Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Surat Thani – Islands, Nature & Culture

1. Ang Thong National Marine Park

Ang thong is the name for ‘golden bowl’. Found along the coast are limestone islands and karst landscapes that produce dramatic rocks and unusual cliffs. People can visit caves, see hidden lagoons and swim or snorkel along the unique shallow coral gardens here. A visit to the marine park is highly recommended and you can see 40 beautiful islands here.

• Talad Lang Market, Surat Thani, Thailand

• Skills: I like to go snorkeling and kayaking.

2. Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine

Standing in Surat Thani, this ancestral shrine represents deep respect, important traditions and local spirituality. Because Surat Thani’s ancestor spirits live at the temple, it holds great importance in people’s lives and ceremonies, so it’s rewarding to visit.

It acts as a lively sanctuary, since locals come each day to pray, give gifts and respect their ancestors. This way of practicing keeps reminding the community how much they value their family, heritage and tradition.

Get a Conclusive History
Those who visit the shrine see a special side of Surat Thani’s past and present culture. The site does more than support spirituality; it demonstrates how people in the area link their sense of self to admiration for their ancestors. The architectural design reflects the artistic and crafting origins that people of the past have shared with us today.

Visitor Etiquette
Since this place is valuable to many, everyone is requested to dress appropriately and respectfully when they visit. To respect the people here, follow their customs and enjoy exploring their living traditions even more.

📍General visitor information is available here.

• Talat, Mueang Surat Thani District, Surat Thani 84000

• Special features: Meaningful history and worship.

• If you want to see rituals, the early mornings or late afternoons are the best times.

• If you visit a nature reserve, spend some time in silence and make sure to follow the photography rules.

3. Cheow Lan Dam

In Surat Thani Province, Cheow Lan Dam is much more than a great man-made structure: it’s also a lively haven for wildlife and fantastic views. This national park and its artificial lake give nature and adventure lovers easy access to Thailand’s abundant wildlife and make it a popular spot.

Elusive tigers, tapirs, elephants and a range of monkeys can be found in Cheow Lan Dam and the forests found there. The many animal species in the park’s environment make it likely to see wildlife on every visit.

Bird enthusiasts will appreciate this as a favorite spot. Hornbills, banded pittas and the great argus are usual sights among the thick forests and tall trees. Cliffs become enlivened by colorful birds and the pleasant sound of their calls.

Outstanding Beauty of Artificial Lake
Building the dam has created a beautiful artificial lake that mimics the area’s limestone cliffs and thick forests. The calm waters here make boat rides and kayaking lots of fun, allowing visitors to enjoy the calm beauty of the park.

• This museum contains detailed visitor information that you can read on arrival.
• The group is in Surat Thani Province, Thailand.
• Special area: An artificial lake with a rich collection of wildlife.
• Visiting in November to February allows you to experience the weather and improve your chances of spotting wildlife.
• The main activities in this reserve are watching wildlife, watching birds, going on boat trips, kayaking and hiking.

4.Khao Sok National Park

Nature lovers who want to explore beautiful wilderness shouldn’t miss Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani. Set deep within the Phanom District, this huge area of old forest, high cliffs and calm waters is one of Thailand’s most amazing and biologically rich national parks.

Khao Sok isn’t only a national park—it also retains the oldest rainforest in the world which is thought to be even richer in species than the Amazon. Because of its tall trees, thick jungle foliage and the unusual Rafflesia flower, Khao Sok is famous for its flora.

It is home to a large number of different plant and animal species, including gibbons, elephants, hornbills and diverse reptiles. Because there are many different ecosystems, the region attracts many wildlife watchers and photographers.

A key reason people come to the park is Cheow Lan Lake which was constructed after the Ratchaprapha Dam was built. Thanks to its emerald water, dramatic karsts and raft houses, the lake provides an unusually beautiful retreat where you can relax. A boat journey across the lake allows you to see concealed caves, amazing trails and calm hidden places.

Khao Sok gives you so much more than sights—it’s full of activities for the adventurous. Explore the jungle with hikes, try riding bamboo rafts, go canoeing, enjoy tubing, visit caves and stay in bungalows built on the water. All these activities connect you closer with the park’s natural areas.

Visitor Information:

• The ecosystem is in Khlong Sok, Phanom District, Surat Thani 84250, Thailand.

• Main subjects: Rafflesia flower, the ancient forest, Cheow Lan Lake

• If you want the nicest weather and greenest scenery, November to April is the best time to visit.

• If you’re not fully prepared, you’ will probably spend lots of time moving around rather than relaxing

5. Night Market

Anyone looking for a slice of true Thai street life should check out the Sightseeing Street Market in Tonpo Alley. On both sides of the street, this colorful market is 100 to 150 meters long and isn’t very crowded, but you’ll find local appeal, exotic smells and color everywhere.

Foodies, rejoice! There is no shortage of delicious street food choices, from chicken, fried fish and fresh produce, to all types of traditional Thai desserts. What makes this area special is its unique street food from Singapore which brings something different to the food found here.

While taste is the main draw, the market presents a range of other things. From stall to stall, you will find a variety of shoes, cosmetics, clothes and accessories to buy on the spot.

Should you find yourself still a little hungry after street snacks, there are some neat little places to eat along the street. They serve plenty of tasty, typical dishes that give you insight into the friendliness of the place.

A gentle Walk Filled with Real Lifestyle
Most Thai markets are crowded, but this place is gentle and easy to explore by foot during an evening stroll. After the sun sets and lights appear, the market gently lights up to invite people from the community and visitors.

For visitor information, head here

• Tonpo Alley in Tambon Talat of Mueang Surat Thani, Surat Thani 84000, Thailand

• You’ll find specialties in exotic Singaporean street food and local shopping here.

• The best time is from early evening to night.

6. Khanom Beach

Anyone after tranquility, nature surrounded by sea and amazing coastal appeal should not miss out on Khanom Beach. Nestled in Nakhon Si Thammarat, this calm area is a secret in Thailand, providing an unspoiled break from the crowds at tourist beaches.

The tranquil Khanom Beach is much different from the lively shores of Phuket or Krabi which makes it perfect for those who want a quiet, beautiful day at the beach. Because it is so peaceful, it has become a common spot for people to unwind on a holiday or free weekend.

Experiencing New Scenery by Boat
Simply being on the beach isn’t enough in Khanom; you should definitely try boating. Find remote beaches, check out nearby strands or ride in a long-tail boat to spot the famous pink dolphins swimming around Khanom Bay. Just the chance to see this makes the journey memorable.

Public transport makes the place accessible, but it still appears secluded and isn’t very familiar to everyone. At the scene, you might have to walk a short flow which makes the experience more exciting. All the work pays off.

The colors in the sunsets during sunset at Khanom Beach shine on the water and highlight the palm trees. Since the place is usually und Crowded, you can see this view in quiet or with only a few people close to you.

Visitor Information:

• Khanom, Nakhon Si Thammarat is the location of this national park.

• This area is meant for: Boating, viewing the sights and dolphin watching.

• Enjoy the best time to be here from November to April for a peaceful journey at sea and clear skies.

7. Sonchana Farm And Elephant Sanctuary

At Sonchana Farm and Elephant Sanctuary in Khlong Sok, guests have an authentic, ethical and natural experience together with the giants and traditional culture. Just next to the Khao Sok National Park, this sanctuary combines rural living with eco-friendly travel.

Sonchana Farm makes every guest feel like part of their family. First, you will join a tour of the farm to see people farming and learn how residents make delicious dishes using organic produce. Kids and families can use this chance to find out about Thai farming practices and the classic dishes.

The main attraction at the sanctuary is watching how gentle and looked-after the elephants are. Instead of including unwanted rides at Sonchana, respectful behavior is always encouraged. People staying at the elephant camp can care for the elephants, clean them and take them for a walk, while learning about what elephants mean in Thailand.

The explored place Sonchana Farm is among the best choices for families in Surat Thani. Through real activities, children can grow rice, harvest vegetables and make Thai desserts. It helps you learn, interact and grow.

What makes Sonchana special is that it cares strongly about conservation and involves the local community in tourism. As a visitor, you’re backing people who live there and helping create a tourism model that benefits local people and the environment.

There is lots of helpful information at the visitor desk.

• The land is situated on an unnamed road in Phanom District, Surat Thani, at 84250, Thailand.

• What makes us unique: ethical elephant visits, farming using organic methods, experiencing local cultures

• November to March is when to go; the weather is cooler and the landscape is green.

• It’s best to wear loose, comfortable clothing and remember to pack a change of clothes for if you will bathe the elephants.

8. Limestone Lake Rainforest

The Limestone Lake Rainforest in the wonderful heart of Surat Thani gives people an opportunity to encounter nature from up close. Anyone interested in adventure, nature or seeing Thailand’s wild beauty should visit for its breathtaking cliffs, pristine green waters and lush rainforest.

Near Cheow Lan Lake, this tour package takes you to a place where time has formed tall karst cliffs which overlook smooth lakes and jungles have made trails to lovely waterfalls and mysterious caves. The lake and the nearby rainforest include many different forms of wildlife, most of which can only be found here.

Adventure Awaits
You’ll find plenty of exciting and inspiring things to do during the Limestone Lake Rainforest tour. Choose from:

• Elephants making their way along stretchy jungle trails
• 🥾 Venture into the jungle for scenery and awesome waterfalls
• Canoeing or river rafting along streams that are still in natural forest areas
• Enjoying endless sights of the calm lake by boating along.

Rare plants and animals find a home here.
People find hornbills, langurs, clouded leopards and the rare Rafflesia flower living in the rainforests of Thailand. Manitoulin Island is great for hikers or birdwatchers and each trip lets you see the spirit of the wilderness.

Find details about visiting here on the visitor information page.

• The address is 682 Moo 4, Tambon Khao Pang, Baan Takun, Surat Thani 84230.

• Tour types include boating, natural trips and jungle activities.

• The months from November to April are best for those who enjoy skies without clouds and best visibility.

9. Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya

If you appreciate history, culture or religious architecture, don’t miss Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya in Surat Thani. The unusual chedi at this old temple makes it a significant cultural landmark in southern Thailand and a clear sign of the Srivijaya Empire’s early impact here.

Since the 8th century, people believe that the temple was constructed at the high point of the Srivijaya Empire, when Chaiya was very active in both religion and trade. You can tell by its architecture that this temple was inspired by Indonesian and Indian designs and the famous white-and-gold chedi (stupa) stands out as both touching and sacred.

Spiritual Significance
Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya is not only a major historical landmark; it is also used for religious services. Monks sing in the wee hours and people who live nearby usually offer prayers daily. Since it serves to guard the rare Srivijayan architecture in Thailand, the site offers visitors a unique way to experience this culture.

What Cultural Highlights Are There?:

• Appreciate the main chedi, believed to contain something from the Buddha.
• Review the museum’s collections of ancient Buddhist artifacts, sculptures and items related to the Srivijaya period.
• Experience and join in with the community’s rituals and ceremonial practices as they happen.
• Relax in the temple gardens and enjoy the calm feeling.

Visitor Information:

• Wiang, in the Chaiya District, Surat Thani province, Thailand
• Specializes in cultural trips, watching religious services and architectural sites.
• Early in the morning or late in the day is the best time to enjoy a cool environment and calm memories.
• Cover your shoulders and knees while visiting, because this is an active religious area.

10. Tham Khao Wang Thong

Only a short trip from Khanom, Tham Khao Wang Thong gives visitors a taste of the wild and a unique experience underground. If you or someone in your family enjoy adventures and are passionate about geology, this cave is perfect for you.

The reason Tham Khao Wang Thong is so famous is the iron and copper color of its rock walls which reflects an unusual glow inside. With each step further, you’ll see impressive stalactites and stalagmites, both developing over thousands of years to form amazing and unusual structures.

This place isn’t meant only to be looked at; you should explore it. Participants must sometimes crawl, climb and squeeze through tiny passages during the activity. Yet, if you take up the challenge, you’ll experience an uncommon feeling of amazement and excitement that’s lacking in most touristic places you visit today. Remember to take a flashlight and wear shoes that you are sure won’t slip—this is the closest you will ever get to raw nature.

• Why Visit?
• If what you want is something different, don’t miss out on Tham Khao Wang Thong. If you’re hoping to see something more than the beaches and get lots of adrenaline, these are the places for you.

• Khuan Thong, Khanom District, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80210, Thailand

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