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Koh Lanta

Koh Klang, Koh Lanta Yai and Koh Lanta Noi are the main islands of a large archipelago consisting of four island groups in Krabi Province which includes more than 80 islands. The first, Koh Klang, is separated from the mainland by a small river but connected by a road bridge, and is often mistakenly thought of as part of mainland. Koh Lanta Yai, the second largest island, and the smaller Koh Lanta Noi along with other 50 smaller islands are under the protection of the Mu Ko Lanta National Park. Located about 80 km south of Koh Lanta by road, Koh Lanta Yai is the main tourist destination of archipelago and one of Thailand's top seaside destinations. Commonly known simply as "Ko Lanta", it’s the site of the Park Headquarters and is also home to small communities of Moken, an ethnic minority also known as Chao Ley or sea gypsies, who largely support themselves through fishing. The island is famous for its pristine beaches surrounded by crystal clear waters, ideal for swimming, snorkelling and diving. Koh Lanta Noi is smaller and uninhabited, has no tourist facilities as such, but is well worth a visit anyway. With a width of six kilometers and a length of 30 km, Koh Lanta Yai is characterized by limestone hills covered with rainforest. Located on the north-western tip of the island, Ban Saladan is the administrative center, the main village and home to the island's only ferry dock. It is a small harbour town full of quaint cafes, excellent seafood restaurants and local souvenir shops. Lanta Old Town is another small village on the eastern side of Koh Lanta Yai. This city is a mixture of different races and cultures, with Chinese traders, Thai fishermen families and the ancient community of sea gypsies. The most beautiful beaches of Koh Lanta Yai are located on the west coast, separated by rocky headlands and inlets. Those located to the north, near Ban Saladan, are the most developed with many accommodations, restaurants and shops, those located further south are more remote and peaceful. Koh Lanta Yai does not have roads connecting it directly to the mainland, but is served by regular car ferries throughout the year. The crossing is made in two stages, first from Baan Hua Hin located on Koh Klang to the Krabi Pier in Koh Lanta Noi and then from a second pier on Koh Lanta Yai, 5 km to southwest, to Saladan Pier in Koh Lanta Yai. Since 2016, Koh Lanta Yai and Koh Lanta Noi are connected with a bridge, which avoids the second crossing by boat. Read More