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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 Sak
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 Koh 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 Koh
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 Koh 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 Koh 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 Koh 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 Koh 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 Koh 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 Koh
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 Koh Tao.
Koh 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, Koh Pha-ngan is located
20 kilometers directly north of Koh Samui, or approximately 100
kilometers from Surat. The best time to visit Koh 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 Koh
Samui
There are approximately 10 daily transfers to Koh 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 Koh Pha-ngan to Koh 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 Koh
Pha-ngan. Boats leave from 7.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m. and arrive at
Tha Sala Pier on Koh Pha-ngan. The fare ranges from 200 baht to
370 baht / trip / person.
From Koh Tao
Approximately 6 daily departures from Thong Sala Pier to Koh 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 Koh 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 Koh Pha-ngan, and can be reached just 5 minutes by chartered
boats. Accommodations are available but are mostly middle to top-end.
Koh Tao
A small isolated island situated 45 kilometers to the north
of Koh Pha-ngan, Koh 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, Koh 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 Koh Pha-ngan, Koh 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 Koh
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, Koh 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 Koh 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 Koh 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 Koh 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, Koh 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 Koh 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.
Koh Samui
Koh 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, Koh Samui
is one of the most famous and popular attractions of Thailand. With
an area of 247 square kilometers, Koh 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, Koh 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 Koh 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 Koh 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, Koh Samui
is also noted for its high quality coconuts that grow densely everywhere.
The best time to visit Koh 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.
Getting to Koh Samui
By air
Bangkok Airways flies from Bangkok to Koh Samui 13 times daily.
The flight takes about one hour and 10 minutes. It also offers daily
flights between Phuket and Samui. For more information, call its
Bangkok office, 0 2229 3456, 0 2229 3434, Samui office, 0 7742 2512
- 9 or Samui Airport Office 0 7724 5601-8.
By bus
Air-conditioned and non air-conditioned buses leave Bangkok's
Southern Bus Terminal for Surat Thani several times daily. The trip
takes about 11 hours. For further information, call 0 2435 1199,
0 2435 1200 (air-con), 0 2434 5557 - 8 (non-air-con).
By car
From Bangkok, take Highway 4 (Buddha Monthon Road) through
Phetchaburi and Chumphon Provinces and then drive on to Highways
41 and 401 to Surat Thani Province. From Surat Thani, visitors can
take their cars to Koh Samui through a vehicle ferry at Donsak Pier.
The trip takes 1.30 hours.
By rail
Several trains leave Bangkok's Hualamphong Station for Surat
Thani daily. The trip takes about 12 hours. Train / bus / ferry
combination tickets are also available. For more information, call
Hualamphong Railway Station, 0 2223 7010, 0 2223 7020.
From Surat Thani to Koh Samui
1. Express boat
1.1 An express ferry boat of Songserm Travel departs from Tha Thong
Pier in Surat Thani at 8.00 a.m. and arrives at Na Thon Pier in
Samui at 10.30 a.m. every day. For the return trip, the boat leaves
Na Thon Pier at 2.00 p.m. and reaches Tha Thong at 4.30 p.m.
1.2 Express boats of Seatran Express operate three times a day
between Ban Don and Koh Samui. Departure times are 7.00 a.m., 12.30
p.m. and 2.30 p.m. The trip takes two hours.
2. Ferry Boats of Seatran
Seatran Ferry, which can accommodate 60 cars and 400 passengers,
operates several trips per day between Don Sak (Surat Thani) and
Koh Samui, from 5.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. The trip takes about 1.30
hours.
3. Night ferry
A slow night ferry leaves Ban Don Pier nightly at 11 p.m. and reaches
Na Thon Pier at Samui around 5 a.m. (6 hours). For the return trip,
the boat leaves Na Thon Pier at 9.00 p.m. and arrives at Ban Don
Pier at 4.00 a.m. (7 hours).
Getting around Koh Samui
Samui is an explorer's dream to discover something new.
Offering a wealth of diversity of landscape, vistas, flora and fauna,
and yet small enough to seek adventure in its many out-of-the-way
places, Samui is best seen by taking songthaews (red local bus)
which operate around the island. The fare starts at 20 baht, depending
on the distance of the destination.
By Taxi
For many reasons, the least suitable for exploring, but
the safest and easiest way to get to the destination is to go by
taxi. The official taxi service time is until 9.00 p.m. Visitors
are recommended to negotiate strongly for the fare and keep in mind
that negotiation should always be dome before boarding. Note that
the fare at night will be escalated.
By a rented Jeep
Rented Jeep, 4WD, is available from many family-owned agencies
and some well known large companies. The vehicle will serve as the
basic means of transportation taking visitors around many hillside
natural and man-made attractions which are easily accessible from
the ring road. Some of these vehicles come with insurance, but the
coverage is limited. Always ask for details first. The minimum price
is from 800 baht.
By Motorcycle
A more flexible way to get around the island,
rented motorcycle costs approximately 200 baht / day. Beware, as
roads other than the main roads on Koh Samui are quite rough in
some parts.
Getting to nearby Islands from Samui
1. Koh Pha-ngan
1.1 Na Thon Pier (Koh Samui) -- Thong Sala Pier (Koh Pha-ngan)
Songserm Travel Co. operates ferry boats and express boats between
Na Thon Pier on Koh Samui and Thong Sala Pier on Koh Pha-ngan, four
times a day. The trip takes about 45 minutes for express boats,
and one hour for ordinary ferry boats.
1.2 Bo Phut (Koh Samui) -- Hat Rin (Koh Pha-ngan)
There is a ferry boat leaving Bo Phut for Koh Pha-ngan twice daily
at 9.30 a.m. and 2.30 p.m. The return trips depart Hat Rin on Koh
Pha-ngan at 10.30 a.m. and 3.30 p.m.
2. Ang Thong Islands
Visitors can hire a boat on Koh Samui to Ang Thong. The charge
depends on the boat size and number of passengers. The trip takes
1.30 hours. It is also possible to join a full-day excursion organized
by tour operators in Koh Samui.
3. Koh
Tao
Boat services for Koh Tao are available at Na Thon Pier of Koh
Samui.
Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park
Located 20 kilometers northwest of Koh 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
Koh 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 Koh 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 Koh
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 Koh
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 Muang
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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