Suratthani

This comprises some 40 islands about two hours by boat northwest of Ko Samui. The park covers 250 square kilometres, of which approximately one fifth is land mass. The most attractive islands include Ko Wua Ta Lap (Sleeping Cow island), Ko Mae Ko, Ko prayat, Ko Sam Sao , Ko Nai Put and Ko Wua Te. Most islands comprise limestone masses reaching heights of ut to 400 metres, and fringed by beaches and rain forest. An emerald saltwater lake known as Tha-le Nai (Inland Sea) on Ko Mae Ko is the park’s major scenic attractin, and entails a mildly strenuous climb. The resultant views are well worth the effort. Another popular venue is Ko Sam Sao where an extensive span of coral reef and a huge rock arch offer scenic fascination.

A one –day tour package to Mu Ko Ang Thong is organised by travel agents on Ko Samui. The park office is on Ko Wua Ta Lap where bungalow-style accommodation is available. Visitors wishing to stay overnight should make advance bookings and specify whether meal services are required, either through the Ang Thong Marine National Park office, 145/1 Talatlang Road, Surat thani, Tel: (077) 286025, or the National Parks Division in Bangkok, Tel: 5612918-21.

............................................

Phumriang Village
Located some 6 kilometres east of Chaiya, this settlement is an arts and crafts centre well known for its silver brocaded silk cloth and jute headwear.