| Narathiwat at a glance
Located approximately some 1,149 kilometers south of
With an area of 4,475 square kilometers, of which 75 percent are jungles and mountains, visitors to the province are provided with great opportunities to spend days at the beach or in the forests and take excursion trips to some of the magnificent temples. Narathiwat has a tropical climate and has only 2 seasons; summer and rainy. The wettest period is during November to December.
The provincial seal depicts a sailing boat with a picture of a white elephant on the sail in a circle. It signifies that Narathiwat is a province on the coast, engaged in fishing and trading with neighboring countries and that the province has a white elephant called Phra Sri Nararat Rajakarin.
In the past, Narathiwat was a southern borderland named "Ban Bang Nara" or "Manalo". It was located near Maenam Bang Nara and the sea. In the reign of King Rama I, this village was under the administration of Sai Buri. Later, it came under the administration of Ra Ngae town of Todays Narathiwat Narathiwat is currently divided into 12 districts, namely Mueang, Ra-ngae, Su-ngai Padi, Sungai Kolok, Ruso, Yi-ngo, Waeng, Bacho, Tak Bai, Si Sakhon, Sukhirin, Chanae and one Sub District of Cho Ai Rong.
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Friday, 25 January 2008
Narathiwat
Geographically, Narathiwat is situated on the eastern coast of the 
Yala
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Yala is the southernmost
The word Yala was derived from the local word yalo meaning fish net. Yala used to be part of Pattani, a colony of the |
Ratchawangbowon Maha Surasihanat to take Pattani. In B.E. 2351, the King had Pattani separated into 7 smaller colonies, namely Muang Pattani, Muang Sai Buri, Muang Nong Chik, Muang Yaring, Muang Ra Ngae, Muang Raman, and Muang Yala. Yala had changed its rulers many times before Monthon was abolished in B.E. 2476 and finally became one of the provinces (Changwat) of Pattani
| Pattani was very famous in the old days as a town having a woman ruler. The biggest cannon, ever caste in Thailand, was been caste here and was named Nang (Phraya Tani). The central mosque there is the most beautiful one in the southern Region which is the center for Thai Moslems. Other outstanding places are Wat Chang Hai, the monastery where Luang Po Tuat lived. It is on the campus of Songkhla Nakharin University.
Pattani is located 1,055 kms. from Bangkok on the coast of the South China Sea. It occupyies an area of 1,377 square kilometers. The province is administratively divided into 11 Amphoes and 1 King Amphoe. They are Muang, Khok Pho, Mayo, Nong Chik, Panare, Sai Buri, Yarang, Yaring, Thung Yang Daeng, Mai Kaen, Kapho and King Amphoe Mae Lan. The generally the area is a low basin suitable for cultivation, bordering on Songkhla to the north, Narathiwat to the south, the Gulf of Thailand to the east and Yala to the west. What to see and what to do in Pattani? Som Det Phra Si Nakharin Park is a new public park located on the left side of Pattani River, in Tambon Rusamilae, 1 km. from town. Pattani Central Mosque is the place where religious ceremonies are performed by Thai Moslems. The mosque is located on the outskirts of Pattani on Pattani-Yala Highway. It is the most beautiful and largest in Thailand. Institute of Arts and Culture is located in Prince of Songkhla University, Pattani Campus. Collected in its museum are documents, artifacts and objects of art such as, images of Buddha, votive tablets, coins and local handicrafts. The museum is open from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Pak Nam Pattani is a 3 km distance from town. There is a big fishing village. Thousands of coconut trees line the beach like in Hat Bang Nara, Narathiwat. This beach, within this vast space Songkhla Nakharin University,is suitable for afternoon relaxation.
Wat Chang Hai is well known as the wat that belonged to Luang Pho Tuat. Respected by people from all over the country, it is located on Khok Pho-Yala Road on a 1 km. access road. Sai Khao Waterfall National Park is accessible via a 6 kms. access road branching off the Khok Pho-Yala Highway. The area is a beautiful, pleasant arboretum having a stream running from the falls through beautiful scenery. Prasat Nang Phomhom Forest Park is located in Tambon Pithen, King Amphoe Thung Yang Daeng, 52 kms. from Pattani township. In the park, there is a small waterfall which is good to visit between November and December.
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Songkhla
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Songkhla, one of
While Songkhla is noted as a fishing community set in a peaceful atmosphere, Hat Yai, on the other hand, serves as a transportation and communications hub of the south with links to various destinations in the neighboring provinces and
Despite being only 30 kilometers apart, Songkhla and Hat Yai have uniquely contrasting characteristics and are ideal places to visit.
Songkhla is administratively divided into 16 districts: Muang Songkhla, Ranot, Krasae Sin, Sathing Phra, Singhanakhon, Khuan Niang, Rattaphum, Bang Klam, Hat Yai, Na Mom, Chana, Thepha, Na Thawi, Saba Yoi, Sadao, and Khlong Hoi Khong. http://travel.thainn.com/thailand/ |
Songkhla, a medieval pirate stronghold, is a historic, albeit sleepy town with a thriving fishing community. Another Srivijaya outpost in 
OSatun
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Most tourists head out to the pristine islands of Tarutao National Park. Its landscape is full of underwater peaks, excellent beaches, calm and peaceful coves, jungle and mangrove swamps. Snorkelling can be found at Lipe island, while neighbour Adnag island is stunning with forest, hills and waterfalls. |
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Phatthalung
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Phatthalung is an ancient city in southern When there was an administration reform in the reign of King Rama V, Phatthalung prefecture came under Nakhon Si Thammarat prefecture until 1924, when King Rama VI relocated the city to Tambon Khuha Sawan where it has been ever since. Upon the abolition of the prefecture system in 1933, Phatthalung became a province outright.
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Trang
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Trang at a glance Located approximately 828 kilometers from Despite the fact that
Despite the fact that Trang has geographical advantages similar to that of Krabi and Phang-Nga. This includes breathtaking islands and astounding beaches along the coast as well as awe-inspiring inland limestone- propped mountains. The province consists of an archipelago in the
Trang has both mainland beaches and a whole string of offshore islands. For visitors interested in light-adventure activities such as cruising coastal waters, visiting notable sights such as the enchanting With an abundance of blissful attractions mixed with cultural heritage,
The City also has numerous attractions. Walking around Trang City, visitors will be amazed at the mixture of Western, Chinese and Thai cultures reflected in the architecture that range from the Sino- Portuguese shop houses to the Chinese temples and shrines. The Pan-Ya House is the local style of houses in Trang, which offers an insight into the architectural heritage of this town. In addition to architectural attractions there are many parks to stroll through and markets to explore. The main two markets in Trang are Ta Klang and Municipal markets. History of Trang Trang or Muang Thap Thiang used to be a port engaged in foreign trade. It was the first city where rubber was planted after Phraya Ratsadanupradit Mahison Phakdi brought it from
Trang has a total area of 4,941 square kilometers and is divided into 10 districts (Amphoe) and 1 sub-district (King Amphoe); Amphoe Muang, Amphoe Kantang, Amphoe Huai Yot, Amphoe Yan Ta Khao, Amphoe Palian, Amphoe Sikao, Amphoe Wang Wiset, Amphoe Na Yong, Amphoe Ratsada, and King Amphoe Hat Samran. The best time to visit Trang
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Nakhonsithammarat
| Nakhon Si Thammarat The second largest city with a great history before becoming a province, this first grade city controlled various subjected cities and towns. There is a place that houses Lord Buddha's relics which is a most important statutory place of the South, being the center of Buddhism during Sivichaya period. It is located some 861 kms. by railroad and 780 kms. by highway from Bangkok. With an area of 9,942.5 square kilometers, it is a high plateau with mountains and jungles in the west then slopes down in the east, becoming a basin along the coastline of the Gulf of Thailand. It borders on Surat Thani to the north; Trang, Phattalung and Songkhla to the south; the Gulf of Thailand to the east and Krabi to the west.
What to see and what to do in Nakhon Si Thammarat? Wat Phra Mahathat was originally an old monastery of Nakhon Si Thammarat situated in the heart of the city. It is believed to have been constructed during Sivichaya period. An extensive complex is centered on the 77-metre pagoda which houses Buddha relics brought from Sri Lanka some 1,700 years ago. There are other important archaeological sites, such as, Vihara Luang, Vihara Khien, Vihara Khot, Vihara Pho Lanka and museum. Old City Wall was first constructed during the period of Phraya Si Thamma Sokarat and later rebuilt twice during the periods of King Ramesuan and King Narai the Great of Ayutthaya. The total width is 460 meters and length is 2,230 meters.
Chedi Yak is a giant pagoda located near the Municipality Office. Its size is second to the one at Wat Phra Mahathat. The pagoda is assumed to have been built in 1003 by a Mon millionnaire and his followers who lived there. Ho Phra Buddha Sihing houses Phra Buddha Sihing Image located near the Provincial Hall (Sala Klang). Giant Swing and Brahman Temple is in the heart of the city on the side of Ratchadamnoen Road. The current structures are replicas of the ones in Bangkok but smaller in size. They are important places of Brahman Religion which was first introduced to Nakhon Si Thammarat. Hat Khanom is located 1.5 kilometers from Amphoe Khanom, approximately 100 kilometers north of the provincial capital. It is comprised of 3 sandy beaches: Nai Praet, Nai Phlao and Pak Nam. Accommodation is available. Tham Khao Wang Thong is one of the most beautiful caves in Thailand. The cave is located in Amphoe Khanom. It can be reached by a 90 kilometer journey from the provincial capital along Highway 4014, then on Highway 4142 for 5 kilometers and a left turn for a another 6 kilometers. Hat Hin Ngam is a rocky beach located 4.5 kilometers from Amphoe Sichon, 66 kilometres north of the provincial capital. Accommodation is a available. Khao Kha Archaeological Site is on a mountain in Tambon Sao Phao, Amphoe Sichon. It can be accessed by traveling along the Highway No. 401 and turning to Chinda Prachasan Road at km.99, then driving on for another 5 kms. There is an ancient city over 1,500 years old with architectural ruins scattered in the area. The remains of a laterite shrine are found on top of the mountain. Laem Ta Lum Phuk, located in Amphoe Pak Phanang, is 40 kms. from Amphoe Muang. It is a long sandy cape jutting out into the Gulf of Thailand. The fishing village was settled on its western beach. On the eastern beach where there are pine trees along the coast line. A lot of different seashells can be found on the white clean sand. Hat Pak Phanang is a long white beach located 28 kms. from Pak Phanang township. Hat Pak Pha-ying is located in Amphoe Tha Sala, 20 kms.from the towns. There is a fishing village with beautiful beach there. Khao Luang National Park covers an area of 570 sq.kms. in Amphoe Lan Saka, Amphoe Muang, Amphoe Phrommakhiri, Amphoe Chawang and Amphoe Phipun. Main attractions in the national park area are waterfalls as follows: Karom Waterfall is about 1,300-1,400 height with 19 levels. It is located in Amphoe Lan Saka, by highway, 4016,9 kms. from the city,( turn left to highway 6015 for 15 kms. then turn right for another 3 kms). Phrommalok Waterfall is a large and high falls with 3 levels. It can be reached by highway 4016 and turn left at km. 21 to highway 4132 for another 5 kms. Ai Khieo (or Nai Khieo) Waterfall is located in Tambon Thonhong, Amphoe Phrommakhiri, 29 kms. pasted Phrommalok Waterfall. Krung Ching Waterfall is very big and has many levels. The most beautiful level is called "Nan Fon Saen Ha" (which means plenty drops of rain) because it looks like rain drops falling down from the cliff. It is located about 70 kms. from Provincial City on the highway no.4016, then walk for another 3.8 kms. Accommodations and food are available. Contact the National Park Division, Royal Forestry Department, Tel: 5790529, 5794842.
Festival of the tenth Lunar Month The festival falls in September - October every year. http://travel.thainn.com/thailand/ |
Phuket
| Phuket lies off the west coast of Southern Thailand in the Andaman Sea, approximately 890km from Bangkok. It is Thailand’s largest island at 550sq km, roughly the same size as Singapore, and is surrounded by many smaller islands that add a further 70 sq km to its total land area. Phuket is separated from the mainland by the Chong Pak Phra channel at its northernmost point, where a causeway connects the island to the mainland. Phuket is quite hilly. There are a few peaks above 500m, the highest being Mai Tao Sipsong at 529m. Many of these are covered in lush jungle. The lowlands consist of rice paddies, plantations of rubber, pineapple and coconut as well as the only significant area of rainforest remaining on the island, which is now protected as Khao Phra Thaeo Park. The most beautiful beaches are found on the West coast, separated by rocky coves and headlands. The east coast comprises limestone shoals with only a few sandy beaches while spectacular limestone islands adorn the horizon. Coral gardens full of exotic marine life dot the emerald waters surrounding the island, although sadly much of Phuket's coral has been disappearing due to environmental pressures and human activities. The residents of Phuket comprise Thais who have migrated from the mainland, ethnic Chinese, Malays, and Chao Leh or ‘sea-gypsies’ who are the original inhabitants of Phuket. According to the census, Thai-Buddhists account for 71% of the population, with Malays (24%) and Chao Leh (4%) making up the remainder. The figure for Thai-Buddhists also includes the Chinese who are almost completely assimilated. Some estimates put the percentage of ethnic Chinese at around 35%. The vast majority of the population resides in or around Phuket City and Patong Beach, creating a population distribution along an east-west axis. The National Statistical Office of Thailand’s most recent census conducted in 2000 shows Phuket to have a population of 250,000. In reality, this figure is likely to be quite a lot higher as this data does not take into account those who live and work in Phuket, but are registered as being resident elsewhere, a fairly common occurrence. Together with this are the seasonal workers, and visitors of which there are a significant number all year round. Taking this into account, some estimates have calculated a figure as high as 500,000 during peak periods. Phuket has the second highest per capita income of any province in Thailand outside of Bangkok. Tourism has dominated the island’s economy for the past two decades. Each year, over 3 million visitors arrive to enjoy Phuket’s natural splendor and many amenities. For much of its history, Phuket’s economy was based on tin mining. Since the fall in the demand for tin in the 1980s and restrictions placed upon tin dredging to protect the coastal waters, the industry’s importance has greatly declined. The main religion on Phuket, as in the rest of Thailand, is Theravada Buddhism. Theravada, literally the "Doctrine of the Elders", is the name of the school of Buddhism that draws its scriptural inspiration from the Pali Canon, or Tipitaka, which scholars generally accept as the oldest record of the Buddha's teachings. Many people in Phuket also practice Daoism, usually together with Buddhism. This is due to the large number of Chinese immigrants who came to work in the tin mines during the 19th century. Several Chinese shrines can be found around Phuket City. During the Vegetarian Festival these are a hive of activity. Thai Muslims make up approximately 35% of Phuket’s population, and many are still concentrated in the area around Surin Beach where the migrant Malays originally settled. Despite the smaller number of Muslims, mosques actually outnumber Buddhist wats on the island. The Chao Leh practice their own form of animism, the belief in the existence of individual spirits that inhabit natural objects and phenomena. Phuket is Thailand’s only island province and is also the country's smallest province in terms of area. Phuket City is the administrative centre, though it is still commonly referred to as Phuket Town. It received city status in 2004. The island is divided into three administrative districts or amphoe; Thalang, to the north, Kathu to the west and Muang in the south. The provincial governor and district chiefs are appointed by the central government in Bangkok. Phuket and Patong city councils are elected as well as the city mayors. Provincial, district and sub-district councils are also elected. You can get more information at website http://www.phuket.net/ |
Krabi
| This seaside province is located in the Andaman Sea. The province is full of white sandy beaches, crystal clear seawater, beautiful islands, verdant forest with caves, and waterfalls, including more than 100 offshore islands. Krabi is located 814 kilometres from Bangkok, covering an area of 4,708 square kilometres. From archaeological discoveries, it is believed that Krabi was one of the oldest communities in Thailand dating from the prehistoric period. It is also believed that Krabi was once the town of Ban Thai Samo, one of 12 royal cities that used a monkey as the town symbol. Krabi was a dependency town of the Nakhon Si Thammarat Kingdom. Another legend indicates that the town may have taken its name after the meaning of Krabi, which means sword. This may have stemmed from a legend that says an ancient sword was unearthed prior to the city’s founding. Later, the sword became a symbol of Krabi. The province consists of mountains, hills, plains, and mangrove forests, including more than 130 large and small islands. Krabi town has a 5-metre-long river, which flows through town and ends at the Andaman Sea in Tambon Pak Nam. There are several canals in Krabi including Khlong Pakasai (คลองปกาสัย), Khlong Krabi Yai (คลองกระบี่ใหญ่) and Khlong Krabi Noi (คลองกระบี่น้อย), all of them originate from Phanom Bencha mountain range, the highest mountain range in Krabi. BOUNDARY North: close to Pang Nga, Surat Thani South: close to Trang, the Andaman Sea East: close to Nakhon Sri Thammarat, Trang West: close to Pant Nga, the Andaman Sea The northern part of Krabi consists of mountain ranges and wavy land. While the southern part comprises scattering hills and wavy areas. The southern most and the southwestern parts are hilly and wavy. The 160-km coastal western part comprises about 130 islands. The internation-ally renowned islets are Koh Lan Ta and Koh Phi Phi. Krabi river, Pakasai canal, Krabi Yai and Krabi Noi canals are major water sources of the province., Tropical monsoon climate influenced by the southwestern wind and the northeastern wind. It rains throughout the year. The Province enjoys two seasons: the hot season starts from January to April, whereas the rainy season begins in May and ends in December " Krabi must be a hub of historic and eco-tourism and a province of sustainable agro-industry " To achieve this ambitious vision, the following provincial development strategies have been mapped out. You can get more information at website http://www.krabi.go.th http://travel.thainn.com/thailand/ |
Phang-nga
| Phang-nga, land of tin mines and beautiful scenery, is nestled among mountains which rise up around the town like a town wall. The majority of the area is mountainous with very little basin area. Phangnga covers the area of 4,170.90 sq.km., 57% of which is mangrove and evergreen forest. Phang-nga is 788 kms. from Bangkok, bordering on Ranong to the north, Phuket to the south, Krabi and Surat Thani to the east, and the Andaman Sea to the west. It is administratively divided into eight Amphoes : Muang, Kapong,Khura Buri, Takua Pa,Takua Thung, Thai Muang, ThapPut and Ko Yao. What to see and what to do in Phang-Nga? Tham Sawan Khuha cave is located in Amphoe Takua Thung, 7 kms. before arriving in the Phangnga. The cave is a part of Wat Suwan Khuha (or Wat Tham) and houses Buddha images, prangs and pagodas. There a lot of beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. Tham Phung Chang cave is located on Khao Chang behind the provincial prison. Replicas of famous Buddha images are housed in this beautiful cave, in addition to strange stalactite and stalagmite formations. Ao Phangnga National Park is located in Arnphoe Muang, Arnphoe Takua Thung and Amphoe Ko Yao of Phangnga. The park covers an area of 400 square kilometers, mainly comprised of many isles of different shapes and sizes. Caves and beautiful bays together with rock formations and mangrove are some of the park's major attractions. From Ao Phangnga, there are tour boat services at Tria Dan Pier in Amphoe Muang and at Surakun Pier in Amphoe Takua Thung There are;
Ko Yao covers an area of 137.6 square kilometers consisting of 2 main islands: Ko Yao Noi and Ko Yao Yai and several surrounding islets. Beautiful beaches include: Hat Pa Sai, Hat Tha Khao, Ao Tikut, Ao Khlong Son and Hat Lopareat. To get to Ko Yao Tram Ao Phangnga pier takes about 2 hours. Boats are also available from Ao Po, Phuket, the trip takes about 1 1/2 hours. Khao Lampi-Hat Thai Muang National Park covers an area of 72 square kilometers and was proclaimed a national park on April 14, 1986. Places of interest in this national park are: Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park, Khao Lak-Lam Ru, covers a total area of some 125 square kilometer of Amphoe Thai Muang, Amphoe Ka Pong, Amphoe Ta Kua Pa and Amphoe Muang. It consists of the following attractions: Mu Ko Surin National Park is located in the Andaman Sea and covers an area of approximately 135 square kilometers. To reach this five islets archipelago, tourists may start from three different point, but the most convenience and the shortest is from Ban Hin Lat in Amphoe Khura Buri which takes about 4-5 hours. The islands' attractions are long, beautiful beaches with smooth white sand, lines of perfect coral reef and mainland inhabited by sea gypsies. Note for the most suitable time to visit is from December-March of each year. Mu Ko Similan National Park occupies an area of approximately 130 square kilometres. To get to the park, one can take a boat trip from the pier in Tambon Thap Lamu, Amphoe Takua Pa or from the pier in Amphoe Khura Buri. The trip takes about three hours. Similan, a small archipelago in the Andaman Sea, is comprised of nine islands. It is famous for both surface and under water beautiful scenery. The best time to make a trip for diving and angling is from late December to mid April. Si Phangnga National Park, situated in Amphoe Khura Buri, 100 kilometers to the north of the provincial town, covers an area of about 246.08 square kilometers. The park was established in honor of His Majesty the King on his 60th birthday. This forested piece of land is home to large variety of flora and fauna. Places of interest within the park are Tam Nang Waterfall, Ton Toei Waterfall and Ton Ton Sai Waterfall. http://travel.thainn.com/thailand/ |
Surat Thani
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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 
The numerous islands along the coast makes Surat Thani (often known as 
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 
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 
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 
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.
Ranong
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Ranong is the first southern province on the western coast, located 568 kilometres from 
A mountainous and heavily forested province, Ranong is best known as a fishing and trading port. It was settled by the Hokkian Chinese, and their strong influence is evident in the town. Ranong town is a gateway to Myanmar, with colourful longboats ferrying produce and people across the narrow divide that separates the two countries. The traffic is even heavier these days since a casino opened at Victoria Point. The famous hot springs are just outside of town, where an arboretum and various first-class hotels cater to visitors eager to benefit from the medicinal properties of the mineral waters.Chumphon
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The port city of Chumphon, considered the "Gateway to the South", is located on the Gulf some 663 kms. south of Bangkok. The total area is 6,009 square kilometers. To the east and south are basin areas having fruit orchards, plantations, rice fields, forested areas and some small mining operations. It borders on Prachuap Khiri Khan to the north, Burma and Ranong to the west, Surat Thani to the south and the 222 kms. coastline of the Gulf of Thailand to the east. It is administratively divided into 8 Amphoes: Muang Chumphon, Lang Suan, Sawi, Tha Sae, Pathiu, Lamae, Pha To and Thung Tako. What to see and what to do in Chumphon? Chumphon is a seaside resort province famous for its island dotted coastal waters, beautiful sea and white sand beaches lined with coconut groves.
Hat Sai Ri is approximately 15.5 kms. along Highway No.4119 and 4098 from Chumphon township area, passing Hat Pharadonphap and Hat Pha Daeng . Here is the location of the shrine of H.R.H. Prince Chumphon, Father of the Royal Thai Navy, a large torpedo - ship named "the Royal Chumphon" and Dr. Porn's herbal garden.
Ao Thung Makham is approximately 6-kms. from Hat Sai Ri. It is divided into 2 semicircles bays(outer and inner), with beautiful beaches, lines of coconut trees, crystal clear sea and utmost privacy. On the south most of the bay lies Wat Suan Khuha Wariwong (or Wat Phong Phang), which is surrounded with coconut trees shed. Kapo Waterfall Forest Park is located at Km.466-468 about 30 kms. from the Chumphon township area on Phetchakasem Highway at Tambon Salui, Amphoe Tha Sae. It is a pleasant shady park with a small waterfall having many species of plants suitable for natural science study and relaxation. Ao Thung Wua Laen, a peaceful bay with beautiful beach, is located along Phetchakasem Highway, 16 kms. north of Chumphon at Tambon Saphli, Amphoe Pathiu. . Hat Arunothai, a beach in Amphoe Thung Tako, is suitable for camping. There are hiking trails and rock-climbing nearby. The beach is accessible via Phetchakasem Highway about 50 kms. and branches off at Amphoe Thung Tako through another 10 kms. access road.
Khlong Phrao National Park is now in the official process of being declared a national park. It covers an area of about 793,125 rai of 2 provinces,namely Chumphon and Ranong. To get there, from Pathom Phon Intersection, drive along the Highway 41, the Chumphon-Surat Thani route for about 55 kilometers and turn right for another 15 kilometers at KM. 57, opposite the branch road to Ban Nam Chut. Tourist spots within Khlong Phrao National Park include: Khlong Phrao Waterfall, Tham Than Lot Yai, Tham Than Lot Noi, Thai Muang Waterfall and Thap Chang Waterfall. Accommodation is available within the park. For more details, please contact National Parks Division, Royal Forestry Department, Tel. 579-0529, 579-4842. Sea Attractions: Cave Attractions: |
Prachuap Khiri Khan
| Prachuap Khiri Khan (including Hua Hin) The provincial capital is a fishing port with a superb location beside  beautiful curving bays and amongst steep mountain outcrops. About 100 kilometres to the north of Prachuap Khiri Khan is Hua Hin, Thailand's first beach resort which is renowned for golf and spa. Between Hua Hin and Prachuap Khiri Khan are Pran Buri with many boutique resorts and Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park with soaring peaks, numerous caves and exotic bird life.Hua Hin  281 kilometers south of Bangkok, Hua Hin, which literally means stone head in Thai, is the oldest beach resort of the country and is still very popular. Clean white sand, crystal clear water and a tranquil atmosphere has continued to attract tourists in search of peaceful and relaxing holidays.
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Hua Hin's consequence came with the opening of the Railway Hotel (known today as the Sofitel Central Hotel), an elegant Victorian-style resort hotel, and also the countrys first standard golf course. A cluster of royal and high-society residences gradually became more visible resulting in the transformation of the whole village into the first seaside resort of the country, where visitors could enjoy swimming, fishing, and golfing in the country's first standard golf course.
Today, Hua Hin is a well-established beach destination with word-class facilities coupled with a true sense of Thai hospitality. Despite its expansive growth and development as a luxurious destination, the splendor of Hua Hin remains intact. Remaining content in itself, Thailand's oldest seaside resort has never sought international recognition. It has continued to provide a peaceful and relaxed sanctuary in a picturesque environment that comes with a true sense of historical identity.Phetchaburi
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Whatever the assumptions are, the fact that Phetchaburi is an ancient city with a very long history is undeniable. This has been proven by many archaeological findings which could be dated back to the Dvaravati Period.
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Phetchaburi, locally known by Thais as Muang Phetch, is located 160 kilometers south of 
A very old city which used to be an important royal fort town, Phetchaburi had been given several names such as, Phripphri, Phripphli or Phetchaphli. Some historians have gone as far as to say that Phetchaburi could have been named in Indian style, as the Indian influence in those days day was strong. Others put forward the idea that the name Phetchaburi might have originated from Maenam Phetch the most important river of the town.
During Sukhothai and 
In the Rattanakosin Era, Phetchaburi has changed its character to a town of charming beauty, with peaceful seaside resorts and superb natural reserves. The three Kings of the Rattanakosin Period, King Rama IV, V, and VI established their retreats here. They built the three palaces namely Phranakhonkhiri, Phraramrajanivet, Phrarajnivesmarugadayawan in Phetchaburi thus, Phetchaburi is also known as Muang Sam Wang (the city of the three Palaces). The province is also well known for its splendid historical park, ancient temples, wonderful beaches and caves, as well as a great variety of local and fresh seafood. Phetchaburi also has a popular resort town, Cha-am which is the premier beach resort in the province.