Phang-nga is a seaside province by the Andaman Sea with scenic views of forests and islands. The province offers superb natural beauty both onshore and underwater.
Slogan: "Massive mining industry, Ban Klang Nam _gfloating house_h delightful caves, strangely-shaped hills, Jampun flower, rich in resources."
Phang-nga was originally inhabited by small communities and named Kraphu-nga. During the reign of King Rama II, nearby areas (including Thalung, now known as Phuket) were occupied by the Burmese and so many people fled to Kraphu-nga. In 1824, Siamese troops defeated the Burmese and the invaders were expelled. King Rama III renamed the area Phang-nga and in 1933 the town was expanded to be a province.
On the fateful morning of 26 December 2004, Phang-nga Bay was devastated by a Tsunami disaster and thousands of people lost their lives.
It is administratively divided into 8 Amphoe (districts):
'''Distances from Amphoe Mueang to Other Districts'''
#First route: From Bangkok, take Highway No. 4, passing the provinces of Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, and Ranong, then drive straight to Phang-nga town. It is 788 kilometres from Bangkok. The trip takes around 12 hours. #Second route: From Bangkok, take Highway No.4 to Chumphon, from there, take Highway No. 41 to Amphoe Tha Chang, then go straight to an intersection where a right turn is made to Highway No. 401, keep driving to Amphoe Ban Ta Khun for about 50 kilometres, and then take Highway No. 415 for 30 kilometres, take a right turn to Phang-nga town. #Visitors travelling from Phuket should use Highway No. 402, passing Sarasin Bridge to Ban Khok Kloi, take a right turn to Amphoe Takua Thung. It is 87 kilometres from Phuket. The journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
There are daily bus services from Bangkok to Phang-nga. Air-conditioned buses, varying in 3 types, depart from Bangkok_fs Southern Bus Terminal at the following times:
Travelling time is 12 hours. For more information call the Southern Bus Terminal at tel. 0 2435 1199-200 or the Phang-nga Bus Terminal at tel: 0 7641 2300, 0 7641 2014.
There is no direct train to Phang-nga. The State Railways of Thailand operates daily train services between Bangkok and Surat Thani. A trip to Phang-nga can be made by getting off at the Surat Thani Railway Station and then take on a bus for another two hours. For more information call Bangkok_fs Hualamphong Railway Station at tel. 1690, 0 2223 7010, 0 2223 7020 or visit http://www.railway.co.th.
Thai Airways International operates Bangkok-Phuket flights daily. From Phuket, take a bus or rent a car to Phang-nga for about 58 kilometres. For more information, call Thai Airways at tel: 1566 or 0 2280 0060, 0 2628 2000 or Phuket office at tel. 0 7636 0444 or visit http://www.thaiair.com.
Bangkok Airways has daily flight connecting Phuket Airport with Pattaya and Ko Samui. For more information contact their Bangkok office at tel. 0 2265 5678. Reservation can be made at tel. 0 2265 5555 or Phuket office tel. 0 7622 5033, 0 7622 5034. Alternatively, browse its website at http://www.bangkokair.com for more flight details.
One ? to ? Go by Orient Thai operates a daily flight between Bangkok and Phuket Airport. Call 1126, Phuket office at tel. 0 7635 1460, 0 7635 1238 or visit http://www.onetwo-go.com for more information. (Currently no service)
Air Asia also offers several daily flights connecting Bangkok and Phuket Airport. Visit www.airasia.com or call 02 5159999 or Phuket office at tel. 0 7635 1428, 0 7636 9182 for reservations.
Nok Air has several daily flights between Bangkok and Phuket. Visit http://www.nokair.com or call 1318 to make your reservation. (Currently stop Bangkok - Phuket route)
The most popular form of getting around in Phang-nga is by Songthaew (public passenger pick-up vehicles). To get to and from other districts, there is a public non air-conditioned bus service or even cars for rent. And for a day out on the islands, there are long-tailed boats for hire.
Situated on the Andaman Sea, Phang-nga province is famed for amazing natural beauty in terms of sea, beaches, islands, mountains and forests. Phang-nga_fs popularity has not been jolted by the Tsunami disaster of 2004 and the tourists are coming back in droves, just like before.
Phang-nga is a melting pot of Buddhists, Thai-Chinese, Muslims and even sea gypsies. The majority of the population in the rural areas is Muslim. Phang-nga however, does not suffer from any religious tension and the folk live in peace and harmony. Outside of the provincial town, the rural folk speak with a thick Southern dialect which is difficult for even other Thais to understand.
With this kind of mixture, Phang-nga is always celebrating something be it part of Thai Buddhist, Thai-Chinese or Thai-Islamic tradition.
Situated on the small island of Ko Surin is a community of Morgan Sea Gypsies who still live their traditional life as sea-faring people. These sea gypsies speak Yawi dialect and are more than welcome to tourists. However, just like the Long-necked Karen in Mae Hong Son, some folk complain that their village resembles a bit like a human zoo with hoards of tourists walking around gawking at the villagers. There are organized tours from Phang-nga which go there.
'''Manora or Nora (???????????????)''' is an art form native to southern Thailand. The performance has graceful and beautiful dance postures. The singer will sing the lyrics ad-lib. Therefore, he or she would have to be a quick thinker to find words that rhyme and that are meaningful in lyrics, dance and costume. Accompanying musical instruments include drums, cymbals, gongs, Java pipes, and castanets. Nowadays Nora has developed into incorporating modern instruments.
'''Shadow Play (?????????)''' is a popular art of southern Thailand. Dried animal hide is carved into drama figures like a hermit, a lord, a lead actor, a lead actress, a giant, and a clown. The figures are held up behind a lighted screen to create shadows on it. Nai Nang or the puppeteer will sing verses or narrate the performance. He must have exceptional reflexes and be able to narrate the whole story by himself. Musical instruments used are the same as for Nora, with perhaps So U and So Duang (stringed instruments) added in.
'''Li-ke Pa (???????)''' is also called Li-ke Bok or Li-ke Rammana. This type of performance is different from the usual Li-ke as the performers wear other kinds of costumes. Li-ke Pa is popular among Thai Muslims. Only 3 performers play in a single set the whole show. However, the set will have a location name change to correspond to the story being played. Musical instruments used include 2-3 tambourines, cymbals, gongs, and pipes.
'''Water Melon Day (???????????)''' is organized every year around January and February in the front yard of Kura Buri District Office. One can enjoy the water melon beauty contest, as well as exhibitions from local government offices and a food competition.
'''Free The Turtles Fair (????????????????)''' is annually held in March at Thai Muang Beach. The celebration takes place for 7 days. During the festival baby turtles raised by the Fisheries Department are released into the sea at Thai Mueang Beach.
'''Songkran Festival (??????????????????)''' takes place on April 13, every year, at Suan Somdet in front of Phang-Nga Municipal Office and on the public square in Takuapa District Office. There are a merit making ceremonies, a water-pouring ceremony to pay respect to monks and elderly people, and many shows performed by local students.
'''The Ma Jor Poh Statue Procession (????????????????????????????????)''' takes place along the inner road in Nam Pud cave near the large market. It's a yearly ceremony taking place around February and March organized by the descendants of Chinese immigrants in Phang- Nga. The statue of Ma Jor Poh is carried on an ancient Chinese carriage around the town along with the weapons of various sacred spirits from the Chinese temple with traditional music played on Chinese musical instruments. Each of the spirits has got particular characteristics and they are welcomed by local people who put a table covered with a red cloth with chopsticks, sweets and fruits in front of their house. If a "spirit-carrying" person drops by and picks up a sweet and/or fruit from any house, the owner is very happy as it's believed to be a sign of good luck. In the temple, there are several ceremonies held throughout seven nights. There are also various shops and entertainment such as Talung puppet shows, Manora dances, etc.
'''The Chao Ley (sea gypsy)Boat Floating Festival(?????????????????)''' of the Morgan people takes place around April and May every year in a sea gypsy village on South Surin Island. It's a ceremony to celebrate the ancestor's spirits (Nia An Lo Pong). Morgan sea gypsies of all kinds join in this ceremony. The ceremony includes spirit dwelling, ancestor worshipping, fortune telling, music performances, dances, and "Kabang" floating which is believed to take away all sickness and bad luck from their families and community.
'''The worshipping ceremony of Narayana and his followers (???????????????????????????????????)''' a Hindu ceremony, takes place around May every year at Narayana Park, Takuapa District. There are also various shops, several forms of entertainment, and activities performed by students.
'''Vegetarian Festival (???????????????????)''' The Phang-Nga Vegetarian Festival : Similar to the well-known Vegetarian Festival in Phuket and Trang, this festival is held from the first through the ninth nights of the ninth Chinese lunar month ; that is, in September or October.
'''Amazing Phang-Nga Festival :''' High Season Opening in Phang Nga (??????????????????????????????????????) "Opening of the Amazing Phang-Nga" is scheduled in the second week of November every year. There is an opening and special events ceremony Khao Lak Center. The ceremony features entertainment, cultural shows, an exhibition of tourist attractions, water sports and local sport competitions, local products shops, and enjoy vast variety of sea food from many resort in Khao Lak. There are also special discounts for tours and accommodation to welcome in the high season.
'''Free The Turtles Fair (????????????????)''' is annually held in March at Thai Mueang Beach. The celebration takes place for 7 days. During the festival baby turtles raised by the Fisheries Department are released into the sea at Thai Mueang Beach.
Created by the local Farmer_fs Housewives Organization, artificial flowers made from rubber and fish scales are souvenirs symbolic of Phang-nga province. The products are sold at Phang-nga Provincial Agricultural Office and the Farmer_fs Housewives Organization. For more information, contact the Phang-nga Provincial Agricultural Office, Monday to Friday, 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m., Tel: +66 7641 2019.
Phang-nga town is a quiet little town with none of Phuket_fs hubbub but a great deal of its own charm.
'''Khao Chang (???????)''' is a huge mountain resembling a crouched elephant situated behind Phang-nga_fs former city hall. It is considered a symbol of Phang-nga. Inside the mountain, there is a dark and long cave called Tham Phung Chang which is full of stalactites and stalagmites.
'''Somdet Phra Srinagarindra Park (???????????????????????)''' is opposite the former city hall. This is a beautiful public park surround by limestone mountains. There are two adjoining caves called Tham Ruesi Sawan and Tham Luk Suea (??????????????????????????), in which a stream and formations of stalactites and stalagmites are found.
'''Sa Nang Manora Forest Park (?????????????????????)''' is located in Tambon Nop Pring, and approachable by driving on Phang-nga - Krabi (Highway No. 4) route for 4 kilometres, then take a right turn for another 4 kilometres. The park contains shady cascades and small basins as well as a 2-kilometre nature trail.
'''Phang-nga Wildlife Nursery Station (???????????????????????????????????)''' is situated alongside Phetkasem Road, Tambon Tak Daet. From Phuket, the station is located on the route to Phang-nga Bay. It nurses rare and nearly extinct wildlife, particularly birds, including mynahs, parrots, hawks, pheasants, and peacocks. The station also houses some interesting animals such as mountain goats, monkeys, bears, and ducks. It is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information call 0 7641 3261.
'''Ton Pariwat Wildlife Conservation Area (????????????????????????????????)''' is situated in Tambon Song Phraek, on a route between Phang-nga town and Kapong district. To get there, visitors travel 5 kilometres from Phang-nga town along Highway No.4, then take a right turn at Ban Song Phraek for 10 kilometres. There, one finds shady plants, streams and a waterfall.
'''Phang-nga Bay or Ao Phang-nga National Park (???????????????????????)''' covers a vast area both onshore and offshore of about 250,000 rais (100,000 acres), covering the areas of Amphoe Mueang, Amphoe Takua Thung, and Amphoe Ko Yao. It was declared a national park on 29th April B.E. 2524 (1981). Ao Phang-nga National Park is the second seacoast national park after Tarutao National Park. It has striking scenic views because of a mass of limestone formations scattered around in the sea near the shore. Also, as a result of natural changes; caves and rock formations have been formed. The park is also fertile with mangroves. Best time to visit is between December and April. The most popular way to visit is a boat ride to various islands, which include:
'''Ko Panyi (??????????)''' a small island made from limestone hills and plains. This is an interesting Muslim community. There are about 200 households of fishermen. On the island, there are many restaurants and souvenir shops.
'''Ko Phanak (????????)''' is a beautiful island with caves that house stalactite and stalagmite formations as well as small cascade, which flows onto several tiers.
'''Khao Phing Kan (?????????)''' Named so because of its nature of being split into two halves. The smaller rock slid down, with its foundation stuck under the ground and the upper parts still leaning against each other. Behind the mountain is a superb scenery. Looking into the sea one finds _gKhao Tapu_h, a nail-shaped island, a solitary pillar in the sea. It is the most remarkable attraction of Ao Phang-nga National Park.
'''Khao Machu (????????)''', a striking appearance rock formation is located on the way to Ko Panyi. It resembles a dog; its head, body, with a bushy tail.
'''Khao Khian (????????)''', is on the way to Panyi Island. On the cliff which stands above the sea, there are pre-historic paintings featuring various kinds of animals. A study by the Department of Fine Arts has indicated that these paintings are over 3,000 years old. They are assumed to have been painted by seamen who use this place to escape from the monsoon.
'''Tham Lot (??????)''' is a lofty limestone cave with a giant hollow whereby boats can pass through. In a hollow, there are numerous stalactite formations on its ceiling, beyond the hollow is a beautiful sight of the mangrove forest.
'''Ko Hong (????????)''', with big and small mountains. Sailing to this island gives you a feeling of being surrounded in a large hall with two doors. It will give you an immense feeling of the power of nature_fs creation.
''How to Get There''
Ao Phang-nga National Park is situated 12 kilometres from Phang-nga town. Travel 8 kilometres from the town via Highway No. 4, then turn left into Highway No. 4114 and continue for 4 kilometres to the Ao Phang-nga National Park_fs headquarters where visitors can obtain tourist information. The trip can also be made by riding a local bus from Phang-nga town. Several tour operators in Phang-nga and Phuket organise a day trip to Phang-nga Bay.
Chartered boats around Phang-nga Bay are available at the following piers:
For more information call:
Or contact the following businesses:
'''Mu Ko Similan National Park (?????????????????????????????)''' _gSimilan_h is a Yawi or Malay word, which means nine or a group of nine islands. It is located in Tambon Ko Phra Thong, Amphoe Khura Buri, occupying an area of 32,000 acres. It was declared a national park on 1st September 1982. Similan is a small group of islands comprising nine islands stretching from north to south, respectively, namely: Ko Bon, Ko Bayu, Ko Similan, Ko Payu, Ko Miang (two adjoining islands), Ko Payan, Ko Payang, and Ko Huyong. The National Park_fs office is located on Ko Miang. Similan is highly praised for its beautiful scenery, both onshore and underwater. It is situated 70 kilometres from Phang-nga town. Best time to visit is between November to April.
Interesting attractions in the National Park include:
'''Ko Similan or Ko Paet (??????????????????????)''' is the largest island in this group of islands. It has a distinctive horseshoe-shaped bay. The average depth of the water is 60 feet. Underwater is full of rock formations and coral reefs in several shapes and forms such as deer, leaf, brain, and mushroom. The latter one is the most unspoiled coral found in the country. Its soft sandy beach is very beautiful and diving around here will let you see a lot of fishes and coral. To the north, lies a striking large rock formation with astonishing shapes such as boot and Donald Duck_fs head. The upper part of the beach is an ideal lookout point with a rock of a sailing boat shape.
'''Ko Ba-ngu (????????)''' is the ninth island of the Similan group of islands. It has a strange feature. Looking from one point, the shape of a skull can be seen. Underwater is as beautiful as a valley full of coral reefs, deep gorge, and various sizes of fish.
'''Ko Huyong (????????)''', the island offers the whitest and longest beach of all the nine islands. During turtles_f egg laying season, from November to February, there would be tracks on the beach from turtles that come onshore to lay eggs, resembling centipede tracks.
'''Ko Miang (??????????)''' is the second largest island among 9 islands after Similan Island. It is where the office of the National Park is located. The island offers a scenic beach which is suitable for camping. Similan National Park at tel. 0 7642 2136, 0 7659 5045, 0 2562 0760 or e-mail: similan_np@hotmail.com
'''Diving Spots'''
There are several diving spots that suit both snorkeling and scuba diving. The famous scuba diving spots including rock formations that lie to the west of Ko Tachai where whale sharks can be seen, Ko Bon, Christmas Point rock formation, Fantasy rock formation, and Ao Kwang En (to the east of Ko Paet), etc. Snorkeling spots are scattered around these nine islands. The interesting points are by the sailing boat rock, Ao Kwang En, and behind Miang Island.
''How to Get There''
Thap Lamu Pier, located 70 kilometres north of Phang-nga at Amphoe Thai Mueang, is the nearest point to Similan. A boat trip takes around 3 hours. There is no regular boat service for travellers to the island. Boats leaving from Thap Lamu are suitable for group tours and the boat rentals range from 8,000-10,000 baht, depending on various factors. It is sometimes possible for individuals to hitch a ride or pay a reasonable fraction of the rental cost on a boat chartered by a group. This method is by no means certain and should be an option only for the adventurers who have time to spare. Visitors may contact the park office at Thap Lamu (Tel: 0 7659 5045) for further information. Tour operators provide transport and tour packages to this popular destination.
A boat trip from Patong Beach, Phuket takes around 6 hours. Diving companies in Phuket and Khao Lak also organise liveaboards. Prices range from 15,900 to 55,000 baht, depending on the level of luxury, and include food, and accommodations.
Accommodation: There are bungalows and tents as well as restaurants available on the island. Admision fee is 400 baht. Snorkeling equipments are available for rent. For more information contact Mu Ko Similan National Park, Mu 1, Thap Lamu, Tambon Lam Kaen, Amphoe Thai Mueang, Phang-nga 82120.
'''Mu Ko Surin National Park (??????????????????????????????)''', located in Tambon Ko Phra Thong and covering an area of 84,375 rais (33,750 acres). This 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 sea border, to the west coast of Thailand. There are beautiful and unspoilt coral reefs; the area is suitable for snorkeling. The best time to visit is from November to April.
'''Ko Surin Nuea (?????????????????)''' has several bays. The most well-known bay is Ao Mae Yai (??????????), the largest bay that offers calm waters. To the southeast of Ko Surin Nuea lies Ao Luek, which is so deep that the sea appears dark green, offering splendid shallow corals as well as sea weeds, sea flowers, coral lines, and various species of fish.
'''Sea Gypsy Village (?????????????)''', a Singha, or Morgan, Sea Gypsy tribe resides on the shore of Hat Sai En, Ko Surin Nuea. There are 130-150 sea gypsies who still hold on to their traditional ways of life and still live in their boats. On shore, there is a wooden sculpture resembling the Indian Totem Pole and is considered a sacred area. Every year, on the 15th day of the waxing moon in April, the sea gypsies in this village would worship their respected spirits. The event lasts for 3 days. Ao Mai Ngam (??????????), situated to the west of Ko Surin Nuea with the National Park_fs office nearby. There is a 2-kilometre walking path that you can take to enjoy the natural features of Hat Mai Ngam or you can take a longboat ride. The lovely bay provides fresh water and a long beach that is best for snorkeling and swimming. Ao Chak (???????), situated to the north of Ko Surin Nuea. The bay possesses unspoilt coral reefs.
Interesting attractions on Ko Surin Tai (???????????????) include Ao Tao (????????), situated to the east of the island. The bay is home to numerous sea turtles and magnificent coral reefs. Ao Phakkat (??????????), situated to the south of Ko Surin Tai. It is where unspoilt coral reefs can be seen.
'''Ko Klang or Ko Pachumba (???????????????????????)''' has a scenic bay called Ao Mangkon (?????????). The bay is teeming with splendid coral reefs and many schools of various kinds of fish.
'''Ko Khai or Ko Torilla (??????? ???? ???????????)''', situated to the south of Ko Surin Tai. On the eastern side of the island there is a long stretch of unspoilt and picturesque coral reef. Snorkeling is the most recommended activity here.
''How to get there''
Travelling to Mu Ko Surin can be initiated from several different points: Khura Buri Pier is the nearest point to Mu Ko Surin. Khura Buri is some 125 kilometres north of Phang-nga. A boat trip takes around 3 hours. There is no regular boat service for travellers to Ko Surin. Boats leaving from Khura Buri are suitable for group tours. For more information contact:
Amphoe Kapoe Pier is in Ranong Province. The trip takes 7 hours. Visitors may contact Chansom Tara Hotel (tel: 0 7783 5317-9) which has boats leaving Chan Damri Beach for trips to Mu Ko Surin.
Note: The best way for individual travellers is to join a trip out of Phuket that includes Mu Ko Surin on the itinerary. This typically lasts at least 3 days and includes visits to Mu Ko Similan.
Accommodation:There are lodges, bungalows, tents, and restaurants available. Admission fee is 200 baht. Scuba diving equipments are available for rent. For more information, contact Mu Ko Surin National Park, Amphoe Khura Buri, Phang-nga, 82150. Tel: 0 7647 2145-6.
'''Si Phang-nga National Park (??????????????????????)''', covering the areas of Amphoe Khura Buri and Amphoe Takua Pa and situated 100 kilometres from Phang-nga town. The park was established in honour of His Majesty the King on his 60th birthday anniversary. This forested piece of land is home to a large variety of flora and fauna. Getting to the park, visitors can take Highway No.4 (Takua Pa ? Ranong) and then take a right turn at Km. 756 for another 5 kilometres. Interesting attractions in the park include:
'''Namtok Tam Nang (???????????)''', located 4.5 kilometres from the National Park_fs office, and another walk of 500 metres will take you to the 60 metres-high waterfall. The surrounding area is full of lush vegetation and big shady trees making it nice and cool.
'''Namtok Ton Toei (???????????)''' is a 45 metre-high waterfall. A journey on foot, and back, which begins from the National Park, takes about 3 hours. On the way, there is a small 10 metre-high waterfall, Namtok Noi, to be seen. The path passes through groves of big dense evergreen trees and vine forests.
'''Namtok Ton Sai (???????????):''' Before you reach the check point into the Park, you will come upon a small path on your right and a 15-minute walk down this path will lead you to a lovely waterfall. The 20 metre-high falls is in a dense grove of banyan tree and is worth a visit.
Admission is 200 baht. Visitors wishing to stay overnight in the park should bring their own tents. Contact the Si Phang-nga National Park at tel: 0 7641 2611.
'''Ko Phra Thong (??????????)''', located in Tambon Phra Thong. It is a large island northwest of Phang-nga. The island is an ideal holiday paradise containing unspoilt natural beauty as well as wonderful beaches. There is a large fresh water reservoir on the island. You can charter a boat ride from Khura Buri pier to the island. The trip takes just over an hour. Private accommodation is available.
'''Hat Bang Sak (?????????)''', located in Tambon Bang Muang on Phetkasem Road, on the Thai Mueang - Takua Pa section, between Km.76-77 and going down a side road for another hundred metres. The beach of Bang Sak has clean white sand and stretches along a grove of shady pines. Accommodation and restaurant are available on the beach.
'''Hat Khao Lak (??????????????)''', 32 kilometres from Takua Pa, is now an interesting destination for domestic and overseas tourists. It has an advantage of beautiful, long beach of Andaman Sea and green mountain of Khao Lak-Lamru National Park parallel to the coast. The accommodation of Takua Pa along Khao Lak and Bang Sak Beach are built in the original southern architecture style. With the combination of the hospitality of local people who love in nature and environment, seaside town of Khao Lak ?Takuapa has its unique and charms of attracting tourists to the area.
'''Takuapa's Talad Yai (market) (?????????????????)''' is situated at Baan Talad Yai, Takuapa District; an ancient port, prosperous in the Ayudhya period. This area features interesting townhouses in the Sino-Portuguese style. These houses belonged to the Chinese tin miners in former times.
'''Kum Peng Kai (????????? ??????????????)''' is an ancient wall built by Pra Ya Sena Nuchit (Nuch), the governor of Takuapa, around his mansion. It serves as an interesting example of the use of stone and sand to build walls, instead of bricks and cement. The walls were in a rectangular shape of 95 meters wide x 158 meters long. They are 58.5 centimeters thick and 3.8 meters tall. It is said that around 1881 two Chinese "Ang Yee" gangs, the "Hong Seng" gang, and the "Ngee Hin" gang, fought in the town and that locals escaped the violence behind the walls. However the Ang Yee gangsters also fled in so the governor gave the command to close the wall doors. Sadly, around 20 meters of the south wall were destroyed in an attempt to widen the Udom Thara road. Now the walls belong to the Na Nakorn Family.
'''Koh Kho Khao Island (?????????)''' is a popular tourist spot in the Andaman Sea. Most of the island consists of flat land. A long white beach stretches out several kilometers with coconuts and pine trees providing perfect shade for visitors to sit and relax under after swimming. There are four bungalows and restaurants for tourists. Boat and ferry services from Koh Kho Khao Island are at Moo 2, Baan Nam Kem and at Bang Muang, Takuapa and are available until 24.00 hrs. The charges are 10 baht per person, 20 baht per motorcycle, and 100 baht per car for normal hours. After 18.00 hours, the charge is 200 baht per car. It takes around 15 minutes.
'''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.
There are many interesting attractions:
'''Khao Lak (???????)''', the mountain is located 25 kilometres from Amphoe Takua Pa, on Route No. 4 (Thai Mueang - Takua Pa), taking a left turn between Km. 56-57. Before reaching Amphoe Thai Mueang, the mountain - Khao Lak - can be seen. On the mountain, there is the Chao Pho Khao Lak Shrine. Opposite Khao Lak lies a stony beach with rocks and boulders of all sizes strewn all over the beach.
'''Laem Pakarang (???????????)''', located on the Takua Pa - Khao Lak route. Driving from Takua Pa town on Phetkasem Road, the cape will be on the right, another 5 kilometres down the side road. It is a sandy beach piled with deer coral washed up on the beach by strong waves ? thus giving the beach its name. The beach is blessed with groves of pine, making it ideal for camping and relaxation.
'''Namtok Ton Chong Fa (???????????????)''' is located on the Takua Pa - Khao Lak route like Laem Pakarang. Driving from Takua Pa town, the waterfall will be on the left, a right turn and going for another 5 kilometres. The cascade runs all year round and the surroundings are blissfully calm and cool under the trees_f shade.
'''Namtok Lamru (??????????)''' This 5-tiered waterfall is located within the area of the National Park. It is 9 kilometres from the branching road from Highway No. 4090, passing Kapong District office on the way to Lamru village, and another kilometre to Lamru waterfall.
'''Wat Narai Nikayaram (?????????????????)''', situated at Mu 3, Tambon Le, 14 kilometres from the Kapong district office. The temple houses stone carvings of the God Narai, Phra Lak, and Sida, from the Ramayana Epic. These sculptures are related with _gTakola_h town (the former name of Takua Pa) and the proliferation of Indian culture into this region.
'''Namtok Hin Lat (???????????)''', located 8 kilometres to the east of Kapong District office. Three canals merge to form the origin of the crystal clear waterfall. The water from the falls gather into a stream and flows through a field of naturally beautiful arrangement of rocks and boulders.
'''Namtok Saeng Thong (???????????):''' On the opposite side of Kapong Hospital, is the access road to the waterfall, 6 kilometres further on. It is a medium-sized waterfall, having 11 levels altogether. The falls run all year round.
'''Namtok Tao Thong (????????????)''', located in Tambon Bo Sen, 19 kilometres from Phang-nga town or 8 kilometres before Thap Put district. This shady waterfall originates from a stream flowing from a dark cave.
'''Wat Rat Uppatham or Wat Bang Riang (????????????????? ???? ????????????)''', located in Tambon Bang Riang, 11 kilometres from the Thap Put District office on Phetkasem Road. 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.
'''Khao Lampi-Hat Thai Mueang National Park (?????????????????????-?????????????)''' The park occupies an area of 45,000 rais (18,000 acres). It was declared a national park on April 14, 1988. Interesting attractions in the park include:
'''Namtok Lampi (?????????)''', located at Mu 6, Tambon Thai Mueang, on Phetkasem Road (Highway No.4), between Km. 32-33 and taking an unpaved access road for another 1.5 kilometres. It is a 6-tiered waterfall that runs all year round.
'''Namtok Ton Phrai (???????????):''' You can get to this attractive waterfall by taking a 7-kilometre unpaved access road between Km. 28-29 and then continue on foot for another kilometre. It is a huge waterfall that runs all year round. Visitors are encouraged to visit the falls in the dry season, as access will be easier.
'''Hat Thai Mueang (?????????????)''', located in the Thai Mueang Sanitary area. Going into the area, take the right-hand road for about 1.5 kilometres, then drive another 5 kilometres on the beach road to the National Park office. The 13-kilometre long beach has fine white sand and runs along the Highway. The area is blessed with crystal clear water. The recommended time to visit is between November to February. Sea turtles come to lay their eggs on the shore, thus creating a tradition of walking on the beach to watch turtles lay their eggs on a moonlit night. When the eggs hatch, you can join in releasing them into the sea during the _gSea Turtle Festival_h in March each year.
Accommodation: There are lodges, bungalows, tents, and restaurants available. Admission fee is 100 baht. For more information contact Khao Lampi-Hat Thai Mueang National Park, Amphoe Thai Mueang, Phang-Nga, 82120. Tel. and Fax. 0 7641 7206.
'''Ban Bo Dan Hot Springs (??????????????????????)''', located in Tambon Na Toei, on the Andaman coast. If you are coming from Phuket, pass through Khok Kloi intersection, and keep going straight on. At the Km. 6, you will see the entrance, then go another 3 kilometres further. The water of the natural hot springs are laden with minerals such as sodium and calcium, which are believed to relieve rheumatism, numbness, and help lessen the tension of both body and mind, as well as being beneficial to your complexion and hair. Mineral baths are available daily. For more information contact The Hotspring Beach Resort & Spa tel. 0 7658 0000-28
'''Chulabhorn Marine Park Conservatory Centre (??????????????????????????????????)''', near Thap Lamu pier, provides knowledge on undersea natural resources to visitors and the public. The Centre is housed in a 2-story building and exhibits the value and importance of undersea natural resources and environment, the new aspects of marine eco-tourism, and the wonders of the undersea world. Call 0 7659 5169 for more information.
'''Wat Suwannakhuha (?????????????)''', located in Mu 2, Tambon Krasom. Take Highway No. 4, (Phang-nga - Ban Khok Kloi route) for 7 kilometres and upon reaching the Km. 31 at Amphoe Takua Thung, there is an asphalt road going to the right to the temple, one kilometre away. The locals call this temple _gWat Tham_h. This is an interesting temple of all in Phang-nga since it is of historical and archaeological importance. Within the boundary of the temple is a mountain with numerous caves. Tham Yai (Big Cave) is located at the lowest level and inside the total length of the cave walls is decorated ceramic tiles, bowls as well as terra cotta ware and Benjarong ware. It is also used as a temple and houses various manners of Buddha images, one of which is a splendid reclining Buddha image. You can also see many Royal Monograms inscriptions on the walls of the cave.
'''Namtok Raman (??????????)''', located near Wat Suwannakhuha, take a right turn at Km. 31 and keep going for another 7 kilometres. The medium size cascade is set amidst a grove of big trees and the falls run all year round.
'''Tha Nun Beach (??????????????):''' From Highway No. 4, proceed towards Phuket using the Highway No. 402. Before you reach Phuket island, you will arrive at the Pak Phra straits, on both sides, you will see the beach. Every year, sea turtles would come to lay their eggs at this beach.
'''Ko Yao (???????)''' covers an area of 137 square kilometres. The majority of the population are Muslim. The island is made up of 2 large islands: Ko Yao Noi and Ko Yao Yai. Attractions on Ko Yao Noi include:
'''Hat Pa Sai (??????????)''', situated 7 kilometres from the District Office on Ko Yao Noi. This white sandy beach is covered with shady trees. From Hat Pa Sai, a scenic view of the islands of Krabi province can be seen in the distance.
'''Hat Tha Kao (?????????)''', situated 5 kilometres from the District Office on Ko Yao Noi. The beach features boulders, rocks, and pebbles of various shapes, size, and coloration. During the low tide, you can walk to another small island nearby.
Attractions on Ko Yao Yai include:
'''Ao Ti Kut (?????????)''', located at Ko Yao Yai. This bay has a white sandy beach. To the north of the bay, there is a beautiful rocky cape with a beach lined with pine trees.
'''Ao Klong Son (??????????):''' Offering a beach of fine, white sand and shady pine trees. On the left end of the beach is a colourful rock formation with equally beautiful multi-coloured pebbles. Swimming and snorkeling to see beautiful coral is recommended.
'''Ao Hin Kong (??????????)''', situated on Ko Yao Yai. It is a shady beach lined with Cotyletobium trees. This bay is home to young rays, which makes it unsuitable for swimming. Ao Hin Kong is also a habitat of Muslims who earn their living from fishing.
'''Ao Lan (????????)''', the bay offers a beautiful beach, ideal for swimming. To the north, there is a cape which has a steep cliff and at the base of the cliff, the water is quite deep. Boat riding is the most convenient mode of transport to get there.
'''Ao Sai (????????)''' is blessed with powdery white sand. The bay also has beautiful rock formations. Swimming can be enjoyed.
'''Hat Lo Pa Raet (???????????)''' features a long stretch of a white sandy beach teeming with groves of coconut trees. To the north of the bay is a cape with a beautiful rock formation and the water around the cape is suitable for swimming.
'''Laem Nok Ok (?????????)''', located on Ko Yao Yai. The beach here has rock formations and pebbles of many colours. Swimming is recommended. ''How to get there:'' Travelling to Ko Yao can be made from Phuket, Phang-nga, and Krabi, but the most convenient route of all is from Phuket.
Boat Schedule Phuket - Koh Yao Noi - Phuket by a long-tail boat as following
'''Leave Bang Rong Pier '''
'''Leave Manoh Pier'''
Travelling to Koh Yao Yai, visitors need to ride a ferry from Phuket_fs Chianwanich Pier. The ferry leaves the pier at 10.30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. On return, the ferry departs from Koh Yao Yai_fs Lo Chak pier at 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. The trip takes an hour. One-way fare is 100 baht.
There are also long-tail boat shuttle services between Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai. The trip takes 10 minutes.
Accommodation: There are resort, bungalows, and home stay are available for overnight visitors. Home stay, more details and further information contact :
'''Elephant Cave Tour (????????????????????????)''' is organised by Tong Tae Sea Canoe (tel: 0 7626 4320). Elephant Cave (or Tham Phung Chang) is a beautiful cave with numerous stalactites and stalagmites. Exploring through the dark cave have to be done both on foot and by boat since some parts of the cave are always flooded. For more information contact :
'''Ton Pariwat Rafting Trip (??????????????????)''' is organised by Phuket Sea Land (tel: 0 7622 2900), a tour operator in Phuket. The eco-tourism trip includes sightseeing at the Phang-nga Wildlife Nursery Station, elephant riding and rafting in the Ton Pariwat Wildlife Conservation Area. For more information contact :
'''Sea canoeing:''' Touring the limestone caverns in Phang-Nga Bay is an unforgettable experience. Inflatable canoes squeeze into and under island. Tour packages include all transportation and lunch. For more information contact:
'''Golfing:''' Phang-Nga has two golf courses with service for golf lovers.
Or contact the following businesses:
'''Bamboo Rafting:''' Along Lamroo Canal at Khao Lak National Park provides another adventurous experience. Sit on a bamboo raft under the cool shade of the riverside trees while you zig zag between the rocks and float downstream-you can even see the fish in the clear water. One can add a refreshing touch by jumping into the lagoon at the end, surrounded by the green forest. Rafting here is possible throughout the year. For more information contact
'''Jungle Tour:''' This tours how to learn details of the life and environment of Phang-nga. Forest walks, elephant trekking and tour by land Rover are made in small groups; eco-friendly eco-tourism. For more information contact:
'''Rock Climbing'''This activity in nearby has grown immensely popular. Routes include high quality limestone, steep, pocketed walls, overhangs and hanging stalactites, with some accessed by boat belay, others involving jungle walk approaches or abseils into the sea.
'''Kayaking''' With a coastline composed of mangroves, limestone, small coves, caves and islands, and an interior with rivers lined with fascinating cave systems, Phang-nga provides a perfect environment for kayaking. Just watch out for any snatching monkeys! With its virgin forests, Khao Lak is the number one spot to enjoy kayaking in Phang-nga
'''Bird Watching''' The best time of the year for bird watching has to be from January to April. Many rare birds are to be seen there: Gurneys, Finfoots, Bigwinged Brown Kingfishers, Egrets, Bitterns, Herons and more.
'''Sailing & Cruising''' Phang-nga has plenty of anchorages, usually deserted and all so beautiful. There are many charter sailing boats available and some even offer "join-in" day trips for two or more people.
'''Fishing''' Wanna-be fishers can catch the likes of marlin, sailfish barracuda and tuna.
'''Jungle Trekking''' Phang-nga_fs pristine forests with the finest flora and fauna are ideal for trekking. Elephant riding can also be arranged.
'''Golf''' Over the past decade or so, the popularity of golf in Thailand has escalated; played both by local Thais and visiting foreign tourists and expatriates.
Khao Lak is home to two superb golf courses offering magnificent scenery.
'''Spa'''
For those who love to _espa_f, Thailand is the perfect destination to indulge in this pastime therapy. The country prides itself in countless spas offering the highest world class services at extremely reasonable rates. Much of the recent success of this therapy is due to the tremendous support given by the Thai Spa Operators Association. Not only have they assisted in the training of therapists to international standards but also trained them in keeping methods traditionally and distinctively _eThai-style_f. Spas can be found at major hotels and resorts on Phang-nga, such as: Sixsenses Spa at Evason Koh Yao, The Bhandari Spa at Khao Lak Bhandari Resort & Spa, The Hotspring Beach Spa at The Hotspring Beach resort & Spa, Spa La Flora at La Flora Resort & Spa, Mukda Spa at Mukdara Beach Villa and spa resort and Le Spa at Le Meridien Khao Lak.
'''Diving''' Located in Pha-nga province, 90km north-west of Phuket, the Similan Islands boast one of Thailand_fs most famous diving sites and can lay claim to having one of the best diving sites in Asia. The Similans consist of 9 islands (Similan means 9 in Malay language) Ko Bon, Ko Bayu, Ko Similan, Ko Payu, Ko Miang (two adjoining islands), Ko Payan, Ko Payang, and Ko Huyong. The islands are famed for their thriving reefs and abundance of delicate coral and superb variety of exciting marine life. It is possible to see chevron barracuda, giant trevally, manta rays, leopard sharks and rainbow runners.
'''Scuba Diving:''' Both daily trips and multi-day liveaboard excursions visit the sites around Mu koh Surin and Mu koh Similan (in polls to determine the world_fs top dive sites, they consistently place in the top ten, and provide the best diving in Thailand). All trips include transfers to and from resort, tanks, weight system and Divemaster services, light refreshments and beverages. Day trips include lunch. For more information contact:
Of all the islands, one of the most popular with divers is Ko Bon. This island has a sheer wall 35 meters deep which is followed by a stepped ridge descending to 45 meters. Located roughly 25km north of here, but not actually part of the Similans, is Ko Tachai with its lush tropical foliage and underwater ridge which juts out at 90 degrees. Divers may experience the opportunity to encounter leopard sharks, nurse sharks or whale sharks.
Other popular diving sites in Similans include:
Located near the Surin islands is the horseshoe shaped Richelieu Rock which is considered by hoards of divers to be the most fantastic dive site in the whole of Thailand. By professional divers on the Internet, it is voted the tenth best diving site in the world. The sheer diversity of marine life is amazing. Divers may see schooling chevron barracuda, numerous types of moray eels, abundant lionfish and scorpion fish and 5 types of anemone fish, juvenile emperor angel fish, sea horses, ornate ghost pipefish, harlequin shrimps and even whale sharks, manta rays and shovelnose rays. Richelieu Rock is a must-see for every diver in the south of Thailand.
'''Entertainment Services'''
'''Amphoe Mueang'''
'''Amphoe Khura Buri'''
'''Amphoe Takua Thung'''
'''Amphoe Takua Pa'''
'''Amphoe Thai Mueang'''
'''Amphoe Koh Panyee'''
'''Phang-nga Town'''
'''Phang ? Nga Bay'''
'''Ko Yao Yai'''
'''Ko Yao Noi'''
'''Mu Ban Bordan'''
'''Thai Mueang Beach'''
'''Tabpood / ?????? (??????)'''
'''Thaplamu'''
'''Similan Islands'''
'''Amphoe Takua Pa'''
'''Khao Lak Beach'''
'''Nang Thong Beach'''
'''Bangniang Beach'''
'''Laem Pakarang Beach'''
'''Bang Sak Beach'''
'''Amphoe Takua Pa'''
'''Kalai / ?????????'''
'''Kuraburi'''
'''Pratong Island'''
'''Panyee Island'''
'''Khukak Beach'''
'''Pakweep Beach'''
'''Surin Islands'''
'''Khokhao Island'''
In general, Southern Thai food is renowned for its spiciness. Much of the cuisine has its origins in Malay, Indonesian and Indian food. Favourite dishes from the south include Indian-style Muslim curry (massaman), rice noodles in fish curry sauce (Khanom Jeen) and chicken birayani.
Phang-nga_fs Panyi Island is famous for its Shrimp Paste and Takuapa for its Chinese-style baked cakes. In Phang-nga town there are some great curries on rice and noodle soup shops. There is also lots of delicious Muslim-style Southern food. For seafood-lovers, there is plenty of freshly-caught sumptuous seafood to be had at the beach areas.
'''Amphoe Mueang'''
'''Amphoe Takua Pa'''
'''La On Village'''
'''Bang Niang'''
Scattered around the beach and bay areas are several clusters of beer bars and live music venues. There are also hotel bars. Generally speaking however, the nightlife in Pha-nga is comparatively much more laid-back that of Krabi_fs.
'''Medical Facilities'''
There is Phang-nga General Hospital but for international standards it is better to go to nearby Phuket. For nothing too serious there are plenty of clinics and pharmacies. [http://www.khaolaklovers.com/Medical-Care-in-Khao-Lak.htm] [http://www.discoverythailand.com/directory_hospitals_and_clinics_phang-nga.asp]
There are a great number of retirees in Pha-nga and the amount is growing rapidly. One of their favourite spots is Khao Lak.
There are some other retirees though, who reside in extremely quiet locations well away from the tourist scene. Of course, the cost of living off the beaten track is far cheaper.
Local television, satellite TV channels are available. English language newspapers and magazines are available in some bookstores.
Landline telephone, satellite phone and all mobile phone systems are available at Phang-nga town and village areas. Internet can be had in hotels, resorts and internet cafes. There are Post Offices in every district.
The best time to visit Krabi is between the months November to April when the area_fs climate is less hot than usual. During this period the island gets a lot of dry North Easterly winds, so giving dry blue skies and starry nights. Then, down on the beaches one can enjoy nice sea breezes. From June to November the area gets a lot of rainfall, more on average than the rest of the country. During this period the island gets a lot of moist South Westerly winds, so giving a mixture of dry days and wet ones. The sea stays at a warm 29 degrees Celsius all year round. Visitors however, coming in this period will find it cheaper.
'''Do's'''
'''Don_fts'''
'''One day full-tour:'''
'''Amphoe Mueang'''
'''Amphoe Thai Mueang'''
Cars can be rented from Hertz at Khao Lak Merlin Resort ? Tel. +66 7644 3200