Explore the island of Koh Lanta in Thailand

Koh Lanta consists of 52 islands including the largest, Koh Lanta Yai. It’s located approximately 70 kilometres from Krabi town. It is yet a comparatively unexplored island and offers complete peace and quiet away from the bustling tourist areas. Its unique scenic beauty which is mountainous and rugged in some areas, especially near the southern tip, its green forested hills, gravel and sand beaches, pretty coral reefs, clear emerald water and traditional lifestyle, provide a charming retreat from modern life.

Only 20,000 people live on Lanta including a clan of Chao Ley, or Sea Gypsies. This distinct ethnic group still follows its traditional customs and culture earning their living from rubber, prawn farming and fishing. Traditional houses and friendly faces still remain.

There is reasonably good snorkeling all along the west coast of Koh Lanta where coral and reef fish can be found, usually the best spots are around the rocks at either end of each beach.

Koh Lanta Dive operators have close access to the dive sites at Koh Phi Phi, Ko Ha, Ko Rok, Hin Daeng and Hin Muang. Dive sites tend to reflect the scenery and marine life of the area with names like Shark Point, Anemone Reef and the King Cruiser Wreck, all within easy reach of dive operators based in Ko Lanta. Pinnacles Hin Deang and Hin Muang often play host to manta rays and whale sharks and are considered to be two of the best dive sites in Thailand.

If you want to explore the island, hire a car, rent a bike, or better still go with a local guide. Tours are available giving you an insight into the local area, stopping at rubber plantations, taking a short kayaking tour through the mangroves and visiting local sea gypsy villages.