Shruti Malhotra
One of Thailand’s most underrated and lesser-known provinces in the coastal region is Chumphon, Thailand that comprises a dozen islands among which the Isles of Mu Ko Chumphon Marine Park, Ko Phitak, and Ko Wiang are some of the places that deserve attention and praise.
A coastal getaway at its best
Known as the gateway to southern provinces of Thailand and to the Gulf of Thailand, Chumphon in Thailand, has more than 200 kilometers of coastline and boasts of unexplored pristine beaches.
10 Places of Interest at Chumphon, Thailand
Traveling to Chumphon in Thailand is considered incomplete if you do not explore the following places. Find the names of the places below-
Hat ThungWuaLaen
It is a white sandy beach that appears to stretch in an unending manner. It has a little gradient with pristine waters of the sea. Since it is ideal for swimming, it is one of the hottest attractions for tourists. There is a beach full of rocks on the southern side of the mountain. There is ample scope for tourist activities since the area is dotted with scuba diving centers, restaurants, hotels, and rental shops for diving equipment.
Phato Rafting
It includes an adventure activity like rafting amidst the forests of AmphoePhatothat, which is a watershed. Many rivers flow along the mountain range. Orchards and rainforests encircle the canal sides. The recreational adventures here are open for tourists throughout the year. Khlong Pato is crowded around the year.
Ban Thong Tom Yai
The place is an old community along the coastline. There are villages among which there is a huge golden jar beside a seahorse statue. The coastline is shaped like a horseshoe. The houses built here usually look over the sea hanging over the water. Fishing is one activity in which locals often indulge. Visitors can stay at a homestay here and by employing knowledge of the local people, they ideally build homes for the marine life and seahorses.
Ko Phithak
Ko Phithak is one of the main attractions of Chumphon, Thailand. Located at a distance of 800 meters from the mainland, you can enjoy a ride on the long-tailed boats that leave the pier at Ao Thong Khrok and reach Phithak.
Earlier, the island was known as the “Island of Ghost’s Greeting or Ko Phi-Thak in the local language. There is a story related to the island that says long ago, when fishermen visited the island, from afar they used to see many people waving at them.
However, as they came closer and nearer to the island, no one was present there. Snorkeling, kayaking, and squid fishing are some of the activities that you can indulge in when you visit the place.
Ko Thalu
It is a limestone island and is situated at a distance of almost 13 kilometers from Chumphon, Thailand. Caves and arches mark the island. You can swim across the arches.
Between March and April, you can see sea anemones and coral reefs clearly. This period is also the time when you will find seagulls laying eggs.
If you want to explore even further, hire a boat from Hat Pharadonphap to reach this island. However, remember, there are no homestays or accommodation facilities on this island.
Tham Khao PhluHot Spring
If you are a health freak, you must not miss this place. The spring comprises three ponds and they are Eue Ari, Thanthip, AmaritThara, and PhrueksaChonlathan. The ponds comprise hot mineral water the temperature of which ranges between 55 and 56 degrees Celsius. It is believed that this water cures skin diseases and a few other illnesses. For 10 to 16 Baht, you can get a bath in these hot mineral water springs. The prices may vary depending on the time of travel.
Prince of Chumphon Shrine
It is the memorial of Admiral HRH Prince of Chumphon, who is the founder of the Royal Thai Navy. He is greatly respected by the general people of the country. The shrine lies close to a huge torpedo boat, which was the Chumphon Royal Battleship. However, it was decommissioned in the year 1975.
Mu Ko Chumphon
The place is an archipelago comprising 40 islands. If you are an ardent diver intending to explore the deep blue sea and its mysteries, this is an ideal spot for you. Here are the names of a few diving spots that you can try out. These include the following-
- Ko Tafu
- Ko Lawa
- Ko LangkaChio
- Ko Mattra
- Ko NgamNoi
- Ko NgamYai
Khao Matsi Viewpoint
You can spend hours here enjoying the picturesque panoramic 360-degree view from atop the mountain. The fishing community can be seen from here along the Chumphon Estuary along the fishing piers. Hat Pharadonphap and the Chumphon Sea are to the right. On top of the mountain is the statue of the deity Goddess Guanyin, as if overlooking the sea.
SuanSomNai Dam or Nai Dam Orange Orchard
The tourist place is well known for the signature taste of a particular breed of orange, the Chumphon’s Chogun. Oranges from here are also exported. You will get oranges here around the year. The orchard is also famous for the reason that advanced technology is used to select the best quality oranges. There is a souvenir shop where you can give some rest to your tired feet as you decide which gifts to carry back home for your loved ones.
To wrap it up.
In a nutshell, we can wrap it up, with the following fast facts that you can just look up if you are planning a trip to the beautiful islands. These at-a-glance tips include the following-
- If you happen to travel between September and October, you will get to see thousands of eagles. These migrate from Siberia to Chumphon.
- Hat Thung Wua Laen – This is a long beach that is dotted with many restaurants, hotels, and resorts.
- Soldier Youth World War II Monument – The structure was constructed so that the children who gave their lives in the war could be honored.
- Mu Koh Chumphon National Park- You can take a stroll on the island and the natural trails of the mangrove forest.
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