Understand

Khanom is a hidden gem in southern Thailand, untouched by the mass influx of tourists. Tucked away off the beaten path, this quiet fishing town boasts stunning beaches and a serene atmosphere. It's the perfect oasis for travelers seeking a more tranquil experience. With its multiple bays and over 10 km of pristine coastline along the Gulf of Thailand, Khanom offers an array of gorgeous beaches to explore. The main tourist area, known as Khanom Bay, stretches for 9 km from north to south and includes beautiful spots like Kor Khao, Na Dan, and Nai Plao. While the beach accommodations mostly cater to mid-range and high-end travelers, there are also affordable options available. Transportation to and from the beaches might pose a challenge, as there is no public transport available. However, fear not, as the center of Khanom is conveniently split into two areas: See Yak and Bangnode, which are only about 2-3 km apart. And for those who prefer minibuses, you'll find the stations conveniently located between these two areas. Don't miss the chance to discover the hidden treasures of Khanom, where untouched beauty and tranquility await!

Get in

There are multiple ways to reach Khanom, Thailand:
By Air: Nok Air offers three daily flight+minivan services from Bangkok to Khanom. You can book this convenient option directly on their website. The flight takes you to Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport, and from there, you will be transferred on a minivan to Khanom, which takes approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes.
By Mini-bus: If you are coming from nearby cities such as Surat Thani or Nakhon Si Thammarat, you can take a mini-bus to Khanom. From Surat Thani, it takes about an hour, and from Nakhon Si Thammarat, it takes around an hour as well. The mini-buses generally depart from the "old" bus terminal in the center of Surat Thani.
By Bus: Overnight buses to Khanom depart from Sai Tai Taling Chan Bus Terminal in Bangkok. These buses pass Surat Thani's new bus terminal along the way. Due to limited availability, it is advisable to purchase tickets in advance, as they can get fully booked quickly.
By Taxi: If you are arriving at Donsak Ferry Pier, which is the ferry to/from Ko Samui and Ko Pha Ngan, you can take a taxi from there to Khanom. A songthaew between Donsak and Khanom costs about 60 baht but runs only a few times a day. Plan accordingly!

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