Phuket’s Geography
Phuket lies off the west coast of Southern Thailand in the Andaman Sea,
approximately 890km from
Bangkok. It is
Thailand’s largest island at 550sq km, roughly the same size as
Singapore, and is
surrounded by many smaller islands that add a further 70 sq km to its total
land area. Phuket is separated from the mainland by the Chong Pak Phra
channel at its northernmost point, where a causeway connects the island to
the mainland.
Phuket is quite hilly. There are a few peaks above 500m, the highest
being Mai Tao Sipsong at 529m. Many of these are covered in lush jungle. The
lowlands consist of rice paddies, plantations of rubber, pineapple and
coconut as well as the only significant area of rainforest remaining on the
island, which is now protected as Khao Phra Thaeo Park.
The most beautiful beaches are found on the West coast, separated by
rocky coves and headlands. The east coast comprises limestone shoals with
only a few sandy beaches while spectacular limestone islands adorn the
horizon. Coral gardens full of exotic marine life dot the emerald waters
surrounding the island, although sadly much of Phuket's coral has been
disappearing due to environmental pressures and human activities.
The residents of Phuket comprise Thais who have migrated from the
mainland, ethnic Chinese, Malays, and Chao Leh or ‘sea-gypsies’ who are the
original inhabitants of Phuket.
According to the census, Thai-Buddhists account for 71% of the
population, with Malays (24%) and Chao Leh (4%) making up the remainder. The
figure for Thai-Buddhists also includes the Chinese who are almost
completely assimilated. Some estimates put the percentage of ethnic Chinese
at around 35%. The vast majority of the population resides in or around
Phuket City and Patong Beach, creating a population distribution along an
east-west axis.
The National Statistical Office of Thailand’s most recent census
conducted in 2000 shows Phuket to have a population of 250,000. In reality,
this figure is likely to be quite a lot higher as this data does not take
into account those who live and work in Phuket, but are registered as being
resident elsewhere, a fairly common occurrence. Together with this are the
seasonal workers, and visitors of which there are a significant number all
year round. Taking this into account, some estimates have calculated a
figure as high as 500,000 during peak periods.
Just 1 hour north of Phuket Island, in mainland Phang Nga province,
Khao Lak is a beautiful area with long, long stretches of sandy beach fringed
by the mountains of the surrounding national parks. Recently "discovered" it
offers nature lovers an unspoilt landscape of beaches, jungle covered
mountains, forested valleys, mangroves and estuaries. Development has been
careful with comfortable resorts and bungalows blending into the scenery
along the coastline. A great place to relax.
Phang Nga, a land of tin mines and beautiful scenery, nestles among
soaring mountains which rise up around the town. Phangnga is located 788 kms.
from Bangkok and covers an area of 4,170 square kilometres, most of which is
mangrove and evergreen forest. The area is bordered to the west by the
Andaman Sea and consists of plenty of spectacular islands.
Islands
Similan Islands: This group of nine small islands has been rated
by Skin Diving Magazine in the USA as one of the ten most beautiful spots in
the world. This is the largest island in the national park and has a curing
bay resembling a horse shoe. The underwater view here is spectacular with
beautiful coral reefs, idea for diving. The beach on the island is white,
fine graining sand. On the north end of the island are extraordinary-looking
rocks. Once of them, for example, resembles a sailboat. This spot is
fantastic view point.
Surin Islands: There are five islands in this national park: Surin
Nua Island (Koh Su Rin Nua), Surin Tai Island (Koh Su Rin Tai), Ree Island
(Koh Ree), Khai Island (Koh Khai) and Klang Island (Koh Klang). This group
of islands is close to the marine boundary between Myanmar and Thailand and
has one of the most remarkable panoplies of coral reef life to be found
anywhere. Snorkeling gear would be proficient enough to see the coral.
Tourist attractions within the national park are:
Yao Islands: Yao Yai Island (Koh Yao Yai) is the biggest
island in Koh Yao District. There are many beaches on the island, such as
Tikud Bay, Klong Sorn Bay, Sai Bay, Lo Pa Raed Beach, and Laem Nok-ok. Lo
Pier is an important pier on Yao Yai Island. The water at the pier is
sparkling clear with school of fish swimming around. Visitors can also see
how the local villagers make dried anchovies, a famous product of the
island. On Yao Yai Island are inexpensive bungalows for rent along with
home-stay programs with local villagers in order to learn their life style.
Yao Noi Island (Koh Yao Noi). There are many beautiful beaches, such
as Pa Sai Beach and Tha Khao Beach. There are resorts, inexpensive
bungalows, or home-stay programs available on the island. Visitors can also
rent a boat from Yao Noi Island to "Pa Koh", numerous small islands nearby,
such as Lao Ka Lao Island, Lao La Ding Island, etc., or to Hong Island in
Krabi.
Khai Islands: Khai Nok Island (Koh Khai Nok) is
well known for it's rocks, beaches, and clear water. Visitors snorkel and
see beautiful coral and fish. Dolphins can also be spotted here. There is a
restaurant on the island. Khai Nai Island (Koh Khai Nai) is a small
island which beautiful sandy beaches, coral and fish.
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