Surat Thani
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Surat Thani General Information
The largest province of the South located 685 kilometers from Bangkok is Surat Thani the province with a name that literally means "City of the Good People". A former capital of the Srivijaya Empire, the province covers an area of approximately 12,891 square kilometers. Surat Thani Province borders the Gulf of Thailand to the north and east, Chumphon Province to the north, Nakhon Si Thammarat and Krabi Provinces to the south, Phang-Nga and Ranong Provinces to the west and Nakhon Si Thammarat Province to the east.
High plateaus and forested mountains are located to the west of the province, while there are low basins in the center and along the eastern coast. This topography has created 14 river basins including Tapee, Pum Duang, Tha Thong, Tha Krajai, Chaiya, Tha Chang which are the most important basins. All rivers in Surat Thani flow east of the province to the Gulf of Thailand.
The numerous islands along the coast makes Surat Thani (often known as Surat in short) a perfect hideaway for vacationers from around the world. The ideal destination for many is the Penang-sized Ko Samui, Thailand's third largest island, and its neighbour Ko Pha-ngan a celebrated island that hosts the biggest beach full moon party. North of Ko Pha-ngan is Ko Tao, renowned for its excellent coral reefs. To top it all is the dazzling 250-square-kilometer Ang Thong Marine National Park, where a stunning archipelago awaits to greet visitors with their charming palm-fringed beaches, crystal clear water and colorful coral reefs. The best time to enjoy one of these islands to the fullest is from April to November.
History of Surat Thani
Surat Thani is a city with a long history. Archeologists believe that it was once a community of prehistoric tribes of indigenous people including the Saemang and original Malays who built their communities on the Tapee River Basin and Ao Ban Don. Later on, the Indians migrated into the area and gradually spread out their culture, as evidenced in the discovery of ruins of ancient communities in Tha Chana and Chaiya Sub-districts.
In the 13th century, the city became a part of and, as some historians might claim, a center of the glorious Srivijaya Empire the kingdom that dominated the whole Malay Peninsula and much of Java. It was during this period that Mahayana Buddhist reached its height of influence. The empires grandeur can still be admired in many areas of Chaiya District.
When the empire hit the bottom, it was divided into 3 main cities namely Chaiya, Tha Thong and Khiri Rat. They were all under the jurisdiction of Nakhon Si Thammarat until King Rama IV decided to move Tha Thong City to Ban Don and required that it report directly to Bangkoks administration. The name Ban Don was, at the time, changed to Kanchanadit. It was with the establishment of the Monthon, a former administrative unit, that all three cities were merged into one under the name Chaiya. In 1915, King Rama VI changed the name Chaiya to Surat Thani.
The seal of Surat Thani says a lot about its history. Featuring the pagoda of Phra Boromathat Chaiya, the seal is proof of the influence of Mahayana Buddhist on Surat Thani. Phra Boromathat Chaiya is the most revered and important historical place in the province. It is believed that the pagoda contains Buddha relics.
Today, Surat Thani is an important commercial and shipping hub for rubber and coconut trading.
Surat Thani Festival Information
- Chak Phra Festival
Surat Thani celebrates the official end of the annual 3-month Buddhist Rains Retreat (Ok Phansa) in mid-October with the Chak Phra Festival (literally 'the procession of hauling the Buddha image). The tradition stems from the belief that the Buddha ascended to Heaven during Phansa to preach to his mother. The festival marks the Buddha's return to Earth, and is an occasion for religious merit-making and general celebrations. Local people organise dazzling land and waterborne processions of revered Buddha images (to symbolise the Buddha's return to Earth) and boat races on the Tapi River where long boats, manned by up to 50 oarsmen, are ebulliently raced. Religious devotion, spectacle and merriment combine to make Surat Thani's Chak Phra Festival a memorable annual event.
- Rambutan Fair
The annual August fair celebrates the delicious fruit, first planted in Surat Thani during 1926. Highlights include floats adorned with rambutans and other fruits, exhibitions of local products and ornamental plants, and demonstrations by specially trained monkeys who harvest coconuts.
Surat Thani Attactions Information
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Ko Samui
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.
- 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.
- 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.
**Information Reference : tourismthailand.org
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