Arrival Thailand Khao Lak

Nang Thong beach Sunset

2013

เขาหลัก Bangsak Pakweeb Pakarang Khuk Khak Bang Niang Nang Thong Khao Lak

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N O I T I D E KHAO LAK

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สำ�หรับคำ�โฆษณาและเงื่อนไข โปรดส่งคำ�ขอไปที่: IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS KHAO LAK

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Emergency No 191 Firebrigade 199 or 076 211 111 Tourist Police 1155 / 1699 Ambulance 076 254 425 Customs 076 211 105 Immigration 076 212 018 Post Office 076 211 020 Tourism Authority 076 212 213 Phuket Airport 076 327 230-37

Bangkok Phuket Hospital 076 254 421 Mission Hospital 076 237 220 Pat Sompot Hospital 076 214 428 Police stations Khao Lak 076 420558 Khuk Khak 076 420519 Takuapa 076 421116 Phang Nga provincial police 076 412075 Helicopter Emergency Service 1719

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Diving Emergency Service (SSS Recompression Chamber Network) (Global Hyperbaric Medicine) 24 hrs Tel 081 081 9444 www.arrivalthailand.com

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WELCOME TO

KHAO LAK In the south province of Phang Nga

Phang Nga Province No less than three national parks surrounding Khao Lak and the hills that sweep down to this beautiful stretch of coast with long white beaches. The name is derived from from the national park “Khao Lak Lam Ru”.

Khao Lak is located just one hour drive north of Phuket on the mainland at the beautiful Andaman coast in Phang-Nga province.

Khao means mountain in Thai as the name is directly translated “Lak mountain”.

Khao Lak offers a rare oasis for relaxation with a superb combination of cool tropical forest vegetation and delightful accommodation directly by the beach. By day you can enjoy the sun and sea, and when the sun drops the night life takes over with restaurants that serve fresh delicacies from the sea, steaks with accessories, meatballs or burgers. McDonald’s is the rescue to all families with children among all hot chilli dishes!

Khao Lak is located in Takua Pa district in the national park area with a lot of natural attractions and a convenient starting point for a number of excursions. The famous Similan Islands and Surin Islands are within easy reach. Did you know that Similands is considered to be one of the world’s 10 best diving spots.

t en er ff di 0 1 an th e or m of ts is ns co c ak Khao L 4

beaches www.arrivalthailand.com

HANOI

BURMA Myanmar

LAOS

Chiang Rai

Mae Hong Son

THAILAND

Phayao

Chiang Mai Lamphun Lampang

VI EN T

IA

NE

Nan

Phrae Loei

Utradit RANGOON

Sukothai Tak Pitsanoluk Kampaeng Phet

Nong Khai

Udon Thani Nong Bua Lamphu

Petchabun Kon Khaen Maha Sarakham Chayapum Nakhon Sawan Phichit

Lop Buri Sara Buri

AngThong

Saphan Buri Nonthaburi

Kanchanaburi

Roi Et

Ratchaburi

Amnat Charoen Ubon Si Sa Ket

(Korat)

Sa Kaeo Chachoengsao

Samut Prakan

Samut Sakhon

Petchaburi

Buriram Surin

Mukdahan

Pathum Thani Nakhon Nayok Prachin Buri

BANGKOK

Nakhom Pathom

Nakhon Ratchasima

Nakhon Phanom Sakon Nakhon

Kalasin

Uthai Thani Chai Nat

VIETNAM

Bueng Kan

Chonburi Pattaya

Rayong

Cha Am Hua Hin

Koh Samet

Chantaburi Trat

CAMBODIA

Koh Chang

Prachuap Khiri Khan

Koh Maak Koh Kood

PHNOM PENH Chumphon

VIETNAM

Koh Tao

Ranong

Koh Phangan Koh Samui

Surathani

Khao Lak Phangnga Phuket

k Clic e! r e h

Nakhon Si Thammarat Krabi

Ao Nang Koh Lanta

Trang

Phattalung Songkhla

Koh Turatao Koh Rawi

Koh Adang Koh Lipe

Bang Niang beach

Satun

Pattani Yala

Narathiwat

MALAYSIA

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A 1

B

C

CLOSE May 15th to Nov 1st

D

E

F

G

Ban Nam Khem Tsunami Memorial Center

SURIN 75 km.

Phetkasem Rd

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2

KHAO LAK 60 kilometer 20 km

Ranong 190km.

Surathani 175 km.

Takuapa 20 km.

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Elephant Trekking

H Bangsak Beach Resort H Bangsak Beach Resort

Bang Sak Beach

H Graceland Resort H Bangsak Blue Sea H Bangsak Lagoon

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Pak Weep Waterfall also Sai Rung (Rainbow)

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Pak Weep Beach

Bor Hin Waterfall

H Anantara Royal Resort H Le Meridien Hotel

Pakarang Beach

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Clicrke! he

H The Sajorin H The Sajorin H Similana Resort H Kantary Bay

Laem Pakarang

H La Flora Resort H Khao Lak Sunset Resort

6 H The Haven

Khuk Khak Beach

k Clic e! her

4 Phetkasem Rd H The Haven

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Chong Fah Waterfall Police Boat 813

H FX Resort

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Bang Niang Beach La Flora Resort H

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Nang Thong Beach

View Point

- Ranongh 190 km 10 h. xx min.

H Bhundari Resort

CLOSE May 15th to Nov 1st

Khao Lak Beach SIMILAN 70 km. 1h.

H Emerald Resort

4 Phetkasem Rd

Tab Lamu Pier

- Chiang Mai 1450 km 18h. 50 min.

- Hua Hin 606 km 8 h. 30 min.

- Krabi Town 143 km 2 h. 25 min.

H Khao Lak Laguna Resort Baan Khao Lak Resort H H Palm Beach Resort H Seaview Resort Ton Pling Waterfall

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10

Distance from Khao Lak to

Ramada Resort H

- Pattaya 900 km 12 h. 25 min.

- Phuket 100 km 1 h. 50 min.

- Satun 430 km 6 h. 20 min.

- Surathani 197 km 2 h. 55 min.

- Suvarnabuhmi 800 km 10 h. 50 min.

A

B

C

1 Surin Islands

D

CLOSE May 15th to Nov 1st

SURIN 55 km. 1h.

E

F

G

Koh Kai Yai

2 Koh Ra Koh Thung Tu

PHANG GNA

Karaburi

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Koh Phra Thong

3 Koh Tachai

Koh Ko Khao

4 Takuapa

Koh Bon Bang Sak Beach Pak Weep Beach

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Pnang Nga Province

Laem Pakarang

Similan Islands

Surat Thani Province

Kapong

Khuk Khak Beach

CLOSE May 15th to Nov 1st

Bang Niang Beach

SIMILAN 70 km. 1h.

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Khao Lak

Nang Thong Beach Khao Lak Beach

Tabput

Tablamu Pier

Phang Gna Town Thai Muang

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Takua Thung

Krabi Province

James Bond Island 40 kilometer

8

20 km

Distance from Khao Lak to

Koh Yao Noi

- Bangkok 775 km 10 h. 30 min.

- Chiang Mai 1450 km 18h. 50 min.

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- Hua Hin 606 km 8 h. 30 min.

- Krabi Town 143 km 2 h. 25 min.

- Pattaya 900 km 12 h. 25 min.

- Phuket 100 km 1 h. 50 min.

- Satun 430 km 6 h. 20 min.

- Surathani 197 km 2 h. 55 min.

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- Suvarnabuhmi 800 km 10 h. 50 min.

Phuket

Koh Yao Yai

KRABI

ชายหาด

Beaches Khao Lak South Beach At the southern end of the Khao Lak National Park, we find the shortest of Khao Lak beaches, Khao Lak South Beach, lined with cliffs and beautiful casuarina trees that create lovely shade of the beach in the mornings.

In the background grows large tropical trees in the mountain slope. The beach is relatively deserted, with a few food and massage places. Far to the north there is a smaller hotel area, including Merlin, Emerald, Briza well as some shops.

Sunset Beach Sunset Beach has some great hotels with slope down towards the beach, like Palm Beach Hotel, Bayfront resort and Paradise resort. The hotels have been embedded in the tropical vegetation and on the other side of the main road an amazing jungle grows.

From here it takes about 15-20 minutes to walk to Khao Lak Centre.

Nang Thong Beach (Khao Lak Centre -La On) Nang Thong beach has golden sand and is lined with palm trees and a few casuarina trees. The beach is wide and perfect for early morning or afternoon exercice walk.

There are some granite rocks that breaks the beach.

In Khao Lak City you can find plenty of small shops, restaurants, bars, exchange, dive-shops, tailors, opticians, pharmacies, ATMs, etc. Here are also many of the hotels located, large and small, as well as McDonald’s. - The first beach to be exploited with resorts and hotels in Khao Lak. Bang Niang Beach Bang Niang, the next village of Khao Lak, about 5 minutes by car or 20 minutes if you walk from La on.

A little smaller than Khao Lak City but with an equivalent range of hotels, restaurants and shops. The beach here is not as wide as other Khao Lak’s beaches but when the tide falls, the beach offers a lovely place for walks. In Bang Niang is a market every Monday,

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Nang Thong Beach

Wednesday and Saturday from about 14:00 to 7:00 p.m. Among other things you can find clothes, souvenirs, spices and food. Approximately 1,000 meters up from the beach is the famous police boat that was washed up on the land during the tsunami in 2004.

Khuk Khak Beach Khuk Khak is a long, wide and slightly quieter beach.

If you want to walk all the way, you need to cross some small lagoons and estuaries. Along the beach we find a few large hotels with comfortable distance from each other as well as some small beach restaurants and massage huts.

From the main road, it takes about 10 minutes to travel by car to Khao Lak City.

Along the way there are some larger stores and a gas station.

Pakarang Cape Pakarang cape at the more westerly part of mainland with big difference in tides.

The entire Cape is filled with shells and coral fragments that are washed up as the tide comes and goes. South of the cape is popular with surfers when windy. The northern part of the beach is quieter with fine white sand. There are some major hotels and some smaller shops. Pakarang is roughly 3 km. from the main road

Sunset Beach

Koh Kood

Pak Weep and Bangsak Beach At the north part of Khao Lak you can find the most quiet of all the beaches of Khao Lak, Pak Weeb and Bangsak Beach with a few Thai beach restaurants along the coast. According to many also the best and finest beaches. In weekends and other holidays many Thais with their families comes here to enjoy a day at the beach. Fresh seafood from local restaurants is one another that attracts them. Along the road are some hotels like Le Meridien, Bangsak Village Hotel and Haadson Hotel.

Nang Thong

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Pakweeb Beach - White Sand Beach

Bang Niang

Pakarang Beach

Donald Duck Bay

Climb up on the cliff at Donald Duck Bay and get a panoramic view of the bay and the lovely white sand beach below. The name has been given hence rock resembles a duck!

เกาะสิมิลัน

CLOSE May 15 th to Nov 1st

SIMILAN ISLANDS Similan Islands. Eleven small islands about 13km from mainland, The trip takes three hours each way on slow boats or 70 minutes via speedboat.

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Similan islands The park is covered by a total of 140km² The archipelago of the nine islands consists of total 14km² The islands are: Ko Bon, Ko Bayu, Ko Similan Ko Payu, Koh Miang (two neighboring islands, and the park office), Ko Payan, Payang and Ko Ko Huyong. For convenience they numbered them from 1 to 9 starting from the south. Until recently, the park has expanded to include two more remote islands, Koh Bon and Koh Tachai. But since “Sembilan” is Malay for the number 9 will be difficult to change the name of the island group.

Story It is said that the islands was created by upwelling hot magma during the Cretaceous period about 65 million years ago, capped of polar ice and polished by salt water and wind. Coral reefs are about 5 000 years old and hence the oldest in Thailand. The national park was established in 1982 and is planned to be included on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

Landscape The eleven granite islands is considered by many to be the paradise on earth. They are covered by tropical jungle and beaches of pure white sparkling sand.

The views under the water is even more impressive, and many believe it is the best dive site in Thailand.

Many people around the world pay tribute to the Similan as one of the ten most beautiful places in the world.

Flora and fauna The visibility in the water is the best in Thailand there is a large number of different species of fish, like colorful lionfish and clownfish (Nemo). If youre lucky you may spot a bigger species like a manta or a whale shark. The corals in the area have largely fallen victim to coral bleaching in 2010 and has not yet recovered, but the large amount of different species of fish still makes it worth diving and snorkeling in the area. At Koh Huyong the Royal Thai Marines breeding facility for turtles, which limits access to the island.

Climate Similans high season is from December to April, when the monsoon keeps her distance. The best time for your visit is during the month of March when the winds are calm and the water is extra clear.

-The National Park is closed every year from the 16th May to the 15th of November.

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เกาะเขาหลัก

Elephant Head R

Ko Ra The paradise island of Koh Ra reached by short ferry trip from the pier at Kuraburi. The tour operator Green Andaman Travel offers accommodation in spacious tents just steps from the beautiful unspoilt beach and the beautiful azure sea. In addition to beautiful beaches, the island has abundant wildlife consisting of barking deer, flying squirrel, leopard cats, macaque monkeys, hawks, eagles and hornbills. Of course you can also enjoy the beach lifestyle of Ra. Lounging and sunbathing on the camp’s beach or explore other near-deserted beaches or snorkeling at the nearby small islands, you will probably have them to yourself.

Koh Ra is home to the Moken, or Sea Gypsies. www.kohrabeachcamp.com Ko Phra Thong Pra Thong is the middle island of three which is about 10 km from the pier in Khuraburi. The island is virtually flat with long uninhabited beaches fringed by coconut trees. Koh Phra Thong is closest to one of Thailand’s top dive sites Richelieu Rock and Koh Tachai and Surin Islands.

Koh Ko Khao South from Pra Thong is the island Koh Kho Khao and is similar to Koh Phra Tong.

Just to the south of Koh Kho Khao is the highly popular beach holiday location of Khao Lak. Koh Kho Khao is already a burgeoning tourist destination. For those who visit Khao Lak more intensely are looking for less crowded places.

Koh Tachai Koh Tachai - part of Similan and a small island about 50km west from Ban Nam Khem. In contrast to Simlian, Ko Tachai gives a “wilder” feeling and a popular spot for divers. It is not unusual to see manta rays during the season and right here you can also be lucky enough to encounter the whale shark. The day trips to Koh Tachai only operate in high season November - April.

Koh Bon Like Koh Tachai, Koh Bon is part of the Similan Island national park. One hour away from the Similans so it is worth mention as one of the best dives sites in Thailand for manta rays. In addition to mantas, it is also possible to find species like Napoleon wrasse, leopard sharks, eagle rays and black tip reef sharks. Night diving in the Koh Bon area is exceptional.

Koh Yai Noi/Yai Yai Yao Noi is a small island that you can explore in less than an afternoon. The pace of life is slow and peaceful here. The islands really are photogenic and consists of pristine beaches, knotted forest and un-spoilt coast-line and offers a great vantage point for relaxing and absorbing the beautiful scenery in the bay. Visit the first class beaches, Hat Yao and Buddha Beach and there are lots of trails, which are great to explore by motorbike.

Island living

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Rock

Birdwatch on Koh Ra

Miang Beach - Similan

Donald Duck bay

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CLOSE May 15 th to Nov 1st

National Park

Surin Islands was declared a national park on July 9 1981.

The islands are beautiful and pristine coral reefs and the area is well known for divers and snorkelers from all around the world.

Best time to visit is from November to April.

หมู่เกาะสุรินทร์ Surin Islands Surin consists of two main islands, Koh Surin Nua (North Surin Island) and Koh Surin Tai (South Surin Island) which forms the bulk of the land mass. Ko Surin Nuea Thod has several bays. The most famous of them is the tranquil bay, Ao Mae Yai, which is also the largest. Southeast of Ko Surin Nuea you can find Ao Luek with wonderful shallow reefs and beautiful corals and lots of colorful fish. In the Sea Gypsy Village lives an old ethnic tribe who cling to their traditional lifestyle and they live on their boats. On land, they have a wooden sculpture resembling a totem pole and is regarded as sacred.

Every year, on the 15th day of the waxing moon in April, they performes a rite and worship their respected God. Ao Mai Ngam Ao Mai Ngam is located west of Ko Surin Nuea Thod with the National Park office.

There is a 2 km long concrete road which is pleasant to walk on while you enjoy the nature in Hat Mai Ngam, or you can travel by boat.

Getting there: From Khura Buri Pier (the nearest mainland) boats depart daily at. 9:00, takes about 3 hrs. (best for groups). Khura Buri is some 125 kilometers north of Phang-Nga and 70 kilometers from the mainland. There is no regular boat to Ko Surin.

-From Amphoe Kapoe Pier located in Ranong province the trip takes about 7 hours.

Chansom Tara Hotel (tel: 07 783 5317) has boats leaving Chan Damri Beach for trips to Ko Surin. One option is to travel from Phuket with group that include Ko Surin and Ko Similan. This typically lasts at least 3 days.

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FACTS PHANG NGA

NORTH NORTH EAST CENTRAL

SOUTH EAST

SOUTH

Area: Length / width: Province: Population: Number of hotels: Best time to visit: Rainy season: Air Temp, average: Water temp, aver:

4170 km2 110x50 km Phang Nga appr. 265 000 appr. 150 nov - apr maj - okt 28° 27°

CLIMATE The climate in the Khao Lak region

is under the influence of two monsoons: -a southwest monsoon and a northeast monsoon. The southwest monsoon starts in April when a stream of warm moist air from the Indian Ocean moves inland resulting in significant rain. It peaks in October, Khao Lak’s wettest month. Subsequent months, under the influence of prevailing northeast winds, are much drier.

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Take a refreshing dipp in the natural pool below the waterfall!

1 4

As Khao Lak is close to the mountains of Khao Sok National Park there are a lot of spectacular waterfalls to visit. The best time to explore them are from August to November, once the rainy season kicks in. Opening hours for visiting the waterfalls are generally between 8am. and 4.30pm. and at some waterfalls there is a fee to pay as you visit a national park, usually 200Thb. - you can visit all the areas park´s on the same day the ticket was issued. Remeber to wear insect repellent and good shoes as there is 30 min. walk through densely grown jungle on narrow rocky paths to some of the waterfalls.

Ton Pling Waterfall There is a small waterfall up at Sunset View Point located just a few metres from the parking.

Even before the rainy season, when there are less water in the fall, this is the perfect place to take a refreshing dipp in the natural pool. That there is only a few meters from the parking makes it suitable for those who do not want to take a rough walk through a densely grown jungle for 30 minutes and the same distance back! A rickety suspension bridge accompanies it all.

Ton Pling Waterfall

2 3

Lampi Waterfall

Lampi Waterfall One really nice three-level waterfall situated just 30 minutes south of Khao Lak, off the Highway 4 at the 33km. sign, and a short walk from the parking. The best time to see this fall are in the morning and afternon.

Att the fall you can find a small restaurant with a souvenir shop. Bring swimwear for a refreshing dipp in the deep natural pool below the waterfall.

Pakweep Waterfall or Sai Rung (Rainbow) Waterfall Situated just north of Bang Niang beach, turn at the sign “Rainbow Waterfall” approximately 10km. north of Bang Niang noit far from Le Meridien Resort.

This is a nice waterfall and a refreshingly cool spot to spend time at. If you are a guest to the Sarojin Resort, they will offer you a picnic meal when visit. Easy to access as the fall is close to the parking. Admission free. www.arrivalthailand.com

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Ton Chong Waterfall

Lampi Waterfall One really nice three-level waterfall situated just 30 minutes south of Khao Lak, off the Highway 4 at the 33km. sign, and a short walk from the parking. The best time to see this fall are in the morning and afternon.

Att the fall you can find a small restaurant with a souvenir shop. Bring swimwear for a refreshing dipp in the deep natural pool below the waterfall.

Ton Prai Waterfall Ton Prai is a three-pronged waterfallwhich you can reach after a challenging, 700 metre trek through the narrow jungle, over roots, bamboo bridges, stones and concrete paths, -but the walk up to the fall is really worth the effort! It’s quite a drive up the hill, off the Highway 4, 35 minutes south of Khao Lak. 4

Take a step into the underwater world!

DIVING AROUND KHAO LAK

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Wreck diving Bonsung wreck The best-preserved wreck of the three dive friendly wrecks in Khao Lak. The wreck lies at 18 meters depth and is an old tin mining boat that sank in 1984. Suitable for all experience levels.

Premchai wreck Same as Bonsung wreck, this is an old tin mining boat which was sunk in 2001 and lies at 21 meters depth, although this wreck is suitable for divers of all levels.

Seachart wreck A 84 meter long cargo ship that sank in August 2009 and rests on 40 meters. The cargo contained lot of timber that has spread at the bottom because the wreck ended up on the side. Diving here requires training for deep diving with Nitrox or to take the course when diving here. A good dive site for technical diving.

T13 wreck Khao Lak’s latest supplements of wrecks that sunk off the Khao Lak beach in March 2014. Good for all dive-levels.

ISLANDS Koh Tachai In contrast to Similan Tachai gives a wilder feeling with huge schools of fish that feed on the abundant coral reefs that you can find here. Here you can find different kinds of Barracuda and a large varitation of tuna that swim around you while small fish ferrets away from the chasing shoals.

To navigate here depends on the current, try to get out on the edges, and then into central, more shallower depths.

Octopus can often be seen among the corals and different types of clown fish are common here. During the season it is not uncommon to see Manta Ray and the lucky ones can encounter Whale Sharks. Frogfish, Ghost Pipefish and Juvenile Angelfish, Trumpetfish and Cube Boxfish can also be found by those with a keen eye.

Richelieu Rock Richelieu Rock is one of the most famous dive sites in Thailand. The dive site is an isolated pinnacle east of the Surin Islands. The location is marked by the top of the pinnacle protruding about one meter above sea level, during low tide, while it disappears when it is high tide. The pinnacle falls gradually to the surrounding sandy bottom and reaches a maximum depth of 35 meters.

Wreck diving

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Many cliffs and small caves has become home to a great variety of marine life. The rocks are covered with colorful soft corals and sea anemones. Richelieu Rock is a paradise for underwater photographers.

Koh Bon The horseshoe-shaped island is located about 20 kilometers north of Similan no: 9 and has no beaches. The horseshoe shaped bay provides shelter for dive boats and divers from wind and currents. The southwestern part is best suited for diving and consists of a 35 meter deep wall that turns toward the Gulf. There is also a sloping ridge that continues down to over 45 meters. Blacktip reef sharks are common on the flat sandy bottom below the wall. Soft corals are same high class as at Similan but the colors of the corals are different and produce beautiful colors.

Almost all year round Koh Bon is one of the best places to see the big manta rays and can be spotted almost daily between mid-December and by April, while the rest of the season sees every now and then but not daily. Diving depth is down to 35 meters and visibility is usually around 20 meters but plankton blooms and cold water upcurrents are not uncommon. Depending on the tide as the currents can this be anything from mild to strong, but would usually be no power in the bay while it may be a strong current off.

Similan Islands The Similan Islands are by newspapers and magazines and diving company named one of the top 10 diving destinations, not only in Thailand but all around the world.

The islands are located approximately 70km. west of Khao Lak. This marine park offers a wide range of aquatic and varying topography to suit almost every taste of divers.

The Similan consists of nine beautiful islands (has grown with the addition of a further 2 islands.) The islands are home to several hundred species of corals and an amazing marine life. You’ll find everything from seahorses, nudibranchs to octopuses and turtles.

There are also larger species such as shark, ray and whale shark.

Similan should be a “must-visit” on every diver’s list!

Why not propose under the surface ...

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SHOPP

Bang Niang Market

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PING in KhaoLak SHOPPING La On Village This is where you find the most widespread shopping in Khao Lak. Small shops follow one another along the Patchakasem Rd. with everything you might need for your stay. In recent years the range of what to by in Khao Lak become wider. Also the restaurant industry has received a boost, and today you can find all kind of different cuisines. It pleases some that it is also possible to order a hamburger at McDonalds 24 hours a day!

Tailors There are more tailors than opticians in Khao Lak. A couple of them are downtown in La On Vilage, and offers excellent quality and a wide range of styles and textiles. The golden rule is to give enough time for tailors to make a perfect fit and not accept haste job. Order only from those who refuse to take the 24-hour job, it can not perform quality work in 24 hours! Open: 12:00 to 22:00 Location: By Ruen Mai Plaza on Highway 4 and Centre Point

Market in Bang Niang. You can cover the entire area for an hour or so, but the market is fascinating and is likely to keep you longer.

The Evening Market is a colorful and lively experience, Thai markets are a must-do for anyone visiting the country and particularly interesting because they contain a great variety and is a big part of the local shopping scene.

Here you will find four rows of makeshift shops / stalls with two broad paths leading through them. Goods for sale include shirts, T-shirts, sarongs, beach clothes, jeans, shoes, accessories, fruits and vegetables (especially popular among all visitors), food of all kinds, snacks, watches, sunglasses, fake perfumes and Thai silk. Just everything you can imagine.

Soi Bang Niang, Emerald Plaza The wide aisles allow the atmosphere is relaxed and happy and it never gets crowded. There are also a couple of bars to relax in. It seems even as the market bangs seem to enjoy managing all foreigners visiting this lively experience. Best to come in the late afternoon.

Opening hours: every day, but the most important days are Monday, Wednesday and Saturday 15:00 to 7:30 p.m.

Location: At 7-Eleven Bang Niang, Jerung Street

Few years ago we calculated over 15 opticians along the main street in La On. This should mean that it is a buyer’s market with so much competition. Prices are much cheaper than in the West and two-for-one or three-for-one are common. Opening hours: 10:00 to 22:00 Location: Along Petchakasem Rd. each side of the road.

In conclusion we can say that you can find everything you will need for your stay in Khao Lak and some more!

T-shirts, slippers, postcards and bath toys.

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Tublamu Royal Navy Golf Course This 18-hole course (6825 yards), par 72, is located at the Royal Thai Navy Sport Development Centre, Thap Lamu, a few kilometers south of Khao Lak. (Thap Lamu is also the departure point for boats to Similan Islands). The course is owned and operated by the Royal Thai Navy and was upgraded to 18 holes during the summer of 2002, when it also opened to the public.

Located along the ocean and the beach Son Ngam Beach (which simply translated means “hidden beauty�) in Ao Khao Lak. Rich variety of birds and the lush vegetation gives it a natural and relaxing experience.

The tsunami, in 2004, destroyed almost every fairway and 30 million baht was spent on renovation and refurbishment (new fairways and greens), and the design was changed slightly. The work was completed November 2005.

In summary, the track is well maintained and the layout is quite interesting. There are a few holes along the ocean and the surrounding landscape is very nice. The clubhouse offers good and affordable dishes from the Thai kitchen.

Rajjaprabha Golf Course The second course in the area is Rajjaprabha, also of good standard. A little bit further from Khao Lak, but if you play several days it can be nice to alternate. Also here the green-fee is 1.800 Baht. have they formed cartel?

The course is beautifully landscaped with an abundance of ancient jungle and great thought has been put into the placement of holes. What makes Rajjaprabha really stand out is the profusion of water, care of the Dam. The end result, artfully blended into the natural surrounds offers lovely visual contracts of light and shadow.

In a nutshell it has to be played to be believed.

From La On Village the trip takes about 2 hours, which makes it closer to Phuket golf courses that are only 1.5 hours away.

www.rajjaprabhadamgolfcourse.com www.facebook.com/TublamuNavyGolfCourse

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COMMUNICATIONS Getting to Khao Lak from Bangkok by train and bus Rail: It is possible to travel almost all the way to Khao Lak by rail (to Surathani, from there bus, minibus or taxi). The cheapest way to travel but also the slowest, with several changes and you lose valuable vacationtime. With low-cost airlines can indeed often be cheaper to fly from Bangkok to Phuket and continue by taxi to Khao Lak! Trains usually run at night and the travelling time will be a total of around 13 hours, in the air, the trip takes 75 minutes to Phuket and about 1.5 hours by taxi to Khao Lak. Since traveling at night, you will not have any beautiful scenery to discover during your trip. The trains often have three different classes. Travelling by train in Thailand at night, we recommend class 2 with sleeping and aircon, really pleasant! Would you rather save on your Baht select the wagoon where you sit, and without aircon.

The train is not a bad idea, but not the best way, especially if you have a lot of luggage with you.

Flights from Bangkok with AirAsia, Bangkok Airways and Thai Airways, both airlines and more expensive. Nok Air is an affordable option, but flying from the old Don Mueang airport.

By bus: Buses leave from Morchit station in Bangkok; the local second class costs about 500B, departs at 12:00 and 16:30, and takes about 15 hours, stopping at many destinations along the way including Takua Pa, Khuraburi, Ranong, and Chumphon. The first class costs 600B. departs at 16:50, and takes about 9 hours.

There’s also a VIP (with bathroom) that costs 1,000B. departs at 17:30 and takes about 12 hours.

The best way to get around Khao Lak is is by motorbike, which is easy to rent in Bang Thong and Bang Niang and cost around 300B for a day (cheaper if you rent longer period). There are also car to rent, expect to pay around 1,500Thb / day. Remember that you need Thai or international driving license to rent both motorbike and car!

For a group of several people it may be convenient to rent a car (songthaew) with driver to take you around to various locations. Book by the reception desk at the hotels, or by yourself.

Expect to pay about 200B for a ride from Bang Thong to Than Lamu pier or bus stop in Bang Niang, 300B to Khuk Khak Beach, 400B to Bang Sak, 1,000B. to Phuket airport. Taxis can also be hired, settle for the price before trip!

NOTE! If you decide to rent motorbike or car, make sure to document previous damages together with the lessor to avoid paying for damages you did not cause!

Taxi from Phuket to Khao Lak (by taxi-meters) costs around 1,500 Baht.

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Khao Lak Elephant Trek - Half day The tour is particularly suitable for children or for those who do not want to be away for a whole day. Ride on elephant back in the jungle, and up to a waterfall where you can enjoy a refreshing dip to cool off.

After the elephant tour, you can enjoy a refreshing bath with the elephants for about 20-30 minutes.

Warning: The elephant often use his trunk as a water pistol!

The elephants enjoy bathing and scrubbing, and you will for shore have had a very memorable day. After so much fun in the water, you will enjoy a delicious lunch in a nice environment and have time to reflect on the day’s activities before running back to the hotel.

Also note that the trip is only available in English.

Included in Khao Lak Elephant Bath Half Tour: Transfer to and from your hotel, national park fees, lunch and non-alcoholic beverages, insurance and tour guide.

What to bring?

You should bring a good mood, footwear suitable for walking, a camera (waterproof if possible), sunscreen, a towel and bathing suit for this unforgettable day. www.khaolaklanddiscovery Adults 1.850 THB Children up to 12 1.600 THB Children up to 4 free

Take a ride on the elephant back in the jungle!

Khao Lak Lamru Nationalpark

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Cookery class

Thai-Food

Order your food in THAI!

Order your food with some simple phrases A nice way to spend time together is to take a class in how to cook Thai food.

The class often includes 4 different dishes and fits all the family as well as if you traveling by yourself. You get an insight into how to choose vegetables and meat from the local market that you cook together, yummy and nice!

1. Tom Yam Kung - starter Strong, sour soup with large shrimp (very strong) In Thai: [ tom jam kung ]

5. Pat Krapow Moo Pork tenderloin with onions, peppers, chilli, garlic & Fresh “Holy Basil” (strong) In Thai: [ pat krapov moo ]

2. Tom Kha Gai - starter Mild soup with coconut milk and chicken (not strong) In Thai: [ tom ka gaj ]

6. Yam Nuea Sour shredded beef in hot “salad” with chilli, garlic, lime and fresh coriander (strong) In Thai: [ jam nö ]

3. Khao Pad Gai - stekt ris Fried rice with chicken, children’s favorite! (not strong) In Thai: [ kao padd gaj ]

7. Paneng Nuea Beef in panengcurry with coconut milk & shredded lime leaves (strong) In Thai: [ paneng nö ]

4. Pad Thai Gai Wide noodles with chicken (not strong) In Thai: [ padd taj gaj ]

8. Gai Satay Curry marinated chicken skewers with peanut sauce (not strong) In Thai: [ gaj sataj ]

NOTE! Chili mark indicates how the food is cooked in Thailand! You can always order with fewer or without chili.

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PAD THAI

(serves 2) 120g wide flat rice 60ml fish sauce 60ml tamarind water (you can use tamarind concentrate, thinned with a little water) 60g palm sugar Pinch of chilli powder, to taste 80ml groundnut or vegetable oil 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped 100g extra-firm tofu, chopped into small cubes 8 large prawns 2 large eggs, ready cracked 25g preserved salted radish, chopped 1 tbsp small dried shrimp 100g beansprouts 4 stalks Chinese chives, chopped 50g roasted peanuts, roughly chopped Lime wedges, chilli flakes, fish sauce and sugar, to garnish

Cooking Pad Thai

Thai Cookery class schedule 10.00 am: Pick up at the hotel 10.20 am: Market Tour at Local market 10.40 am.-12.00: Cooking 12.40 pm.: Get together for having lunch and share your meal each other 1.40 pm.: Photos opportunities in organic garden 2.00 pm.: Arrive to the hotel Price Includes; Price includes: 3 dishes/ class and special workshop offered, Lunch, test your own creative meal, Market tour, complimentary refreshment.

Class operates daily from10:00AM.-2.00 PM. Return to your hotel. Booklet of Thai recipes Photos taken in the organic garden. A chance to meet new friends from around the world and to discuss own cooking experiences where ideas can be shared Cost: 1,595 Baht www.khaolakcookingclass.com 27

Book hotel -anywhere -anytime -best price!

Book online and receive offers and service even same day To book online gives you almost always better price and benefits than if you walk into the hotel from the sidewalk. You can use a computer or your smartphone.

The booking pages are specialized in last-minute bookings and you can enjoy the best price and benefits as the hotel / resort offers.

As a walk-in, you usually have very small chance to price negotiation.

Click on the link to the right or visit our website and you will find hotels that are available to book at your destination. Bon Voyage!

Click here!

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