Thailand
The city of Surat Thani is located in southern Thailand, near the mouth of the Tapi River. It is the capital of the province of the same name. The population was estimated to be nearly 128,179 inhabitants in 2009. It is best known as a transit point for traveling to the paradise islands of the Gulf of Thailand.
History of Surat Thani in Thailand
In ancient times, the city of Surat Thani was called "Bandon," meaning "high village." In 1915, when King Rama VI (Vajiravudh) ascended the throne, he changed the name of the locality to "Surat Thani," meaning "city of virtuous people."
In 1930, Surat Thani became a district, and on December 7, 1935, the city was granted municipal status. Initially, it was a small municipality covering only about 2.67 km2, but over time, it expanded to its current area of approximately 69 km2.
Since 1969, the city of Surat Thani has been the center of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Surat Thani, which has around 6,000 faithful.
Today
Today, Surat Thani has become the starting point for trips to the islands of Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, and Koh Phaluai. However, before leaving, don't forget to visit its night market to buy some souvenirs.
Visit Surat Thani's night market.
Although the market is relatively small, it attracts many locals and foreign travelers every evening. It is located near the shore and spans only about 150 meters. The items and goods sold there are very diverse. Those looking for clothing items, for example, can find hats, T-shirts, dresses, pants, bags, etc. You can also dine there and enjoy delicious typical Thai dishes such as curry soups and pad Thai.
If you have time, don't forget to head to the highest point of the city to admire a panoramic view of the city, Bandon Bay, and the Tapi River.
Where to swim in Surat Thani?
Many beaches are easily accessible from the city of Surat Thani for water lovers, including diving enthusiasts:
• Chaweng Beach on Koh Samui Island
• Lamai Beach on Koh Samui Island
• Haad Rin Beach on Koh Phangan Island
• Thong Nai Pan Beach on Koh Phangan Island
• Khanom Beach on the mainland
Discover Thai temples.
Enjoy your trip to Surat Thani to admire cultural and architectural jewels. Discover the majestic temples of the region:
• Wat Lampraya, near the city center, is renowned for its large, seated Buddha statue.
• Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya has a beautiful white stupa. It is an important pilgrimage site.
• Wat Phra That Sathon Wararam is famous for its golden chedi containing a Buddha relic.
• Wat Suan Mokkh is a place of meditation and Buddhist retreat.
• Wat Phra Boromathat Chaiya Ratcha Worawihan houses a massive white chedi in Srivijaya style.
Festivals Not to Miss
Surat Thani Vegetarian Festival
This usually takes place in October. It is an opportunity for local restaurants to showcase vegetarian dishes more prominently. In the city's Chinese temples, food is even provided free of charge.
Surat Food Fair
This festival is especially for food enthusiasts and takes place annually along the Tapi River. It is the most important gastronomic festival in southern Thailand.
Songkran
This is the Buddhist New Year, which usually occurs around mid-April each year.
Chak Phra
This festival takes place at the end of the Buddhist Lent and marks the celebration of Buddha's return to Earth. Throughout the festivities, there are various processions and boat races.
Climate
Surat Thani enjoys a tropical savanna climate with dry winters. The average annual temperature in the local area generally revolves around 27°C. Additionally, the months of January, February, and December are the most favorable for visiting the city of Surat Thani.
How to Reach Surat Thani?
The city of Surat Thani is well-connected, offering several transportation options.
Taking a Flight to Surat Thani Airport from Bangkok
Surat Thani has its own airport located about twenty kilometers west of the city center, in the Phunpin district. Several local airlines (such as Nok Air, Thai Airways, etc.) operate flights to Surat Thani Airport. Flights generally depart from both of Bangkok's airports: Don Mueang International Airport and Suvarnabhumi Airport. Upon arrival, you can take a bus, taxi, or rental car from the terminal to reach the city center.
Traveling by Train from Bangkok
If you choose this mode of transportation, you'll arrive at Surat Thani Railway Station, located about 12 kilometers from the city center, also in the Phunpin district. The most convenient option is to take an overnight train from Bangkok to arrive in Surat Thani early in the morning. Once there, you can simply take a bus to the city center.
Traveling by Bus to Surat Thani Terminal
From Bangkok, you can take a bus to Surat Thani from the Southern Bus Terminal. This mode of transportation is perhaps the most economical, but also the longest. The approximately 600 kilometers between Surat Thani and Bangkok usually take around 10 hours to travel.
