Surat Thani - Discovering Thailand

Travelling to Surat Thani

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Surat Thani, a pretty good destination in Thailand (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Surat Thani and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Surat Thani, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Thailand, here's everything to know about Surat Thani for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Surat Thani

Sure, Surat Thani is a city located in southern Thailand, on the banks of the Tapi River. It is the largest city in the Surat Thani Province and a popular transit hub for exploring nearby attractions such as Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Khao Sok National Park. The city is known for its beautiful temples, night markets, and delicious street food. Surat Thani also has an airport and a major railway station, making it easy to access from other parts of Thailand.

What to visit in Surat Thani

Here are some of the tourist attractions in Surat Thani, Thailand: 1. Khao Sok National Park - This park is home to lush jungles, scenic lakes, and impressive limestone mountains. Visitors can hike through the jungle, go on a safari, or take a boat tour.
2. Wat Phra Boromathat Chaiya - This ancient temple is one of the oldest and most important temples in southern Thailand. It contains a museum with Buddhist artifacts and relics.
3. Koh Samui Island - This is a popular tourist destination known for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can go snorkeling or scuba diving, explore the island's cultural heritage sites, or just relax on the beach.
4. Ratchaprapa Dam/Khao Sok Reservoir - This man-made lake is surrounded by stunning scenery and is perfect for exploring by boat. It's a great place for fishing, kayaking, or canoeing.
5. Chaiya National Museum - This museum showcases the history and culture of the Chaiya region, which dates back to the Srivijaya era.
6. Ban Ta Khun Botanical Garden - This garden is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy nature. It features a variety of plants and flowers, as well as a butterfly garden and an orchid greenhouse.
7. Wat Suan Mokkhaphalaram - This is a famous meditation center that attracts people from all over the world. It offers retreats and courses on meditation and Buddhism.
8. Talad Kaset Night Market - This bustling market is a great place to experience local food and culture. Visitors can try a variety of dishes, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy live music and entertainment.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Thailand, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Surat Thani.

When to go on holiday to Surat Thani

Surat Thani is a province in southern Thailand known for its natural beauty, including stunning beaches, lush tropical forests, and serene lakes. The best time to visit Surat Thani depends on your travel preferences and interests. Generally, the dry season from January to April is the most pleasant time to visit, with warm temperatures and mostly sunny skies.
However, if you are interested in seeing the local flora and fauna, the rainy season from May to December can be a great time to visit. During this time, the forests are lush and green, and many waterfalls are at their most impressive. Additionally, many of the flowers that Surat Thani is known for, such as the rafflesia and the orchids, bloom during this time.
Another consideration when planning a trip to Surat Thani is its proximity to the Gulf of Thailand. It is worth noting that the area is prone to occasional storms from May to October due to the monsoon season, which can affect travel plans in the region.
Overall, the best time to visit Surat Thani is during the dry season from January to April, but depending on your interests and travel plans, the rainy season can be a great time to visit as well.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Surat Thani

Surat Thani is a city in the south of Thailand. Here are three common ways to get there: 1. Fly to Surat Thani airport: Surat Thani has its own airport, which is served by domestic airlines such as AirAsia and Nok Air. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to the city center.
2. Take a train: Surat Thani is a major hub on the Thai railway network, so there are frequent trains to and from Bangkok and other cities. The train is a comfortable and scenic way to travel, but it can be slow. Once you arrive at the Surat Thani train station, you can take a taxi or a bus to the city center.
3. Take a bus: There are many bus companies that offer services to Surat Thani from all over Thailand. Buses are generally inexpensive and comfortable, although the journey times can be long. Once you arrive at the bus station in Surat Thani, you can take a taxi or a tuk-tuk to the city center.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Surat Thani, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Surat Thani

Surat Thani is a province in the southern part of Thailand that boasts a rich and diverse culinary scene. Here are some of the must-try dishes that you shouldn't miss when visiting Surat Thani: 1. Khao Yam – This is a popular dish that is typically eaten for breakfast or lunch. It consists of a mixture of rice, finely chopped vegetables, and herbs, all topped with a spicy fish sauce dressing.
2. Roti Paeng – This is a sweet and savory snack that is made from a thin, flaky pastry that is stuffed with a variety of fillings, such as chocolate, banana, or cheese.
3. Gaeng Tai Pla – This is a spicy and pungent fish curry that is made with a strong-smelling fermented fish sauce. It's usually served with steamed rice and lots of fresh vegetables.
4. Khao Mok Gai – This is a fragrant and flavorful dish that is made by cooking chicken and rice together with aromatic spices like turmeric and cardamom. It's usually served with a side of tangy cucumber salad.
5. Pad Thai – This is a classic Thai dish that is made with rice noodles that are stir-fried with eggs, tofu, bean sprouts, and either chicken or shrimp. It's usually served with lime wedges and crushed peanuts on top.
6. Khao Man Gai – This is another rice-based dish that consists of tender poached chicken, steamed rice, and a flavorful dipping sauce made from ginger, chili, and soy sauce.
7. Tom Yum Goong – This is a tangy and spicy soup that is made with shrimp, lemongrass, chili, and lime juice. It's a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for spicing up your taste buds.
You can find general info about typical foods in Thailand here.

Is Surat Thani an expensive destination for tourists?

Surat Thani is generally considered to be an affordable destination for tourists compared to other popular tourist places in Thailand like Bangkok or Phuket. However, the cost of your trip will depend on several factors, including accommodation choices, dining options, transportation, and activities.
For example, if you opt for luxury hotels or resorts, your expenses will be higher than if you choose budget-friendly accommodations like hostels or guesthouses. Similarly, fine dining options will cost more than street food or local restaurants.
Transportation costs can vary depending on your mode of travel. If you choose to travel by taxi or private car, it will be more expensive than taking public transportation like buses or trains. Finally, the cost of activities will depend on what you choose to do, with activities like island hopping or snorkeling being more expensive than visiting temples or local markets.
Overall, while Surat Thani is generally an affordable destination, how much you spend will depend on your individual preferences and travel style.

Where to find accomodation in Surat Thani

When visiting Surat Thani, the best areas to find accommodation would be in the city center, near the night market, or close to the main transportation hubs such as the Surat Thani bus station or Surat Thani train station. Additionally, if you are planning to explore nearby islands such as Koh Samui or Koh Phangan, it may be worth your while to stay in the coastal town of Don Sak, which is the gateway to the islands and has a range of accommodation options.
You can check hotel prices at Surat Thani here:
Booking.com

Is Surat Thani a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Surat Thani is generally a safe place for tourists. However, as with any other destination, visitors should take necessary precautions to ensure their safety while traveling. It is recommended to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and keep important documents such as passports and identification secure. Additionally, it is important to follow local laws and customs and be respectful of the local culture.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Thailand here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Surat Thani.

What type of travelers will enjoy Surat Thani the most?

Surat Thani, Thailand is a destination that caters to a variety of travelers. Here are some types of travelers who may enjoy Surat Thani: 1. Nature lovers: Surat Thani offers access to some of Thailand's most beautiful national parks, including Khao Sok National Park and Surat Thani's own Khao Nan National Park. These parks feature stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife, making it perfect for nature enthusiasts.
2. Adventure seekers: Surat Thani is situated near multiple rivers, lakes, and waterfalls, providing ample opportunities for kayaking, rafting, and hiking. There's also a chance to explore cave systems and go rock climbing.
3. Couples: Surat Thani is a beautiful location for romantic getaways. Its idyllic beaches, clear blue water, and stunning sunsets make it an excellent location for couples seeking privacy and serenity.
4. Families: With its various parks and beaches, Surat Thani is an excellent choice for families. The town's relaxed atmosphere makes it a safe, kid-friendly destination, and the nearby natural attractions can offer a fun, educational vacation for families with kids.
5. Backpackers and solo travelers: Surat Thani is a popular stop on the backpacker trail in Southeast Asia. It's an affordable location with plenty of budget accommodation options and an exciting nightlife scene in the town. Travelers can explore hidden beaches, try new food and meet new people. Overall Surat Thani is a genuinely flexible and multi-faceted place to visit with much to offer different audiences.

How to get around Surat Thani

In Surat Thani, you can use various modes of transportation to move around the city and nearby attractions, including taxis, tuk-tuks, motorbikes, buses, and ferries. Taxis and tuk-tuks are great for short trips within the city, while motorbikes can be rented for more extended periods. Buses are the most cost-effective way to reach the nearby attractions, and ferries are used to reach the islands surrounding Surat Thani. It's essential to choose the mode of transportation based on your travel needs, budget, and safety requirements.

What to see around Surat Thani

Sure, here are some nice places to consider for a day trip from Surat Thani: 1. Koh Samui - This beautiful island is just a short ferry ride from Surat Thani and offers amazing beaches, temples and other attractions.
2. Khao Sok National Park - A stunning natural park with limestone cliffs, caves, waterfalls, and rainforest. It's about two hours drive from Surat Thani.
3. Chumphon - Located about 2 hours drive to the south of Surat Thani, Chumphon is a charming town with temples, beaches, and local markets.
4. Nakorn Si Thammarat - Known for its ancient temples and cultural richness, Nakorn Si Thammarat is about an hour and a half drive from Surat Thani.
5. Koh Tao - Another beautiful island famous for its snorkeling and diving spots. It can be reached by ferry from Surat Thani, although the journey can take around 5-6 hours.
Hope this helps!
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