Thailand Guides - Surat Thani

The southern commercial centre of Surat Thani offers little for the casual visitor but it is only a short journey by ferry to the beautiful islands of Koh Samui and Koh Pa-Ngan.

Overview

Surat Thani is a bustling coastal town 650 kilometres south of Bangkok. The commercial centre has grown out of a lively trade in rubber and coconuts yet despite the fact that there is little here to hold the interest of tourists the town does possess a certain charm. For most, Surat Thani is simply the boarding point for boats leaving piers just east of the town bound for Koh Samui and Koh Pa-Ngan.

Attractions

The nearby city of Chaiya, one of Thailand's oldest cities is worth a day trip. The National Museum contains many artifacts dating from the time when Chaiya was a stop on the trade route between India and Southeast Asia. There are also a few temples of note in the area, including the forest temple of Wat Suan Mokkhaphalaram founded by Buddhadasa Bhikkhu, one of the country's most famous and controversial monks.

Khao Sok National Park is Southern Thailand's foremost eco-tourist destination. The park, which extends over 738 square kilometres was declared a national park in 1980 and is largely covered with a rich evergreen forest. The area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna and features some of the best spots for bird-watching in the country. Over 155 bird species have been sighted in the park.