Islands of thailand names. The islands of Thailand - an earthly paradise for relaxation

A variety of beautiful islands and a sea of ​​entertainment. Most popular places tourists. Virgin nature and the underwater kingdom - explore the unknown

Description and photos of the islands of Thailand

Phuket

remembering the most beautiful islands Thailand, the first thing that comes to mind is the island of Phuket in Thailand, a real find for a tourist who wants to swim, dive into the abyss or just relax on the white sand. It is located near Bangkok, is the most big island in the country, another name given to it by the people of Thailand is the "Southern Pearl".

It offers tourists many restaurants serving national Thai dishes, various excursions to the aquarium, butterfly farm or orchid farm, numerous water activities. You can visit cultural center or visit the Shell Museum.

Another curiosity of the island is its zoo, home to mammals and birds from all over Africa and Asia. If you want, dive into the underwater world in a submarine, and unprecedented beauty will open up to your eyes. The ancient temples that simply abound in this amazing place will amaze with their beauty.

Krabi

For those who prefer silence, want to enjoy the picturesque landscapes and unforgettable vacation- then you are on the Thai islands, or rather in, peace and tranquility reign here, this place is in great demand among tourists. Their attention is attracted not only by snow-white beaches, but also by numerous sights, among which are the famous monastery of Wat Htam Sua in a cave, the “cemetery of shells” Sunn San Khoi, colonies sea ​​turtles, national parks and nature reserves.

One of the most interesting will be your excursion to emerald pool, it is filled with waters of hot springs. Ron Klong Tom falls nearby, and if you wish, you can swim in its warm water.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is the second largest island in Thailand, its virgin nature, waterfalls, rivers, endless beaches cannot but amaze with its magic. Most people come here for beach holiday, all conditions are created for this. Restaurants, hotels and guest houses. You can go to the waterfalls or do water sports. Here, nature itself has created all the conditions for surfing, kayaking, skiing. water skiing. If you want, you can even go to the open sea on a boat, and in the evening drive along the canals, at which time they are illuminated by colonies of fireflies, this is just a breathtaking sight.

are popular and bicycle rides along the slopes of the mountains. You can enroll in courses of national Thai cuisine, reiki and yoga, go to the jungle on a quad bike or take a flight in a light helicopter. Children will be especially interested here, the Monkey School is open for them.

Koh Samui

Coconuts, bananas, rocks, luxurious white beaches and silence around. This miracle will give you best islands Thailand, including the beautiful island of Koh Samui, the third largest in the country, it is located in pacific ocean. Koh Samui is surrounded by 60 islands, and impenetrable jungles spread their possessions in its center.

Wonderful weather reigns on the island all year round, in April the air temperature rises to 45 degrees, and the rest of the time to 30, tropical heavy rains rarely pass, but the rest is absolutely not spoiled. There are many hotels, restaurants, and even an airport for tourists to relax. By the way, this is one of the local attractions, because it was built from palm trees that were cut down to equip the runway.

Tourists can not only relax on the beach here, but also explore local curiosities. For example, it is worth going to one of the villages, here you will see an interesting sight: specially trained monkeys work on coconut plantations, doing most of the work.

Phi Phi (Phi Phi)

A favorite destination for divers around the world, the Phi Phi archipelago consists of 2 main and 4 small islands. It became famous all over the world after the filming of the movie "The Beach" with Leonardo DiCaprio in the title role took place here.

At the service of tourists on the islands there are many diving centers where beginners will be trained and professionals will try their hand. Climbing to the top of a steep cliff, you can see an amazing sunset, and enjoy a wonderful vacation on the beach.

Koh Lipe

Amazing Koh Lipe is another small island Thailand, it is located in the Andaman Sea. Everything here is made for have a great holiday: and endless white beaches, cozy hotels and a variety of entertainment. Avid divers will not bypass this place with their attention, because there are many excellent places for diving.

Koh Mak

Sometimes you really want to retire, dream, think about the eternal. There is a great place for this - the small island of Koh Mak, separate bungalows are built here for tourists to relax, many activities are offered: you can ride a bike, dive into the abyss of water or learn the basics of Thai cuisine. If you don’t want to do anything, this option is also possible: just enjoy the rays of the gentle sun, forgetting for a while about everything in the world.

Ngai (Koh Ngai)

Life away from the luxury of modern civilization is quite possible, albeit not for long. To do this, you can go to the island of Ngai, small and mountainous, it is covered tropical forest, and modest hotels are provided for the stay of tourists. The island is filled with wild monkeys and monitor lizards, migratory birds, part of the land is uninhabited. Here you will fully enjoy serene rest, touching the virgin nature, you have only white sand under your feet, and before your eyes - the azure expanse of the ocean.

Koh Muk

Not crowded, but so charming, the island of Koh Muk, or "Pearl Island", is located in the province of Trang. This is just an amazing place, so far little developed by tourists, here you can still find untouched areas of wildlife, stroll along the endless white beaches, and enjoy the beauty of the sea surface. For those who are not used to sitting still for a long time, there are several options: you can go diving, ride a kayak, take an excursion to the Emerald Cave - this is a real miracle and a natural landmark of the country.

Ko Pha Ngan

If you are planning an inexpensive but fun vacation, go to Koh Pa Ngan, this is where the “full moon parties” take place. Every night, the sounds of music are heard here, inviting everyone to dance, and once a month, exactly on the full moon, several thousand people come here for a mega-party, this is something grandiose and unforgettable. There is also a place here for those who like diving and snorkeling, you can visit the National Marine Park, located near the island, or see local attractions.

Koh Lanta

Sunbathe, swim, enjoy culinary delights- this is not all that you can do while on vacation. You can also touch ancient culture and untouched nature. This opportunity is provided by the island of Koh Lanta, which is located in Thailand. This place seems to be created for those who want to escape from civilization and find peace in simple living conditions. Before the eyes of tourists only mountain scenery, picturesque forests and endless white sand beaches.

Islands of Thailand on the map

If you have been to Thailand at least once, you could not help but appreciate the beauty of its nature: snow-white beaches, mountains, impenetrable jungle and amazing sunsets. How beautiful are the islands! This is just a heavenly place that will not leave indifferent any tourist. The islands of Thailand are not far from the mainland, so getting to any of them will not be difficult for you. We will talk about the most beautiful islands in this article so that each person can choose the most perfect island for myself.

The largest island of Thailand is Phuket, it is also the most popular, crowds of tourists from all over the world come there. Island Benefits- Numerous white beaches, clear water and developed infrastructure. Perfect place for diving, as there are many coral reefs near Phuket. There is a wide choice of hotels, cafes, restaurants, many large shopping centers and markets, banks and clubs. Also numerous Buddhist temples, viewing platforms, waterfalls. Disadvantages of Phuket- a large number of tourists, prices are higher than, for example, in Pattaya. The atmosphere in Phuket is more urban. Here high buildings, wide roads, a lot of transport.

phi phi

Not far from Phuket are located. Here you can find calm places untouched by civilization, as well as places with excessive developed infrastructure and densely populated. The Phi Phi Islands are great for diving and snorkeling.

The advantages of the Phi Phi Islands are snow-white beaches, clear water and a rich underwater world. Here is the famous one, where they filmed the film "The Beach" starring Leonardo DiCaprio. There are also parties for "lonely hearts" where everyone can find a mate.

The disadvantages of the Phi Phi Islands are rather high prices for accommodation compared to other islands.

Similan Islands

100 km from Phuket are located, which have incredibly beautiful nature and are ideal for a relaxing beach holiday. The Similan Islands are one of the most the best places for diving, and UNESCO has marked them as the most beautiful islands in the world. The hallmark of the Similan Islands is Sail Rock. You can get there only from Phuket or Khao Lak, having bought a tour at the agency. The Similan Islands can be visited from October-November to May, at other times they are closed to tourists.

Koh Samui

The second most popular island is Koh Samui. There is a developed infrastructure, many large shops, markets, banks, pharmacies, clubs. All this goes well with beautiful nature: clean beaches, mountains, tropical jungles, waterfalls. Compared to Phuket, Koh Samui is smaller, cheaper and quieter. The atmosphere here is more rural than urban.

Not far from Koh Samui is the famous one, which gained its popularity thanks to or "Full Moon Party". These parties take place every month on the full moon.

The infrastructure on Koh Phangan is developed only in some of its parts. However, Koh Phangan is very beautiful nature: many mountains, Fresh air and incredibly beautiful beaches.

Prices on Koh Phangan are lower than on Koh Samui. And if you want to spend the winter on an island paradise and still live cheaply, then Phangam is perfect for you.

Koh Tao

Located 65 kilometers from Koh Samui. You can get to it by ferry. The island is quiet place With untouched nature. There are few tourists, to a greater extent Koh Tao attracts diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.

Disadvantages of Koh Tao - poor internet, few attractions, a long time to get to it.

Koh Chang

IN Gulf of Thailand Koh Chang is located, which is the second largest island in Thailand. There are no large shopping centers and discos here, but on its territory you will find a large number of restaurants and cafes near the sea. The island is suitable for a relaxing family vacation. Koh Chang will amaze you with white sand beaches, beautiful wildlife and waterfalls.

Samet

Samet Island is located 10 kilometers from the mainland and will amaze you with untouched nature and clean white beaches. Its nature is protected by the government and it is part of the National Park of Thailand. The island is perfect for a relaxing holiday, there are few tourists here and you can always find a secluded place to be alone and enjoy the beauty of its nature.

lanta

Koh Lanta is located near the province of Krabi. There is an underdeveloped infrastructure and untouched nature. Perfect for a relaxing secluded getaway. Lanta Islands consist of two islands Lanta Noi and Lanta Yai, but only Lanta Yai is popular. You can get to Koh Lanta by ferry from the mainland province of Krabi. A distinctive feature of the Lanta Islands is the snow-white beaches stretching up to several kilometers.

Lipe

On the border with Malaysia is the island of Lipe. It is famous for its clean white beaches and beautiful scenery. The island is part of the Taratao National Marine Park.

If a few years ago almost no one knew about the island of Lipa, now tourists are starting to appear here, and the island is being equipped in due time, hotels, restaurants and cafes are appearing.

Thailand is a country of a thousand islands

Koh Samui

The second largest island in the country, which can be reached either by plane from a, since there is a small private airport on Koh Samui, or first by train or bus from the same capital, and then by ferry. Moreover, the latter option will cost the tourist much cheaper. There are no direct flights from Russia to Koh Samui yet.

The island is washed by the Gulf of Thailand. Just like Phuket, it boasts a very developed infrastructure: an abundance of excellent Thai restaurants, massage parlors with a wide range of services, picturesque beaches with fine sand make it a very popular place among vacationers.

Among the main attractions worth mentioning are the impressive Buddhist temple complexes, amazing multi-stage waterfalls, Hin-Ta and Hin-Yai rocks, the name of which is translated as "Grandfather and Grandmother". There is also a safari park, an aquarium with a rich collection of tropical fish, turtles and other marine life, a zoo with tigers and leopards, a shell museum and even a rum brewery where you can taste coconut, orange, lemon and pineapple rum.

But lovers of stormy nightlife it is better to go to Phuket - it is not so saturated on Koh Samui.

The name of this island means “Elephant” in translation, and you can only get there by ferry. The nearest airport is located on the mainland in the province of Trat.

The island is located on East coast the Gulf of Thailand and is ideal for connoisseurs of a beach holiday. Most it is occupied by the jungle. Here tourists are waiting for the cleanest air and transparent sea ​​water, rainforests and spectacular coral reefs, cascades of sparkling waterfalls and stunning landscapes. Canggu has been given the status of a national park, so nature here has retained its original appearance, and construction is being carried out taking into account the integrity of the island's ecology.

On Koh Chang, you can hardly find hot places like nightclubs and bars, shopping centers and water parks. water sports sports are also prohibited, but places amazing beauty more than cover the lack of familiar entertainment.





Similan

The Similans are a group of islands. volcanic origin in the Andaman Sea, under the patronage of the king himself. They have been given the status of National marine reserve, so you can only come to the Similan Islands for a tour. Hotels for permanent residence there are no tourists here.

However, on some islands there are campsites and simple bungalows, as well as small restaurants for those whose excursion will last longer than one day.

The easiest way to get to Similan is from Phuket. The most popular transport option is a speedboat, also known as a speedboat. There is also a ferry there. However, all tourists should be aware that it is not possible to get to the islands at any time of the year: in, namely, from May 1 to October 30, they are officially closed to the public.

The Similan Islands are famous for their flora and fauna. More than forty species of birds, twenty-five species of reptiles and about thirty species of mammals live here.

But the main thing for which tourists from all over the world come here is amazing diving and snorkeling (swimming and snorkeling). The water on the Similans is so clear that it can be seen 35 m deep! Here you can see entire gardens of corals and sea anemones of various species, admire bright tropical fish, stingrays, and if you're lucky, amazingly beautiful sea turtles.

Phi Phi



Phi Phi Island, in the footsteps of Leonardo DiCaprio

Mu Ko Surin

The Surin Islands include five islands that are located in the Andaman Sea and belong to

The archipelago is also a national reserve, so you can not build large buildings like hotels and shopping centers here. For overnight stays, bungalows, tents and specially converted boats are offered here. And the fastest way to get here is from the town of Kura Buri, which is located on the mainland of the kingdom. From there, ferries and speedboats go to the islands.

The Surin Islands are attractive for snorkellers. They will be happy to open their magical underwater world to divers - corals, which are absolutely colorless here, sea turtles of rare species and many fish of various colors and sizes.

And in shallow water in the mangroves, standing knee-deep in warm water, you can admire the sharks fearlessly darting right under your feet and take many beautiful photos as a keepsake.

Koh Phangan

This island is located in the Gulf of Thailand near Koh Samui, so the fastest way to get to it is from there. is one of the five largest islands in Thailand, and it is famous primarily for its grand open-air night show, which is called -. It takes place every month on the night of the full moon on the long beach of Haad Rin. A few days before the festival, young people from all over the world come to Koh Phangan, who want to come off to their fullest under the full moon. As a rule, the party lasts at least three days. Wrapped in the breath of a fresh breeze, thousands of tourists tirelessly dance to the music of trance, reggae, electro, house and techno. The fun is warmed up by plastic buckets with alcoholic cocktails, which are sold in every corner of the beach.

The first such party was held back in 1985, and since then it has not lost its popularity. Thanks to her, Koh Phangan was even called the Thai Ibiza. You need to book a hotel room a few months before the expected visit to the Full Moon Party. In addition to it, other noisy discos are held on the island, but on a much smaller scale.

Samet

Samet Island in Thailand is one of the resort islands in the Gulf of Thailand in the east of the country. It is part of the province and at the same time is part of the national Thai reserve - Khao Laem Ya - Mu Ko Samet, along with neighboring islands (Platin, Kangkao, Kudi and Kruai).

Samet represents perfect place for a beach holiday combined with visiting the sights of the capital of Thailand, Pattaya and others major resorts and cities.

The island is untouched corner nature, the uniqueness of which lies in the fact that there are no asphalt roads at all. The available beaches are small, sandy, surrounded by greenery. There may be several hotels or restaurants near the coast. Silence reigns everywhere, comfort and the feeling of being outside the rest of the world.

The waters surrounding the island are very clean and warm, the beaches are not crowded, and the complete lack of attractions make the island an excellent place for a family beach holiday away from the hustle and bustle of civilization.

Who should go to Samet?

Anyone who prefers a leisurely vacation in a quiet place, away from the crowded crowds, lying on the beach and swimming in the crystal clear sea during the day and a relaxing dinner at a restaurant on the coast in the evening, will find Koh Samet an extremely attractive holiday destination in Thailand. It will also be good for couples with small children.

As for party-goers, lovers of vibrant nightlife and bar Thai girls, they have nothing to do here, since there are no such entertainments on the island. Such tourists can visit the islands by coming here for a few days to enjoy the white beach sand and azure sea.

The lack of entertainment is understandable: Samet is part of the national reserve, which means minimal construction on its territory, as well as the preservation of the environment, natural wealth, pristine flora and fauna of the region.

ADVICE: If you are planning to visit Samet for the purpose of a secluded and quiet rest then come here on Monday. Then you can enjoy your measured rest. On Friday-Saturday, Thais from the capital come to the island.

How to get there?

Naturally, there is no direct flight connection with Samet, since there is no airport here. The nearest one is in Pattaya (Utapao), but it will still be easier to get through Bangkok.

Regardless of the point of arrival, you need to get to the small village of Ban Phe, where the pier is located, from which boats and ferries depart for Samet.

Koh Kood

Koh Kood is pretty large island in the Gulf of Thailand, belonging to the province of Trat and located near the Cambodian border. Not far from it is Koh Chang, from where excursions are organized to Kood. They travel to and from.

It is quite remote from the well-trodden tourist paths, so it has only recently begun to be explored by curious vacationers. You won't find spectacular night shows, big supermarkets and nightclubs here, but necessary minimum- hotels, cafes, shops and even a hospital - there are on the island.

Holidays on Koh Kood are suitable for those who are determined to slowly enjoy the incredibly beautiful landscapes, distracted from the endless bustle big cities and everyday problems and charging with the life-giving power of the jungle. All local attractions are somehow connected with nature. These are trekking to waterfalls, kayaking, diving and snorkeling, fishing.

Especially popular among tourists is the colorful Thai village on the water of Ao Yai, where you can watch the life of real fishermen and enjoy inexpensive freshly caught seafood. Here on observation deck a nice gazebo has been built, from which a great view opens.

Koh Lipe

Lipe Island is washed by the Andaman Sea and is located in the province of Satun near the border with Malaysia. It refers to. You can come here from Phi Phi, Phuket and by speedboat or ferry.

As a rule, tourists come to the island with an overnight stay for a couple of days to fully enjoy magnificent nature, which on Koh Lipe is like from the picture - snow-white beaches and azure waters, small bungalows and cozy restaurants immersed in lush greenery, traditional wooden boats and cute smiling Thais.

The indigenous population of the island are sea gypsies who live here to this day. The hand of civilization has not yet had time to properly embrace Lipa, so when you come here, you need to be prepared for the fact that in a cheap room there may not be an air conditioner, but a fan, or even there will be no cooling system at all. There are also no ATMs here, and Wi-Fi in hotels is usually paid.

The favorite entertainment of tourists is, of course, diving and snorkeling, as well as trips to the secluded islands closest to Koh Lipe.

There are no cars or roads on Lipa, and the whole island can be bypassed in a few hours. But it is in this comfort and some detachment from everything else that its special charm lies.

Of course, the list is not limited to these islands - mysterious Thailand still has a lot of interesting things, and every tourist can endlessly discover something new.

Thailand- This exotic country with many islands that are recognized in the world as the best places to stay . Natural conditions, warm climate, clean beaches and beautiful hotels will allow you to have a great vacation. The islands of Thailand are an ideal option to choose a quiet and cubby or settle in the center of discos and entertainment.

Most popular islands Thailand:

  • Koh Phangan
  • Koh Lipe
  • Tarutao
  • Koh Samet
  • Koh Tao
  • lanta

The table shows rating of the most popular beaches visited by tourists. Some of them are almost deserted, which will allow you to have a quiet and great time in a secluded house. It is worth noting that all tourist sites distinguished by clean beaches and water, which are highly rated by tourists.


Islands of Thailand - their popularity and ratings

marks are put on a 5-point scale

IslandBeach ratingNumber of touristsExcursionsBeachesPrices (p)
Phuket 4 3 3 Patong, Bang Tao, Kamala Beach85 912
Koh Samui 3 4 3 Lamai, Chaweng Noi114 564
Koh Lipe 4 3 2 97 890
Phi Phi 5 4 3 Phi Phi Don, Koh Yung122 678
Koh Samet 5 3 2 Sai Keo, Noi Na120 455
Koh Chang 5 3 2 Khai Mook Beach, White Sand Beach106 876
Koh Phangan 4 3 2 Haad Rin112 786
Koh Tao 5 2 2 Sayri beach107 456
Tarutao 5 1 2 Ao Son120 433
lanta 5 1 2 Long Beach, Khlong Khong121 788

The island is constantly filled with a huge number of people, but the beaches remain pristine, and exotic conditions make the rest heavenly.

Most right time months from November to April are considered to be holidays, since the rest of the time the rainy season begins, which is unfavorable for tourists.

The island is considered to be the second Koh Samui, because tourists from all over the world come here to enjoy their holidays in five-star hotels with access to the sea. Despite the small number of people, the authorities are trying to take care of the external environment so that the rest meets European standards.

The island hosts retail outlets and chain stores, as well as many entertainment centers . However, Koh Samui try to choose those who wants a quiet and family vacation . Tourists are offered a lot of entertainment, such as:

  • boat trips to other islands ;
  • diving, snorkeling ;
  • inspection historical sites and temples of cultural heritage .

On the island you can enjoy the views of the waterfalls , jungle, and underwater world near the coast. Every tourist will find something special and unique for themselves.

In Thailand, in addition to large islands, there are also a lot of small and uninhabited ones. One of these places is island of Koh Lipe . The main difference is clean coastline with white sand And clear water. Special waste processing plants were built on the territory, which makes it possible to monitor the environmental friendliness and cleanliness of the external environment.

Lipe belongs to the archipelago that is considered the Taratao National Marine Park, which includes about 50 islands. Most of them are considered deserted, however, you can book a tour of local attractions and enjoy untouched nature. The journey can take from 2 to 4 days, depending on the excursion program.

Phi Phi Island

Phi Phi is a medium archipelago located in the region Krabi and consists of several islands. These places are located between the famous island of Phuket and the mainland. You can sail to the island in 1-1.5 hours, and the cost of the trip is from 400 to 1100 rubles, which depends on the conditions and speed of movement on the watercraft.

Archipelago includes part of the islands, the most popular are Phi Phi Don And Phi Phi Lay, the rest of the places are quite difficult to get to, which are considered uninhabited. The main island is Phi Phi Dan, the terrain of which includes two mountains that are connected by beaches. In this area there are beaches, bungalows, as well as bars and restaurants. Despite the rather large island, every year it is visited by many tourists.

The island is located not far from the mainland at a distance of about 10 km, so getting to it is the fastest and easiest. The number of tourists on the island is much lower than on others, and therefore natural conditions not disturbed by built hotels and bungalows. More than 80 percent of the land is covered by tropical forests the beaches are not crowded with people. Therefore, enjoying a holiday on Samet is recommended for those who love peace and tranquility.

The island belongs to National park, therefore, local laws prohibit deforestation and violate natural harmony. The island is best known for its clean beaches, the best of which are located in the eastern part of the island. Popular beaches considered Sai Keo And Ao Hin Khok where hotels, restaurants, entertainment centers and discos are located.

For lovers of a relaxing holiday, it is advised to go to southern region islet.

The island is considered the second largest Koh Chang, which is in Gulf of Thailand. Favorable climatic conditions and a small number of tourists allows you to enjoy a quiet and secluded holiday. The local infrastructure includes hotels, small shops, restaurants where you can order European and local dishes.

Hotel prices are quite reasonable, here you will not see crowds of drunk tourists. As a rule, such an island is visited couples with children , as well as older people who prefer quiet and secluded areas for recreation.

The state of Thailand, famous for its rich history and culture, is also a real tourist paradise. Thanks to the features geographical location the country has a diverse climate, allowing the tourist season to continue year-round, moving from one region to another. The islands of Thailand, many of which were uninhabited until recently, are now famous tourist resorts.

History of the name of the state

Thailand, formerly known as the Kingdom of Siam, got its current name in 1939, after the 1932 revolution, when the country changed its state regime to a parliamentary democracy. The form of government of the country is a constitutional monarchy, therefore official name state - the Kingdom of Thailand. On the eastern side, the country borders on the Kingdom of Cambodia and Laos, in the south it is a neighbor of Malaysia, in the west - Myanmar. IN South-East Asia only Thailand managed to avoid the fate of colonial subjugation to European countries and remain independent. Therefore, it is not surprising that in the Thai version of the name of the state (Muang Thai) there is the word "thai", which translates as "freedom".

Geographical location and climate features

Thailand is located on part of the territory of the Indochina peninsula and Malacca. From the west, the coast of the kingdom is washed by the Andaman Sea of ​​the Indian Ocean, from the east - by the waters of the South China in the Gulf of Thailand. Thailand has a central position in the macro-region and the greatest extent from north to south among the countries of Southeast Asia. Therefore, the climate of the country is diverse. In the center - subequatorial, in the south - equatorial, in the north - tropical, humid. Such features are a very favorable factor for the development of resort tourism.

The islands of Thailand number in the hundreds and are found both in the Andaman Sea and in the Gulf of Thailand. Many have become popular resorts, but there are still uninhabited ones. Although, most likely, this is not for long, since the proximity of the islands to the mainland of the country makes them very attractive for the tourism business.

Thailand: Phuket Island

Phuket is the largest island of the kingdom and the main territory southern province with the same name. From Thai, its name can be translated as "hill" or "small mountain". The island is located at west coast countries and is washed by the waters of the Andaman Sea. It is adjacent to the provinces of Phang Nga and Krabi.

The relief of the island is varied, but most of it is occupied by low mountains, which are the tip of the Phuket mountain range. In these places, to this day, there are areas of relic rainforest, protected by the state. The mountain peaks Mai Thau Sipsong (529 meters above sea level) and Khuan Wa (545 meters above sea level) are considered the highest in Phuket.

Part of the center and south of the island are low-lying plains, which are densely populated, built up and surrounded by plantations of coconut palms and heveas. The northwest coast is immersed in the greenery of the jungle. Here is the famous national park Siri Nat, whose beaches are nesting grounds northeast coast located in the intertidal zone, turning into mangroves. The western coastline of the island looks like a series of the most beautiful bays with wide sandy beaches. With their cleanliness and beauty, they attract most tourists and are considered the best on the island.

The rainy season is from May to October, so best time for a beach holiday, the period from November to April is considered. The provincial capital is Phuket City. It is a large city located on the southeast coast of the island. Its attractions, as well as a developed economic and entertainment infrastructure attracts travelers regardless of the holiday season.

Phuket Islands

Not far from Phuket there are the islands of Thailand, which are part of the province. The largest are Lon, Sire, Racha Noi, Maphrau and Racha Yai. The latter is worth mentioning because it is often referred to as " paradise island". Virgin rainforest covering hilly area islands, surrounded coastline with bays and clean secluded beaches. For discerning tourists a combination natural beauties and the minimum number of vacationers delivered to the hotel by boat becomes a decisive factor when choosing a vacation spot. The other 27 islands are smaller, but almost all of them are inhabited thanks to the tourism industry.

Resorts in Krabi Province

In the advertising catalogs of some travel agencies, you can sometimes find the name of this province - the island of Krabi (Thailand). Probably referring to the city of the same name, which is the capital of the province and is located on the mainland. The city boasts an entertainment industry and a national identity, but not beaches. For this pleasure, you should go to the sparkling white sand shores of the resort of Ao Nang, located a couple of tens of kilometers from the capital. Or the picturesque Hat Rei Le. Where you can find both wide sandy beaches and rocky shoals with beautiful grottoes.

Krabi Province and its islands

As part of one of most beautiful provinces Thailand includes not only the mainland, but also a group of islands located across a small strait opposite Phuket.

The islands of Thailand - Lanta Yai and Lanta Noi - make up the Lanta archipelago. Underneath it common name, as a rule, the beach resort of Lanta Yai is mentioned. It has become a favorite holiday destination for tourists relatively recently. The untouched beauty of the mangroves, the mountains covered with the greenery of the rainforest, and the white sand on the beaches are the hallmark of this resort. Coral reefs, surrounding the coast of the archipelago, attract divers from all over the world. The island of Lanta Noi is uninhabited, so only lovers of extreme recreation visit it.

The province includes another resort known as Phi Phi Island (Thailand). In fact, we are talking about the island of Phi Phi Don. Only it is inhabited and equipped for tourist holiday. Cozy bungalows built on sand spit stretching between two mountain peaks islands, greenery rainforest and beaches promising paradisaic delight, every year attract many vacationers with their beauty. The remaining five islands of the Phi Phi archipelago, including the rocky Phi Phi Lay, are uninhabited. True, tourists are brought to the latter to admire amazing caves and grottoes.

Koh Phangan

Thailand boasts its own Ibiza. It is with her that Koh Phangan located in the Gulf of Thailand is compared. Thanks to the beach parties organized on the island, thousands of young travelers from all over the world come here. Tourist infrastructure here is not as developed as on neighboring island Koh Samui, which has long been a popular resort. However, Koh Phangan is distinguished by its charming nature. The mountainous island is covered with greenery of tropical forests, decorated with waterfalls and snow-white beaches, and its water area pleases with a variety of flora and fauna. Buddhist temples are the main historical attraction.

Rayong Protected Island

Popular resort areas this eastern province distinguish several islands. First of all, Koh Samet. Thailand takes care of its nature, so state reserves there is even popular resorts. Koh Samet is such a place. It is part of the protected khao park Laem Ya-Mu Koh Samet, therefore, is not teeming with tourists looking for entertainment. Because a fishing village and a couple of temples is the whole civilization. The nature of the island is protected by the state and maintained in its original form. Therefore, hotels in the form of small bungalows occupy only 20% of the territory. Everything else is untouched tropical jungle. This resort is popular due to its wide beaches with clean sand.

Moon Nork Island

The little gem of Rayong Province is Mun Nork Island. It is located to the east of Samet. A pleasant distinguishing feature of this island is that, apart from a few hotel bungalows, there are no villages and buildings on it. The whole area is immersed in virgin greenery. As a rule, couples in love come here to retire and soak up the clean sandy beaches. And also Moon Nork is popular as a beautiful exotic place for wedding ceremonies.

Concluding the article, it should be noted that all travelers who have visited the Land of Smiles say that it is definitely worth a visit amazing thailand. The islands, photos of which are known to almost everyone from commercials, are much more beautiful in real life.