Understand

Sailing through the park offers an awe-inspiring sight as the islands are situated close to each other, forming a breathtaking panorama. Each island has its own unique size and shape, adorned with lush tropical forests. These islands are aptly named after their distinct geographical features, such as 'Sleeping Cow Island' and 'Three Pillars Island,' making exploration even more thrilling. One of the notable islands in the park is Ko Wua Talap, which houses the park headquarters, a tourist information center, a restaurant, Buaboke Cave, and tourist bungalows. It also boasts a famous viewpoint that offers a sweeping panoramic view of the National Park. Ko Wua Talap features two beautiful beaches located at opposite ends of the island. Although they are connected by a short yet challenging jungle trek (approximately 30 minutes), a rope trail ensures that visitors don't lose their way during the adventure.

Get in

Are you ready to embark on an incredible adventure to Ang Thong National Park? Get ready to explore the stunning islands and crystal-clear waters of this tropical paradise. But first, let's talk about how to get there. Access to the park is controlled by the Park Rangers, who ensure the preservation of this natural wonder. Non-Thai visitors are required to pay an entrance fee of 300 baht per person (as of February 2015). Don't worry, though, it's totally worth it! To make your journey even more convenient, there are several boat companies that offer daily tours to Ang Thong from Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao. You can easily purchase tickets from local travel agents on these neighboring islands. Just make sure to buy from agents with a valid TAT (Tourism Authority of Thailand) Travel Agents License. If you're tech-savvy, you might consider purchasing tickets online. However, exercise caution and only trust reputable companies or those with offices on these islands. Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities! Now let's talk about transportation options. You can choose to take a slower ferry with a large group of up to 50 people from Koh Samui or Koh Phangan. Or, if you prefer a more intimate experience, you can opt for a speedboat with a smaller group of up to 30 people. While the speedboat option is slightly pricier, the shorter travel time allows you to spend more time exploring the park and less time in transit. Prices for these day tours vary, ranging from 1700 baht to 2600 baht (as of Feb 2015). Keep in mind that some additional charges may apply for activities like kayaking, the park entrance fee, and food and drink. So, be sure to read the fine print or ask these questions in person. Remember, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! The tours typically include pick-up from your accommodation, a delightful light breakfast, and a thrilling speedboat transfer to the park. Along the way, you'll make stops at 3 or 4 islands for snorkeling, kayaking, and even visiting the breathtaking Emerald Lake viewpoint. And let's not forget about the mouthwatering buffet lunch either on the ferry or on the beach at Ko Wua Talap, the park headquarters. This is also where you'll find the location of the famous and jaw-dropping viewpoint. If you're feeling adventurous and up for a challenge, you can venture to the highest viewpoint at the top of the cliff. But be warned, it requires some effort and is not for the faint-hearted. Don't worry though, there are 3 levels of viewpoints, so you can take breaks whenever you need to catch your breath or simply take in the awe-inspiring surroundings. The park headquarters area offers various amenities such as bungalows, a camping ground, visitor center, restaurant/shop, and a ranger station. If you're up for a camping experience, you can arrange for a two-person tent with the Park Rangers at the visitor center on the island. For those seeking a more comfortable stay, it's best to arrange bungalow accommodation in advance through the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation website. Keep in mind that there are only 5 bungalows available, so book early to secure your spot in paradise!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Pad Thai: Pad Thai is a signature Thai dish consisting of stir-fried rice noodles with a uniquely balanced blend of sweet, sour, salty, and tangy flavors. It typically includes shrimp or chicken (though can be prepared with tofu for a vegetarian version), scrambled eggs, bean sprouts, and is garnished with crushed peanuts, lime wedges, and fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions. The dish is served with a side of som tam (green papaya salad) and mango sticky rice for a complete meal.

Tom Yum Goong: This spicy and aromatic soup is a beloved Thai classic that features a fragrant broth made from stock, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, galangal, lime juice, fish sauce, and chili paste. It's packed with succulent prawns, mushrooms, tomatoes, and other vegetables, with optional additions like snakehead fish or even chicken. The dish is often garnished with fresh cilantro and a sprinkling of pepper.

Mango Sticky Rice: This iconic Thai dessert is a delightful combination of sweet, creamy mango and glutinous rice. The sticky rice is cooked in coconut milk and sugar until it achieves a chewy texture, then served alongside ripe, juicy mango slices. The dish is sometimes garnished with toasted coconut flakes or sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor. It's typically enjoyed during the mango season (May to September) as a sumptuous, refreshing treat.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing