Found in the Surat Thani Province, Surat Thani is the eighth largest city in Thailand and serves as home to more than 130,000 individuals. Covering an area of 68.97 km², this city is one of the favorite holiday destinations for many Thai locals and foreigners. If you are coming to Surat Thani, it is important to know the best places to visit.
As noted by Expedia and several other websites, there are numerous places to visit and several things to do in Surat Thani. If we are to mention the 10 best places to visit in Surat Thani, Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya, Khao Sok National Park, Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine, and Khanom Beach will all make the list. The attractions in the city are so many that you can never have a dull moment when exploring Surat Thani.
Perchance you are planning to visit Surat Thani; you should not just know the names of the topmost places to visit in the city. And this is why this post will explain what each place is about and what you should expect when visiting it. So, let’s go into the details about the 10 best places to visit in Surat Thani.
1. Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya
Thailand has the highest number of Buddhist devotees in the whole world. So, it is not strange that the country also has some of the most astounding Buddhist temples anyone has ever seen. One of the awesome temples in Thailand is Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya, which is found in Surat Thani. Several centuries ago, it used to be the home of the royals of the Srivijaya Empire, but it is now a pilgrimage location for Mahayana Buddhists.
On getting to this site, most tourists are usually drawn to the extraordinary architectural design of the temple. The design makes this temple a perfect place to take some beautiful photos that you can share with your friends and family. When you enter the temple, you should take the time to visit its museum where you will come across several chambers, pagodas, and statues. There are also numerous iconic Buddha relics in different parts of the temple.
In the evening, the temple will be beautifully illuminated by many brightly colored lights. Notably, it is open to visitors every day from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Also, both Thais and foreigners have to pay entry fees. However, Thais usually pay a lesser amount than foreigners.
2. Khao Sok National Park
Khao Sok National Park is a large tropical rainforest with an array of wildlife species and ecosystems. For several years, this park has been serving as the home to several animals that you may not see elsewhere in the country. Some of the wildlife species found in Khao Sok National Park include hornbill, Malayan Banded Pitta, Hooded Pita, Fea’s muntiac, marbled cat, elephant, Asian buffalo, serow, and Malayan tapir. In addition, you should look forward to seeing rare plant species such as Rafflesiakerrii, white elephant palm, as well as Maxburretiafurtadoana.
When you visit Khao Sok National Park, you should ensure that you go to the various waterfalls and rivers inside it. Most tourists check out Khao Sok Lake, which is a popular place for innumerable activities include bird watching, tubing, kayaking, etc. Because of the vastness of this magnificent park, you can also hike alone or with other tourists. To make your visit to the park more memorable, get on the back of an elephant for a once-in-a-lifetime ride.
Notably, the park is open every day to guests. Besides, accommodations are available in different parts of the park. So, you can book a place to stay.
3. Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine
As a relatively religious city, prayers and offerings are an essential part of the daily lives of many residents of Surat Thani. One of the places where many locals love to visit for these purposes is the Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine. However, even if you don’t believe in prayers and offerings, you can still visit this shrine.
It is believed to be the home of the spirits of many departed Thais. Built by the highly referred King Rama I in 1782, this shrine comes with a top-notch architecture that lots of tourists admire.
As you visit the Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine, you have to ensure that you learn about the way of life and practices of the locals. Also, you should check out the enormous golden elephant statues with various flowers.
Remember that the Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine is regarded as a sacred place by the locals. So, respect their beliefs by dressing appropriately. You should also avoid any activities that may make a mockery of their practices.
4. Night Market
In Thailand, night markets are found almost everywhere, and Surat Thani is not an exception. The night market in Surat Thani is open daily to both locals and foreigners that want to buy things or just enjoy the ambiance of the commercial activities associated with the place.
At the night market, you can find almost anything that you are looking for. If you want to buy food, several street food vendors are always at your beck and call to offer noodle dishes, marinated meats, and lots of other Thai cuisines. There are also uncountable fresh tropical fruits that can promote your wellbeing.
In addition to edibles, you can also get lots of other items in this market. From Thai fabrics to handmade bags, Thai spa products, and lots more, many things are available in the market. You can even get lovely for your loved ones at home from the night market in Surat Thani.
5. Rajjaprabha Dam
In September 1987, Rajjaphrabha Dam was opened for the generation of electricity to Surat Thani province and its environs. Although the dam is not specifically inside Surat Thai city, it is located at Tambon Khao Phang, which is a part of Surat Thani Province. Inaugurated by King Rama IX, this dam has continued to serve its main purpose while still bringing more individuals to the area. Many locals and tourists often marvel at the magnificence and functionality of the dam.
Previously regarded as Chiao Lan, this dam is wonderfully surrounded by gigantic limestone mountains and sprawling waterbodies. When you are done studying how Rajjaphrabha Dam works, you shouldn’t forget to get into one of the boats by the lake and enjoy a seamless ride. The lake around the dam is also a great place for watching animals, rafting, and kayaking. When exhausted from the activities, it is time to retire to your accommodation.
6. Sonchana Farm
The Sonchana Farm is a family-operated farm that offers varieties of services. But the main thing that is farm is known for its amazing treatment of elephants. For more than 100 years, this farm has been offering shelter to elephants that would probably have been killed or maimed by local hunters. The operators of this farm are known to go the extra mile to ensure that none of the elephants is treated unfairly.
At the Sonchana Farm, you should dedicate some minutes or even hours to interacting with these gentle giants. With the help of the owners, you can also learn more about the operation of the farm and how they have been dealing with the elephants to prevent cruelty. If you are up to the task, you should consider bathing and feeding the elephants while you are still at the Sonchana Farm.
Similarly, you can join the owners as they plant crops that are used for feeding these huge animals. For those that have some time to spare, it is recommended that they join the cooking class organized by the Sonchana Farm.
7. Sinmana Farm
Although its official name is Sinmana Farm, it is popularly known as the Oyster Farm. As you can guess from the name, oysters are bred at this farm. Due to the condition of the seawater in Surat Thani, oysters and other shell species are found in abundance in the city. So, the Oyster Farm is one of the leading places for these shell species.
When visiting the Oyster Farm, many guests use the opportunity to learn about they can raise various kinds of shells. Sometimes, the officials of the place may also describe the numerous processes involved in building comfortable shelters for these species. You can also join the workers of the farm at the newly constructed shelter located in the middle of the sea. This new shelter can accommodate as many as 100 visitors.
After learning, you can have a taste of fresh oysters and other amazing seafood available at the farm. If you want to, you can stay behind at sleep in one of the affordable accommodations available at the Sinmana Farm.
8. Khanom Beach
Khanom Beach is a small beach town located some kilometers away from the center of Surat Thani. Although Khanom Beach is a fishing town with relatively low commercial activities, it brings a new perspective into the adventures of tourists. Many tourists like visiting this town because of its calmness and unique aura.
Besides, it can be considered a hidden gem as only a few people know about it; hence, you will probably not meet many other tourists here. The town will draw you closer to nature and let you forget about the day-to-day hustle and bustle.
It is worthwhile to note that Khanom Beach has clear blue water. Therefore, it is an impeccable place for people that want to sunbathe, swim, and enjoy other activities on a less crowded beach. So, whenever you are Surat Thani, make sure you visit this beach.
9. Ang Thong National Marine Park
The water bodies are filled with numerous species that we cannot even number. So, if you would like to know more about marine life, Ang Thong National Marine Park is one of the places you must visit in Surat Thani. Generally, it is a protected park that features loads of islands that are scattered across the entire location. Although the islands are of varying sizes, they are all unsullied, precious, and beautiful.
While you are inside the marine park, you need to check out the fishes and other species find inside the waters. In addition, you should spend some moments to appreciate the coral gardens, flora, fauna, rock formations, and other things in the park. Don’t hesitate to also explore the lagoons, beaches, and caves inside the Ang Thong National Marine Park. This park is also a great place for snorkeling, trekking, and lots more.
Notably, you can tour Ang Thong National Museum Park alone. Otherwise, you may consider joining a tour group for a more engaging encounter.
10. Ko Tao
The last but not least name on this list is Ko Tao, which is a small island that is also located in Surat Thani Province. It is a serene place for people that don’t want to experience noise during their vacation. On this small island, there are about 11 beaches that tourists can explore. Some of these beaches include Freedom Beach and Sai Ri Beach.
Some of the beaches are perfect for individuals that just want to sit and relax without being disturbed by anyone. Others are great for those that want to hang out and share some booze with friends and family. So, whatever you are looking for, Ko Tao has a beach that fits your specific needs and tastes.
You should note that Ko Tao is open every day. Therefore, tourists can visit whenever they are in Surat Thani.
It is noteworthy that these 10 places are not the only locations you can go to in Surat Thani as there are many other spectacular places for both locals and foreigners. Other notable methods in the city include:
- Ko Lamphu Public Park
- Pra Cha Rat Traditional Floating Market
- Dat Fah Waterfall
So, whenever you want to visit Surat Thani, you now have a list of the best places where you can spend your time.