If you want to escape into a beautiful tropical island paradise, then look no further than Thailand’s Phang Nga National Park! In this protected area, you can find pristine underwater eco-systems in the vast coral reefs, thick tropical jungles on the numerous islands, and many surprising rock formations and caves along the coastline and in the bay. So, what can you expect to see and experience on a trip to Phang Nga National Park?
a Unique and dramatic natural landscape
The most recognizable sight in Phang Nga National Park has to be the ancient limestone rock formations called karsts, which rise from the ocean like stony fingers. These curious limestone pillars were caused by natural erosion, and they give the landscape an ancient, surreal look. The vegetation on the islands ranges from lush green tropical jungle to the half-submerged mangrove forests, all teeming with life. The characteristic clear, blue-green water has excellent visibility, offering some of the best snorkelling and diving opportunities in the world!
You may only see the bay from a boat, but the bigger islands are well worth visiting! You can spot some indigenous monkeys and birds, and become immersed in the dense tropical forests. Some islands have amazing beaches, and overnight accommodation available should you want to stay a bit longer than a quick visit on a whirlwind day-trip. Overall, the natural landscape of the national park is awe-inspiring, and fascinating to explore.
Marine life in Phang Nga National Park
The tropical marine life in Phang Nga National Park is among the most diverse and beautiful in the world. The warm, tropical waters are home to large coral reefs, mangrove forests, and over 80 species of fish and other marine animals. There are also many different types of coral, which makes every snorkelling or diving trip quite scenic and satisfying, as there is just so much to see!
You can see quite a bit just by snorkelling in the shallows, as visibility is excellent, but scuba diving gives you the ultimate underwater experience! Some islands have companies that offer diving lessons, or if you are already qualified, you can hire gear and get into the water immediately. The beautiful coral reefs are definitely something to see when visiting Phang Nga National Park.
Traditional Fishing Villages
Part of Phang Nga National Park’s man-made beauty is the quaint traditional fishing villages built on stilts on various small islands in the bay. The wooden structures and colourful long-tailed boats seem to fit in well with the natural scenery, and the villages exist in harmony with their surroundings. The communities are mostly Muslim and from Indonesia, giving the area an interesting cultural mix between Thai and Indonesian peoples. Most of the villages now welcome tourists, and make a living from the tourist trade, so you can enjoy a super-fresh seafood meal right on the beach, and shop for souvenirs on your visit.
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Photo by Iztok Alf Kurnik
