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The former seat of the Sivichaya Empire, Surat Thani is the South's
largest and most important province with many important religious
sites. Phra Boromathat Chaiya, containing a relic of Lord Buddha, is
revered by Buddhists all over Thailand. The forest retreat of Wat Suan
Mok is a serene place for those who want to study meditation. The
mountainous rugged interior features many fascinating national parks
worthy of visiting, but most tourists focus offshore and the prized
destination of Samui Island, with its fabulous beaches, clear waters
and numerous coral beds to explore. Nearby Pangan Island is quieter
but no less spectacular, while further up the coast the fairyland marine
national park of the Angthong Islands is a must on any sightseer's list. |
Location & Access
Located 644 kms south of
Bangkok. The provincial town has
daily flights from Bangkok, while
Bangkok Airways runs 10 flights
daily into Samui Island. Trains
from Bangkok go to Phun Phin,
where buses can be caught for the
short journey to town or to the
pier for the Samui Island ferry.
Geography
Surat Thani features a flat coastal
plain between wooded highlands
in the West and the mountains in
the East.. There are numerous
islands along the coast and two
major rivers, Tapi River and
Phum Duang River.
Borders
North : Chumphon and the Gulf
of Thailand
South : Nakhon Si Thammarat
and Krabi
East : The Gulf of Thailand and
Nakhon Si Thammarat
West : Phang Nga and Ranong
Highlights
Attractions: Phra Boromathat
Chaiya, Wat Suan Mok, Samui
Island, Phangan Island, Ang
Thong National Park
Souvenirs: Chaiya salted eggs
and Phum Riang silk
Festivals: Chak Phra & Thot
Phapa Festival (October 15-17);
Rambutan Fair (August); Annual
Mini-Marathon (August) |
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