Phang-Nga – More than James Bond Island
Phang-Nga – that’s the James Bond Island, Khao Phing Kan right? Yes, but Phang-Nga is a lot more than the movie scenery with its beautiful bays, beaches, and landscapes. Over the last few years, Phang-Nga has established itself as a sustainable province surprising visitors with green initiatives and experiences. Not only Phang-Nga’s environment and nature are preserved and protected but also tourists profit from unique insights into the local life and culture on the island.
Phang-Nga is located in southern Thailand, at the Andaman Sea, and is bordered by its neighboring provinces Surat Thani, Ranong, Krabi, and Phuket. The province is comprised of eight districts and many, many islands. Phang-Nga is also known for its national parks such as Similan Marine National Park oder Surin Marine National Park. more exceptional natural attractions. Here are some of those national parks and tours to offer you a glimpse into the natural beauty that is Phang-Nga.
An absolute must, when visiting Phang-Nga, is the island Koh Yao Noi. It is located between Phuket and Krabi and is regarded as an insider tip. Its community has developed special tourist programs offering an unique insight into the island’s local life. Tours with local guides are especially popular. Guests can listen to the history of Koh Yao Noi and learn about sustainable fishery. The guide will show you fish and lobster farms, surrounding islands, and give you the opportunity to learn how to cook local sweets or create batiks.
Another activity you should not miss is bamboo rafting on the Khlong Nang Yon canal in Amphoe Khura Buri! The canal is three kilometers long and famous for its clear, emerald green water. It’s almost magical – floating on a bamboo raft through the pristine flora and fauna.
Koh Phra Thong differs significantly from other Thai islands: beach forests, meadows, and marshy mangrove woods dominate the landscape. The grazing land, also called “Thai Savannah,” is a paradises for nature enthusiasts. You can take a sightseeing tour with a so called “E-Tack” to experience the pristine nature with all its animals and plants.
The 72 kilometers large national park surrounding Phang-Nga, “Khao Lampi – Hat Thai Mueang,” is comprised of two parts: the beach of Thai Mueang and the natural rainforest of the Lampi mountains. Best to be explored by kayak. You can learn fascinating facts about the mangrove- ecosystem and discover the small coves and the highlight of the island – a cliff reminiscent of a giant’s face. And give those “clean-eating-menus” a try, meals made of organic vegetables cultivated in water.
Committed social enterprises such as Andaman Discoveries do support the local people and offer at the same time cool travel experiences. The portfolio includes home stays, house boats or jungle resorts – in the midst of the local communities. Cooking, Handicraft, spear fishing, batiks or animal observation – always with locals, always authentic!
