Hotels in Phang-nga

Introduction

Phang Nga is a province in southern Thailand with much mountainous beauty and water based beauty.  The range of natural activities to do here is wide and diverse. A primarily tourist destination, it is incredibly seasonal, with May to October making the province almost a ghost town, as monsoons rage through and make even locals hide indoors, waiting for high season. November through April is a completely different story, as tourists come from all over the world to come enjoy the beach and mountain beauty of Phang Nga province.

The region incorporates many national parks, including Similan National Park and Khao Lak National Park. It’s also home to quite a few festivals, including the Watermelon Festival, the Turtle Festival, the Vegetarian Festival and of course, Songkran, the Water Festival, the biggest of them all.

Phuket used to be an island, until a highway originating in Phang Nga province was built to connect Phuket to the mainland.

Phang Nga was one of the regions most heavily affected by the Boxing Day Tsunami in 2004, where thousands lost their lives and homes. Many of the industries, including tourism, are still in recovery today. In select places that are not frequented by tourists, the devastating effects of the tsunami can still be seen.

History

Phang Nga province was first inhabited by a small group of people at the riverbank, in a district now known as Kraphu Nga. At the time, the district was under the reign of King Rama II when the Burmese troops invaded the south of Thailand. The Thai Army, which was based in Bangkok, did not arrive in time, and the towns of Takua Pa, Takua Thung and Thalang (modern day Phuket) fell to the Burmese. The town was eventually reclaimed by the Thai Army, and Phang Nga became its own province in 1933.

The Khura Buri District, particularly Koh Phra Thong is known as “smuggler’s paradise” as this is a key entry point for refugees who are smuggled into Thailand.

Attractions

James Bond Island – Khao Phing Kan

Made famous by the 1974 movie; The Man with the Golden Gun, Khao Phing Kan has since been affectionately called “The James Bond Island”.  Thais like to name their physical structures based on what they look like, so Koh Tapu translates to “Spike Island.” Koh Tapu is the name of the giant vertical rock island that’s in the middle of the bay. Since it’s the site that made this place famous, this is what tourists tend to want to see. Show up early to avoid the crowds.

Opening hours: 08:00 to 17:00, daily
Entrance fee: none, but there is a 300 THB for adults and 100 THB entry fee for Phang Nga Bay itself.

Khao Lak Lamru National Park

This 125 sq km national park is a gorgeous collection of cliffs, hills, beaches and dome shaped mountains made of granite. Tin was once a main industry in this region. There is much variation in the flora and fauna available here, making it a prime spot for botanists and those interested in nature. There are waterfalls, hikes, and swimming activities within the park.

Opening hours: 6:00 to 18:00, daily
Entrance fee: 200 THB for adults and 100 THB for children

Bang Niang Market

A typical Thai market with all the usual food, inexpensive clothing, vegetables, random knick knacks, electronics (beware, they don’t always work, try out everything before you buy it). Although open everyday, the best days to visit are Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, as those are the primary days for most vendors. Bring plenty of cash, and be ready to haggle!

Opening hours: 10:00 to 22:00, daily but best on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Entrance fee: none, but bring plenty of cash to spend at the market!