Koh Prathong - Golden Monk Island

Koh Prathong is one of the least visited islands in Thai waters. It is located just north of Koh Kho Khao, just off the Andaman coast at the northern end of the Khao Lak area. It is possible to travel independently to Koh Prathong or to take a tour. Either way, if you are in the area you should make time in your schedule to visit this island with unspoiled nature.

While plenty of tourists make the small trip over from the Andaman coast mainland to Koh Kho Khao, few make it on to the neighbouring island of Koh Prathong. It is reached by a 1.5 hour boat journey from Kuraburi. Alternatively, you can join a tour group that leaves from Baan Nam Kem Pier. If you are staying in Khao Lak it is easy to find a tour going to Koh Prathong. The price of these tours usually includes free transfers to and from your hotel.

Koh Prathong was granted National Park Status in 2001. As a result it is protected against development that encroaches on the natural environment. The west coast has a series of golden sand beaches. The interior contains ‘Thailand’s Savannah’ composed of grass land and forests containing Melaleuca trees. Tours divide the island into four zones: coastal, savannah, mangrove and marine jungle

The island has a rich diversity of flora and fauna. There are over 100 species of birds. Other animals include the Lesser Adjutant Stork, Sambar Deer, the nocturnal Fishing Cat and Red Muntjak.

The ocean off the coast has coral reefs that are home to lobsters and numerous types of fish. You can snorkel the reefs.

The main village is called Ta Pae Yoi. It is a small community of Thais and Moken (sea gypsies). They lead traditional lives of farming, fishing and boat building. Near the village is a turtle nursery. Koh Prathong is one of the best places in Thailand to witness the turtles laying their eggs and also the eggs hatching and the younglings attempting their epic journey to the sea for the first time.

For those who want to spend some time exploring Koh Prathong and enjoying its great beaches there are a few small bungalow resorts on the north-west coast. They are simple wooden bungalows made from local and sustainable materials. A bungalow for 2 people including breakfast for 2 costs 800 Thai Baht.

This is an island without any concrete roads. It is sparsely populated and easily one of the ‘wildest’ places in Thailand that is accessible to tourists. It is ideal for those with an interest in eco-tourism. There are no cars or trucks on the island. People get about in homemade tractors pulling a trailer for passengers. These charming vehicles are called Tak Tak Cars.

Koh Prathong translates as ‘Golden Monk Island’. It is believed to refer to a golden statue or deity that was once housed in a temple on the island. The golden statue has gone but the golden beaches remain as does the natural environment. It is a place worthy of reverence.

For more inoformartion go to  www.kohphrathong.com

Koh Kho Khao

This is a mouthful to say. It’s pronounced ko koe cow, I think, the main thing is that if you are in the Khao Lak area and you have a bit of time it is well worth making the short trip out to the island of Kho Khao. To get there jump on a bus heading north up the Petkasem Road and head for Taku Pa. From there you can buy tickets for the car ferry over the island. Boats run from 7.30am to 5.30pm.

The island is separated from the mainland by an estuary. It is an area with several islands, but Koh Kho is the largest.

On arriving at the main port in the south you are not met by ‘beaters’ or ‘steerers’. Most people simple walk along the west facing beach until they come to a place they like. Much of the accommodation in Koh Kho Khao consists of mid-range and luxury resorts that offer air-con rooms around communal pools. There are, however, a few cheaper places to be found in between. Recommended among these are Pranee Restaurant and Bungalows, Ha Pha Beach Cottages, Sunset Restaurant and Wang Klong Kayaking Resort. Ha Pha Cottages allows tents for those on a tight budget. Sunset Restaurant has fan bungalows for 700 Thai Baht. Both of these places are found at the northern end of the beach.

The beach is golden sand and the water is suitable for swimming. Down in the south the sediment from the river means it is not clear enough for snorkeling. In the north the sea is clearer. Here you will find a ship wreck that is good fun to dive. The real highlight is the nearby Surin Islands. They have lots of coral reefs and offer excellent diving just like the Similan islands. There are a few dive shops on Koh Kho Khao that can organize scuba trips for you.

Another great thing about the island is the grass lands in the north. These attract a good variety of birds. There is a bird watching tower behind Bang Naeng beach. You can usually see hornbills if you are patient enough.

In the south-east of the Koh Kho Khao are the remains of a Thirteenth Century fishing settlement. It makes for an interesting few hours visiting the site. The island was host to very early waves of people moving from Asia into South East Asia.

The great thing about Koh Kho Khao is that it has a very relaxed feel. No one hassles you. It is truly a place to unwind, and a place to get a glimpse of traditional Thai island culture.