Samet Nangshe Viewpoint Near Phuket - Complete Sunrise, Tickets & Travel Guide

Samet Nangshe Viewpoint sits high in Phang Nga Province, about 1.5–2 hours from Phuket, making it an easy sunrise or sunset day trip. From the top, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Phang Nga Bay, with limestone islands, mangrove valleys, and the open sea stretching into the distance. Facing east, it is one of Thailand’s best sunrise spots, where soft morning light beautifully highlights the karsts and calm waters.

The summit can be reached by a short 10–20 minute uphill walk or a pickup-truck shuttle for a small fee. At the top, cosy cafés offer drinks and snacks while you take in the scenery. With very low light pollution, the viewpoint is also ideal for stargazing, and many visitors stay on after sunset to enjoy the clear night sky.

Fun Fact: Samet Nangshe has served as a backdrop for many international photographers, and sunrise images of the place have made it one of the most panoramic viewpoints in Thailand — and even the most beautiful in Southeast Asia.

Seasonal Tip: The dry season (December–April) is the time to visit when the visibility and sunrise conditions are the best, thanks to the clear skies and quiet mornings. Arrive very early in the morning to enjoy the dazzling views and the cooler climate.

• Panoramic Views of Phang Nga Bay: See the wonderful nature of the ocean and limestone hills. 
• Sunrise & Golden Hour Photography: Great time for taking pictures at sunrise because of these bright colours in the bay. 
• Stargazing: The very small light pollution makes stargazing very good in the evening and at night. 
• Sunset and Evening Views: The place is famous for sunrise, but late afternoon and dusk also have their scenic beauties. 
• Local Cafés & Photo Zones: These little cafes at the top give you a chance to sip your coffee and eat your snacks while the view is right there. 
• Camping & Overnight Stay Options: Besides tent or bungalow stay options, a pre-dawn drive to see the sunrise is also not required. 
• Hiking Adventure: An easy but steep hike gives your visit a touch of adventure.

Location: Samet Nangshe village, Khlong Khian, Phang Nga Province (near Phuket)
 Viewpoint Type: Hilltop panoramic landscape viewpoint
 Suggested Duration: 2–4 hours (early sunrise visit)
 Best For: Sunrise photography, scenic nature lovers, couples, and landscape fans

1. Catch the Sunrise Over Phang Nga Bay: Dawn is the best time to be there because you’ll witness the sun’s light slowly making the sky and water look like a masterpiece — one of the most spectacular light shows in the whole of Southeast Asia. 

2. Photograph the Panoramic Landscape: It is still common for photographers to call Samet Nangshe one of the very best places in Thailand for the breathtaking view — islands, water, and sky all together, only from a high angle. 

3. Stargaze After Dark: During the nights with good visibility, the Samet Nangshe sky is full of stars because of the low light pollution in the area. 

4. Relax at the Hilltop Café: It is a great way to relax after the hike, as you can enjoy your drink in the company of the stunning panorama of nature. 

5. Overnight Stay or Camping: Meanwhile, the die-hard early risers and photographers have an option to either camp or stay in simplicity at the peak, so they can wake up right where the sunrise magic is happening. 

6. Enjoy Sunset or Evening Glow: The sunrise is the main event, but sunset and dusk lighting can also be nice and peaceful for those who don’t mind the evening visit. 

7. Hike or Ride Up the Hill: You have the option to either trek the entire steep path or just pay a small charge to get a shuttle vehicle that will take you right to the top.

• Ao Phang Nga National Park: Expansive mangroves, limestone karsts, and marine wildlife.
• James Bond Island: Famous from the Bond film, accessible by boat from Phang Nga Bay.
• Phang Nga Bay Boat Tours: Cruises through limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons.
• Khao Lak Beaches: Beautiful coastal spots north of the viewpoint.
• Khao Sok National Park (Extension): Lush rainforests, lakes, and wildlife for a multi-day adventure.

Day-Trip Tip: Combine an early sunrise visit to Samet Nangshe with an afternoon boat tour of Phang Nga Bay — hitting hidden lagoons, caves, and islands in one full-day itinerary.

Entrance Fee:

• Around ฿30–฿50 per person for entry to Samet Nangshe Viewpoint.
• Shuttle pickup service (optional): Around ฿90 per person to ride up and down the steep hill. 

Special Experiences:

• Some locations nearby offer a glass skywalk experience with additional fees (usually higher, around ฿500+). Payments are typically made at a small ticket hut near the base.

Pro Tip: Bring cash for entrance fees, shuttle fees, and refreshments at the café.

Typical Opening Hours:

• Early Morning (from around 4:00–5:00 AM) — perfect for sunrise catch
• Daily until around 10:00 PM for sunset, night, and stargazing visits 

Best Visiting Tips:

• Arrive 45–60 minutes before sunrise for best lighting and fewer people.
• Dry season (Dec–Apr) offers clear skies and gentle temperatures ideal for photography and sightseeing.
• Visiting during the week or outside peak holiday dates ensures a more peaceful experience.

By Car or Taxi:

• From Phuket — approx. 70–80 km and 1.5–2 hours’ drive, depending on traffic and starting point.

By Rental Bike or Scooter:

• Adventurous travellers sometimes take motorbikes from Phuket, but be prepared: the journey is long and requires confidence on rural roads.

By Guided Tour:

• Some tour operators in Phuket offer Samet Nangshe sunrise excursions, including transport, a guide, and breakfast.

At the Viewpoint: Cars and bikes park at the base, after which you can either hike or take a small pickup up to the summit.

• If you opt for walking, put on tough shoes for the hike. 
• Carry water and sun block — the early hours can also be hot and bright. 
• Insect repellent is useful if you are going to be there for the shooting at dusk or night. 
• Get to the place early to avoid the crowds — sunrise is the number one spot and gets full very fast. 
• Night sky enthusiasts can be thankful for the chance to linger for the stars or have a bonfire.

Dining Options

• Hilltop Café & Snacks: Enjoy refreshments, iced Thai coffee, coconut juice, and ice cream while gazing across the bay.
• Light Meals and Thai Street Treats: Small food stalls may offer local snacks and light meals near the viewpoint summit.

Shopping

• Souvenir Stalls: Small vendors near the entrance sell postcards, hats, water, and basic travel needs.

Dining here is focused on scenic enjoyment — leisurely sipping a drink as you take in a postcard-worthy panorama.

04:00 – 04:30 AM: Depart Phuket by private car or tour transport, and arrive at the parking base.

04:30 – 05:00 AM: Take the shuttle truck or hike up to the summit.

05:00 – 06:30 AM: Enjoy sunrise views — photograph, sip drinks, relax.

06:30 – 07:30 AM: Explore surrounding sand trails and café zones.

07:30 – 08:30 AM: Descend the summit, relax with breakfast near base, or join a day trip to Phang Nga Bay.

Afternoon: Optional onward travel to beach areas or return to Phuket.

This itinerary prioritises sunrise and scenic enjoyment while leaving room for extended exploration or relaxation afterwards.

The Samet Nangshe Viewpoint is one of the most remarkable landscape experiences that one could ever have near Phuket. The view consists of Phang Nga Bay’s limestone islands with their beauty and the sunrise light shining on them. You could walk to the peak or ride up to see the sun break; however, the view from the high point is one of the top ten beautiful and unforgettable sights of Thailand — a place where nature has truly outdone itself.

1. Watch the sunrise over Phang Nga Bay with panoramic limestone formations.
2. Capture scenic photos at golden hour and starry twilight. 
3. Sip coffee or cool drinks at the hilltop café with a view. 
4. Choose hiking or shuttle pickup to reach the summit.
5. Stay for evening or stargazing sessions if time allows.

Samet Nangshe Viewpoint offers a peaceful escape from Phuket’s busy beaches, rewarding visitors with breathtaking views over the endless blues and greens of Phang Nga Bay. More than just a famous sunrise spot, it combines scenic cafés, overnight camping options, and outstanding photography opportunities in a calm natural setting. Whether you arrive before dawn for dramatic colours or visit simply to admire one of Thailand’s finest landscapes, Samet Nangshe delivers a memorable and deeply rewarding experience in 2026.

Book Phuket tour packages from Pickyourtrail to enjoy a well-planned Phuket holiday with custom itineraries, guided experiences, sunrise tours to Samet Nangshe Viewpoint, and hassle-free transfers—all tailored to your travel style and budget.