Joanna James
Though not among the most popular holiday destinations, Surat Thani is no stranger to most travellers as the city is a buzzing jumping-off point to some of the hottest destinations of vast southern Thailand. Those adventurous that give the modest city a shot surely won’t be left disappointed.
For the avid outdoorsy yearning to savour a slice of southern Thailand’s adventure-rich nature, the 740 square kilometres of dense virgin jungle of Khao Sok National Park won’t disappoint. The sprawling nature reserve is certainly a haven of copious flora and fauna, while the incredibly rare plant and animal species that call the park home are among the highlights — hornbill birds, gibbons, tigers and the giant parasitic Rafflesia flower, which opens up to a mind-blowing diameter of 80 centimetres, being some of the most significant. While the nature lovers to the park are sure to sate their longing, thrill-seeking adventurers too aren’t left unsatisfied. If trekking is what’s on your mind, the national park is home to nine different hiking trails, and for those after unique experiences, the exploration of the park is possible by elephant-back safari and raft, canoe or kayak via the Sok River. Covering the national park in its entirety takes a good 3 to 4 days — an experience only for the truly adventurous.
As the sun goes down and darkness descends upon beautiful Surat Thani, the city hardly sees any change in the pace of activity as the city’s eponymous night market lights up the night. While a market of ordinary fashion, it is dominated by stalls selling street food, making the night market a popular hub for mouth-watering local delicacies.
Nestled high in mountainous Surat Thani, the ancient temple is better known for its adventurous hiking and breathtaking views rather than the temple’s religious significance itself. The hilltop religious site is a favoured destination among the avid explorers of the city, who come for incredible viewpoints. While it’s the picturesque views that draw the crowds to the hills, the hilltop buildings also make a great complement.
Thailand, which has no shortage of ornate Buddhist temples whatsoever, Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya in Surat Thani is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful, best known for its marvellous ancient architecture that dates back to the time of the Southeast Asian nation’s historic Srivijaya Kingdom. Besides remarkable architectural magnificence, visitors to the temple also have a gorgeous cloister lined with sitting Buddhas to explore.
The second largest island in all of Thailand and home to popularly gorgeous beaches galore, Koh Samui, Thailand’s tropical island paradise that needs no introduction is one of the most visited destinations from Surat Thani. Among all the bliss that awaits you, the score of elegant Koh Samui luxury villas, including the likes of SAii Koh Samui is one of the most idyllic.
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