Ang Thong Archipelago of Thailand is a national marine park made up of
around 40 islands lying about 27 km from Ko Samui. Ang Thong means 'golden bowl'
in the thai language and it is the name given to the emerald lake in the park,
which is surrounded by high cliffs, giving it a look of a beautiful bowl. Most
of the islands consist of limestone mountains which rise from the sea to 10-400
metres above sea level, with many strange erosion-formed cliff faces, deserted
beaches and rainforest areas. This protected environment creates a safe habitat
for many mammals, reptiles and birds. The Islands themselves are a
photographer's dream, with limestone cliffs, tropical vegetation, caves and
secret lagoons, pristine white sand beaches, coral reefs and aquamarine waters.
Some of these islands have paths and passages that lead to their peaks providing
paronomic views of the Ang Thong Archipelago, with its steep sided islands and
striking rock formations. With some 40 limestone islands, dotted with white
pristine beaches, it is a dream vacation setting and an ideal place for nature
lovers.
Ang Thong Marine National Park Tourism Attractions:
Kayaking, paddling, snorkeling and scuba diving are naturally the main attraction at Ang Thong Marine National Park Thailand. The dive season runs between March and October, with visibility generally 10-25 meters, at depths of 15-40 meters. One of the best way to enjoy your trip is to take a sea-kayaking trip or snorkel around the coral reefs. You can take a sea-kayaking tour from ko Samui, which is a great way to see the islands and discover the best spots for snorkeling. You can even take a charter boat to explore the near by area. Ko Samui, Ko Pha-Ngan and Ko Tao are three of the most beautiful islands here. Archipelago of Ang Thong National Marine Park is an enchanting wonderland of bulbous green isles, clear blue lagoons, mysterious caves, and exotic rock formations.
Wildlife
Several species of animals are present in and around the larger islands with areas of undisturbed forests. Occasionally seen are Spectacled langurs, Hairy-nosed otters, bats, Pacific reef-egret, Brahminy kite, White-bellied sea eagle, Common sandpiper, Edible nest Swiflet, Oriental pied hornbill, Southern pied hornbill, Ashy Drongo, Collared Kingfisher, Monitor lizards, Tortoises, Sea Turtles and Pythons.
The saltwater lake known as the "inner sea" on Ko Mae Koh. It is enclosed by vertical cliffs and is a strenuous climb to view the lake but it is worth the effort to see the stunningly beautiful emerald green water.
Ang Thong Archipelago Cruises:
There are several 3 to 4 days cruises available that take tourists to various islands with complete comfort and luxury within the cruise ship.
Ang Thong National Park office:
The park office is located on Koh Wua Ta Lap Island, the largest in the group and the only island with fresh water. There is a small visitors centre and restroom facilities here. In front of the office is a clean white beach that's good for swimming. Here Bungalow style accommodation is also available.
Location:
Ang Thong Islands are located 27km to the east of Koh (island) Samui.
