Surat Thani means the ‘city of good people’ and is the provincial capital of the largest southern province on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Thailand. It is the closest mainland town to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao and therefore is often used as a stop off point for many travelers going to and from Bangkok to the islands.
In the heart of Surat Thani is the coastal plain known as Tapi River, which is an area filled with rubber trees and grassland. The province at large boasts an impressive six national parks including the Ang Thong and Khao Sok parks, which are among the most visited in the country. There are also numerous wildlife sanctuaries that are great for nature enthusiasts to visit and hike around.
The Phuket mountain range is located in the west of Surat Thani and the Nakhon Si Thammarat mountains to the east, with many popular tourist destinations belonging to the district including Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. The town of Tha Kham is home to the Tapi River and the Phum Duang River and their deltas create snaking channels that run past small islands that are filled with mangroves and orchards.
Getting There & Away
Surat Thani is home to two airports and a popular train station that welcomes trains from Bangkok twice a day. It is connected to the islands by car ferry and boat, which mainly depart from Don Sak. The Asian Highway 2 runs from north to south and Route 401 travels from east to west, with Route 44 going in a southwestern direction to Krabi.
Things to Do
Surat Thani Attractions
- Wat Suan Mokkhaphalaram
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A monastery in the forest that was founded by the famous monk buddhadasa bhikkhu.
- Nai Bang
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Located at the mouth of the tapi river, this area is made up from crisscrossing canals that are lined with luscious forests and traditional thai houses.
- Phumriang Village
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A muslim fishing village that is well known for its hand-woven silk cloths and hats.
- Namtok Vibhavad
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This small, rural waterfall is popular with local thais during holidays and at weekends.