Surat Thani

Surat thani in ancient Thai means "city of good people", this is an important port city of Thailand. Although it does not have many attractive tourist destinations like Bangkok, with a system of the most beautiful islands in Thailand around here, Surat Thani is a destination that attracts many domestic and foreign tourists. Let’s explore this beautiful city with Asia King Travel!

History of Surat Thani

Surat Thani's history includes both old cultural foundations and current developments. Originally part of the Srivijaya Empire, a strong maritime monarchy that existed from the 7th to the 13th century, it was a major religious and commerce center influenced by Hinduism and Buddhism. Following the fall of Srivijaya, the region was ruled by Thai kingdoms such as Sukhothai and Ayutthaya, cementing its Theravada Buddhist character.

History of Surat Thani

King Vajiravudh (Rama VI) changed the province's name from "Chaiya" to "Surat Thani," which means "City of Good People." This adjustment emphasized the province's historical and cultural significance. Surat Thani eventually became a tourist hub for adjacent islands such as Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, resulting in major economic expansion and infrastructural development. Its current function as a transportation and tourism center represents the overall growth of southern Thailand, mixing historic legacy with modern modernity.

What to do in Surat Thani

Surat Thani has a diverse choice of activities and attractions, from breathtaking natural scenery to cultural experiences. There's something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure, leisure, or a taste of local culture. Surat Thani offers a varied choice of activities to meet different interests and travel types, combining natural beauty, cultural experiences, and local character.

Explore Khao Sok National Park

Explore Khao Sok National Park

Khao Sok National Park is one of Thailand's most picturesque natural reserves, with lush rainforests, towering limestone karsts, and the breathtaking Cheow Lan Lake. Visitors may do jungle hiking, kayaking, elephant encounters (with ethical operators), and stay overnight in floating bungalows on the lake. 

Visit the temples and historic sites

Visit the temples and historic sites

Surat Thani contains numerous significant temples and historical sites. Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya is a famous Buddhist temple with a stupa from the Srivijaya era. Wat Suan Mokkh Phalam, often known as Suan Mokkh, is a well-known Buddhist woodland monastery that offers meditation retreats and instruction. 

Explore the Tapi River

Explore the Tapi River

Take a boat journey along the Tapi River to discover the gorgeous scenery and watch local life along the banks. Tours frequently include trips to mangrove forests and local fishing settlements. 

Discover Ratchaprapha Dam (Cheow Lan Lake)

Discover Ratchaprapha Dam (Cheow Lan Lake)

Ratchaprapha Dam is an excellent site to enjoy the calm of Cheow Lan Lake. You may explore the lake by boat, kayak, or overnight in a floating raft home for a more immersive natural experience. 

Visit the Monkey Training College

Visit the Monkey Training College

The Monkey Training College is an unusual location where you may learn traditional coconut-picking skills from trained monkeys. It's an educational event that emphasizes a long-standing tradition in the area.

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What to eat in Surat Thani

Surat Thani provides a fantastic gastronomic experience, with meals that capture the bright tastes of southern Thailand. Khanom jeen, thin rice noodles with different curries, is a must-try. It is frequently served with fresh herbs and vegetables.

Another popular dish is khao yam, a mixed rice salad with dried shrimp, coconut, and a spicy sauce. Seafood aficionados may have grilled shrimp, squid, and the fragrant hor mok, a fish stew boiled in banana leaves.

What to eat in Surat Thani

For breakfast or snacks, try pa thong ko, a crispy fried dough frequently served with coffee, and khao tom pla, a hearty rice soup with fish and ginger. Don't miss som tum, a spicy green papaya salad that goes great with grilled meats. To satiate your sweet taste, go shopping for Thai delicacies like khanom krok (coconut rice pancakes) and kao lam (sticky rice baked in bamboo tubes).

What to eat in Surat Thani

Quench your thirst with traditional Thai iced tea or fresh coconut water. Surat Thani's unique cuisine scene promises a rich and fascinating gastronomic trip.

Where to stay in Surat Thani

Surat Thani offers a wide range of hotel alternatives to meet different budgets and interests. 

• For visitors seeking a central location, the Rajthani Hotel provides a low-cost lodging with convenient access to the city's attractions, marketplaces, and transit hubs. 
• If you want to enjoy riverbank views, the Wang Tai Hotel offers spacious accommodations with facilities such as a pool and on-site restaurants. 

Where to stay in Surat Thani

• Boutique hotels and guesthouses, including Baan Tai Rom Yen Resort and My Place Boutique Hotel, provide a more intimate experience, making them suitable for guests looking for a personal touch and peaceful settings.
• If you enjoy resorts and a connection with nature, the Diamond Plaza Hotel offers a range of amenities, including a pool and fitness center, and is conveniently located near Surat Thani airport.

Traveling cost of Surat Thani

Surat Thani is a budget-friendly destination with a range of transportation, lodging, food, and activity options.

• Flights from Bangkok to Surat Thani normally cost 1,000 to 3,000 THB ($30-$90 USD), although rail and bus tickets are usually less expensive, costing between 400 and 1,500 THB ($12-$45 USD).
• Budget lodgings, like hostels and guesthouses, cost between 300 and 700 THB ($9 and 21 USD) per night, while mid-range hotels cost between 700 and 1,500 THB.
• Street cuisine is inexpensive, with meals frequently costing 40-100 THB ($1.20-$3 USD), but mid-range restaurants generally price 150-500 THB ($4.50-$15 USD).
• Tours to Khao Sok National Park and boat cruises on Cheow Lan Lake typically cost between 1,500 and 3,000 THB ($45-$90 USD).

Best time to visit Surat Thani

Best time to visit Surat Thani

The greatest time to visit Surat Thani is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. The temperature is pleasant and there is little rain, making it excellent for outdoor activities such as trekking in Khao Sok National Park, island hopping, and beach visits. This time also includes celebrations such as Songkran (Thai New Year) in April. The shoulder season, from October to November, has less crowds and mild rain, whereas the rainy season, from May to September, has more rainfall but reduced lodging and activity prices.

How to get to Surat Thani

Surat Thani is widely accessible via different modes of transportation, making it an ideal center in southern Thailand.

• The quickest method to get there is by plane, with Surat Thani International Airport (URT) operating regular low-cost flights from Bangkok and other major cities.
• If you want to go by rail, the State Railway of Thailand connects Bangkok and Surat Thani, with a journey time of 8-12 hours.
• Long-distance buses departing from Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal usually take 8 to 10 hours and are another cost-effective choice.
• Driving from Bangkok is another option, with the trip lasting around 9 to 10 hours. 

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