Thailand Guides - Chumphon

The island of Koh Ma Prao is just 1 km from Sairee beach and can be reached by a long-tailed boat within five minutes. The closest island to Sairee beach, Koh Ma Prao is uninhabited except for workers tending the bird's nest concession. The island has cliffs and caves filled with swallows' nests. There is only one sandy beach on the island. The beach is around 100m in length.

The Chumphon National Museum in town contains a fine collection of antique artifacts and Buddha images that chronicles the existence of Chumphon from the 14^th century.

January to April is the best time for an adventure trip in Pa Toe district. This small town is blessed with undulating mountain ranges, lush jungles, waterfalls and rivers. Trekking and whitewater rafting can be arranged from Chumphon city.

Part of the Chumphon Marine National Park, Thung Kha Bay Mangrove Forest has a wooden bridge that zigzags along a 1-km nature trail of leggy mangrove trees. The bridge also offers a nice view of Chumphon Bay.

Events

Chumphon has abundance of fertile land that is good for fruit farms. Lang Suan Fruit Festival is held around August to promote fruits grown in Lang Suan District. Activities in this fruit fair include the processions of the fruit floats, a fruit contest and the sale of local fruits such as durian, rambutan and mangosteen.

The Chumphon's Marine Festival is held every year to promote marine tourism in the province. The event takes place in the middle of March or April and includes an angling competition, photo contest, tourism exhibition and a mini-marathon.

Time to visit

Chumphon has its best weather between February and May. The sea is clear and calm suitable for snorkeling and diving.