Thailand

Koh Jum is a small island covering nearly 12 km2 located between the cities of Krabi and Koh Lanta. The island of Koh Jum is still untouched by mass tourism and allows you to enjoy its fine sandy beaches in peace.

Today

Although much of its land remains wild, Koh Jum Island is well inhabited. Indeed, there are about 1,500 inhabitants spread across 3 villages, namely Ban Ko Pu, Ban Ting Rai, and Ban Koh Jum. The latter is the main village on the island, located in the southeast. The locals are predominantly Muslim. As for the island's economy, it is mainly focused on fishing, rubber cultivation (for rubber), and craftsmanship.

A short stay on Koh Jum

The landscapes of Koh Jum are quite contrasting. In the northeast part of the island, the area is rather mountainous. The highest point of Koh Jum rises to about 422 meters above sea level. You can go on a short trek there, which must be accompanied by a local guide. As the trek passes through private property, a fee of 1000 baht per person is required.

To the south, the scenery consists of a mixture of immense tropical jungle and various plantations, such as rubber, coconut, cashew, etc.

Tourist facilities

Local accommodation establishments are quite basic and are located on the west side of the island. Some of them have internet connections, but do not expect high-speed internet.

A preserved place away from the noise of tourist spots

One of the reasons travelers go to Koh Jum is its untouched nature, but above all its peaceful and relaxing environment. The sunset from the beaches is a breathtaking sight not to be missed. Moreover, the island lends itself to various activities such as swimming, snorkeling (at Bamboo Island), hiking through the tropical forest, kayaking, beach strolling, etc.

Climate

Koh Jum Island has a tropical savanna climate with a rainy season that lasts nearly 6 months, often between May and October. The best time of year to plan a vacation there is between January and February, when the weather conditions are optimal: a slightly humid atmosphere and largely bearable heat.

How to get there?

From Krabi

To go to Koh Jum Island, you can take a ferry or a speedboat from Laem Kruat Pier. Generally, there is one departure per day from this port, and the crossing price is around 500 baht (about €13). During the high season (between November and April), the ferries depart from Kongkra port. It should be noted that there is no pier at Koh Jum, and boats (especially small ones) are obliged to moor directly near the beach. So, expect to get your feet wet.

From Koh Lanta

If you depart from this island, you have the choice between the express boat and the ferry. For the latter, the cost of the crossing remains roughly the same as that from Krabi, around €10. If you opt for the express boat, however, you will have to pay around €42, which corresponds to about 1,500 baht.

Important

It is not recommended to cross during the rainy season, as there are strong swells. In fact, boats usually refuse to go to Koh Jum during this period because docking can become dangerous.

Getting around Koh Jum

The population often uses a motorcycle or bicycle for their daily travel around the island. Note that some locals offer their bikes for rent.