Understand

Located in the southwest of Chumphon province, Phato is a hidden gem known for its pristine nature and intact culture. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, this city is often called the "city of headwaters" due to its abundance of freshwater sources. Phato offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including forest walking tours, swimming in waterfalls, cave exploration, and even rafting. If you're seeking a peaceful retreat in untouched surroundings, Phato is the perfect destination. Soak up the tranquility and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature!

Get in

Getting to Phato is an adventure in and of itself. Located far from the highway, the entry road presents a challenge for intrepid travelers. As you make your way through the scenic route, you'll be surrounded by dense forests, with parts of the road running parallel to a picturesque canal. Don't miss out on the stunning views along the way. To reach Phato, start your journey from Pathomphon junction in Chumphon and head south on the highway. Look out for the navigation sign that advises you to turn right into Phato, which is approximately 1 kilometer before Lung-Suan district. Follow this road for 45 kilometers, and you'll successfully arrive in Phato. However, be aware that this route requires skillful driving and is not recommended for inexperienced drivers. If you prefer, you can rent a car from one of the rental companies in Chumphon that service this route. So gear up, embrace the challenge, and enjoy the exhilarating ride to Phato!

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