Surat Thani Province

Most travelers rush through Surat Thani on their way to the famous Gulf islands, but the province deserves exploration in its own right. Khao Sok National Park, about 90 minutes west, harbors some of the oldest evergreen rainforest in the world — older than the Amazon — with towering limestone karsts, ancient trees, and diverse wildlife including gibbons, hornbills, and the world's largest flower, the Rafflesia. Spending a night on floating bungalows at Cheow Lan Lake, surrounded by mist-shrouded cliffs reflected in emerald water, ranks among Thailand's most unforgettable experiences. Back in Surat Thani town, the riverside area provides a pleasant setting for evening walks, and the sprawling night market near Talat Kaset is one of southern Thailand's best, offering fresh seafood, roti with curry, and traditional southern Thai dishes at rock-bottom prices. The ancient city of Chaiya, north of town, holds important Srivijaya-era ruins and one of Thailand's most venerated temples.

Surat Thani is the main departure point for three of Thailand's most beloved Gulf islands. Ko Samui, the largest, offers palm-fringed beaches, luxury resorts, and a well-developed tourist infrastructure with waterfalls and viewpoints. Ko Pha Ngan is famous worldwide for its Full Moon Party but also hides serene northern beaches and excellent yoga retreats. Ko Tao, the smallest, is Southeast Asia's premier budget dive-training destination, with crystal-clear water and accessible coral reefs teeming with marine life. Ferries and high-speed catamarans operate daily from Donsak Pier, and combined train-bus-ferry tickets from Bangkok make the whole journey seamless. The smart strategy is to spend a night in Surat Thani before your ferry, exploring the night market and catching an early boat the next morning when seas are calmest. Each island has a distinct personality, so many travelers island-hop over a week or two.