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AMPHOE BAN NA SAN
 Tai
Rom Yen National Park
The park covers areas in Ban Na San, Kanchanadit and Wiang Sa Districts.
With a total area of 265,625 rai of land, the zone was declared
a national park on 31 December 1991. The park is covered by lush
virgin forests where rare plants can be found. The mountains peak,
covered by mist all year round, is the origin of the Tapi River.
Wild animals such as elephants, mountain goats, tapirs, chevrotains,
wild boars, etc. can also be spotted here. Interesting attractions
include Tat Fa Waterfall, Muang Thuat Waterfall, Khamin Cave naturally
decorated with stalactites and stalagmites, and Camp 180 as well
as Camp 357, which once were the base of the Communist Party of
Thailand.
AMPHOE CHAIYA
Ban Phumriang
A small handicraft village located approximately 6 kilometers east
of Chaiya, Ban Phumriang is notable for its gold and silver brocade
silk cloth and jute head gear.
Chaiya National Museum
Adjacent to Phra Borom That Chaiya is a charming petite museum.
Consisting of two buildings, the museum features prehistoric and
historic artifacts in the vicinity, local handicrafts and a shadow
puppet. In addition, artifacts from Dvaravati, Lop Buri, Sukhothai
and Ayutthaya eras are also put on display. The museum is open from
Tuesday to Friday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Call 0-7743-1066 for
more information. Admission fee is 30 baht / person.
Folklore Museum
Located approximately 300 meters from Chaiya City, at the intersection
of Highway No. 41 and the side road of Wat Kaew (or Wat Long), the
museum features numerous interesting historical objects. They include
Bone China, pottery, shadow puppets, old instruments and a ceramic
opium pillow. Admission fee is by donation. The Museum is open daily
from 8.00 a.m. until 9.00 p.m.
Laem Pho
Located approximately 2 kilometers along Phumriang Beachside Road
is Laem Pho a cape that is famous for its fresh and excellent seafood.
Highly recommended is Hoi Kao (white mussel), a local delicacy which
can only be found here. To get to Laem Pho by public transportation,
either take Surat Thani Ranong or Surat Thani Chumphon buses. From
Chaiya City, take Chaiya Phumriang buses.
Phra Borom That Chaiya
Located approximately 4 kilometers northeast of Suan Mokkh, or approximately
54 kilometers north of the provincial capital, this ancient chedi
houses Buddha relics, which are highly revered by local residents.
The restored Phra Borom That Chaiya serves as a fine example of
Srivijaya's influence on religious architecture and is believed
to have been built more than 1,200 years ago. Along the courtyard
of the chedi are several sculptures and Buddha images.
Wat Suan Mokkhaphalaram
Commonly known as Suan Mokkh (Garden of Liberation), the modern
forest monastery was founded in 1959by the late Ajahn Buddhadasa
Bhikkhu, one of Thailand's most famous monks. This 150-acre forest
temple is formerly called Wat Than Nam Lai, and is located beside
Highway No. 41, approximately 50 kilometers north from the Surat
City. (or at kilometer 134 marker). Suan Mokkh is set in a serene
ambience conducive for meditation or contemplation of the philosophy
of life. The temple itself is nothing but a combination of natural
sandy grounds and rocks, dotted with trees. There are no elaborate
stupas and chapels like other temples, only a place that keeps one
in truly in tune with nature.
Buddhadasa Bhikkhus philosophy is universal in nature. It's the
combination of Zen, Taoist and Christian elements with the Theravada
Buddhism. That's why his teaching has attracted many Thais and foreigners,
especially those who are eager to look inward and realign themselves
with nature.
The 'Spiritual Theatre' is an interesting attraction for casual
visitors. It features art objects, drawings and poems related to
Buddhas' teachings in which Buddhadhasa Bhikkhu describes a pictorial
interpretation of Dharma. The building also exhibits a diverse mixture
of Thai, Egyptian, Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Tibetan and European-style
murals and sculptures.
An ideal place for meditation for serious visitors, Suan Mokkh
offers meditation courses for foreigners every month from 1st 10th.
The course is from 8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Call 077 43 1522, 077
43 1597 or visit www.suanmokkh.org for more information.
AMPHOE DON DAK
Ferry Pier
The Pier is located at Kula Cape, approximately 6 kilometers from
the District Administrative Office. This big pier provides ferry
services for visitors to Ko Samui.
Namtok Vibhavadi
This medium-sized waterfall is the local residents socializing venue
on weekends. With rustic surroundings, the waterfall is located
38 kilometers east of the provincial capital along Highway No. 401,
approximately at the kilometer 60-61markers before the Don Sak intersection.
Visitors can take either Surat Thani Nakhon Si Thammarat or Surat
Thani Don Sak buses to get to the waterfall.
Wat Khao Suwan Pradit
Luang Pho Choi, one of southern Thailands' most revered Buddhist
monks, founded this monastery. The 45-meter hilltop pagoda contains
Buddha relics brought from Wat Phra Kiat, Hod District, Chiang Mai.
From the pagoda, visitors can get a panoramic view of the coast.
The temple is located approximately 1 kilometer from Don Sak District,
along the Surat Thani Nakhon Si Thammarat (Highway No. 401).
AMPHOE KANCHANADIT
Monkey School
Mr. Somporn Saekow, a person who believes that monkeys can be trained
in order to use their capacities to the fullest, established this
training college for monkeys. Students are mostly local pig-tailed
monkeys from the forests. Monkey owners must pay a tuition fee,
which is inclusive of food and accommodation. Classes of 3-6 months
are classified into three levels, beginners, intermediate and advance.
Graduate monkeys are trained to pick only ripened coconuts from
the trees. To get there, take Surat Thani Nakhon Si Thammarat (Highway
No. 401) and drive for approximately 7 kilometers. Upon approaching
a junction, turn right to the dirt road and proceed for approximately
2 kilometers. The college is located on the right side. Interested
visitors are advised to check with local travel agents for full
details. Alternatively, call the College at 0 7722 7351 for more
details.
Oyster Farms
Surat Thani is famous for oyster cultivation and the sizes of the
oysters farmed here are substantially larger than those found elsewhere.
Several medium to small-sized farms are located around the estuarine
areas of the Kradae Canal and the Thong River. These farms can be
reached by boat from the Tha Thong Quay side within 30 minutes.
AMPHOE KO PHA-NGAN
Ao Si Thanu
Located at Mu 8, Pha-ngan District, approximately 10 kilometers
from the District Office is the one of the most beautiful beach
of Ko Pha-ngan. To reach this beach, take a songthaew from Thong
Sala Pier for a fare of 40 baht / trip / person.
Ao Thian
Part of Ko Tao, Ao Thian can be seen from a viewing point located
on the hilltop of Ta To Cape.
Ao Thong Nai Pan
Located at Mu 5, Ban Tai Sub-district, approximately 23 kilometers
from the District Office is the second most beautiful beach on Ko
Pha-ngan. To reach this beach, either take a boat or songthaew from
Thong Sala Pier. The songthaew fare is 80 baht / trip / person while
that of chartered boats is up to negotiation.
Ban Chalok Lam
The village is situated along the bay to the north of Pha-ngan Island.
The area is lined with shops selling merchandise and souvenirs with
the most popular item being dried squid. There are songthaew services
from Thong Sala Pier with a fare of 50 baht / trip / person.
Hat Rin
Located at Mu 4, Ban Tai Sub-district, approximately 12 kilometers
from the District Office is the most beautiful and famous beach
on Ko Pha-ngan Hat Rin. The white sandy beach stretching for 2 kilometers
is accessible by a long-tailed boat from Thong Sala Pier and Ban
Kai. The fare is approximately 30 baht and 20 baht respectively.
The Full-moon Party, with over a thousand party lovers in attendance
is held on this beach.
Ko Nang Yuan
The island is nothing but a group of three small islands located
to the north of Ko Tao. Offering stunning and breathtaking views,
the islands are connected by a three-way stretch of pure white powdery
beach.
The rich marine life at Ko Nang Yuan is similar to that of Ko Tao.
With a wide variety of coral formations, the island is also an ideal
diving and snorkeling spot. Accommodations and facilities are available
with daily boat service to and from Ko Tao.
 Ko
Pha-ngan
Another ideal destination for travelers who prefer less crowded,
more private beaches set in a laid-back atmosphere. However, this
is also a very hip place to be as the island hosts the world famous,
and perhaps the biggest beach party on this planet the full moon
party on Hat Rin.
Covering an area of 191 square kilometers, Ko Pha-ngan is located
20 kilometers directly north of Ko Samui, or approximately 100 kilometers
from Surat. The best time to visit Ko Pha-ngan is from February
to September. Interesting attractions include secluded and virgin
beaches around the island, a hilltop temple called Wat Khao Tham
which is ideal for meditation, Than Sadet Waterfall, and the Namtok
Phaeng National Park. Renting a motorcycle to explore the island
is recommended as there is a lot to see and do.
Boat services to Koh Pha-ngan
From Ko Samui
There are approximately 10 daily transfers to Ko Pha-ngan. Boats
depart between 7.30 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. The trip takes approximately
30 minutes to an hour, depending on weather conditions. Boats leave
from Thong Sala Pier and Hat Rin on Ko Pha-ngan to Ko Samui Pier
including Na Thon Pier, Mae Nam and the Big Buddha. The fare is
approximately 115 baht to 250 baht / trip / person.
From Surat Thani
Surat Thani Pier operates a minimum of 6 daily departures to
Ko Pha-ngan. Boats leave from 7.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m. and arrive
at Tha Sala Pier on Ko Pha-ngan. The fare ranges from 200 baht to
370 baht / trip / person.
From Ko Tao
Approximately 6 daily departures from Thong Sala Pier to Ko
Tao are provided. They leave from 8.30 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. The fare
ranges from 180 baht to 350 baht.
Getting around Ko Pha-ngan
Traveling around the island by rented motorcycle from bungalows
is recommended. The cost is approximately 200 baht / day. For those
who prefer truly Thai-style transportation, songthaew services are
also available. The fare is 50 baht from Thong Sala Pier to any
place on the island. Exceptions are on routes to Ban Khai (30 baht)
and Ao Thong Nai Pan (80 baht). Car rental service is also available
at approximately 1,000 baht / day.
Ko Tae Nai
A charming island with jungle-covered hills, a long stretch of golden
sandy beach and colorful coral reefs, Ko Tae Nai is located near
Ko Pha-ngan, and can be reached just 5 minutes by chartered boats.
Accommodations are available but are mostly middle to top-end.
 Ko
Tao
A small isolated island situated 45 kilometers to the north of Ko
Pha-ngan, Ko Tao was once used as a prison for instigators of the
Bavordet coup. The island is famous for its rich sea coral reefs
and inhabitants and secluded beaches set in a laid-back atmosphere.
Ideal for snorkeling and diving, there are numerous diving schools
scattered around the island that have always attracted diving students.
With exceptional underwater visibility, Ko Tao is one of Thailand's
finest offshore diving spots with main attractions such as White
Rock, Shark Island, Chumphon Pinnacle, Green Rock, Sail Rock and
Southwest Pinnacles. The stunning viewing point is a spot where
visitors can see three connecting beaches stretching beautifully
to the horizon.
Apart from Ko Pha-ngan, Ko Tao can be reached either from Surat
Thani or Chumphon Provinces. Accommodations in the form of bungalows,
at various price ranges, are available. The best time to visit Ko
Tao is from February to April. Traveling on the island is possible
by boat, car or motorcycle.
Wat Khao Tham
Located on the hilltop of Khao Kao Haeng, Mu 1, Bang Tai Sub-district,
the monastery is ideal for meditation amidst the unspoiled nature.
Foreigners mostly visit the compound to learn how to practice meditation
between September and November. To reach the monastery, take a chartered
car or rent a motorcycle at Thong Sala Pier and drive for approximately
3 kilometers. From the entrance of the temple, drive approximately
1 kilometer up to the compound.
Wat Maduea Wan
Apart from beaches, sand and sea, Ko Pha-ngan also has cultural
attractions such as Wat Maduea Wan, located at Mu 3, where the replica
of the Lord Buddha's Footprint is enshrined on the hilltop Mondop.
To reach the temple, take a songthaew from for a total distance
of approximately 3 kilometers for a fare of 20 baht / trip / person.
AMPHOE KO SAMUI
Animal Farms and Shows
Phang Ka Snake Farm - at Tambon Taling Ngam, has daily shows
at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., 250 baht per person, Tel: 0-7742-3247.
Samui Buffalo Village - At Tambon Na Mueang, has daily shows
at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., 350 baht per person, Tel: 0-7741-8680.
Butterfly Garden and Honey Farm - In the south of the island,
open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., 120 baht per person, Tel: 0-7742-4020-21.
Monkey Training Center - At Tambon Bo Phut, has daily shows
at 10.30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., 150 baht per person, Tel: 0-7724
-5140.
Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo - At Ao Laem Set, opens daily
from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., 250 baht per person, Tel: 0-7742-4017-8.
Crocodile Farm - Near Na Mueang Waterfall, daily shows at
11 a.m. and 2 p.m., 250 baht per person.
Buffalo fighting - This is an exciting bout that attracts
a huge crowd, both local residents and tourists. Held monthly, it
serves as a traditional festival on the island.
Monkey & Elephant Shows - At the show, it is actually
possible to see how monkeys collect coconuts and present their other
exceptional abilities. In addition, visitors will be impressed by
the intelligence and loveliness of elephants that can perform many
lovely tricks, or even play football.
On Ko Samui, the coconut island, the monkey is considered man's
best friend. Local people have used monkeys to climb up and pick
the ripe coconuts for centuries. At present, monkeys are not just
good at picking coconuts, they are also good at entertaining.
Snake show - A stunning show that is not suitable for a
people with heart diseases. The show offers a thrilling experience
especially when the poisonous reptiles are skillfully caught by
a handler with bare hands. Shows feature snakes indigenous to Ko
Samui as well as centipedes, scorpion and cock fighting shows.
Samui Crocodile Farm - Siam crocodiles, Caimans, Saltwater
crocodiles, snakes, lizards, monkeys and many others are gathered
here for entertainment.
Ban Lamai Cultural Hall
Serving as a folk museum, the Hall houses many local ancient objects.
Interesting objects on display include earthenware, household utensils,
hunting weapons and equipment used in coconut planting.
Ban Thale
This is the oldest house on the island which was built approximately
150 years ago of teakwood without any nails. In addition, there
the house displays elaborative wood carvings.
Bungy Jumping
For adrenaline lovers who seek the thrill of facing their own fears,
this is definitely a challenge. The site is located behind the Reggae
Pub and the operation is under professional control of British Jumpmasters.
This activity is guaranteed as safe.
Canopy Adventures
For those interested in gliding from tree houses, Ko Samui provides
visitors with this unique chance. No experienced required. Visitors
just glide from tree house to tree house above the magnificent jungle
canopy.
Hat Chaweng (Chaweng Beach)
The longest, most popular and developed beach on the east coast
of Ko Samui, this 7 kilometer beach has clean white sand and sparkling
water.
In addition to numerous accommodations, this charming beach is
packed with restaurants, spas, souvenir shops, bars and discos catering
to all the needs of visitors. In addition, there are a number of
dive shops on the beach, some of which also organize night dives.
Hat Na Thon
This is the island's major settlement on the west coast offering
a wide selection of souvenirs and handicrafts, silks and jewelry.
In addition to being the shopping center of the island Na Thon Bay
also provides visitors with the necessary facilities - a post office,
banks, a police station, telephone services, and a hospital. Moreover,
this is where express and night ferries from the piers in Surat
Thani dock.
Hin Lat Waterfall
Located at the end of Route 4172, 3 kilometers south of Na Thon
Bay, the waterfall is encircled by palms, ferns and creeping plants.
Hin Lat Waterfall also provides a few natural pools for bathing.
An enjoyable 2-kilometer walk to the top allows visitors to get
a panoramic view of the waterfall.
Hin Ta - Hin Yai
Strangely shaped rocks south of Lamai Beach are locally dubbed Hin
Ta Hin Yai. According to legend, an old couple were shipwrecked
in the bay and died and their bodies washed ashore creating the
rocks.
Jungle tours
Adventure lovers will enjoy the virgin forest on a mountain on the
island. Please contact only certified guides and tour agencies.
 Ko
Samui < more details >
Ko Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand, approximately 84 kilometers
east of Surat Thani Province, or approximately 700 kilometers south
of Bangkok. Known as the Coconut Island, Ko Samui is one of the
most famous and popular attractions of Thailand. With an area of
247 square kilometers, Ko Samui is the third largest island of Thailand
after Phuket and Ko Chang (of Trat Province). The topography of
the island is that of a plain with a mountain range in the middle
and 7 important streams. In addition, there is a 50-kilometer paved
road that encircles the island. Moreover, the area of the island
stretches to a group of 48 surrounding islets.
Despite the fast pace of development, Ko Samui has been able to
maintain its charm its classical image of a tropical beach resort
fringed by coconut trees. Travelers to the island can enjoy a mixed
blessing of vibrant day and nightlife along side with tranquility
which can easily be found across different parts of Ko Samui as
the archipelago is a peaceful home for fishermen and a natural den
for seagulls and other rare birds.
Hat Chaweng and Hat Lamai are Ko Samuis most beautiful and most
popular beaches. Both have a huge selection of accommodations suitable
for every budget. Please note that room rates increase during the
high season, from December to July, when Samui sparkles. The nightlife
of each beach is different: Hat Chaweng is better for couples, women
and families, while single men are drawn to the beer bar culture
of Hat Lamai. These resorts, as well as Na Thon (Samui's main town),
have communications, exchange and car/motorcycle hire facilities.
Other beaches include Hat Choeng Mon, Hat Mae Nam in the north and
Hat Na Thon, the island's major seafront settlement where shops,
restaurants and tour agencies are concentrated.
Apart from its many lovely beaches and tranquil bays, Ko Samui
is also noted for its high quality coconuts that grow densely everywhere.
The best time to visit Ko Samui is from February to April when the
sea is calm. The Southern dialect and the standard Thai language
are spoken while English is widely understood in tourist areas.
Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park
Located 20 kilometers northwest of Ko Samui, the park is comprised
of approximately 40 islands. Covering approximately 250 square kilometers,
the park is full of fascinating beaches, caves and coral formations
a sign of abundant marine resources. Many oddly shaped islands,
sheer limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons can also be found here.
The National Park does not allow over night visits. Individual tourists
will have to join a group organized by a tour agency to visit the
place.
Na Muang 1 Waterfall
Located approximately 11 kilometers to the south of Na Thon Bay
is the medium-sized waterfall that flows from a steep cliff, approximately
40 meters high and 20 meters wide. Activities such as elephant back
riding are provided by nearby tour agents.
Na Muang 2 Waterfall
Located just 100 meters from Na Mueang 1, the waterfall is similar
in size and beauty as its sister. The place is an ideal spot for
trekking and elephant back riding, as it is surrounded by dense
forest.
Na Thian Butterfly Garden
Located at the bottom of the hill to the south of the island, the
Garden offers a unique opportunity to observe numerous species of
butterflies on the island. Other interesting features are the beautifully
decorated garden, the bee house, a Thai style house which allows
visitors to observe the activities of bees. The insect museum, in
which rare insects from Thailand and other countries are displayed,
is also worth visiting.
Samui Aquarium
Located at Laem Set Bay, the Aquarium features a wide variety of
tropical fish and marine fauna.
Samui Go Kart
Looking for fast-paced action? Visit this site in Bophut, on the
ring road opposite the Samui Euphoria Resort, and enjoy circling
the track at over 100 kilometers. Call 077 425097 for more information.
Samui Golf & Country Club
Ko Samui offers an absolutely overwhelming experience for golfers.
This par 72 course was jointly designed by Edward Theile and Pirapon
Namartra. The challenge is its relentless, tumbling diversity and
its degree of difficulty. The par-3s range from 155 to 214 yards,
highlighted by the shortest (the audacious 6th, with a vertical
drop and waterfall). The 10 par-4s are whimsical and attenuated
and querulous and lengthy. The par-5s start at 458 and end at the
signature 17th with 622 yards of downhill travel. The fairways are
tilted and the greens are uniformly gyroscopic. For more details,
contact Santiburi Dusit Resort at tel. 077 425031-38 or visit www.dusit.com.
Samui Nightlife
Its never ending. Koh Samui offers spectacular evening entertainment
for all ages. This includes traditional beach bars (popular with
families), western-style pubs, which feature music, videos and satellite
television, and free to enter nightclubs, which are more active
after midnight and usually continue through the pre-dawn hours.
Bars, cabarets shows and discos are mainly located in Chaweng and
Lamai. Green Mango, Raggae Pub, Full Circle and Bauhaus are the
main discotheques, some open until sunrise.
The most vibrant nightlife activities can be found around the beaches
of Chaweng and Lamai. Resorts also provide magnificent entertainment
such as dinner cabarets, where professional singers and dancers
display their talents in stylish surroundings.
Samui Paintball
A non-water based activity worth trying, Samui paintball offers
a unique opportunity to take a shot at families and friends without
having to go to jail.
Scuba Diving
There are many scuba diving schools located around Ko Samui, offering
a wide range of dive facilities. There are also tours available
for snorkeling, fishing and excursions. The area of Koh Samui, Koh
Tao, Koh Pha-ngan and Angthong Marine National Park are very famous
dive places.
Spa experience at Samui
Samui now boasts many excellent, world-class spas set in a truly
Samui ambience. From aromatic floral baths, steaming and body masque
with Thai herbs, to face and body massage, reflexology, and other
well-being therapy, Samui has everything that caters to your needs
rejuvenating, pampering and relaxing in utmost luxury and comfort.
Thale Nai (the Inner Sea)
Encircled by mountains, Thale Nai is emerald in color and has a
white powdery beach that is second to none. There are several underwater
chambers connecting the Thale Nai to the outside sea. The best time
to visit the place is from April to November. To get there from
Samui, visitors can charter a boat from Na Thon Pier. The boat service
hours is between 9.00 and 4.30 p.m. Travel time is approximately
1 hour. For more information, call 0 7742 0504 or 0 7742 0720-2.
Tham Bua Bok
This is where visitors can marvel at spectacular stalactites and
stalagmites. In addition, the top of a 400 meter mountain on the
island overlooks the picturesque Ang Thong islands.
The Statue Garden
The Garden features a number of Buddhist and Hindu statues recently
made by Khun Nim, a local sculptor. Located near the highest point
of Samui Island, the place can be reached by taking the track opposite
Wat Khunaram.
Wat Phra Yai or Temple of the Big Buddha
Established in 1972, the temple houses a 12-meter high Golden Buddha,
which has recently become a spectacular landmark of Ko Samui. The
monastery has become a meditation center for both local residents
and foreigners.
Wat Pradoem
Located approximately 12 kilometers on Route 4169 or 1 kilometer
from Na Muang Waterfall is a monastery built at the end of Ayutthaya
Era. The temple is believed to be the first temple on Ko Samui.
At present, it is where an ancient wooden scripture hall used in
storing Buddhist scriptures is located.
Wat Samret
This relatively old temple houses a marble Buddha image brought
from Burma and many other old Buddha images.
Wua Ta Lap
This is the largest island of the group, the site of the park office
and the location of a very beautiful cave.
AMPHOE MUEANG
Khao Tha Phet Wildlife and Nature Education Center
The Center is located approximately 6 kilometers from the Surat
City. Covering an area of 2,906 rai or 4.65 square kilometers, the
Center is home to numerous wild animals. Its headquarters is situated
on a hilltop, which rises approximately 200 meters above sea level.
At the peak of the hill is Phra That Si Surat, locally known as
Khao Ta Phet. Built in 1957, this candle-like stupa contains Lord
Buddha's relics donated by the Indian government. The hilltop is
an ideal place to get a bird eyes view of the City and Tapi River,
as well as Ban Don Bay.
An informative 800-meter, nature study trail is introduced by the
Center with captions providing detailed information on each plant
enabling visitors to learn on their own in an enjoyable manner.
For those interested in staying overnight, it is recommended that
they bring their own tents. Advanced reservations in writing are
required and should be sent to Khao Tha Phet Wildlife and Nature
Education Center, P.O. Box 29 Muang District, Surat Thani, 84000.
To get there from the provincial capital, drive along Highway No.
4009 (the Surat Thani-Na San route) for approximately 6 kilometers,
then turn left at the sign of the Center and proceed approximately
1.5 kilometers along an access road to the Center.
Pak Nam Tapi (Tapi River Estuary)
The Tapi River Mouth is located approximately 7 kilometers from
Ban Don Municipality. The area is particularly well known for its
excellent seafood restaurants. Apart from serving reasonably priced
tasty dishes, they are located against a magnificent backdrop of
the peaceful Tapi River. Getting to the place from the city is easy.
Just use tuk-tuk services located opposite Chula Shopping Mall.
AMPHOE PHANOM
Khao Sok National Park
This virgin rainforest dotted by limestone mountain ranges and rugged
high cliffs was established as a national park in 1980. The poised
limestone mountains resemble to those in Guilin, China resulting
in the local nickname of Thailand's Guilin. Covering an area of
approximately 646 square kilometers, the park extends beyond Ban
Ta Kun, Phanom and Khiri Ratniyom Districts.
The main attractions in the park include Namtok Mae Yai which can
be reached by car and Namtok Sip Ed Chan (eleven-tiered waterfall),
situated approximately 4 kilometers from the park office. There
are also other magnificent waterfalls and caves, which are mostly
accessible by foot.
Khao Sok is inhabited by rare wildlife such as wild elephants,
leopards, serow, banteng, gaur, dusky languors, tigers and Malayan
sun bears. Bird lovers will be enthralled visiting, as there are
over 180 bird species to watch.
Rare floras are found along nature trails particularly to the south
of the park where local plants such as lianas, bamboo, ferns and
giant rattan, of over 10cm. in diameter, can be found. To top it
all, the bua phut is perhaps what visitors to Khao Sok look forward
to seeing most. Bua Phut or Rafflesia kerri meyer, a flower which
can only be found in Khao Sok, is claimed as the largest flower
in the world. When in full bloom, the Bua Phut is approximately
80 centimeters in diameter. The flower is a natural parasite without
roots of its own, but relying on roots of a jungle vine to survive.
The best time to see Bua Phut is from October to December, when
they are in full bloom. Contact the parks headquarters for a local
guide. Note that a 5-8 hour walk is required to see such a rare
flower. However, there photographs of Bua Phut in the headquarters
office, with information displayed on the ecological system of the
park.
The park and other entrepreneurs provide bungalows, camping areas
and raft-houses while accommodation owners normally provide food.
Contact TAT Region 5 at 077 288818-9 for more details on a complete
list of accommodations.
The park office is located 1.3 kilometers off of the Surat-Takua
Pa Road at kilometer 109 marker. From Surat Thani City, take Highway
No 401 to Takua Pa District (in Phang-Nga province). Total distance
is approximately 100 kilometers. The park is at its best from December
to April.
Khuean Ratchaprapha
Another name of this dam is Khuean Chieo Lan. The dam, built in
1982, is a rock with fat-clay core dam that is 94 meters in height
and 761 in length. The reservoir (lake) covers an area of 185 square
kilometers and boasts an electricity generating capacity of approximately
554 million kilowatt / hour. The lake offers an incomparably breathtaking
view of limestone mountains and over 200 small islands. Accommodations
near the dam are available from the Electricity Generating Authority
of Thailand, Tel. 02 436-3179 or 77 311-364, 311-522. For those
wishing to see the lake closer, boat rental service is also available.
Contact 077 311522, or 02 2407405 ext. 5008 for more details.
The dam is located 70 kilometers west from Surat Thani on Highway
No. 401. Travel along the Highway, turn right at the kilometer 52-53
marker and proceed for another 12 kilometers along an access road
until you see the extensive lake beyond the Dam.
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