13 places of interest to visit in Phang Nga
Phang Nga is a picturesque coastal city known for its abundance of small and large islands along the Andaman Sea. In addition to its well-known sea-based attractions like the Similan Islands National Park, Surin Islands, and Phang Nga Bay, the city also boasts an array of natural resources, including mountains, waterfalls, caves, and sites of historical and cultural significance. The city is known for its serene atmosphere, with towering, uniquely-shaped mountains lining the roads, lush green trees providing shade and a cool climate. Phang Nga Province is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the best the area has to offer.
Similan Islands
Similan Islands National Park is a well-known tourist destination located in the Andaman Sea, at the end of Thailand’s sea. It is renowned for its clear blue waters, fine white sandy beaches, and the vibrant colors of its underwater world that attract visitors from all over the globe. The Similan Islands consist of 9 islands, ranging from Huyong Island to Bangu Island, and offer a wide range of activities both on land and under the water. The archipelago is home to an array of beautiful coral reefs and is a popular spot for diving, snorkeling, and other water sports. It is praised for its natural beauty and the opportunity to experience the unique and diverse marine life of the Andaman Sea.
Travel period : Late Oct. – Mid May. After that, the island will be closed due to the monsoon season and to restore nature.
Surin Islands
Surin Islands National Park, located in the Andaman Sea, is a must-see destination for those interested in marine beauty. The park boasts a diverse array of coral reefs including lettuce corals, brain corals, staghorn corals, soft corals, sea anemones and sea fans, as well as a variety of colorful sea fish such as parrot fish, myna fish, angel fish, butterfly fish, lion fish and more. Additionally, visitors may have the opportunity to spot rare marine animals such as turtles, whale sharks, manta rays, and lobsters. Furthermore, the park is home to a community of sea gypsy Moken people, who have lived a nomadic lifestyle in the Andaman Sea for generations. Visitors can visit the Moken villages and learn about their way of life, which is closely tied to the sea, as well as admire the charming wooden houses that are built in harmony with the surroundings.
Ao Phang Nga National Park
Ao Phang Nga National Park is a national park that features stunning coastal landscapes and abundant marine life, including mangrove forests. It is located in the cove of Phang Nga Bay, which is known for its limestone islands, such as Khao Ma Chu, Tham Lod, Khao Tapu, Khao Phing Kan, and Koh Panyee. These islands are iconic symbols of the Phang Nga province and are a must-see for those visiting the area. The park is a great place to explore the beautiful island view of the forest.
Samet Nangshe Viewpoint
Samet Nangshe View Point is a popular viewpoint in Phang Nga province, known for its stunning views of the sunrise among the limestone mountains of Phang Nga Bay. There are two different locations for viewing at Samet Nangshe viewpoint, the first being the original viewpoint, known as Samet Nangshe Viewpoint, which offers accommodation in the form of tents, and a car service to take visitors up to the viewpoint. The second location, known as Samet Nangshe Boutique, is located just 100 meters away and offers accommodation in the form of resorts and tents, as well as a coffee shop for visitors to enjoy while taking in the views. Non-overnight visitors can also visit this viewpoint to see the view and explore the accommodation and coffee shop.
Koh Khai (islands)
Koh Khai is a group of small islands located in Phang Nga Bay, which consist of Koh Khai Nok, Koh Khai Nai (Khai Maew Island), and Koh Khai Nui. These islands are known for their fine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear blue water and beautiful rocks. Koh Khai Nok and Koh Khai Nai are popular among tourists for their beaches, while Koh Khai Nui is a small island that is popular for snorkeling and seeing coral reefs and different types of fish. There is a small beach on the island, but it is not allowed to go on the beach. Visitors can reach Koh Khai by taking a tour package from Phuket or Phang Nga, or by hiring a long-tailed boat from Koh Yao Yai or Koh Yao Noi. It is best to contact the boat from the resort.
Koh Yao Noi
Koh Yao Noi is a tranquil island paradise that is perfect for nature lovers seeking peace and serenity. The island is well-known for its limestone archipelago and forested landscape, which can be admired from the east coast of the island. The view of nearby islands such as Koh Hong, Koh Lao Lading, and Koh Phak Bia (nearer to Krabi), is particularly stunning during sunrise. Visitors to the island can also learn about the local way of life by observing traditional fishing practices and visiting lobster farms. Additionally, there are many opportunities to explore neighboring islands, making it a great destination for island-hopping.
Khao Na Yak
Khao Na Yak, also known as Giant Face Mountain, is a lesser-known but equally stunning destination located on Hat Thai Mueang, under the jurisdiction of the Khao Lampi-Hat Thai Mueang National Park. It boasts a vast mangrove sea area and one of the most abundant mangrove forests in the area. The beach stretches for over 13 kilometers, with a serene cove featuring fine white-brown sand and crystal clear turquoise water. The nearby beach is also known for its clear water and colorful rocks with unique shapes.
Koh Phra Thong
Koh Phra Thong is a relatively remote island known for its unique topography, which is relatively flat compared to other islands in the area earning it the nickname “The Safari Land of the South Seas.” The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, monkeys, and various bird species. Visitors can explore the island’s diverse ecosystem by taking guided nature walks or by visiting the island’s wildlife sanctuary. Koh Phra Thong is also known for its traditional fishing villages and the local way of life. Visitors can learn about the island’s history and culture by visiting the local temples, museums, and traditional markets. The island can be reached by boat from the mainland, and there are a variety of accommodations available for visitors, including resorts, guesthouses, and camping sites. The best time to visit the island is between November and April, when the weather is dry and pleasant.
Khao Khai Nui View Point
Khao Khai Nui is a popular spot for viewing sea mist in Phang Nga. The top of the mountain offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the surrounding area, including a sea of mist that can be seen from a wide angle. The view from the top is breathtaking, with the white mist snuggling and covering the mountains, small and large, creating a gradual overlapping dimension. The morning sunlight shining on the sea of fog below makes it even more beautiful. The mountain is known for its 5 wonders: Sunrise view, Sunset view, Sea of mist, Andaman Sea view and Mountain range view. It’s a must-visit destination for those who enjoy natural beauty.
Klong Sang Neh
Klong Sang Neh is a small forest along a canal that is teeming with biodiversity and unique plants that grow along the banks. One of the main highlights of a cruise through Klong Sang Neh is the opportunity to see ancient banyan trees that are hundreds of years old, with branches spreading out and sometimes hanging in front of the boat like a curtain of a banyan tunnel. Additionally, visitors can also spot various types of snakes, such as green snakes, golden-ringed snakes, and pythons, which are not harmful as they can be seen from a distance and are typically asleep during the day. The forest is also home to hornbills, a rare and protected species that can be seen eating from the banyan trees, as well as storks and other types of birds, making it a prime spot for bird-watching. Due to its unique and diverse nature, Klong Sang Neh is often referred to as the “Little Amazon of Takua Pa.”
Takua Pa Old Town
Takua Pa, a district in Phang Nga province, is known for its rich history and unique culture. The old town of Takua Pa is a testament to the thriving mining industry that was once the center of the community’s economy. As the mining business declined, the town gradually lost its hustle and bustle, but the charming, ancient Sino-Portuguese style buildings and houses that were built during its heyday remain. Visitors can explore these historical structures along five main roads, including Sri Takua Pa Road, Udom Thara Road, Klang Kaew Road, Montri 2 Road, and the front road of the city. These roads offer a glimpse into the past and showcase the unique architectural heritage of the area.
Wat Tham Suwannakhuha
Suwannakhuha Temple is a significant and noteworthy temple in Phang Nga province due to its historical and archaeological significance. The temple is located in an area that is home to several large caves, such as Tham Yai, Tham Jaeng, Tham Dark, and Tham Kaew. Tham Yai is used as a vihara and is adorned with stucco Buddha images, including an important reclining Buddha image that is 7 meters long and 2 elbows. The Suwan Khuha Cave is a special feature of the temple, as it was visited by King Chulalongkorn, also known as Rama V, who inscribed his royal name, Jor Por Ror 109, inside the cave. The cave also bears the initials of many other royalty and nobility.
Khao Lak
Khao Lak is a popular tourist destination in Phang Nga province known for its picturesque natural beauty, clear blue waters, and long stretches of sandy beaches. The area is characterized by its lush, green surroundings, with sea pine trees providing shade. Visitors to Khao Lak often choose to stay in the many resorts that line the beach, as the area is a hub for tourism in Phang Nga, offering a wide range of accommodations, dining options, and comprehensive facilities.
Tree Cups Phangnga Coffee
Tree Cups Phangnga Coffee is an emerging coffee shop in Phang Nga, situated in the village of Khao Po, Krasom Sub-district, Takua Thung District. The shop is perched on the roots of a 300-year-old Takian tree that stands 17 meters high, surrounded by lush greenery and fresh air. Visitors can enjoy a 180-degree panoramic view of Phang Nga Bay while sipping on their coffee.
