About Ang Thong National Marine Park
| August 9, 2011 | Posted by Chris under Travel Destinations |
Ang Thong National Marine Park is a less well known tourist destination in the Gulf of Thailand. It is easily reached from either Koh Samui or Koh Phangan by speed boat or tour group boat. For anyone interested in spectacular scenery, snorkeling, diving and exploring caves Ang Thong Marine Park is a must.
The park consists of 42 islets that cover about 250 sq kilometers. The islands are the peaks of a limestone mountain range. The islands are covered with lush forest and have karsts, caves and lots of odd rock formations. Many of the islands are named after their shape such as ‘Sleeping Cow Island’ and ‘3 Pillars Island’. It is wonderful to cruise around the small islands admiring all the strange and wonderful shapes.
On Koh Mae Ko there is a large lake with amazing turquoise colored water. Seeing the lake is one of the highlights of a trip to the area. Around the lake there is a golden basin ‘angthong’ that gives the area its name.
The park headquarters is on the biggest island, Koh Wua Talab. Nearby is a camp site. There are also a couple of treks to viewing points that are well worth taking. The only other inhabited island is Koh Paluay where sea gypsies still pursue their traditional way of life.
The park is scattered in hidden coves and beautiful beaches. In land there is a wealth of wildlife to try and spot. Park rangers conduct tours to try and see macaques, dusky langurs and sea otters. There are also over 40 types of tropical bird to spot.
As you would imagine, the waters around the islands are teaming with marine life. The best diving and snorkeling spot is around Koh Sam Sao. It is one of the few places in the Gulf where you can see dolphins.
Entrance to the Ang Thong National Marine Park is 200 Thai Baht. To get on a tour group to the island costs about 1,500 THB. If you can arrange transport it is possible to stay in the park overnight. If you have your own yacht there are few better places to moor.
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