Phang Nga Thailand is one of the most beautiful places on earth. The limestone cliffs rising out of the dense jungle are truly inspiring. Add a variety of waterfalls, caves and the majestic Phang Nga archipelago to the mix and you have the makings of an unforgettable holiday. Millions of people visit Thailand every year but only a small percentage actually spend any amount on time in this amazing province. Phang Nga is far removed from the noise and bustle of the other major vacation destinations in Thailand such as Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai. The pace is a lot slower. It is easily the safest province in the country. Phang Nga has clean air and little if any heavy industry. This place thought “green” long before any other area in South East Asia. One only has to come and see for themselves.
One of the best ways to see this amazing place is by renting a motorbike or car and just hitting the road. The next best way is to book one of many trips offered by the local tour agencies. There are numerous waterfalls, rivers and national parks to explore. The city of Phang Nga is small but functional and it’s easy to fall in love with its scenery. It reminds me of the meeting between the modern world and primitive jungle. Anyone who flies south from Bangkok or Chiang Mai to Phuket during the daytime will see the stunning Phang Nga archipelago from the air. The waters are crystal clear and you would swear that you were traveling back in time to another era.
The Similan and Surin Island chains are off the coast of this province with the gateway to these places being Khao Lak. The islands are renowned for the world class diving and snorkeling to be had. Khao Lak consists of former fishing villages strung together along Highway 4. The area is one of the more family friendly destinations in all of Thailand. There are kilometers of unspoiled beaches, impressive waterfalls and with the laid back atmosphere it is always a pleasure to go on tours in Khao Lak.
The people who live and work in Phang Nga are extremely friendly and helpful. If you are into fishing then this is also a nice place to hire a long-tail boat and drop a line into the calm waters. Finding a place to stay is easy too. There is accommodations to fit any budget. There are backpacker lodges, 3-5 star resorts and even 6 star super luxury resorts available.
There is also a large Burmese presence in the northern part of the province. If you go to visit the Surin Islands there is a small Moken village to visit. The Moken are nomadic sea gypsies who rely on the ocean for their livelihoods. After the 2004 tsunami uprooted them from their former villages, they settled in a quiet bay in the southern part of the island chain. If you want to have a truly inspirational holiday experience mixed with the natural beauty of the tropics then Phang Nga Province is a must visit for you and your friends and family.
