Phang Nga Bay in Phuket – Strait of Malacca

The Phang Nga Bay is located between the Phuket island and Kra Isthmus of  South Thailand in the strait of Malacca. This 400km stretch bay consists of the world’s best limestone cliffs,  some collapsed caves and serve as archaeological sites. The Phang Nga National Park is an internationally accredited ecological site. This has been an iconic feature in various movies like ‘The Man with the Golden Gun’ and the ‘Star Wars: Episode III’. Phang Nga Bay was famous even before these movies were shot and attracted a huge crowd of visitors every year. Ten thousand years ago the sea levels were so low that one could actually walk from Phuket to Krabi. Today the area is a spectacular bay that offers visitors a multitude of natural wonders to explore, beaches to relax on, and several activities to fulfil one’s adventurous side. The natural beauty of Phang Nga Bay, the area is well-known for diverse cultures that co-exist in the island. Fishing, Thatching Nypa palm fronds and hosting the international visitors to the bay. Visitors can enjoy the serene beaches unlike visiting other bay regions by travelling through speedboats.

Phang Nga National Parks

The Phang Nga Bay also boasts coastal regions of Andaman sea and most of the national park region also lies in this region. It also protects a native huge mangrove forest of Thailand. The national park was declared as a Ramsar site and boasts 42 individual islands. The park is not only home to wetland forests and marine life but also 42 mangroves. Marine life holds exotic coral reefs and seagrass beds. There are more than 80 species of birds as well as fishes, 3 species of amphibians and more than 15 types of reptiles and mammals. Many of these species are endangered like the dugong and white-handed gibbon.

Activities in Phang Nga Bay in Phuket

You can go for numerous activities while staying near Phang Nga Bay from simple fishing to snorkelling and rock climbing. You can also visit many restaurants featuring local cuisine and unique shopping experiences. Phang Nga Bay resorts are always ready to pamper their guests.

Trekking and rafting in Khao Lak is always a big hit with the tourists. This activity takes you off the beaten path where you can explore the unspoiled rivers from a bamboo raft. You are assured to spot natural wildlife on your journey. If rafting isn’t your thing, try a ride on the back of an elephant across the hillside paths. These experiences are great for all ages.

The sheer cliffs and clear calm waters are ideal for snorkelling. The nearby islands of Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leg make the perfect day trip while on a Phang Nga Bay holiday. Phi Phi Don is home to several tropical beaches where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings while Phi Phi Leg has various coral gardens that are shallow enough. A jungle safari experience here is unforgettable. You will canoe down a river where you can encounter birds, monkeys, and other various forms of wildlife. You can also opt to ride an elephant through the jungle landscape. This is the best way to get an up-close and personal look at Phang Nga.

Shopping in Phang Nga Bay in Phuket

Shopping is a natural part of any vacation. Everyone loves to bring home souvenirs, especially when they are visiting a new destination. Phang Nga bay and the surrounding areas are home to several small shops and markets. Some cater to the tourists, while others will give you a feel for the local culture.

There are many tailor shops where one can purchase made-to-measure garments such as shirts, suits, and blazers. Return visitors make a point of stopping by Mark One Tailor and Khao Lak to form-fitted pieces. Shops offer a huge variety of locally crafted wares at an affordable price. It is a great place for buying gifts as well as tailored clothing and jewellery. The shops are clean and invite visitors with friendly staff. 

The Bang Niang Market is an excellent place to spend the afternoon. Customers are a mix of locals and tourists looking for street food, quality wares, and souvenir items. The friendly, fun atmosphere is perfect for families, and there are several eateries close by. On the other hand, Takua Pa Flea Market has more locals than tourists. The atmosphere gives you a better insight into local culture. Here one can find everything from fresh fish and meats to fully cooked items. The flea market is located in the Old Town section of Takuapa.

How to get to Phang Nga Bay? 

You can rent a car or a taxi until the pier and take a ferry or a boat from there. The tour from Phuket can also be taken by flying. Krabi or Phuket is the closest airport.

Best time to visit Phang Nga Bay

The best time to visit Phang Nga Bay and Thailand is between December to March and the national park can be visited between 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. For divers, the best season is between November to April.

Entry fees

The entry fees to the national park is around 300 THB for an adult and 100 baht for a child. For other rentals and water activities like scuba diving or canoeing an additional 1500 THB approximately.