Koh Pra Thong is a unique island getaway in Thailand that features beautiful flora and landscapes that are not found anywhere else in the country. Located near Phang Nga Province’s coastline, it forms the middle link of a chain of three islands lying at the heart of the stunning Andaman Sea.
In English, Koh Pra Thong means “Golden Buddha Island,” referring to an old legend that tells the story of a stolen statue buried on the island by pirates. While the precious Buddha was never recovered, its name remained with the locals. Now, Koh Pra Thong is one of Thailand’s last remaining Virgin islands. With long stretches of uninhabited garden beaches, it’s a perfect destination for travelers who are looking for the ultimate escape.
If you’re planning a trip to this side of Thailand soon, we put together a guide to help you plan your vacation. Here are three must-see attractions in Koh Pra Thong:
1. Koh Pra Thong’s spectacular Savannah
As the ninth-largest island in Thailand, Koh Pra Thong offers a vast landscape of unique geography. It shelters a diverse collection of fauna and flora, many of which are endemic to the island. Interestingly, there is no soil on the island, as it is entirely covered by sand.
When visiting Koh Pra Thong, take a land trip that covers its four zones. Each one offers distinct sceneries and dramatic views. In Zone One, on the east side, you can view lush mangrove forests that are essential to the island’s ecosystem. They serve as a breeding ground for different types of fish and shelters several species of birds.
Zone Two introduces land that has a dense swamp jungle. Avid botanists will be thrilled to spot one type of endemic orchid, known to locals as the Don Malee. Westwards, Zone Three is both bizarre and fascinating. It is a low-lying sandy area reminiscent of an African Savanah desert. Zone Four is by the coastline and features stunning beaches and turquoise blue waters. Here, snorkelers and divers will be greeted by a thriving marine life.
2. Koh Pra Thong’s tin mining
Tin is plentiful along Koh Pra Thong’s west coastline. Tourists can even see this dark metallic element mixed in the sand. Tin mining used to be a thriving industry among the locals, which contributed to the region’s former glory. Today, residents still mine for this malleable metal the old-fashioned way by using pans and sluice boxes.
3. Koh Pra Thong’s village life in Ta Pae Yoi
Ta Pae Yoi is the largest and busiest village on Koh Pra Thong, located on the north-east coast of the island. Most of the region’s population resides in this fishing village that resembles traditional Moken villages found in Myanmar. Visit these houses that stand on stilts and observe the natives’ lifestyle.
On the main pier, there is a turtle sanctuary that was established through the conservation efforts of the government. Hatchlings from Phuket and surrounding islands are brought here to mature for a year before being released into the ocean. If you plan your trip during this time, you can witness the incredible phenomenon of baby turtles wading into the Andaman Sea.
How to Get to Koh Pra Thong
Koh Pra Thong is only accessible by boat. Tourists who wish to experience the region’s diverse landscape can reach the island by boarding a traditional long-tail boat to the main pier at Kura Buri in Ta Pae Yoi Village.
Many Khao Lak resorts offer day tours to Koh Pra Thong. If you’re looking to book a resort in Khao Lak, choose Apsara! Get in touch with us today to book your stay.
