Phang Nga

Overview

About the province

Phang Nga surprises with the most spectacular landscapes in all of Thailand — high cliffs, pristine beaches and picturesque forests surrounding numerous coves with azure water are very attractive places for tourists. There are several national parks in the province, known for their pristine nature Ao Phang Nga, Mu Ko Surin, Khao Lak-Lam Ru and others.

This area is full of traditions and history, represented by numerous ancient temples and ruins that allow you to look into the past of the region.

Attractions

One of the most famous attractions of Phang Nga is James Bond Island — Ko Tapu, which was featured in the 1974 film The Man with the Golden Gun. The island is a limestone formation that rises from the sea and is surrounded by crystal clear water and lush forests. Tourists can go on a boat tour of the island and explore its surroundings and landscapes, kayak and explore the nearby caves and bays.

Another popular destination in Phang Nga is the Surin Islands, a group of five islands that are famous for their stunning beaches and marine diversity. The islands are extremely popular with divers from all over the world, and you can make incredible dives here.

The famous 16th century Buddhist temple Wat Suwan Kuha is located in the heart of the province and is surrounded by lush forests and high cliffs, making it one of the most picturesque places in Phang Nga.

The cave temple complex consists of several halls. In the main cave of Tham Phra, there is a vihan with a 15-meter statue of a Reclining Buddha. It is surrounded by dozens of smaller Buddha statues.

Visitors can explore the intricate carvings of the temple and learn about its rich history and cultural significance. Wat Suwan Kuha is a great shrine for followers of Buddhism in Thailand.

Entertainments

Diving

At the foot of Koh Panya, one of the settlements of sea gypsies can be found on stilts. Here you can buy fresh fish or try seafood dishes at a local restaurant. There are also souvenir shops selling shellfish and coral products.

The pristine nature of the national park attracts divers and scuba divers every year. Watching the underwater life of the bay in the crystal clear waters of the Andaman Sea is one of the most accessible and exciting activities in Phang Nga.

Hongi

In addition to the picturesque beauty and tropical exuberance, the islands in Phang Nga Bay have one striking feature ‒ hongi (voids). These are a kind of mini-reserves with untouched nature inside the rocks. Lost worlds with mangroves, which can only be reached with a guide by boat through a network of cave channels at low tide. At high tide, the hongs find themselves underwater. Hongi can be explored on the islands of Panak, Hong and Talu Noi.

Local cuisine

The local cuisine in Phang nga attracts visitors with a wide variety of dishes reflecting Thailand's diverse cultural heritage. Popular dishes are the traditional tom yam with shrimp, lemongrass and chili pepper, as well as pad thai, a dish of deep—fried noodles. You can taste local food in the numerous street stalls and stalls and in the mass of restaurants scattered throughout the province.

Phang nga is a truly unique and fascinating place that offers a wide choice for every tourist. Whether you want to explore the natural beauty of the area, learn about its rich historical and cultural heritage, or just enjoy delicious cuisine, Phang nga is sure to leave you with memories for a lifetime. So if you are looking for a truly unforgettable travel experience, be sure to add Phang Nga to your list of places that are definitely worth visiting in Thailand.