"Koh Phra Thong: Paradise at the Edge of the World, a Safari in the Southern Plains of Siam"
3 Days and 2 Nights on a Serene Island
Historical Background
Koh Phra Thong encompasses an area of approximately 401,250 rai (642 square kilometers), spanning across the districts of Kura Buri and Takua Pa in Phang Nga province. This coastal landscape, formed by a submerged coastline, sits on the western shores of southern Thailand. Ranging from Koh Ra (235 meters above sea level) to Koh Phra Thong and Koh Khao, the island features a mix of mountains and plains, with Khao Bo Rai as its highest peak at 450 meters above sea level. Koh Phra Thong is the largest island in Phang Nga and the fifth largest in Thailand.
- The island was hit by a tsunami, causing half of it to sink into the sea. Seawater flooded the meadows of the Samat Forest, making it slow to recover. However, it must be said that it has now returned to its full glory.
- Ko Phra Thong was once a popular tourist destination, hailed as an "Unseen Thailand" gem. The island boasts numerous attractions, including:
- Ko Phra Thong Savannah or Safari Field When I went to the grassland, the grass was very tall, so I didn't get any pictures back.
- Samat Beach (not finished for everyone) This point is Samat Beach, which is full of Samat trees. There are a lot of them. There are also many photo spots. If you have time to walk and take pictures, you will have a lot of fun.
- Fishing villages, such as Morgan Village (this village was entirely affected by the tsunami), are located by the beach, offering a peaceful and almost magical atmosphere.
- The morning light was so inviting that it made me want to grab my camera and start snapping photos like crazy.
- A seemingly endless beach, where walking to the end would be an impossible feat (I haven't tried it yet, but just looking at it makes me tired haha, it's really long). This spot is considered a highlight of the island, as it's the perfect place to capture the sunset. Moreover, the evening atmosphere is peaceful and quiet, making it ideal for letting go and simply sitting and watching the sun go down.
- Man disappears as far as the eye can see, walking endlessly, true to its name, the edge of the sky !!
- What are you playing?
- Playing with the equipment also gives interesting and unusual angles.
- Red-yolk egg, oops, I mean, the red-yolk sun!
There are also many places suitable for studying nature and the way of life of fishermen (but this time, the focus is on the view, haha, Candice is very rare).
- Animals observed on the island: Hawks / Hornbills (glad to see them in person, didn't take pictures, just enjoyed the sight) / Deer / Tiger (the guide, Mr. Daeng, took us to see footprints, not sure if they were real, he said they were, haha).
- Photographers should ideally visit during the new moon to capture the Milky Way and stunning foreground scenery.
- The beauty of the sky is not just the stars, but if you come at the right time, you will also get the magnificence of the Milky Way.
- They couldn't stop taking pictures, it was so much fun.
- The diving boats began to return to shore in the evening.
Who should visit
Suitable for people of all ages and genders, this island is ideal for ecotourism, learning about the local community, or volunteering for CSR activities. The island offers a peaceful atmosphere and unspoiled nature, unlike islands known for their nightlife or luxurious tourism. Transportation on the island requires the use of e-tacks, 4x4 vehicles, motorcycle sidecars, or boats. Near Koh Phra Thong, Koh Ra and Koh Khao are two other interesting islands worth exploring.
- On the island, there is no electricity available, but villagers have generators and solar panels installed (I heard that electricity will be available on the island soon), which limits electricity usage.
Travel
- Traveling from Bangkok by private car, sharing the fuel cost among 4 people (using gas), each person paid around 400 baht.
- Ferry fare to the island is 60 baht one way, 120 baht round trip. Board at the pier in front of Bang Baet Restaurant.
- Accommodation on the island costs between 1,000 and 1,500 baht, depending on the location. There are many places to stay on the island, and camping is also possible.
- Rent a car suitable for traveling around the island for 1500 baht, 6-7 people.
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Wednesday, February 26, 2025 4:19 PM