Talk:Satun/Listings

Get in

By car

From Bangkok, take Highway 4, past Prachuap Khiri Khan and Chumphon, and switch to Highway 41, past Nakhon Si Thammarat and Phatthalung. Take Highway 4 from Phatthalung to Songkhla’s Rattaphum district and turn right to follow Highway 406 toward Satun. The total distance is 973 km.

By plane

Take the Bangkok – Hat Yai flight. From Hat Yai, take a taxi or a bus to Satun for another 98 km. For more information, contact the Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) at Tel. 1566, 0 2280 0060, 0 2628 2000, or visit the website: www.thaiairways.com.

By train

Take the Bangkok – Yala, Bangkok – Hat Yai, or Bangkok – Su-ngai Kolok train to the Hat Yai Railway Station. Take a passenger van or a bus toward Satun for a distance of 98 km. For more information, contact the Hua Lamphong Railway Station at Tel. 1690, 0 2223 7010, 0 2220 4334, or visit the website: www.railway.co.th.

By bus

There is a daily air-conditioned bus service from Bangkok to Satun. The bus leaves the Southern Bus Terminal on Borommaratchachonnani Road. For more information, call Tel. 0 2435 5605, 0 2435 1199, 0 2434 7192, or visit the website: www.transport.co.th.

Get around

See

Amphoe Mueang Satun

Satun Central Mosque or Mambang Mosque (มัสยิดกลางจังหวัดสตูลหรือมัสยิดมำบัง) is located on the corner of Buri Wanit Road and Satun Thani Road in the heart of town. It is a place for religious services. The mosque is in a modern style of architecture. Its white building is decorated with glazed tiles, marble, and glass. The building is divided into two parts. The outer part features a verandah with a flight up to a dome-tipped tower. At the top, a view of the town of Satun can be seen. The inner part is shaped as a large hall for praying with an underground chamber.

Satun National Museum – Kuden Mansion (พิพิธภัณฑสถานแห่งชาติสตูล – คฤหาสน์กูเด็น) is located on Satun Thani Road, Soi 5, opposite the Satun Provincial Land Office. Construction was started in 1898 and completed in 1916 by Phraya Phumnatphakdi or Tunku Baharutdin Bin Tammahong (formerly Kuden Binkumae), the ruler of Satun, during the reign of King Rama V. The mansion was intended to be a royal residence during a royal visit of King Rama V to the South. However, the king did not stay overnight here. The building was later used as an official residence and as the Satun Town Hall. Until WW II in around 1941, the building was occupied by Japanese soldiers as their command unit. It was also used as the Satun City Hall and other important official places. During 1997 – 2000, the Fine Arts Department renovated the Kuden Mansion into a western two-storey brick building. Curved doors and windows are in the European architectural style of art. Its Thai-styled hip-roof is covered with Spanish terra cotta roof tiles. Window panels consist of wooden shutters. The top of the pediment is adorned with a star-shaped vent in accordance with Islamic architecture.

Inside, there are displays of history of Satun town and ways of life of the people of Satun, such as the sea dwellers of Ko Lipe, pot making, a room of the ruler of Satun’s residence, a room of the Thai Muslim culture depicting arts, culture, traditions, local lifestyles, etc. The museum is open on Wednesdays to Sundays from 9.00 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. It is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and public holidays. Admission fee is 30 Baht. Tel. 0 7472 3140.

Khao To Phaya Wang Public Park (สวนสาธารณะเขาโต๊ะพญาวัง) is located in the Municipality of Mueang Satun on Khuha Prawet Road. This park offers a distinctive atmosphere unlike other parks. Because of its proximity to a limestone mountain, visitors would rather feel like sitting in a cave than an open-air park. Furthermore, there is a canal flowing by the park. Various plants make the park shady and suitable for recreation. Food shops are available in neighbouring areas.

Wat Chanathip Chaloem (วัดชนาธิปเฉลิม) is located on Sunlakanukun Road in Tambon Phiman. Formerly, it was called Wat Mambang. This is the first Buddhist temple in the town of Satun. Built in 1882, the temple was renamed Wat Chanathip Chaloem in 1939. In fact, most of the people of Satun are Muslim. The temple has served as a centre of spirit of the Buddhists here for more than a century. The Ubosot (ordination hall) which was built in 1930 has distinctive features, unlike an ordination hall in general. It is a Thai-styled two-storey building. The first storey is a brick building used as a preaching hall. The second storey is a wooden building for religious practice by Buddhist monks. The ordination hall has a front porch with two side stairways. The posts of the window panels are carved in a traditional ‘Khrueathao’ or intertwined design. The temple has been declared an environmental preservation zone by the Environmental and Local Art Preservation Unit of Satun, the Cultural Centre of Satun, and Satun Witthaya School. For further details, call Tel. 0 7471 1996.

Laem Tanyong Po and Hat Sai Yao (แหลมตันหยงโปและหาดทรายยาว) are on the mouth of Ao Satun. Take Highway 4051 ( the route to the Che Bilang Pier) for around 8 km, and from a junction toward Ban Tanyong Po, go on for around 10 km. Laem Tanyong Po is a cape jutting into the Andaman Sea where there is a fishing village. Its long sandy beach is fringed with coconut trees and fishermen’s houses. The fishermen’s way of life and seafood exposed to dry in the sun along the beach can be seen.

Tarutao National Park (��ุทยานแห่งชาติตะรุเตา) It is the first marine national park of Thailand. The park is renowned for its history and natural beauty. It is located in the Andaman Sea, around 40 km from the town of Satun or 22 km off the shore from the Pak Bara Pier. To the north, the park borders the Muko Phetra National Park, and to the south, it borders the boundary waters between Malaysia and Thailand. The park covers an area of about 1,490 sq km, including islands and sea. Of the total 51 islands, there are 7 large islands; namely, Ko Tarutao, Ko Adang, Ko Rawi, Ko Lipe, Ko Klang, Ko Batuang, and Ko Bitsi. These islands have been formed into two major groups; namely, Muko Tarutao and Muko Adang – Rawi. The area was declared a national park on 19 April 1974, and ASEAN Heritage Parks and Reserves by UNESCO in 1982. The best time for a visit is during November to April.

Attractions in the Tarutao National Park

Ko Tarutao (เกาะตะรุเตา) It is the largest island of the park, covering an area of 152 sq km. Most of the areas are mountains with a moist evergreen forest, interesting species of plants and wildlife. Some part of the area is a mangrove forest. There are many bays, both small and large, with beautiful beaches. In the sea, various species of fish, including 4 endangered species of sea turtle, can be been. The word ‘Tarutao’ was gradually changed from ‘Talotrao’ in Malay, which means having many bays.

Apart from an abundance of nature, Ko Tarutao has a memorable history. In 1936, the government had a policy for the Department of Corrections to set up a reformatory estate and a prison. Being a remote island having natural elements which pose obstacles against escape, Tarutao was, therefore, chosen for this purpose. An office building, houses for warders, a sleeping hall for prisoners, and an occupational training centre, were built at Ao Talo Wao and Ao Talo Udang. In 1938, the first group of 500 prisoners was sent to the island. The number of prisoners gradually increased to a maximum of 3,000. In 1939, the government sent 70 more political prisoners resulting from the Bowondet and Nai Sip rebels, to be detained at Ao Talo Udang.

In 1941, World World II caused an impact on the Tarutao reformatory estate and made it be in short of food and medicine. As a result, a great number of prisoners died of illness. The warders and some prisoners decided to attack commercial ships sailing in the sea at the Straits of Melaka and rob goods from them. Therefore, commercial ships were scared to come by the area. In 1946, the British government who ruled Melaka at the time successfully suppressed the pirates of Tarutao by force upon permission from the Thai government. Later, the Department of Corrections announced the dissolution of the Tarutao reformatory estate. After that, the island was left deserted for 26 years. On 19 April 1974, the Royal Forest Department declared the establishment of the Tarutao National Park, the first-ever marine national park of Thailand.

Attractions on Ko Tarutao

Ao Phante Melaka (อ่าวพันเตมะละกา) It is a bay with a clean long white beach. The headquarters of the Tarutao National Park is located here. There is a tourist service centre where an exhibition has been held about the nature and history of Ko Tarutao. This bay also offers a viewpoint for a beautiful sunset. From Ao Phante Melaka, visitors can walk up to a viewpoint on Pha To Bu (To Bu Cliff).

Ao Chak (อ่าวจาก) This small bay is next to Ao Phante Melaka.

Ao Mo Lae (อ่าวเมาะและ) It is 4 km from the park’s headquarters. The bay possesses a clean white sandy beach. There is a beautiful grove of coconut trees amidst tranquility, as well as bungalows suitable for recreation. Ao Son (อ่าว��น) It is 8 km from the park’s headquarters. This curve-shaped bay has sandy beaches which are interspersed with rocky beaches. It is also an egg-laying ground for sea turtles. A camping site is provided. A food and beverage service is available. There are small waterfalls: Namtok Ludu and Namtok Lopo. This is an ideal place for forest trekking and a nature study.

Ao Talo Wao (อ่าวตะโละวาว) It is a bay located to the east of the island, and provides another viewpoint for a beautiful sunrise. The Park’s Ranger Station ToTo 1 (Talo Wao) is situated here. It is a historical area where the reformatory estate for detention and critical prisoners was established. Nowadays, the park has imitation buildings of the past, such as houses of the warders, a sleeping hall of prisoners, an occupational training centre, a cemetery of 700 corpses, etc., constructed in the area.

Ao Talo Udang (อ่าวตะโละอุดัง) It is a bay located to the south of the island, 8 km from Ko Langkawi. The Park’s Ranger Station To To 2 (Talo Udang) is situated here. In the past, it was where political prisoners from the Bowondet and Nai Sip rebels were detained.

Namtok Ludu (น้ำตกลูดู) It is a small beautiful waterfall, around 3 km from Ao Son. There is a nature trail from Ao Son to Namtok Ludu.

Tham Chorakhe (ถ้ำจระเข้) It is a cave of 300 m in depth. Inside, beautiful stalactites and stalagmites can be found in different forms. To visit the cave, take a long-tailed boat for around 20 minutes. The boat cruises along Khlong Phante Melaka (Phante Melaka Canal) where numerous mangrove trees grow all along its banks. About an hour is needed to explore the inside of the cave. Visitors should bring their own torches. For more information, contact the Visitor Service Centre of the park.

Pha To Bu Viewpoint (จุดชมวิวผาโต๊ะบู) Pha To Bu is a cliff 60 m above sea level. A 20-minute-walk up to the viewpoint passes by a dry evergreen forest. The viewpoint is behind the park’s headquarters, overlooking the beach of Ao Phante Melaka, Ko Bulon, Ko Klang, Ko Khai, Ko Adang, Ko Rawi, and Muko Phetra. A beautiful scene of the sunset can also be seen from here.

Activities on Ko Tarutao

Nature Trail (เส้นทางเดินศึกษาธรรมชาติ) From the park’s headquarters in the area of Ao Phante Melaka, a nature trail goes through an evergreen forest to Ao Talo Wao. This 12-kilometre path is flanked by dense woods and shady plants. Wild animals such as common wild pig, mouse deer, and many interesting species of bird, particularly hornbill, can be often seen along the way.

Another nature trail is to Ao Chak, Ao Mo and Ao Son. The 8-kilometre walk takes about 2 hours to pass through a virgin rain forest, and is suitable for bird-watching; for example, hornbill and drongo.

Cruising Route around the Island (เส้นทางล่องเรือรอบเกาะ) To study the nature as part of ecotourism, the park provides boats with guiding officers for a visit to the beaches. The one-day boat trip will take visitors to see birds at Ao Chak; the white sandy beach at Ao Son which is the longest one on Ko Tarutao; historical traces at Ao Talo Udang; and nature at Ao Talo Wao; dive on a coral reef, and visit a mangrove forest. For more information, contact the Visitor Service Centre on the island.

Accommodation of the Tarutao National Park

In the area of the Tarutao National Park, guesthouses for visitors are available on Ko Tarutao and Ko Adang. For further details, contact the Department of National Park, Wildlife and Flora at Tel. 0 2562 0760, or the Visitor Service Centre of the Tarutao National Park at the Pak Bara Pier in Tambon Pak Nam, Amphoe La-ngu, Satun 91110, at Tel. 0 7478 3485, or the Tarutao National Park Ranger Station To To 1 (Ao Phante Melaka) on the island, at Tel. 0 7472 9002 – 3, or visit the website: www.dnp.go.th.

To Get to Tarutao National Park

Pak Bara Pier It is located at the mouth of Khlong La-ngu in Tambon Pak Nam, Amphoe La-ngu, around 8 km from the district of La-ngu. It is the nearest pier to Ko Tarutao, a total distance of 22 km. Located not far from the pier is the Visitor Service Centre of the Tarutao National Park.

Satun – Pak Bara Pier From Amphoe Mueang Satun, visitors can travel to the Pak Bara Pier as follows:-

By car: Take Highway 406 to Ban Chalung and turn left to Highway 416 (Satun – La-ngu). From Amphoe La-ngu, take Highway 4052 toward the Pak Bara Pier.

By bus: A Satun – Pak Bara taxi departs from the taxi stand near the Bangkok Bank Satun Branch many times a day. In addition, there are mini-buses and passenger vans leaving town as well.

Amphoe Hat Yai – Pak Bara Pier From Amphoe Hat Yai, visitors can travel to the Pak Bara Pier as follows:-

By car: Take Highway 406 to Ban Chalung, Satun, and turn right to Highway 416 (Satun – La-ngu). From Amphoe La-ngu, take Highway 4052 toward the Pak Bara Pier.

By bus: There is a bus service departing from the Hat Yai Bus Terminal during 6.10 a.m. – 4.50 p.m. The bus stops for passengers opposite the Hat Yai’s Clock Tower. The journey takes 2½ hours. For more information, contact the Satun Transport Company Limited at Tel. 0 7424 3797.

By van: From the van stand in front of the Hat Yai Railway Station, a passenger van leaves every hour during 6.00 a.m. – 6.30 p.m. For more information, contact the Satun Transport Company Limited at Tel. 0 7424 5655.

Pak Bara Pier – Tarutao National Park

During the Tarutao tourism season from November to April, a boat service is available to islands in the Tarutao National Park.

Pak Bara Pier – Tarutao A daily boat service is available. A return fare is 400 Baht per person.

• From Pak Bara Pier 12.30 and 3.00 p.m.
• From Tarutao 9.00 and 12.00 a.m.

Timetables of Service by Ferry Operators to Ko Tarutao and Ko Lipe (The service is subject to change. Please check it with the operators before taking a trip.)

Adang Sea Tour

• From Pak Bara to To Ko Tarutao and Ko Lipe 10.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. and 3.00 p.m.
• From Pak Bara to To Ko Tarutao and Ko Lipe 1.30 p.m. to 2.30 p.m. and 5.00 p.m.

• From Ko Lipe to Ko Tarutao and Pak Bara 9.00 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. and 12.30 p.m.
• From Ko Lipe to Ko Tarutao and Pak Bara 10.00 a.m. to - and 12.30 p.m.

To Ko Tarutao, a single fare is 250 Baht, a return fare is 400 Baht.

To Ko Lipe, a single fare is 550 Baht, a return fare is 1,000 Baht.

Lipe Ferry and Speedboat Company Limited

• From Pak Bara to To Ko Tarutao and Ko Lipe 11.00 a.m. to 11.20 a.m. and 11.30 a.m. - 12.30 p.m.
• From Pak Bara to To Ko Tarutao and Ko Lipe 1.00 p.m. to 1.20 p.m. and 1.30 p.m. - 2.30 p.m.

• From Ko Lipe to Ko Tarutao and Pak Bara 9.30 a.m. to 10.30 a.m. and 11.30 a.m.
• From Ko Lipe to Ko Tarutao and Pak Bara 10.30 a.m. to 11.15 a.m. and 12.00 a.m.

To Ko Tarutao, a single fare is 300 Baht, a return fare is 500 Baht.

To Ko Lipe, a single fare is 650 Baht, a return fare is 1,200 Baht.

Tiger Line Travel Company Limited (Express Air-conditioned Ferry)

• From Pak Bara to To Ko Tarutao and Ko Lipe 11.30 a.m. to 12.00 a.m. and 1.30 p.m.
• From Pak Bara to To Ko Tarutao and Ko Lipe 1.30 p.m. to 2.00 p.m. and 4.00 p.m.

• From Ko Lipe to Ko Tarutao and Pak Bara 9.00 a.m. to 10.30 a.m. and 11.30 a.m.
• From Ko Lipe to Ko Tarutao and Pak Bara 2.00 p.m. to 2.45 p.m. and 3.30 p.m.

To Ko Tarutao, a single fare is 300 Baht, a return fare is 500 Baht.

To Ko Lipe, a single fare is 650 Baht, a return fare is 1,100 Baht.

Distances from Piers to Islands

Pak Bara Pier

• Ao Phante Melaka (Ko Tarutao) 22 km
• Ko Adang 80 km
• Ko Lipe 82 km

Ko Tarutao

• Muko Adang – Rawi 40 km
• Ko Lipe 40 km
• Ko Khai 14.5 km

Ko Adang

• Ko Lipe 2 km
• Ko Hin Ngam 2.5 km
• Ko Khai 17 km

Ko Khai (เกาะไข่) It is an island to the west of Ko Tarutao. This small island is located between Ko Tarutao and Ko Adang, a 40-minute distance from Ko Tarutao. The famous feature of Ko Khai is its natural stone arch which is used as the symbol of the Tarutao National Park. Coral reefs are commonly found in the sea around Ko Khai. The park does not allow visitors to stay overnight on this island. A boat from Ko Tarutao to Ko Lipe will pass this island.

Muko Adang – Rawi (หมู่เกาะอาดัง – ราวี) These are the islands located 40 km to the southwest of Ko Tarutao, or 60 km from the town of Satun. Apart from Ko Adang and Ko Rawi of which the names are combined to give the islands their names, there are satellite islands, such as Ko Lipe, Ko Hin Ngam, Ko Yang, Ko Dong, Ko Hin Son, Ko Chabang, etc.

Ko Adang (เกาะอาดัง) “Adang” is changed from the word “Udang” in Malay, which means “prawn” – this area was once a rich sea of prawn. Ko Adang is the location of the Tarutao National Park Ranger Station To To 5 (Laem Son – Ko Adang). The island has an area of around 30 sq km, with a beautiful beach of fine sand. It is surrounded by small islands, such as Ko Lipe, Ko Dong, Ko Hin Ngam and Ko Yang, and is an ideal place for skin-diving. Geographically, it features high mountains covered with dense green forests. There is a waterfall called “Namtok Chon Salat” which has water flowing all year round.

On the island, there is also a viewpoint called “Pha Chado,” which was an observatory point for pirates in the past to attack commercial ships. Nowadays, it is a beautiful viewpoint which requires a 40-minute walk to reach the top. An open ground on Pha Chado or the Chado cliff overlooks lines of pine trees and the white sandy cape of Ko Adang and Ko Lipe. The viewpoint is also best for a sunrise

For an overnight stay on Ko Adang, contact the Marine National Park Division, Department of National Park, Wildlife and Flora, at Tel. 0 2562 0760; the Tarutao National Park at Tel. 0 7478 3485; the Tarutao National Park Ranger Station To To 5 (Laem Son – Ko Adang) at Tel. 0 7471 2409, 0 7472 8028; or visit the website: www.dnp.go.th.

Ko Rawi (เกาะราวี) It is located just one kilometre from Ko Adang. This island has an area of about 29 sq km, with a beautiful beach, crystal clear sea, and serenity. It is the location of the Tarutao National Park Ranger Station To To 6 (Hat Sai Khao). There is no accommodation on the island. Visitors usually come here to enjoy swimming and diving on the coral reef.

Ko Sipe or Ko Lipe (เกาะสิเป๊ะหรือเกาะหลีเป๊ะ) It is an island located 2 km to the south of Ko Adang. There is a community of Chao Le or sea dwellers here. Most families earn a living by fishing. During the period of three days and nights, around the middle of the sixth and eleventh lunar months, villagers of Chao Le origin will gather at Ko Lipe for a festive fair. Most importantly, the villagers will built a boat from Rakam wood and perform a ceremony to float the boat, according to their belief in the prediction of their fishing. The prominent features of Ko Lipe are natural coral reefs, beauty of a vast open bay, and a powdered-sand beach. Ao Phattaya is a beautiful bay in a curved shape with a white fine beach, which is within a 15-minute walking distance from Hat Chao Le or Chao Le Beach. Accommodation run by private operators is available on the beaches.

Ko Hin Ngam (เกาะหินงาม) It is a small island located to the southwest of Ko Adang. On the beach, there are smooth black stones in different shapes and with beautiful patterns. The stones will be bright and glossy when wet. On the island, there is a warning about the curse by Chaopho Tarutao or The Guardian Spirit of the island, “Anyone who dares to take a beautiful stone from this island would suffer all sorts of disasters.”

Ko Yang or Ko Kata (เกาะยางหรือเกาะกาต๊ะ) It is a small island not far from Ko Adang. Here, the sea is crystal clear and it is a source of beautiful hard corals, such as staghorn coral, leaf coral, and brain coral. The beach is full of fine sand.

Ko Chabang (เกาะจาบัง) It is a small island, around 20 minutes from Ko Adang. Deep down around the submerged rocks is the habitat of soft corals, sea anemones, and schools of colourful fish. Due to the sea depth at 15-30 feet, this place is suitable for both skin and scuba diving.

Muko Dong (หมู่เกาะดง) It is the islands on the farthest outer ring of Muko Adang – Rawi, around one hour from Ko Adang. There are coral reefs in both shallow and deep sea. Around Ko Dong are 4 – 5 satellite islands. One of them is Ko Hin Son, which prominently looks like superimposed rocks.

To get to Muko Adang – Rawi

Pak Bara Pier – Adang – Lipe

A boat leaves the Pak Bara Pier at 12.30 p.m. bound for the Tarutao National Park first. Then, it goes further to Ko Adang and Ko Lipe. The boat resumes the trip back from Ko Lipe at 9.00 a.m. the next day. A return fare is 900 Baht per person.

Ko Tarutao – Ko Adang

Departing from Ko Tarutao at 12.30 p.m.

Leaving Ko Adang at 9.00 a.m.

The trip takes about 2 hours. A return fare is 500 Baht per person.

To visit islands in Muko Adang – Rawi, a long-tailed boat service is available at Ko Lipe. Boat hiring rates range from 1,200 – 1,500 Baht per day.

To Visit Ko Langkawi

For a visit to Ko Langkawi in Malaysia, a boat service is available at the Tammalang Pier, 9 km from the town of Satun. Mostly, it offers a one day trip. For further details, contact the Thai Ferry Centre Company Limited at Tel. 0 7473 2510, Fax: 0 7473 2511, or the Satun Travel and Ferry Service Company Limited at Tel. 0 7471 1453, 0 7472 1960, 0 7473 2409, 0 7473 2410, Fax: 0 7472 1959.

Amphoe Khuan Don

Tham Lot Puyu (ถ้ำลอดปูยู) (“Puyu” refers to Java tilapia.) It is a cave in Khao Kayang (Mount Kayang) in Tambon Puyu, 15 km from the town of Satun. This passable cave is like the one in Ao Phang-nga. Khlong Tha Chin or Tha Chin Canal flows through the cave. Mangrove forests flank the canal throughout its course. Inside the cave, there are some stalactites and stalagmites. A nearby cave has beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, which serves as a home of bats. It takes two hours for a visit.

To get there: Hire a long-tailed boat from the Tammalang Pier or the Satun Fishing Port of the Fish Marketing Organization, 9 km from the town of Satun on Highway 4183 at Km 5 – 6.

Thale Ban National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติทะเลบัน) It is located in Ban Wang Prachan, Tambon Wang Prachan, 40 km from the town of Satun. The park has an area of 122,500 rai, covering the Kupang Pulot and Hua Kraming National Forest Reserves and the Pa Khuan Bo Nam Puyu Forest Area in Amphoe Mueang Satun’s Tambon Ban Khuan and Tambon Puyu. It was declared a national park on 27 October, 1980.

The word “Thale Ban” was changed from “Loet Roeban” in Malay, which refers to a subsiding sea or a sea which is a result of the subsidence of earth between Khao (Mount) Chin and Khao (Mount) Mot Daeng. Thale Ban is a large lake covering an area of around 63,305 rai. Most of the areas are a complex of mountains and dense woods. Wild animals found here include serow, elephant, tapir, common wild pig, monkey, gibbon, and Khiat Wak, or Ma Nam (Giant Asiatic toad or Malayan giant toad). The toad is considered as a symbol of Thale Ban. It looks like a combination of a frog and a toad, with a tail. But it sounds like a puppy. The lakeside, particularly in the rainy season, teems with this unique animal. For bird-watchers, this place offers an opportunity that should not be missed. There are various species of bird, such as whiskered tree swift, stripe-throated bulbul, chestnut-naped fork tail, woodpecker, etc.

Attractions in the Thale Ban National Park

Bueang Thale Ban (บึงทะเลบัน) It is a freshwater lake located in the middle of a valley flanked by the Chin and the Wang Pra Ranges. The lake covers an area of around 125 rai. There is an abundance of freshwater fish and shellfish. Around the lake are Bakong plants (Hanguana malayana), which grow densely. The park provides lakeside pavilions for visitors’ recreation, as well as a wooden path around the lake.

Namtok Ya Roi (น้ำตกยาโรย) It originates from a source in the Hua Kraming Forest. The waterfall has nine tiers and visitors can swim in a pool at each tier. It is favourite among local visitors. To get there: Follow Highway 4184 (Khuan Sato – Wang Prachan) from Km 14 – 15 for around 6 km, and go on for another 700 m on a lane off the main road.

Namtok Ton Plio (น้ำตกโตนปลิว) It originates from Mount Chin. This large and beautiful multi-tiered waterfall flows from a high cliff. To get there: Take Highway 4184 (Khuan Sato – Wang Prachan) from Km 9 – 10 or the park’s headquarters for around 10 km, and follow a dirt lane off the main road for another 3 km.

The park offers houses and tents for visitors. For further details, contact the Thale Ban National Park, Amphoe Khuan Don, Satun 91160, at Tel. 0 7472 2736 – 7.

To get to the Thale Ban National Park: Take Highway 406 for 80 km. See a direction sign on the left at the Khuan Don T-junction and turn left to Highway 4184 for another 20 km. Alternatively, get on a bus (Hat Yai – Satun) at the Hat Yai’s Clock Tower and get off at the Khuan Sato T-junction. Take a further trip by mini-bus (Satun – Wang Prachan). One bus leaves every hour. A fare is 20 Baht per person.

Thai – Malaysian Border Zone or Wang Prachan Checkpoint (เขตชายแดนไทย – มาเลเซียหรือด่านวังประจัน). It is just 2 km from the park’s headquarters. Located here is the Thale Ban National Park Ranger Station. Taking a further trip of around 20 km, visitors will arrive at Padang Besar, the marketplace where goods are available at inexpensive prices. Visitors can also visit Kangar, the capital of Perlis, which is only 30 km away. The checkpoint is open from 7.00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m. Here, a morning marketplace will be held on Saturdays and Sundays. For more information, call Tel. 0 7472 2730 – 1.

To get there: From the town of Satun, take Highway 406 for 19 km and turn right at Km 61 – 62 to Highway 4184 for 20 km. Alternatively, get on a mini-bus (Satun – Wang Prachan) in front of the Laem Thong Hotel, or take a Satun – Khet Daen (border zone) bus at the Khuan Sato T-junction; the bus leaves every hour and the fare is 30 Baht per person.

Amphoe Khuan Kalong

Namtok Thara Sawan Forest Park (วนอุทยานน้ำตกธาราสวรรค์) It is located in the Pa Khao Ma Mai Yok National Forest Reserve. The area was declared a forest park by the Royal Forest Department on 23 July, 1996. Regular rain causes an abundant evergreen forest here. The park possesses a beautiful waterfall with 3 tiers; namely Namtok Ton Tam, Namtok Sai Fon, and Namtok Soi Dao. The forest park is 12 km from the Khuan Kalong District Office. Five houses are on offer with a camping site. For further details, contact the Protected Area Regional Office 20 (Songkhla) at Tel. 0 7431 1020.

To get there: From the Nikhom T-junction, pass the Khuan Kalong District Office and turn into Soi 10 to follow Highway 416, and change to Highway 4137. See a direction sign indicating another 12 km before reaching the forest park.

Namtok Panan (น้ำตกปาหนัน) It is located in Tambon Thung Nui, 39 km from the town of Satun. The waterfall originates from Mount Kaming. The surrounding nature is still intact. It has water flowing all year round. A power generating dam of a medium scale has been built in the waterfall area.

Amphoe La-ngu

La-ngu Local Museam (พิพิธภัณฑ์พื้นบ้านละงู) It is located opposite Wat Athon Rangsarit on the La-ngu – Chalung Road. The museum building has 2 storeys. On the ground floor, there are local handicrafts and sweets for sale. A museum on the upper floor displays brassware, earthenware, silverware, irons, banknotes, coins, ceramics, glassware, audio and musical instruments, wickerwork, watches, and fans, which are the private collection of Mr. Chaiwat Saikun. The museum is open daily from 10.00 a.m. – 4.30 p.m, except for Mondays and Tuesdays. Contact can be made at Tel. 0 7478 1338, 0 7478 1382. Admission fee is 40 Baht.

Muko Phetra National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติหมู่เกาะเภตรา) It is located on the western coast in the South of Thailand, near the Straits of Melaka in the Andaman Sea. Ko Phetra is a junk-shaped island. The park covers an area along the coastal line in Amphoe La-ngu’s Tambon Pak Nam and Amphoe Thung Wa’s Tambon Khon Khlan in Satun and Amphoe Palian’s Tambon Sukon in Trang. Most of the areas are high and steep mountains with valley plains and beaches. The total area both on land and in the sea is about 494.38 sq km. It was declared a national park on 31 December, 1984. The national park has forests, mountains, wildlife, and colourful coral reefs. It is comprised of large and small main islands, such as Ko Phetra, Ko Lidi, Ko Bulon, Ko Khao Yai, Ko La Lo Baen Tae, Ko Lao Liang, and Ko Prao Ma.

Attractions in the Muko Phetra National Park

Ao Nun (อ่าวนุ่น) It is a bay where the park’s headquarters is located. Ao Nun lies on a vast bay curve in serenity. There is a visitor service centre and houses on offer.

Hat Rawai (หาดราไว) It is a beach located at Mu 2 and 4 in Tambon Khon Khlan, Amphoe Thung Wa, around 26 km from the Thung Wa District Office. Take a turn at the Ban Wang Tong Junction. The beach is fringed with lines of pine trees. The landscape here is suitable for camping.

Ko Lidi Lek (เกาะลิดีเล็ก) It is an island located around 5 km from the park’s headquarters, or 7 km from the Pak Bara Pier. The Park’s Ranger Station is located here. A white sandy beach lies on the island. The crystal clear sea is suitable for swimming. A virgin mangrove forest grows at the island’s side where various aquatic animals inhabit. Camping visitors are required to bring their own tents and meals since food shops are not available. Ko Lidi Yai, next to Ko Lidi Lek, is an island which is allowed concession for nests of the swifts. To hire a boat, contact the park’s headquarters. Rental fee is about 700 Baht per boat.

Ko Bulon (เกาะบุโหลน) It is an island located around 22 km from the Pak Bara Pier. The island has a white sandy beach and beautiful crystal clear sea suitable for swimming. There are scattered spots for snorkeling and scuba diving, such as Ko Ayam and Ko Hin Khao. At night, hermit crabs and ghost crabs can be seen on the beach. This is also a viewpoint for an impressive sunset.

To get to the Muko Phetra National Park from the Town of Satun

The park’s headquarters is 56 km from the town of Satun and located at the vast and open bay called “Ao Nun,” around 3 km before the Pak Bara Pier. Take Highway 416 and turn left at Km 6 – 7 for another 1.4 km. The park is 7 km from Amphoe La-ngu.

To visit other islands in the park area, visitors can hire a boat at the Pak Bara Pier. To visit Ko Bulon, a ferry leaves the Pak Bara Pier everyday at 1.30 and 3.30 p.m., and returns from the island the next day at 9.00 and 12.00 a.m. A return trip costs 300 Baht per person. There is no ferryboat to Ko Lidi. Visitors are required to use a charter boat service available at the Pak Bara Pier. The rental boat costs 800 – 1,600 Baht per day. For more information, contact the Tourism Business Operators Club of the Pak Bara Pier at Tel. 0 7478 3368, 08 1278 1930, 0 7478 3338.

In the park area, houses and a camping site are on offer. For further details, contact the Muko Phetra National Park Headquarters (Ao Nun), 298 Mu 4, Tambon Pak Nam, Amphoe La-ngu, Satun 91110, or call Tel. 0 7478 3074. (Reservation can be made in person or by prior written notice.)

Namtok Wang Sai Thong (น้ำตกวังสายทอง) It is a waterfall on Ro Pho Cho Road (Thung Nang Kaeo – Wang Sai Thong) or Highway 4137. It is accessible by 2 routes. From Amphoe La-ngu, it is around 6 km from the Ban Kota T-junction off the Satun – La-ngu Road in Tambon Kamphaeng. Another route from the Saphan Wa T-junction in Tambon Pa Kae Bo Hin, Amphoe Thung Wa, it is around 19 km. The beauty of this waterfall is the limestone in the shape of multi-petalled lotus flowers settling on the bottom of the pools at each of its tiers. It is shady around the waterfall area, which makes it suitable for recreation.

Amphoe Thung Wa

Namtok Than Plio (น้ำตกธารปลิว) It is a waterfall located at Mu 7, Tambon Thung Wa, 14 km from the Thung Wa District Office. It originates from Mount Lung Khroe in the provincial areas of Satun and Trang. This two-tiered waterfall has a pool of 40 m wide and 50 m long at its base. The surrounding area is shady with various plants.

To get there: Follow the Thung Wa – Palian Road, take a turn at Km 35 toward Ban Thung Yao Nui, Tambon Thung Wa, and go further for around 8 km.

Festivals

International Kite Festival Held every year around February at the Satun Airport, around 4 km before the town of Satun.

Tarutao – Adang Fishing Club Fair Held every year around March.

Satun Marine Tourism Festival Held around December to mark the start of the marine tourism season in Satun. Visitors can visit the Tarutao National Park during November to April.

Boat Floating Tradition To be observed by Chao Le or sea dwellers at Ko Lipe in Satun around the middle of the sixth and eleventh lunar months of every year. It is intended to dispel bad luck, as well as predict their fishing.

Itinerary

Examples of Tour Programmes

Programme I Tourism on the Waters of Satun (Three days, two nights)

Day I

• 9.30 a.m.
  • Arrive at the Pak Bara Pier.
  • Take a boat to Muko Tarutao, the historical land of the Andaman Sea.

• 11.00 a.m.
  • Arrive at Muko Tarutao (Ao Phante Melaka).
  • See the beauty of the white sandy beach and crystal clear sea.

• 2.00 p.m.
  • Learn about the historical land.

• 3.00 p.m.
  • Proceed to Ao Talo Wao, the former prison venue.
  • Visit the site of the prison notorious for its cruelty.

• 5.00 p.m.
  • Return to Ao Phante Melaka.
  • At leisure.

Day II

• 5.00 a.m.
  • Walk up to Pha To Bu for beautiful views over Ko Tarutao.
  • Be packed for a further trip to Ko Lipe.

• 11.30 a.m.
  • On the way to Ko Lipe, visit Ko Khai, the symbol of Satun and the Tarutao National Park.
  • Arrive at Ko Lipe and check in (Many resorts are on offer.)

• 2.30 p.m.
  • Go to Ko Yang for a dive among the coral reefs.
  • Visit Ko Hin Ngam and view the beauty of stones created by nature.
  • Return to Ko Lipe.

• 7.30 p.m.
  • Dinner by the beach.

• 8.00 p.m.
  • Enjoy a beautiful ambience at nighttime and serenity of Ko Lipe.

Day III

• 6.00 a.m.
  • Get up to enjoy the morning freshness.

• 7.00 a.m.
  • Breakfast on the island.

• 8.00 a.m.
  • Greet and bid farewell to the Chao Le (sea dwellers) inhabiting the island.

• 9.00 a.m.
  • Resume the journey back.

Programme II Cave and Border Market Tour (Two days, one night)

Day I

• 6.00 a.m.
  • Breakfast in the Satun people’s style: tea, coffee, Roti bread, etc.

• 7.30 a.m.
  • Proceed to Tham Phu Pha Phet (60 km).
  • See the grandeur of the cave and the beauty of the inner stalactites and stalagmites.

• 1.00 p.m.
  • Leave for Tham Chet Khot in King Amphoe Manang.
  • Take a kayak along the curves inside the cave.

• 4.30 p.m.
  • Go further to Namtok Wang Sai Thong in Amphoe La-ngu.
  • Return to the accommodation in the town of Satun.

Day II

• 6.00 a.m.
  • Breakfast (local food).

• 7.00 a.m.
  • Leave for the Thai – Malaysian Border Market at the Wang Prachan Checkpoint. (50 km from town.)
  • See and purchase goods and products at the market.

• 10.30 a.m.
  • Proceed to the Thale Ban National Park (2 km from the border market.)
  • Admire the beauty of the natural lake and enjoy seeing wild animals inhabiting the park.

• 12.00 a.m.
  • Lunch at the park.
  • Resume the journey back.

Sleep

Amphoe Mueang Satun

• B.B. Garden Inn (บีบี การ์เด้นส์ อินน์) 326 Yontrakankamthon Road (Tel: 0 74 730808-9), 54 rooms: 160 baht
• Bubble Guesthouse (บับเบิ้ล เกสท��เฮ้าส์) 50 Yatrasawat Road (Tel: 0 74 72 2187), 25 rooms: 350 baht
• My House Bungalow (บังกะโล มายเฮ้าส์) 111 Yontrakankamthon Road (Tel: 0 74 721700, 721748), 16 rooms: 300-380 baht
• Wang Mai (วังใหม่) 43 Satun Thani Road (Tel: 0 74 711611, 0 7471 1607-8, 0 7473 2246-7), 108 rooms: 550-1,300 baht
• Royal Guesthouse (รอยัล เกสท์เฮ้าส์) 447/7 Yontrakankamthon Road (Tel: 0 74 773153), 16 rooms: 390 baht
• Satun Thani (สตูลธานี) 90 Satun Thani Road (Tel: 0 74 711010, 712309), 53 rooms: 210-470 baht
• Sin Kiat Thani (สินเกียรติธานี) 50 Buriwanit Road (0 74 721055-8 Fax: 0 7472 1059), 50 rooms: 600 baht
• Rian Thong (เหรียญทอง) 4-6 Samanpradit Road (Tel: 0 74 711036), 20 rooms:from 160 baht up

Tarutao National Park

• Laen Son 10 rooms: 280 baht
• Ao Phante Malaka 2 houses 750-1,000 baht 10 rooms: 320 baht
• Ao Son Tent: 100 baht
• Call Bangkok’s National Park Division at Tel: 0 2579 5734, 0 2579 7223 or Tarutao National Park at Tel: 0 7472 9022, 0 7478 1285

Amphoe Langu (around Pak Para Pier)

• Ko Klang Garden View (เกาะกลาง การ์เด้นท์ วิว เกสท์เฮ้าส์) Tel: 0 74 783273, 10 bungalows: 250 baht
• Krachom Sai (กระโจมทราย) Tel: 0 74 781231, 10 bungalows: 150 baht
• Sai Kaeo Resort (ทรายแก้ว รีสอร์ท) Tel: 0 74 781233 8 bungalows: 250-350 baht
• Marina (มารีน่า) Tel: 0 74 781431,16 bungalows: 150-250 baht
• Suan Son (สวนสน) Tel: 0 74 78 1350, 10 bungalows: 200-400 baht
• Bulon Island เกาะบุโหลน
• Bulon Resort (บุโหลน รีสอร์ท) Tel: 01-990-7901, 35 bungalows: 200-250 baht
• Phangka Bay Resort (พังกา เบย์ รีสอร์ท) ResevationOffice in Satun Town: 19/6 Satun Thani Road (Tel: 01-990-2237), 30 rooms: 200-300 baht
• Pan Sand Resort (แพนแซน รีสอร์ท) Office at Pak Bara Tel: 0 7521 8035, 0 7521 9513), 38 rooms: 200-1,250 baht, There are tents for rent.
• Li Pe Island เกาะหลีเป๊ะ
• Li Pe Resort (หลีเป๊ะ รีสอร์ท) Tel: 0 74 71 2181, 0 7472 3804, 70 bungalows: 300-1,200 baht
• Chao Le Resort (ชาวเล รีสอร์ท) Tel: 0 74 729201, 0 7473 2473, 55 bungalows: 250-500 baht
• Daya Resort (ดายา รีสอร์ท) Tel: 0 74 724013, 23 bungalows: 200-350 baht, There are tents for rent.
• Andaman Resort (อันดามัน รีสอร์ท) Tel: 0 74 729200, 711313, 30 rooms: 250-350 baht
• Pattaya 2 Resort (พัทยา 2 รีสอร์ท) Tel: 0 7472 4013, 20 rooms: 200-500 baht
• Phon Resort (พร รีสอร์ท) 15 rooms: 250-300 baht, There are tents for rent.

Eat

Amphoe Mueang Satun

• Time (ไทม์) 43/1-2 Satun Thani Road, Tel: 0 74 712286
• Mukda (มุกดา) 154 Khuha Prawet Road, Tel: 0 74 712390
• Ban Lanna (บ้านลานนา) 38 Satun Thani, Tel: 0 74 722022
• Nam Thip (น้ำทิพย์) 93 Soi 2, Samantapradit Road, Tel: 0 74 711242
• Nong Ni (น้องณี) 65 Rueangrit Charun Road, Tel: 0 74 712277
• Nong Beer (น้องเบียร์) Yontrakankamthon Road, Tel: 0 74 722490
• Nok Nam (นกน้ำ) 41 Mu 3 Chalung-La-ngu Road, Tambon Khuan Pho, Tel: 0 74 01-957-4096
• Saeng Thian (แสงเทียน) 2 Khuhaprawet Road, Tel: 0 74 711325, 0 7471 2210
• Sanambin Resort (สนามบิน รีสอร์ท) Yontrakankamthon Road Tel: 0 74 711990
• Ruen Mai (เรือนไม้) 128/6 Soi 17, Satun Thani Road, Tel: 0 74 711199

Amphoe La-ngu อำเภอละงู

• Mali Seafood (มาลี ซีฟู้ด) 389 Mu 3 Tambon Pak Nam, Tel: 0 74 781078

--(WT-en) globe-trotter 17:20, 5 February 2010 (EST)