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Tarutao National Park Location : Amphoe La-Ngu
About 51 large and small islands in the Straits of Malacca in the Indian Ocean have been established as "Tarutao National Park" as proclaimed in the Royal Gazette of April 20 ,1974. The park consists of 7 large islands namely, Tarutao, Adang, Rawi, Lipeh (Nipis), Dong (Budang), Lek (Bisi) and Klang (Tengah). Later UNESCO proclaimed the Tarutao National Park as the "Heritage of ASEAN" a place to be protected and conserved for people all over the world to appreciate.

Of all the islands in this marine park system, Tarutao is the largest, encompassing an area of 151 square kilometers or an equivalent of 44,345 rais. It is 11 kilometers wide and 24 kilometers long. Most of the area is rocky mountains with the highest slope of 708 meters. Most plains can be found in the valleys and seashores. Ko TarutaoTarutao consists of many large and small coves and bays around the island, each of which runs a small stream flowing from the central part of the island into the sea on the western side.

How to get there
By Bus
There’re 465 km. from Bangkok to Had Yai. From Had Yai, you can go to Pak Ba Ra ferry departure point by Had Yai – Ra Ngoo taxi or take mini bus from La Ngoo to Pak Ba Ra. You can even take the coach or local bus from Had Yai to Pak Ba Ra.

By Plane
Form Bangkok to Had Yai. Form Ari Port by mini bus to kasad market 20 baht/person. From Kasad Market by van to Pakbara Pier 100 baht/person. Had Yai to parkbara pier 1-2 hour.

Charakae Cave Tourist Attractions
Ao Phante Malaka
It’s where Tarutao National Park 's headquars located. White sand beach is good for taking a walk, swimming ,picnic and camping
Activities : Activities on Beach, Biking Trail, Cave/Geological Touring, Canoeing-Kayaking, View, Camping It’s a small bay connected to PhanTe Malaka Bay. It’s white sand beach which’s good for taking a walk and picnic.
Activities : Activities on Beach, Snorkeling Diving A small cove just south of Jak Bay; with a coconut plantation, uncompleted park buildings and a villger's bamboo house. The path/road that leads here passes through a tiny mangrove swamp area at the very south end of Jak Bay. At high tide, you will have to wade through the water approximately 50 meters. If continuing to Son Bay, be aware that the road disappears in the sand. To be sure of finding it again, keep to the left of the villager's house and walk straight.
Activities : Activities on Beach, Camping Ao Son (Son Bay) has the most beautiful long pure sand beach in Tarutao Island. The three kilometer long beach is ideal for swimming because there is a fresh water source nearby for swimmers to clean themselves after swimming. In addition to tourist attractions on Tarutao Island, there are also plenty of places to visit on the Tarutao archipelago.
Activities : Activities on Beach, Camping It's the place where Ranger Station 3 (Ao Makham) is located here, at the bottom of the freshwater stream. In the non-monsoon season, subsistence fishermen (mostly Muslim) keep temporary shelters here. As of yet, no trail exists between Sone Bay and Makham Bay.
Activities : Nature trail study, Activities on Beach
Pha Chado Viewpoint Talo Wao Bay, Site of prison for common criminals, in 2480 - 2490 BD, It used to be the place where prisoners was caged and trained to work. Now it remains only a dune, ruined buildings and the funeral for 700 prisoner. The coast is rocky here with limestone rocks jutting from the sea. When first reaching the eastern coast by road, you will see the old ranger station, which is still used by the Talo Wao staff. The road continues another kilometer to the ranger station on the hill, overlooking the long pier next to a rock outcropping. In the monsoon season, fishing boats congregate in this sheltered bay.

Path from Talo Wao to Talo Udang: This trail actually follows the old prisoner's road, which once allowed a Landrover to make trips between the two sites. In some places, remains of bridges and stonework can be seen. Currently the trail is very overgrown, a guide might be necessary to at least find the trailhead. Approximately 12 km., 4-5 hour walk.

Road from Pante bay to Talo Wao Bay: This road is flat and passes through old agricultural land, rubber trees and orchards for the most part; but the last 4 km. climb through evergreen forest and tall trees. Distance: 12.5 km.. Walking time: 3 hours. Off-trail option: Near the 7 km.. marker on the road to Talo Wao Bay, the black water pipe dives into the forest. If you follow this pipe up the streambed, you'll come to one of the sources for Pante Bay's water. A short walk, but a chance to explore the forest. Talo Wao Bay, Located in the east of Tarutao Island. It’s 12 km. far from headquarters and the place where Ranger Station 1 (Talo Wao) was located.
Activities : Nature trail study, Historical Sight Seeing Talo Udang Bay A lonely, historic outpost that looks out upon Langkawi Island. Once the site of a unique penal colony for political prisoners; later a bustling village complete with shops, fishing port, monks and a brothel; little trace of these civilized establishments can be found today. A few remnants of prison days are still visible--a cement foundation for a fish sauce plant, rubber tree grove, and charcoal furnace pit. These are a bit of a walk from the Talo Udang ranger station, but if you manage to make it here, maybe one of the rangers will show you around. The young men who are stationed here become quite cut off from the world, and tend to yell around, sing and tell ghost stories among themselves. Talo Udang Bay, Located in the south of Tarutao Island. It’s 8 km. far from Langkawee Island, Malaysia and 23 km. far from headquarters. This is the place where Ranger Station 2 was located.
Activities : Nature trail study, Historical Sight Seeing
Koh Hin Ngam Mouth of cave lies at the end of one of the Pante Malacca Canal's many mangrove-lined channels. The cave is filled with brackish water and extends several kilometers. Only once has the cave been followed to its end opening near Jak Bay; by 3 rangers in a rubber raft, in the days when crocodiles were still a resident of the salt-water swamp. The boat trip is scenic, with close-ups of the mangrove ecosystem, various birds, and lucky visitors will catch a glimpse of a spectacled langur pausing still in a tree. To arrange a boat trip, contact the information booth. Try to share the cost with other visitors. At present, a walkway extends only a short way into the cave. Bring flashlights and/or candles.
Activities : Nature trail study, Cave/Geological Touring, Canoeing-Kayaking, flowers admiring Lu Du River provides the water for the Ranger base at the north end of the beach, whilst Lo Po meanders through dense mangrove forests to the south. Follow either river upstream and you will find cool, refreshing pools and pretty waterfalls. Look out for coloured arrow trail markers, and stone cairns for stream crossings. The trail to Lu Du Waterfall starts 500 m from the Ranger Base, along the path leading back towards Ao Pante. Look for the signpost on your right. From here it is 1 1/2 hours walk to the waterfall.
Activities : Nature trail study, Waterfall Traveling Lo Po Waterfall trail starts about 1 1/2 km south down the beach. It was originally made in April 1990 by Peace Corps volunteers, under the supervision of the then Head Ranger of Son Bay, the longest serving Ranger of Tarutao, Mr. Niwon. The trail passes through Beach Forest and Evergreen Rainforest. Look for the coloured arrow trail markers and stone cairns for stream crossings. The waterfall is more spectacular in the rainy season, but the pool is enough to bathe in and the trail is fun to walk. Absorb the atmosphere of silent rock faces and thick lianas draping to the ground. Distance from Ranger Base: 6 km. Time: 2 1/2 hours.
Activities : Nature trail study, Waterfall Traveling
Ko Adang In the past, it’s the home of pirates who robbed the ships. The beach is beautiful with white sand. There’re coral reef surrounded that’s good place for scuba diving. Ranger Station 5 (Laem Son) is located 40 km. far from headquarters.
Activities : Scuba Diving, Activities on Beach, Snorkeling Diving, Camping Located in Adang Island. In the past, it’s the place where pirates made an observation for other ships, goods ship. Now it’s good place for seeing the beautiful sight of the sea. You’ll see pine forests and white sand beach of Adang Island. You also see Ko Lepe from here. It takes you 30 minutes.
Activities : View It’s a small island with round black rocks beach. The rocks will reflect beautiful light when the sun shines. Each of the rocks here was cursed by Tarutao’s god who will punish everyone who steals the rock from the island.
Activities : Cave/Geological Touring, Canoeing-Kayaking These small islands are about halfway between Tarutao and Adang-Rawi Islands. Ko Klang was a former ranger station, but fresh water and snakes were a problem. Ko Khai is the small idyllic island with the famous stone arch, blinding white sand and clear aqua sea. The word "Khai" means egg in Thai, indicating a large sea turtle nesting site in the past. There is some damaged coral around Ko Khai, and colorful fish, but spiky sea urchins seem to dominate.
Activities : Activities on Beach, View Rawi Island is a place where there’s white sand beach. It’s quiet place suits for pitching tents. It’s the place where Ranger Station 6 (Hat Sai Khao) and Ranger Station 7 (Talo Palean) is located.
Activities : Scuba Diving, Activities on Beach, Snorkeling Diving
Koh Lipe There is a village with a school and shops, and private tourist bungalows are available for rent. National Park staffs are unable to book these in advance. The advantage of staying at Lipe Island is a amazingly diverse coral reef within swimming distance; at Gra Island, the tiny isle with the lone coconut tree. One can also observe the sea gypsy village life. There are more restaurant options and stores here than at Adang Island. Lipe Island is a small flat island dominated by coconut plantations. Pattaya Bay on the other side of the island offers an isolated swimming and sunbathing area. But beware of sunbathing alone when there are fishing boats moored nearby; incidents have been reported in the past.

Both the park and Lipe villagers offer a boat service between Adang and Lipe Island. In addition, the Lipe bungalow owner has long-tailed boats for hire to visit local coral reefs. Find other travelers to help share the expense. If hiring a boat to go snorkeling, make sure the boat driver uses the mooring buoy if one is available. Also, be careful to not step on coral or break off pieces. Snorkels and masks are available for hire at Tarutao, Adang and Lipe Island. More information
Activities : Scuba Diving, Activities on Beach, Snorkeling Diving, Camping, Cultural Sight Seeing
Mu Ko Phetra National Park Location : Amphoe La-Ngu
The park is situated on the Andaman sea coast in Satun and Trang provinces. It consists of an area of coastline and over 30 islands. The park has many diverse habitats including; open water, coral fringed islands, sandy beaches, forest covered islands to sheer rocky islands which rise steeply out of the sea. There are also a few patches of mangrove forest, beach forest and tropical forest. The islands within the park are small the largest being Khao Yai Island which is about 4.7 sq.km in area. The sea area of the park includes many important fishing grounds for this reason many of the islands act as temporary refuges for fishing boats during monsoon storms.

The park was established by royal decree on the 31st December 1984. The park covers a total area of 494.38 km2, of which 468.38 sq.km or 94.74% is open water. Mu Ko Phetra is the third protected area in Satun province and is the 14th Marine park in Thailand.

How to get there
By Car
From Bangkok, take Highway No. 4 past Prachuap Khiri Khan and Chumphon then take Highway No. 41 to Nakhon Si Thammarat and Phatthalung. From Phatthalung, drive on to Amphoe Rattaphum, Songkhla then take Highway No. 4 and turn right to Highway No. 406. It is 973 km from Bangkok

By Plane
There is no direct flight to Satun. The trip by air can be made via Hat Yai Airport then taking a taxi or public bus to Satun for 97 km.

By Train
Visitors can take a Bangkok-Ya La or Bangkok-Hat Yai train and get off at the Hat Yai Train Station, then take a taxi from Ratthakan Post Office to Satun. It is 97 km from Hat Yai to Satun. Vans and public buses are also available. Transportation from Hat Yai Train Station is operating daily, departing every hour starting from 06.00 am. – 0400 pm. Normal buses (Hat Yai –Pakbara–Satun route) from Hat Yai Clock Tower are also operating 3 times daily starting from 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

By Bus
The distance from Bangkok to Satun is 980 km. The cost for standard bus is 450 Baht and 580 Baht for air-conditioned bus. The distance from Satun to Phetra Islands National Park is 60 km. The cost for standard bus is 33 Baht and 50 Baht for taxis.

Tourist Attractions

Koh Bulon Ao Phante Malaka
Koh Bulon is situated 22 km from Pak Bara port on the coast of Satun province. The archipelago has many beautiful sandy beaches and clear water, this makes it a popular tourist spot, very good for snorkeling. The water is very clear making the viewing of corals easy.
Activities : Scuba Diving, Activities on Beach, Snorkeling Diving Koh Bulon is situated 22 km from Pak Bara port on the coast of Satun province. The archipelago has many beautiful sandy beaches and clear water, this makes it a popular tourist spot, very good for snorkling. The water is very clear making the viewing of corals easy.
Activities : Scuba Diving, Activities on Beach, Snorkelling Diving Koh Khao Yai is essentially a sculptural work of nature, similar to rock castle which has a natural bridge protruding into the sea, whereby, during the low tide, boats can be rowed through. There is also a bay on this island called Kam Pu Bay with small falls and creeks. Kam Pu Bay is rather calm with no waves all year round and during the lowest tide, coral reefs and marine life will be very visible along the coastline. Moreover, sea turtles often come ashore and lay their eggs around Kam Pu Bay as well.
Activities : Activities on Beach, Canoeing-Kayaking, View The total area of Koh Lidi is 2 sq.km with cliffs and caves which are habitats for swallows. The area is suitable for swimming and is also quiet and tranquilizing. Tent area is also available on this island and is also the location for Ranger Station 2 (Koh Lidi).
Activities : Nature trail study, Activities on Beach, Canoeing-Kayaking, Camping
Koh Lidi 3km from Pak Bara port. It is located in a small bay which is locally called Nun Bay, the mouth of the bay is about 800m across. Located at the headquarters is a visitors centre, accommodation, rest houses, toilets, conference room, restaurant and an attractive boardwalk, which extends nearly to the mouth of the bay. A walk to the end of the boardwalk gives picturesque views back across the bay towards the headquarters.
Activities : Nature trail study, Camping This island is the main island of a group and is situated in Trang province, almost 40 km north of park headquarters. These islands can be reached by boat from Palian district, which is about 20kms away. The islands vary in size, with some being little more than rocks rising steeply out of the sea.

Koh Phetra is the biggest with the summit reaching 380m, this island is said to look like a boat when observed from the coast. The islands have good potential for visitors with coral reefs and small sandy beaches, but remain undisturbed due to their remoteness. Some of the islands have caves which contain nests of the edible nest swift let.
Activities : Activities on Beach, Snorkeling Diving, View This is the most beautiful beach on the mainland of Satun province. The beach is located near Khon Klan village in Tung Wa district. It is about 26km from Tung Wa town on the road to Langu, with the turn off for the beach at Wangtong village.

The beach is of clean white sand and stretches for about 3.5 kms. Being so long it can be very peaceful here and it is therefore the ideal spot for a quiet picnic. To escape from the heat you can shelter under the shade provided by Casuarina trees which extend for the whole length of the beach.
Activities : Activities on Beach, Camping
Thale Ban National Park Location : Amphoe Kwuan Doan and Amphoe Mueang
Thaleban National Park was declared as the 20th National Park in Thailand on 27th October 1980. The park encompasses a total area of 196km2. Thaleban is approximately 1,000 km south of Bangkok, in the province of Satun. The park covers the mountainous border area between Satun province, Thailand and Perlis state, Malaysia.

The park headquaters are located in a valley which runs through the mountains, and is situated only 2kms from the border. This valley is a historic link between the two countries and this has influenced the development of the area by mixing Malaysian with the original Thai culture. The names of many park locations are actually Malaysian in origin.

Talaybun National Park is situated between Amphoe Kwuan Doan and Amphoe Mueang, Satun Province, with the following adjacent territory
• Facing Tu Yoh Canal, Tambon Wangprachan, Kwuan Doan District, Satun province
• Bordering Sadao District, Songkhla province
• Bordering the Malaysian State of Perlis
• Facing the Andaman Sea, Indian Ocean

How to get there
By Car
From Bangkok, take Petchakasem Highway to Suratthani then take Highway No. 4 to Rattaphum District, Songkhla province then take Highway No.406 to Kuan Doan District then take the Thai-Malaysian Border Road No. 4184.

By Plane
There is no direct flight to Satun. The trip by air can be made via Hat Yai Airport then taking a Hat Yai – Satun van to Kuoan Sator junction. The van leaves every hour from 06.00 am. – 07.00 pm. at 60 Baht/person. Buses from Hat Yai – Satun leaves every 15 minutes from 06.00 am. – 06.30 pm. at 38 Baht/person for air-conditioned bus and 35 Baht/person for standard bus.

By Train
Visitors can take a Bangkok-Hat Yai train and get off at the Hat Yai Train Station, continue on to the National Park as by Car.

By Bus
There are buses from Bangkok to Satun daily and the distance from Bangkok to Satun is 973 km or approximately 11hours. The cost for standard bus is 556 Baht.

Lot Poo You Cave Tourist Attractions
Lot Poo You Cave
Lot Poo You is a cave similar to a cave in Ao Phangnga National Park. Located in the southern part of the national park near Khao Kayang Mountain and surrounded with mangrove forest. Within the cave, there are stalactites and stalagmites. Transportation to Lot Poo You Cave has to be via boat at Tammalang Pier, approximately 9 km away from Satun and 58 km from the National Park Headquarters.
Activities : Cave/Geological Touring, Canoeing-Kayaking, flowers admiring, View, Bird Watching A large swamps in the middle of the valley, against Khao Chin mountain range and Wangpra mountain. The total area of this swamp is approximately 0.2 sq.km. Freshwater fish and shellfish are very common. Bakong trees are also very concentrated around the swamps where frogs inhabit. Asin Tapirs can occasionally be seen drinking from the swamp.
Activities : Nature trail study, flowers admiring, View The most beautiful waterfall in the park with a good year round water supply. The falls are 10 km north of headquarters, signposted from the road a track leads a further 3km to the waterfalls. These falls are much quieter and usually a secluded pool can be found even on a busy day.
Activities : Waterfall Traveling Large grass fields located in between the mountains in the western part of the National Park where a number of wildlife such as mouse deers, porcupines red jungle fowls and Asian tapirs inhabit. From the National Park Headquarters to this grassland, it is 8 km to the North then take left road for another 10 km.
Activities : Nature trail study, Biking Trail, Animal Watching, flowers admiring, Camping, Bird Watching
Ya Roy Waterfall This waterfall with a series of nive falls is located 6.7km north of headquaters. It is signposted from the road and the falls are reached along a track after about 700m. The bottom pools can be busy but the highest fall is the best for swimming. A unit of the park protection force resides here.

There is also a forest Trek from Yaroy waterfalls back to headquaters, this trail leads through some very dense forest and requires a guide. The route is 20km and it has been walked in a single day but as it takes 11 hours to complete 2 days is advised, with 1 night spent camping in the forest.
Activities : Nature trail study, Waterfall Traveling, View, Trekking Ton Din Cave is 1.5 km away from the National Park Headquarters. The depth of the cave is approximately 700 metres with stalactites, stalagmites and small creek within. Many types of fresh water fish and mining equipment left over from the World War 2 can also be found.
Activities : Historical Sight Seeing, Cave/Geological Touring

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