for sea travel is during October to May. Situated along the Andaman coast, Trang province is home to innumerable beautiful islands, while the mountainous eastern region is home to dramatic waterfalls, caves and pristine jungle. Between the mountains and the coast are extensive plantations of rubber.
The southern coast of the province is protected in the Mu Ko Phetra National Park. The estuary of the Trang River together with the Hat Chao Mai Marine National Park and Ko Libong Non-hunting Area are also a registered Ramsarwetland.
Map of Trang province, Thailand, with the district (Amphoe) numbered.
1. Muang Trang
2. Kantang
3. Yan Ta Khao
4. Palian
5. Sikao
6. Huai Yot
7. Wang Wiset
8. Na Yong
9. Ratsada
10. Hat Samran (Sub district)
Sights
Ko Ngai
the exotic beach and romantic jewel for serenity and privacy. This island is situated on the idyllic and pristine Trang Archipelago. It is south of Ko Lanta. You may choose to get here from Pak Meng Pier, Trang province or Saladan of Ko Lanta, Krabi province.
Ko Muk and Tham Morakot
are the most prominent points in the Trang Sea. Ko Muk is mostly occupied by sea-facing towering cliffs to the west. Located on the eastern side of the island is a village of fishermen who have still maintained their ways of life as islanders. On the island to the west is Tham Morakot, a unique sea cave. With light from the outside, emerald water can be seen inside the cave; it is unusual and beautifully nature.
Hat Yong Ling and Hat San
is on the way to Chao Mai Beach and a 2-kilometre road leads to Yong Lin Beach. This curved beach parallels a pine forest. At the beach’s end is a high mountain with holes and caves that can be passed through to a cliff with more caves and rocks similar to a fortress encircling sand dunes.
Ko Chueak - Ko Waen
are small islands between Ko Muk and Ko Kradan. They are teeming with shallow and deepwater corals and many types of fish.
Ko Kradan
is arguably the most beautiful island in the Trang. It has an area of 600 acres. Most of the island (5/6) is under the responsibility of Hat Chao Mai National Park. The rest are privately owned. The most striking feature of Ko Kradan is its powdery white beach and crystal-clear water that permits a decent view of the coral reef underneath that stretches from the beach’s northern end to the coast. A variety of colourful fish inhabit the shallow water corals. Ko Kradan is to the west of Ko Muk and Ko Libong.
Hat Pak Meng
is at Tambon Mai Fat, 40 kilometres from the city. The 5-kilometre long beach is in the shape of a crescent moon. A pine forest fringes the beach. Assorted large and small islands dot the sea, looking like a person lying face up in the ocean. Trang locals and people from nearby provinces like to come here to relax and sample seafood in the restaurants.
Namtok Ton Te
is 45 kilometres from the city. It is the tallest and most popular waterfall in Trang with water that drops down 320 metres of rocks. The source is in the Banthat Mountain Range. Assorted tropical floras cover the surrounding area.
Tham Le Khao Kop
This cave is a popular natural wonder with a stream flowing through it. The cave itself looks like a high and steep cliff with layers of rocks. A canal from the Banthat Mountain Range divides into 3 waterways upon reaching Khao Kop, 2 going around the mountain and the other flowing through the cave under the mountain. Stalactites and stalagmites line the cave for about 4 kilometres. Currently the Khao Kop Tambon Administration Organization provides rowboats for visitors to view the cave and to be an eco-tourism and adventure activity by the locals.
Namtok Sai Rung
This single-level waterfall falls from a high and huge cliff. The water turns into a rainbow as the sun shines through it.
Koh Lao Liang
These two islands, located in between Koh Libong and Koh Petra. The color of the sea around Koh Lao Liang is emerald green. The sea between these two islands is deep and swift. Both islands are big limestone mountains. There are highly sloped cliffs on both sides. The beach has white sand.
Koh Takiang
is a small island on in the group of south Trang islands. It is the island with only 100 meter long beach. However, this beach is quite clean. The rest area is covered by rocks and hillocks. There is a lighthouse for chip in this region.
It has along western coastline of about 119 kilometres. The province consists of an archipelago in the Andaman Sea with over 46 islands. Of these, 12 are in Amphoe Kantang, 13 in Amphoe Palian and 21 in Amphoe Sikao. The best time for sea travel is during October to May. Situated along the Andaman coast, Trang province is home to innumerable beautiful islands, while the mountainous eastern region is home to dramatic waterfalls, caves and pristine jungle. Between the mountains and the coast are extensive plantations of rubber.
The southern coast of the province is protected in the Mu Ko Phetra National Park. The estuary of the Trang River together with the Hat Chao Mai Marine National Park and Ko Libong Non-hunting Area are also a registered Ramsarwetland.
Map of Trang province, Thailand, with the district (Amphoe) numbered.
1. Muang Trang
2. Kantang
3. Yan Ta Khao
4. Palian
5. Sikao
6. Huai Yot
7. Wang Wiset
8. Na Yong
9. Ratsada
10. Hat Samran (Sub district)
Sights
Ko Ngai
the exotic beach and romantic jewel for serenity and privacy. This island is situated on the idyllic and pristine Trang Archipelago. It is south of Ko Lanta. You may choose to get here from Pak Meng Pier, Trang province or Saladan of Ko Lanta, Krabi province.
Ko Muk and Tham Morakot
are the most prominent points in the Trang Sea. Ko Muk is mostly occupied by sea-facing towering cliffs to the west. Located on the eastern side of the island is a village of fishermen who have still maintained their ways of life as islanders. On the island to the west is Tham Morakot, a unique sea cave. With light from the outside, emerald water can be seen inside the cave; it is unusual and beautifully nature.
Hat Yong Ling and Hat San
is on the way to Chao Mai Beach and a 2-kilometre road leads to Yong Lin Beach. This curved beach parallels a pine forest. At the beach’s end is a high mountain with holes and caves that can be passed through to a cliff with more caves and rocks similar to a fortress encircling sand dunes.
Ko Chueak - Ko Waen
are small islands between Ko Muk and Ko Kradan. They are teeming with shallow and deepwater corals and many types of fish.
Ko Kradan
is arguably the most beautiful island in the Trang. It has an area of 600 acres. Most of the island (5/6) is under the responsibility of Hat Chao Mai National Park. The rest are privately owned. The most striking feature of Ko Kradan is its powdery white beach and crystal-clear water that permits a decent view of the coral reef underneath that stretches from the beach’s northern end to the coast. A variety of colourful fish inhabit the shallow water corals. Ko Kradan is to the west of Ko Muk and Ko Libong.
Hat Pak Meng
is at Tambon Mai Fat, 40 kilometres from the city. The 5-kilometre long beach is in the shape of a crescent moon. A pine forest fringes the beach. Assorted large and small islands dot the sea, looking like a person lying face up in the ocean. Trang locals and people from nearby provinces like to come here to relax and sample seafood in the restaurants.
Namtok Ton Te
is 45 kilometres from the city. It is the tallest and most popular waterfall in Trang with water that drops down 320 metres of rocks. The source is in the Banthat Mountain Range. Assorted tropical floras cover the surrounding area.
Tham Le Khao Kop
This cave is a popular natural wonder with a stream flowing through it. The cave itself looks like a high and steep cliff with layers of rocks. A canal from the Banthat Mountain Range divides into 3 waterways upon reaching Khao Kop, 2 going around the mountain and the other flowing through the cave under the mountain. Stalactites and stalagmites line the cave for about 4 kilometres. Currently the Khao Kop Tambon Administration Organization provides rowboats for visitors to view the cave and to be an eco-tourism and adventure activity by the locals.
Namtok Sai Rung
This single-level waterfall falls from a high and huge cliff. The water turns into a rainbow as the sun shines through it.
Koh Lao Liang
These two islands, located in between Koh Libong and Koh Petra. The color of the sea around Koh Lao Liang is emerald green. The sea between these two islands is deep and swift. Both islands are big limestone mountains. There are highly sloped cliffs on both sides. The beach has white sand.
Koh Takiang
is a small island on in the group of south Trang islands. It is the island with only 100 meter long beach. However, this beach is quite clean. The rest area is covered by rocks and hillocks. There is a lighthouse for chip in this region.
KRABI
Krabi is located at the shore to the Andaman Sea and is an area of outstanding natural beauty. Most notable are the solitary limestone hills, both on the land and in the sea as islands. Rock climbers from all over the world travel to Ton Sai Beach and Railay Beach to climb. These beaches form part of Krabi's Phra Nang Peninsula. Of about 154 islands belonging to the province, Ko Phi Phi Leh is perhaps the most famous, as it was the set of the movie The Beach. The coast of the province was badly damaged by the tsunami on December 26 2004.
Other islands include: Ko Phi Phi Don, part of the Phi Phi Islands, and Ko Lanta, a larger island to the south.
The limestone hills contain many caves, most having beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. Tham Chao Le and Tham Phi Hua To, both in Ao Luek district, contain prehistoric rock-painting depicting humans, animals as well as geometrical shapes. In Lang Rong Rien cave in 1986 archaeologists found 40,000 year old human artifacts - stone tools, pottery as well as bones. It is one of the oldest traces of human occupation in all South-East Asia. The caves of Krabi are also one of the main sources of nests of the Edible-nest Swiftlet, used to create bird's nest soup.
Map of Krabi province, Thailand, with the district (Amphoe) numbered.
1. Mueang Krabi
2. Khao Phanom
3. Ko Lanta
4. Khlong Thom
5. Ao Luek
6. Plai Phraya
7. Lam Thap
8. Nuea Khlong
Sights
Hat Noppharat Thara – Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park
Covering the areas of Tambon Nong Thale, Tambon Sai Thai, Tambon Ao Nang and Tambon Pak Nam, Amphoe Mueang, Hat Noppharat Thara – Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park has an area of 242,437 rai in which 200,849 rai is water. There are 3 distinctive kinds of forest here: moist evergreen forests, mangrove forests and peat swamp forests.
Mu Ko Phi Phi
Located 42 kilometres from the provincial town of Krabi, Mu Ko Phi Phi (Phi Phi Islands) are an archipelago, formerly called Pulao Piah Pi. The surrounding sea is home to a variety of underwater anemones, coral reefs, and colourful marine life. The area is also a popular destination for snorkelling. Attractions of Mu Ko Phi Phi:Ko Phi Phi Don Ko Phi Phi Don (Phi Phi Don Island) covers an area of 28 square km. Popular attractions are the twin bays with curving beaches of Ao Ton Sai and Ao Lo Da Lam.
Ko Phi Phi Le
Covering an area of only 6.6 square kilometres, Phi Phi Le Island is surrounded by limestone mountains and sheer cliffs plunging hundreds of metres to the sea. The sea is 20 meters deep and the deepest point in the south of the island is around 34 meters. Ko Phi Phi Le has bays such as Ao Pi Le, Ao Maya, and Ao Lo Sa Ma. In the north-east of the island is a large cave called Tham Viking.
Hat Noppharat Thara
Situated 17 km from the provincial town of Krabi, Hat Noppharat Thara (Noppharat Thara Beach) is a 3-km long sandy beach lined with dense casuarinas. The beach, paved with tiny seashells, was formerly called Hat Khlong Haeng. The area is a long beach and stretches all the way to the island of Ko Khao Pak Khlong.
Su-san Hoi (Shell Cemetery)
Once a large freshwater swamp, the habitat of diverse mollusks of about 2 cm in size, Su-san Hoi features a slab formed from a huge number of embedded various types of mollusks which can be dated to approximately 40 million years ago. With changes on the surface of the earth, seawater flooded the freshwater swamp and the limestone elements in the seawater enveloped the submerged mollusks resulting in a homogenous layer of fossilized mollusk shells forty centimetres thick known as Shelley Limestone. With geographical upheavals, the limestone layer is now distributed in great broken sheets of impressive magnitude on the seashore.
Ao Nang Beach
is Krabi's most developed beach. Fringed by palms, the long beach is backed by a wide range of accommodation including resorts, bungalows and guesthouses. There are more than 83 offshore islands, which some of them are shaped like a boot, junk, or parrot’s head. Ko Poda, Ko Mo and Ko Thap are popular destinations among tourists for their beaches and coral reefs. They are popular islands for diving and snorkelling.
Hat Rai Le (Rai Le Beach East/West)
is surrounded from both sides by breathtaking towering limestone cliffs, thus making the area isolated from the mainland – only accessible by boat. Rai Le or Railay West has a world class white sand beach and is the longest of the beaches in this area. It goes without saying this is also the beach that most tourists flock to. Railey East is popular ‘hippy’ hang-out and offers cheaper accommodation than the West side. Unlike Railey West, Railey East beach is severely affected by the tides and has mangroves. R.East has its own beauty but the mainstream tourist would choose Railey West for beach quality.
Pra Nang Beach (Princess Cave Beach)
next door to Railay, has a much comparable if not better beach to Railay West and is the home to the 5 star Rayavadee Resort and Spa. Krabi's beaches are all public domain so the guests at Rayavadee have to share the beach with the day-trippers from Railay and Ao-Nang. This is not so bad but this also attracts a multitude of T-shirt, trinket and food sellers.
Hat Ton Sai (TonSai Beach)
Neighboring Rai Le (Railay) West but vastly different in terms of beach and tourist scene. The hard core backpackers all hang out here as it is one of the best areas for climbing and the accommodation can be around a tenth of the price of Railay. This beach also has one of the best nightlife scenes of the whole Krabi area! As of late this beach seems to be attracting more of the "flash packer" crowd who don't necessarily want the cheapest accommodation but just want the "Ton Sai experience".
Thale Waek or Separated Sea
During the lowest tide of the day, the sea is gradually separated by the white sand and limestone beach that will appear to connect two islands. From being the site of a meditation centre, it is also a place of archaeological interest, dating from the prehistoric into proto-historic times. Stone tools, potsherds, and unbaked clay votive tablets have been found.
Than Bokkhorani National Park
The park covers an area of 121 square km. The landscape is dominated by a series of limestone mountains, evergreen forests, mangrove forests, and numerous islands. The main flora is evergreen forest, peat swamp forest, strand forest, and mangrove forest, as well as, various types of marine flora. Other attractions include: Than Bokkhorani which is home to various flowing streams and numerous pools of different cascades among a shady forested area and two caves Tham Lot and Tham Phi Hua To
Namtok Ron - Khlong Thom
This area is full of hot springs in a shady forest. The temperature is not too hot at 40-50 degrees Celsius. The hot springs and cool streams converge on a slope to form lovely cascades with warm water.
Khao Pra - Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary
This is located at Tambon Khlong Thom Nuea. Comprising lowland forest, this area features the Emerald Pool or Sa Morakot, which are 3 hot springs with a temperature of 30 - 50 degrees Celsius. The forest is home to numerous flora and rare birds like Gurney's Pitta, Rufous-collared Kingfisher, and Black Hornbill. There is also a 2.7-km nature trail known as the Tina Jollife (Thung Tiao) Trail, named after an English activist wanting to conserve this batch of rainforest.
Mu Ko Lanta National Park
Covering a total area of 152 square kilometres, Mu Ko Lanta National Park is located in Amphoe Ko Lanta and consists of many islands. Some major islands are Ko Lanta Yai, Ko Lanta Noi, Ko Taleng Beng, as well as, other surrounding islands like Mu Ko Ha, Mu Ko Rok, and Ko Ngai.
Pa Phru Tha Pom Khlong Song Nam
Pa Phru or peat swamp forest of the canal of Tha Pom features a number of water sources, which originate from the Chong Phra Kaeo pool. Tha Pom is called Khlong Song Nam by the locals, which in Thai literally means "two water canal", because of its special feature location where crystal clear freshwater, which the pool’s floor and the roots of Lumphi palm (Eleiodoxa conferta) are virtually visible, meets seawater from the mangrove forest. Tha Pom features a natural trail made of lath.
Other islands include: Ko Phi Phi Don, part of the Phi Phi Islands, and Ko Lanta, a larger island to the south.
The limestone hills contain many caves, most having beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. Tham Chao Le and Tham Phi Hua To, both in Ao Luek district, contain prehistoric rock-painting depicting humans, animals as well as geometrical shapes. In Lang Rong Rien cave in 1986 archaeologists found 40,000 year old human artifacts - stone tools, pottery as well as bones. It is one of the oldest traces of human occupation in all South-East Asia. The caves of Krabi are also one of the main sources of nests of the Edible-nest Swiftlet, used to create bird's nest soup.
Map of Krabi province, Thailand, with the district (Amphoe) numbered.
1. Mueang Krabi
2. Khao Phanom
3. Ko Lanta
4. Khlong Thom
5. Ao Luek
6. Plai Phraya
7. Lam Thap
8. Nuea Khlong
Sights
Hat Noppharat Thara – Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park
Covering the areas of Tambon Nong Thale, Tambon Sai Thai, Tambon Ao Nang and Tambon Pak Nam, Amphoe Mueang, Hat Noppharat Thara – Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park has an area of 242,437 rai in which 200,849 rai is water. There are 3 distinctive kinds of forest here: moist evergreen forests, mangrove forests and peat swamp forests.
Mu Ko Phi Phi
Located 42 kilometres from the provincial town of Krabi, Mu Ko Phi Phi (Phi Phi Islands) are an archipelago, formerly called Pulao Piah Pi. The surrounding sea is home to a variety of underwater anemones, coral reefs, and colourful marine life. The area is also a popular destination for snorkelling. Attractions of Mu Ko Phi Phi:Ko Phi Phi Don Ko Phi Phi Don (Phi Phi Don Island) covers an area of 28 square km. Popular attractions are the twin bays with curving beaches of Ao Ton Sai and Ao Lo Da Lam.
Ko Phi Phi Le
Covering an area of only 6.6 square kilometres, Phi Phi Le Island is surrounded by limestone mountains and sheer cliffs plunging hundreds of metres to the sea. The sea is 20 meters deep and the deepest point in the south of the island is around 34 meters. Ko Phi Phi Le has bays such as Ao Pi Le, Ao Maya, and Ao Lo Sa Ma. In the north-east of the island is a large cave called Tham Viking.
Hat Noppharat Thara
Situated 17 km from the provincial town of Krabi, Hat Noppharat Thara (Noppharat Thara Beach) is a 3-km long sandy beach lined with dense casuarinas. The beach, paved with tiny seashells, was formerly called Hat Khlong Haeng. The area is a long beach and stretches all the way to the island of Ko Khao Pak Khlong.
Su-san Hoi (Shell Cemetery)
Once a large freshwater swamp, the habitat of diverse mollusks of about 2 cm in size, Su-san Hoi features a slab formed from a huge number of embedded various types of mollusks which can be dated to approximately 40 million years ago. With changes on the surface of the earth, seawater flooded the freshwater swamp and the limestone elements in the seawater enveloped the submerged mollusks resulting in a homogenous layer of fossilized mollusk shells forty centimetres thick known as Shelley Limestone. With geographical upheavals, the limestone layer is now distributed in great broken sheets of impressive magnitude on the seashore.
Ao Nang Beach
is Krabi's most developed beach. Fringed by palms, the long beach is backed by a wide range of accommodation including resorts, bungalows and guesthouses. There are more than 83 offshore islands, which some of them are shaped like a boot, junk, or parrot’s head. Ko Poda, Ko Mo and Ko Thap are popular destinations among tourists for their beaches and coral reefs. They are popular islands for diving and snorkelling.
Hat Rai Le (Rai Le Beach East/West)
is surrounded from both sides by breathtaking towering limestone cliffs, thus making the area isolated from the mainland – only accessible by boat. Rai Le or Railay West has a world class white sand beach and is the longest of the beaches in this area. It goes without saying this is also the beach that most tourists flock to. Railey East is popular ‘hippy’ hang-out and offers cheaper accommodation than the West side. Unlike Railey West, Railey East beach is severely affected by the tides and has mangroves. R.East has its own beauty but the mainstream tourist would choose Railey West for beach quality.
Pra Nang Beach (Princess Cave Beach)
next door to Railay, has a much comparable if not better beach to Railay West and is the home to the 5 star Rayavadee Resort and Spa. Krabi's beaches are all public domain so the guests at Rayavadee have to share the beach with the day-trippers from Railay and Ao-Nang. This is not so bad but this also attracts a multitude of T-shirt, trinket and food sellers.
Hat Ton Sai (TonSai Beach)
Neighboring Rai Le (Railay) West but vastly different in terms of beach and tourist scene. The hard core backpackers all hang out here as it is one of the best areas for climbing and the accommodation can be around a tenth of the price of Railay. This beach also has one of the best nightlife scenes of the whole Krabi area! As of late this beach seems to be attracting more of the "flash packer" crowd who don't necessarily want the cheapest accommodation but just want the "Ton Sai experience".
Thale Waek or Separated Sea
During the lowest tide of the day, the sea is gradually separated by the white sand and limestone beach that will appear to connect two islands. From being the site of a meditation centre, it is also a place of archaeological interest, dating from the prehistoric into proto-historic times. Stone tools, potsherds, and unbaked clay votive tablets have been found.
Than Bokkhorani National Park
The park covers an area of 121 square km. The landscape is dominated by a series of limestone mountains, evergreen forests, mangrove forests, and numerous islands. The main flora is evergreen forest, peat swamp forest, strand forest, and mangrove forest, as well as, various types of marine flora. Other attractions include: Than Bokkhorani which is home to various flowing streams and numerous pools of different cascades among a shady forested area and two caves Tham Lot and Tham Phi Hua To
Namtok Ron - Khlong Thom
This area is full of hot springs in a shady forest. The temperature is not too hot at 40-50 degrees Celsius. The hot springs and cool streams converge on a slope to form lovely cascades with warm water.
Khao Pra - Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary
This is located at Tambon Khlong Thom Nuea. Comprising lowland forest, this area features the Emerald Pool or Sa Morakot, which are 3 hot springs with a temperature of 30 - 50 degrees Celsius. The forest is home to numerous flora and rare birds like Gurney's Pitta, Rufous-collared Kingfisher, and Black Hornbill. There is also a 2.7-km nature trail known as the Tina Jollife (Thung Tiao) Trail, named after an English activist wanting to conserve this batch of rainforest.
Mu Ko Lanta National Park
Covering a total area of 152 square kilometres, Mu Ko Lanta National Park is located in Amphoe Ko Lanta and consists of many islands. Some major islands are Ko Lanta Yai, Ko Lanta Noi, Ko Taleng Beng, as well as, other surrounding islands like Mu Ko Ha, Mu Ko Rok, and Ko Ngai.
Pa Phru Tha Pom Khlong Song Nam
Pa Phru or peat swamp forest of the canal of Tha Pom features a number of water sources, which originate from the Chong Phra Kaeo pool. Tha Pom is called Khlong Song Nam by the locals, which in Thai literally means "two water canal", because of its special feature location where crystal clear freshwater, which the pool’s floor and the roots of Lumphi palm (Eleiodoxa conferta) are virtually visible, meets seawater from the mangrove forest. Tha Pom features a natural trail made of lath.
PHUKET
Phuket is the biggest island in Thailand, located in the Andaman Sea of southern Thailand. The island is mostly mountainous with a mountain range in the west of the island from the north to the south. The mountains of Phuket form the southern end of the Phuket mountain range, which ranges for 440 km from the Kra Isthmus. The highest elevation of the island is Mai Thao Sip Song (Twelve Canes), at 529 m above sea level.
It is estimated that Phuket has a total area of approximately 570 square kilometers (including the provinces other islands). Phuket is approximately 536 miles (862 kilometers) south of Bangkok, and covers an area of approximately 134,178 acres (543 square kilometers) excluding small islets. It is estimated that if all its 39 other small islands are included, Phuket Province will cover an area of approximately 145,792 acres (590 square kilometers). The island total length, from north to south, is estimated at 30 miles (48.7 kilometers) and 13 miles (21.3 kilometers) wide.
Phuket's topology is exceptional with 70 percent of its area covered with mountains which stretch from north to south and the remaining 30 percent being plains located in the central and eastern parts of the island. The island does not have any major rivers except for a total of 9 brooks and creeks.
Forest, rubber and palm oil plantations cover 60% of the island.[citation needed] The western coast has several sandy beaches, while on the east coast beaches are more often muddy. Near the southernmost point is Laem Promthep(Brahma's Cape), which is a popular sunset viewing point. In the mountainous north of the island is the Khao Phra Thaeo Non-hunting Area, protecting more than 20 km² of rainforest. The three highest peaks of this reserve are the Khao Prathiu (384 m), Khao Bang Pae (388 m) and Khao Phara (422 m). The Sirinat National Park on the northwestern coast was established in 1981 and protects an area of 90 km² (68 km² marine area), including the Nai Yang beach where sea turtleslay their eggs.
One of the most popular tourist areas on Phuket is Patong Beach on the central western coast, perhaps owing to the easy access to its wide and long beach. Most of Phuket's nightlife and its cheap shopping is located in Patong, and the area has become increasingly developed. Patong means "the forest filled with banana leaves" in Thai. Other popular beaches are located south of Patong. In a counterclockwise direction these include Karon Beach, Kata Beach, Kata Noi Beach, and around the southern tip of the island, Nai Harn Beach and Rawai. To the north of Patong are Kamala Beach, Surin Beachand Bang Tao Beach. These areas are generally much less developed than Patong, and sought out by individuals, families and other groups with a preference for more relaxed and less crowded environs than Patong. There are many islands to the southeast, including Bon Island, just a short boat trip away. There are several coral islands to the south of Phuket, theSimilan Islands lie to the north west, and Phi Phi Islands to the south east. Islanders engage in a lively tourist trade, catering to snorkellers and scuba divers.
Map of Phuket province, Thailand, with the district (Amphoe) numbered.
1. Mueang Phuket
2. Kathu
3. Thalang
Sights
Two Heroines Monument
Phuket’s most famous monument in Amphoe Thalang is the memorial statue of the heroines Thao Thepkasattri (Kunying Jan) and Thao Sisunthon (Mook), who rallied islanders in 1785 to repel Burmese invaders. As the island's governor has just passed away, organizing Phuket's defense against the Brumese invasion of 1785 was conducted by his widow, Thao Thepkasattri. With her sister's help, they assembled what forces they had, then cleverly disguised local women as male soldiers, thus appearing to increase Phuket's military manpower. After a month's siege, the Burmese tired, lost heart and left. King Tama I awarded Kunying Jan with the royal title of Thao Thepkasattri.
Thalang National Museum
This is located near the Two Heroines Monument. In 1985, on the 200th anniversary of the Thalang War, the Thalang National Museum was established. The museum contain permanent exhibition of life in old Phuket, ancient artefacts and remains discovered on the coast and, materials used during war with Burma (Myanmar).[15] It is open daily except national holidays from 8.30 a.m. – 4.30 p.m. Admission is 30 baht. For more information call 0 7631 1426, 0 7631 3397, 0 7631 1206.
Hat Patong
15 kilometres from town, Patong is Phuket's most developed beach which offers numerous leisure, sporting, shopping and recreational options along its 3-kilometre long crescent bay. Windsurfing, snorkelling, sailing, swimming and sunbathing number among the many popular daytime activities. Patong is equally well known for its vibrant nightlife, among which seafood restaurants feature prominently.
Laem Phromthep
a headland forming the extreme south end of Phuket. "Phrom" is Thai for the Hindu term, "Brahma," signifying purity, and "Thep" means 'God.' Local villagers used to refer to the cape as "Laem Chao", or the God's Cape, and it was an easily recognizable landmark for the early seafarers traveling up the Malay Peninsula from the sub-continent.
Hat Karon
The second largest of Phuket's tourist beaches, some 20 kilometres from town. Large resort complexes line the road behind of the shoreline, but the long, broad beach itself has no development. The sand is very white, and squeaks audibly when walked upon. There are plenty of restaurants and tourist stores right across the street from the beach. The southern point has a fine coral reef stretching toward Kata and Bu Island. There is also its sister beach Karon Noi.
View Point This is located mid-point between Nai Han and Kata beaches. The scenic Kata Noi, Kata and Karon beaches, and Ko Pu Island can be viewed from this point.
Wat Chalong
This is where stands the cast statue of Luang Pho Cham, who helped the people of Phuket put down the Angyee, or Chinese Coolie Rebellion, in 1876 during the reign of Rama V. There are also statues of Luang Pho Chuang, and Luang Pho Cham, abbots of the temple during later times.
Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Conservation Development and Extension Centre
Its duty is to promote, distribute and wildlife within Khao Phra Thaeo wildlife park. The park is full of virgin forest and also actively conserves a number of wild animals; they would otherwise be extinct in Phuket. It is a center for study of the environment and the forest vegetation is spectacular. Giant trees supported by huge buttresses are thick with creepers and climbers of every description.
PHANG-NGA
Phang-nga is located on the west side of the Malay Peninsula, and includes many islands of the Phang Nga Bay. The most famous one is the so-called James Bond Island, a needle formed limestone rock in the sea, which featured in the 1974 movie The Man with the Golden Gun. The Ao Phang-Nga (Phang-Nga Bay) National Park was established in 1981 to protect the many fascinating islands. The Similan Islands, one of Thailand's main diving destinations, are also part of Phang Nga province. It is located 788 kilometres from Bangkok and covers an area of 4,170 square kilometres
Map of Phang-nga province, Thailand, with the district (Amphoe) numbered.
1. Mueang Phang-nga
2. Ko-yao
3. Kapong
4. Takua Thung
5. Takua Pa
6. Khura Buri
7. Thap Put
8. Thai Mueang
Sights
Phang-nga Bay or Ao Phang-nga National Park
was declared a national park in 1981. It has scenic views and features mass limestone formations scattered around in the sea near the shore. The same factors contribute to the density of caves in the area. The park is fertile with mangroves and there are a number of islands in the vicinity.
ko Panyi
a Muslim Fishing Village on stilts.
Mu Ko Similan National Park
was declared a national park in 1982. Similan is a small group of islands comprising nine islands stretching from north to south and is highly praised for its beautiful scenery, both onshore and underwater.
Mu Ko Surin National Park
is an archipelago of 5 islands: Ko Surin Nuea, Ko Surin Tai, Ko Ri, Ko Khai, and Ko Klang. It was declared a national park on July 9, 1981. The archipelago is located in the Andaman Sea, near the Thai-Burmese oceanic border, to the west of Thailand. There are coral reefs and the area is suitable for snorkeling.
Ko Phra Thong
located in Tambon Phra Thong. It is a large island northwest of Phang-nga. The island has many beaches. There is a large fresh water reservoir on the island.
Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park
was declared a national park in August 1991. The park occupies a vast area of 150 square kilometers and covers Amphoe Thai Mueang, Amphoe Kapong, Amphoe Takua Pa, and Amphoe Mueang. The interesting attractions are: Khao Lak , which has the Chao Pho Khao Lak Shrine, Laem Pakarang which has groves of pine, making it good for camping and relaxation and
Namtok Ton Chong Fa or Ton Chong Fa Waterfall.
Khao Lampi-Hat Thai Mueang National Park
The park occupies an area of 18,000 acres (Template:Convert/rais). It was declared a national park on April 14, 1988. Interesting attractions in the park include: Namtok Lampi is a 6-tiered waterfall that runs all year round, Namtok Ton Phrai is a huge waterfall that runs all year round and Hat Thai Mueang being a long beach where the Sea Turtle Festival is held annually.
Wat Suwannakhuha
located in Tambon Krasom, is a temple in Phang-nga. It is of historical and archaeological importance. Within the boundary of the temple is a mountain with numerous caves out of which one is also used as a temple and houses various manners of Buddha images. There are also Royal Monograms inscriptions on the walls of the cave.
Ko Yao
covers an area of 137 square kilometres (34,000 acres). The majority of the population are Muslim. The island is made up of 2 large islands:Ko Yao Noi and Ko Yao Yai.
Hat Khao Lak
located 32 kilometres (20 mi) from Takua Pa, is a long scenic beach along the Andaman Sea set beneath the green mountain of Khao Lak-Lamru National Park, parallel to the coast. The accommodation of Takua Pa along Khao Lak and Bang Sak Beach is built in the original southern architecture style.
Wat Rat Uppatham or Wat Bang Riang
located in Tambon Bang Riang, the temple, situated on Khao Lan hill, contains several structures including an elaborate bell-shaped pagoda called Chedi Phutthathambanlue. The hilltop pagoda overlooks surrounding undulating mountains and hills as well as a huge Buddha image and a Guan-yin Chinese Goddess statue.
Map of Phang-nga province, Thailand, with the district (Amphoe) numbered.
1. Mueang Phang-nga
2. Ko-yao
3. Kapong
4. Takua Thung
5. Takua Pa
6. Khura Buri
7. Thap Put
8. Thai Mueang
Sights
Phang-nga Bay or Ao Phang-nga National Park
was declared a national park in 1981. It has scenic views and features mass limestone formations scattered around in the sea near the shore. The same factors contribute to the density of caves in the area. The park is fertile with mangroves and there are a number of islands in the vicinity.
ko Panyi
a Muslim Fishing Village on stilts.
Mu Ko Similan National Park
was declared a national park in 1982. Similan is a small group of islands comprising nine islands stretching from north to south and is highly praised for its beautiful scenery, both onshore and underwater.
Mu Ko Surin National Park
is an archipelago of 5 islands: Ko Surin Nuea, Ko Surin Tai, Ko Ri, Ko Khai, and Ko Klang. It was declared a national park on July 9, 1981. The archipelago is located in the Andaman Sea, near the Thai-Burmese oceanic border, to the west of Thailand. There are coral reefs and the area is suitable for snorkeling.
Ko Phra Thong
located in Tambon Phra Thong. It is a large island northwest of Phang-nga. The island has many beaches. There is a large fresh water reservoir on the island.
Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park
was declared a national park in August 1991. The park occupies a vast area of 150 square kilometers and covers Amphoe Thai Mueang, Amphoe Kapong, Amphoe Takua Pa, and Amphoe Mueang. The interesting attractions are: Khao Lak , which has the Chao Pho Khao Lak Shrine, Laem Pakarang which has groves of pine, making it good for camping and relaxation and
Namtok Ton Chong Fa or Ton Chong Fa Waterfall.
Khao Lampi-Hat Thai Mueang National Park
The park occupies an area of 18,000 acres (Template:Convert/rais). It was declared a national park on April 14, 1988. Interesting attractions in the park include: Namtok Lampi is a 6-tiered waterfall that runs all year round, Namtok Ton Phrai is a huge waterfall that runs all year round and Hat Thai Mueang being a long beach where the Sea Turtle Festival is held annually.
Wat Suwannakhuha
located in Tambon Krasom, is a temple in Phang-nga. It is of historical and archaeological importance. Within the boundary of the temple is a mountain with numerous caves out of which one is also used as a temple and houses various manners of Buddha images. There are also Royal Monograms inscriptions on the walls of the cave.
Ko Yao
covers an area of 137 square kilometres (34,000 acres). The majority of the population are Muslim. The island is made up of 2 large islands:Ko Yao Noi and Ko Yao Yai.
Hat Khao Lak
located 32 kilometres (20 mi) from Takua Pa, is a long scenic beach along the Andaman Sea set beneath the green mountain of Khao Lak-Lamru National Park, parallel to the coast. The accommodation of Takua Pa along Khao Lak and Bang Sak Beach is built in the original southern architecture style.
Wat Rat Uppatham or Wat Bang Riang
located in Tambon Bang Riang, the temple, situated on Khao Lan hill, contains several structures including an elaborate bell-shaped pagoda called Chedi Phutthathambanlue. The hilltop pagoda overlooks surrounding undulating mountains and hills as well as a huge Buddha image and a Guan-yin Chinese Goddess statue.
RANONG
Ranong is located on the Kra Isthmus, the narrow strip that connects mainland Thailand with the Malay Peninsula, on the west side of the Phuket mountain range. It has a long coast on the Andaman Sea. The province is known for having the most rainfall of all Thailand, the rainy season lasting for about eight months. In 1955 the annual rainfall reached 6,699.5 mm, compared to about 1,200 in central Thailand.
The province is the least populated province of Thailand; 80% of the area is covered by forests, and 67% is mountainous terrain. Historically the major industry was tin mining, but most mines are now exhausted. White clay mining for the production of porcelain and fishing are the main industries today, together with rubber and cashew nutfarming.
The Ranong Biosphere Reserve in the north of Amphoe Kapoe covering 303.09 km² was declared in 1997. It is the fourth biosphere reserve of Thailand, but the only one located at the coast to protect the mangrove forests. In the south of the province is the Khlong Nakha Wildlife Sanctuary.
Map of Ranong province, Thailand, with the district (Amphoe) numbered.
1. Mueang Ranong
2. La-un
3. Kapoe
4. Kra Buri
5. Suk Samran (sub-district)
Sights
Rattanarangsarn Palace
Phraya Damrong sutjarit Mahitsornpakdee (Kor Sim Kong) built this throne hall for the residence of King Rama V during the royal visit to Ranong Province on April 23–25, 1890. It is located on the hilltop named "Niwest Kiree". But the original throne hall was later dismantled and replaced by the city hall and then the new provincial hall was built in 2002. It was made of teak wood. It is a historical tourist attraction of Ranong residents.
Ranong Governor’s Grave
This Chinese grave of Phraya Rattanasetthi (Kho Su Chiang), Ranong’s first governor, is situated on a piece of land dedicated by King Rama V. There are three tiers of stone platform with steps leading up to the grave with antique granite sculptures of Chinese noblemen, horses, goats and lions on both sides.
Hot Springs and Raksawarin Public Park
The hot springs have been a popular tourist spot ever since King Rama V visited Ranong in 1890. There are three natural spring pools. The temperature of the water in the pools remains constant at about 65 °C.
Wat Hat Som Paen
This temple is on Khlong Hat Som Paen and provides a sanctuary for a shoal of soro brook carp.
Wat suwan Khiri It contains a Burmese style Chedi, over 70 years old and 10 metres in height, which was built by a Burmese, a main ordination hall or Phra Ubosot where a beautifully bejeweled standing Buddha image is enshrined and a belfry decorated with a feline pattern.
Namtok Punyaban
Formerly known as Namtok Set Takuat, this 20-metre high waterfall is located at Mu 1 Tambon Bang Non, on the right at km. 597 on Highway No.4 towards Chumphon.
Namtok Ton Phet
Surrounded by moist evergreen forest with Ranong’s highest Phota Chong Dong Mountains being the source of water, each tier of the falls cascades down boulders all year round.
Phukhao Ya (Grass Hill) or Khao Hua Lan (Bald Hill)
Known to locals by a variety of names and endearingly referred to as Thailand’s version of a Swiss pasture, this hill is something of an anomaly as it is completely treeless, being covered instead by a thick blanket of grass.
Namtok Ngao National Park
Covering a total area of approximately 417,500 rai in Amphoe La-un and Amphoe Mueang of Ranong and Amphoe Sawi, Amphoe Thung Tako, Amphoe Lang Suan and Amphoe Phato of Chumphon, it was declared a national park on 3 June, 1999.
Ngao Mangrove Forest Research Centre
has been declared a World Biosphere Reserve Zone by UNESCO owing to the essential role this mangrove plays in maintaining the region's ecological integrity. Many species of marine life come to the mangrove to mate, incubate their eggs and care for their young until the offspring are strong enough to face the perils of the open sea.
Hat Chan Damri
This small beach and pier, and a nearby hillside viewpoint offer good vantage points from which to witness seafaring life along the mouth of Ranong's principal river.
Victoria Point or Ko Song An island in neighbouring Myanmar
Ko Chang (Ranong)
With an area of 18 square kilometres and 80 homes on the entire island. Cashew and para rubber plantations as well as coastal fisheries are the people’s main industries.
Ko Phayam
is famous for both its long fine white sandy beaches and for the cashew nuts which are grown on the island. A number of sea gypsies, or Chao Le, live on the island as well.
Mangrove Arboretum
Located within Pa Khlong Lamliang-La-un National Reserve area and attached to a concession forest, the mangrove became under concession for 15 years before reforestation under the Khlong La-un Mangrove project. Two years later, it was developed into a mangrove arboretum with a 1,500-metre long boardwalk being constructed.
Royal Initial Stones
There is an area where the royal initials of King Rama V were inscribed onto a stone to mark his royal visit. There are also inscriptions of Their Majesties King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit’s as well as Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s initials on their royal visit.
Kho Khot Kra or Kra Isthmus
The Kra Isthmus is the Malay Peninsula’s narrowest point, spanning a mere 44 kilometres from the Gulf of Thailand on the east coast to the Andaman Sea on the west coast. The Kra Isthmus provides an excellent vantage point from which to see the Kra Buri River forming a natural boundary between Thailand and Myanmar.
Tham Phra Khayang
Despite its small scale, this cave is related to a legend of the establishment of the district. Some 40 metres deep inside, a staircase leads upward and further outside the cave to where some rare herbs are believed to have been grown.
Namtok Chum Saeng or Namtok Sai Rung
In the rainy season, a lot of water cascades down the boulders in rainbow splashes. This is how it is called “Namtok Sai Rung” or Rainbow Waterfall.
Namtok Bok Krai
At the end of the road, a 20-metre walk through farmland and a moist forest will lead to this enormous waterfall that runs throughout the year.
Khlong Nakha Wildlife Reserve
This wildlife reserve houses a breathtaking waterfall known as Namtok Phan Met amid a stretch of verdant forest.
Laem Son National Park
It covers a total area of 196,875 rai. It also covers islands in the Andaman Sea; namely, Ko Khangkhao and Mu Ko Kam. Places of interest within the national park include:
Hat Bang Ben
is a long and vast sandy beach shaded by pine trees where the national park headquarters is located.
Hat Laem Son
is a white sandy beach approximately 4 kilometres next to Hat Bang Ben.
Hat Praphat or Hat Hin Thung
is located at Mu 2 Tambon Kam Phuan. Similar to Hat Bang Ben, Hat Praphat is a large beach shaded by pine trees.
The province is the least populated province of Thailand; 80% of the area is covered by forests, and 67% is mountainous terrain. Historically the major industry was tin mining, but most mines are now exhausted. White clay mining for the production of porcelain and fishing are the main industries today, together with rubber and cashew nutfarming.
The Ranong Biosphere Reserve in the north of Amphoe Kapoe covering 303.09 km² was declared in 1997. It is the fourth biosphere reserve of Thailand, but the only one located at the coast to protect the mangrove forests. In the south of the province is the Khlong Nakha Wildlife Sanctuary.
Map of Ranong province, Thailand, with the district (Amphoe) numbered.
1. Mueang Ranong
2. La-un
3. Kapoe
4. Kra Buri
5. Suk Samran (sub-district)
Sights
Rattanarangsarn Palace
Phraya Damrong sutjarit Mahitsornpakdee (Kor Sim Kong) built this throne hall for the residence of King Rama V during the royal visit to Ranong Province on April 23–25, 1890. It is located on the hilltop named "Niwest Kiree". But the original throne hall was later dismantled and replaced by the city hall and then the new provincial hall was built in 2002. It was made of teak wood. It is a historical tourist attraction of Ranong residents.
Ranong Governor’s Grave
This Chinese grave of Phraya Rattanasetthi (Kho Su Chiang), Ranong’s first governor, is situated on a piece of land dedicated by King Rama V. There are three tiers of stone platform with steps leading up to the grave with antique granite sculptures of Chinese noblemen, horses, goats and lions on both sides.
Hot Springs and Raksawarin Public Park
The hot springs have been a popular tourist spot ever since King Rama V visited Ranong in 1890. There are three natural spring pools. The temperature of the water in the pools remains constant at about 65 °C.
Wat Hat Som Paen
This temple is on Khlong Hat Som Paen and provides a sanctuary for a shoal of soro brook carp.
Wat suwan Khiri It contains a Burmese style Chedi, over 70 years old and 10 metres in height, which was built by a Burmese, a main ordination hall or Phra Ubosot where a beautifully bejeweled standing Buddha image is enshrined and a belfry decorated with a feline pattern.
Namtok Punyaban
Formerly known as Namtok Set Takuat, this 20-metre high waterfall is located at Mu 1 Tambon Bang Non, on the right at km. 597 on Highway No.4 towards Chumphon.
Namtok Ton Phet
Surrounded by moist evergreen forest with Ranong’s highest Phota Chong Dong Mountains being the source of water, each tier of the falls cascades down boulders all year round.
Phukhao Ya (Grass Hill) or Khao Hua Lan (Bald Hill)
Known to locals by a variety of names and endearingly referred to as Thailand’s version of a Swiss pasture, this hill is something of an anomaly as it is completely treeless, being covered instead by a thick blanket of grass.
Namtok Ngao National Park
Covering a total area of approximately 417,500 rai in Amphoe La-un and Amphoe Mueang of Ranong and Amphoe Sawi, Amphoe Thung Tako, Amphoe Lang Suan and Amphoe Phato of Chumphon, it was declared a national park on 3 June, 1999.
Ngao Mangrove Forest Research Centre
has been declared a World Biosphere Reserve Zone by UNESCO owing to the essential role this mangrove plays in maintaining the region's ecological integrity. Many species of marine life come to the mangrove to mate, incubate their eggs and care for their young until the offspring are strong enough to face the perils of the open sea.
Hat Chan Damri
This small beach and pier, and a nearby hillside viewpoint offer good vantage points from which to witness seafaring life along the mouth of Ranong's principal river.
Victoria Point or Ko Song An island in neighbouring Myanmar
Ko Chang (Ranong)
With an area of 18 square kilometres and 80 homes on the entire island. Cashew and para rubber plantations as well as coastal fisheries are the people’s main industries.
Ko Phayam
is famous for both its long fine white sandy beaches and for the cashew nuts which are grown on the island. A number of sea gypsies, or Chao Le, live on the island as well.
Mangrove Arboretum
Located within Pa Khlong Lamliang-La-un National Reserve area and attached to a concession forest, the mangrove became under concession for 15 years before reforestation under the Khlong La-un Mangrove project. Two years later, it was developed into a mangrove arboretum with a 1,500-metre long boardwalk being constructed.
Royal Initial Stones
There is an area where the royal initials of King Rama V were inscribed onto a stone to mark his royal visit. There are also inscriptions of Their Majesties King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit’s as well as Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s initials on their royal visit.
Kho Khot Kra or Kra Isthmus
The Kra Isthmus is the Malay Peninsula’s narrowest point, spanning a mere 44 kilometres from the Gulf of Thailand on the east coast to the Andaman Sea on the west coast. The Kra Isthmus provides an excellent vantage point from which to see the Kra Buri River forming a natural boundary between Thailand and Myanmar.
Tham Phra Khayang
Despite its small scale, this cave is related to a legend of the establishment of the district. Some 40 metres deep inside, a staircase leads upward and further outside the cave to where some rare herbs are believed to have been grown.
Namtok Chum Saeng or Namtok Sai Rung
In the rainy season, a lot of water cascades down the boulders in rainbow splashes. This is how it is called “Namtok Sai Rung” or Rainbow Waterfall.
Namtok Bok Krai
At the end of the road, a 20-metre walk through farmland and a moist forest will lead to this enormous waterfall that runs throughout the year.
Khlong Nakha Wildlife Reserve
This wildlife reserve houses a breathtaking waterfall known as Namtok Phan Met amid a stretch of verdant forest.
Laem Son National Park
It covers a total area of 196,875 rai. It also covers islands in the Andaman Sea; namely, Ko Khangkhao and Mu Ko Kam. Places of interest within the national park include:
Hat Bang Ben
is a long and vast sandy beach shaded by pine trees where the national park headquarters is located.
Hat Laem Son
is a white sandy beach approximately 4 kilometres next to Hat Bang Ben.
Hat Praphat or Hat Hin Thung
is located at Mu 2 Tambon Kam Phuan. Similar to Hat Bang Ben, Hat Praphat is a large beach shaded by pine trees.
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Thailand — my country, my pleasure.
Thailand is an independent country that lies in the heart of Southeast Asia. It is bordered to the north by Burma and Laos, to the east by Laos and Cambodia, to the south by the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia, and to the west by the Andaman Sea and the southern extremity of Burma. Its maritime boundaries include Vietnam in the Gulf of Thailand to the southeast and Indonesia and India in the Andaman Sea to the southwest.
The Andaman Sea or Burma Sea is a body of water to the southeast of the Bay of Bengal, south of Myanmar, west of Thailand and east of the Andaman Islands; it is part of the Indian Ocean. It is roughly 1,200 kilometres (750 mi) (north-south) and 650 kilometres (400 mi) wide (east-west), with an area of 797,700 square kilometres (308,000 sq mi). Its average depth is 870 metres (2,854 ft), and the maximum depth is 3,777 metres (12,392 ft).
The country is a kingdom, a constitutional monarchy with King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the ninth king of the House of Chakri, who has reigned since 1946, making him the world's longest-serving current head of state and the longest-reigning monarch in Thai history.[6] The king is officially titled as the Head of State, the Head of the Armed Forces, an Upholder of the Buddhist religion, and the Defender of all Faiths. The largest city in Thailand is Bangkok, the capital, which is also the country's center of political, commercial, industrial and cultural activities.
The country's official language is Thai. Thailand has a prevalence of Buddhism that ranks among the highest in the world. The national religion is TheravadaBuddhism which is practiced by more than 94.7% of all Thais. Muslims make up 4.6% of the population and 0.7% belong to other religions. Thai culture and traditions are mainly influenced by Chinese, and to a lesser degree, by Indian culture, along with Burma, Laos and Cambodia.
Thailand is an independent country that lies in the heart of Southeast Asia. It is bordered to the north by Burma and Laos, to the east by Laos and Cambodia, to the south by the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia, and to the west by the Andaman Sea and the southern extremity of Burma. Its maritime boundaries include Vietnam in the Gulf of Thailand to the southeast and Indonesia and India in the Andaman Sea to the southwest.
The Andaman Sea or Burma Sea is a body of water to the southeast of the Bay of Bengal, south of Myanmar, west of Thailand and east of the Andaman Islands; it is part of the Indian Ocean. It is roughly 1,200 kilometres (750 mi) (north-south) and 650 kilometres (400 mi) wide (east-west), with an area of 797,700 square kilometres (308,000 sq mi). Its average depth is 870 metres (2,854 ft), and the maximum depth is 3,777 metres (12,392 ft).
The country is a kingdom, a constitutional monarchy with King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the ninth king of the House of Chakri, who has reigned since 1946, making him the world's longest-serving current head of state and the longest-reigning monarch in Thai history.[6] The king is officially titled as the Head of State, the Head of the Armed Forces, an Upholder of the Buddhist religion, and the Defender of all Faiths. The largest city in Thailand is Bangkok, the capital, which is also the country's center of political, commercial, industrial and cultural activities.
The country's official language is Thai. Thailand has a prevalence of Buddhism that ranks among the highest in the world. The national religion is TheravadaBuddhism which is practiced by more than 94.7% of all Thais. Muslims make up 4.6% of the population and 0.7% belong to other religions. Thai culture and traditions are mainly influenced by Chinese, and to a lesser degree, by Indian culture, along with Burma, Laos and Cambodia.
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