Surat Thani
From Halal Explorer
Contents
- 1 An introduction to Surat Thani
- 2 Get in
- 3 Get around
- 4 Surat Thani Halal Travel Video
- 5 What to see in Surat Thani
- 6 What to do in Surat Thani
- 7 Muslim Friendly Shopping in Surat Thani
- 8 Muslim Friendly Food & Restaurants in Surat Thani
- 9 Muslim Friendly Hotels in Surat Thani
- 10 Go next
An introduction to Surat Thani
Surat Thani (often just "Surat") is the largest province of Southern Thailand. Surat Thani means City of Good People and the title given to the city by King Vajiravudh (Rama VI). It is a gateway to the islands of Thailand's Gulf Coast: Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao are much-visited destinations, as well as Ang Thong National Marine Park and the famous Khao Sok National Park.
Visitor information
- Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) - ☎ +66 77-288-818 - The TAT office on Talad Mai Road is the only government tourism office on mainland Surat Thani. TAT has brochures and maps for both local tourist destinations as well as those in other provinces. Clean public toilets are also available free of charge. TAT does not sell anything and they are only there to promote tourism. The other tourism offices around the city (like the one at the airport and the ones near Talad Kaset 1 and 2) are not official tourism offices and will try to sell you tourism packages or ferry tickets. Do not buy anything from these private tourism offices as they are usually offered at an inflated price. For ferry tickets, only buy them directly from the ferry operator or from Phantip Travel.
Get in
By plane
- Surat Thani International Airport IATA Code: URT - 26km west of Surat Thani Downtown. Connect by bus or rental vehicle (buy ticket and rent in the airport) to town. Phantip Travel has bus service connecting all Flights to Surat Thani. Phantip Travel (Tel. +66 77 272230, +66 77 282331) is on Taladmai Rd. Price one-way is 100 Baht.
If you're heading to Ko Samui, Seatran Ferry and other companies offer a bus/ferry service from the airport to Nathon Pier on Ko Samui for 700 Baht (Aug 2023). It's also feasible to book this trip with Air Asia, even as late as during the plane ride (they also use Seatran ferry). Travel duration is three hours. Buses leave the airport six times per day.
Domestic
- Air Asia - ☎ +66 2 515-9999 | Flights from Bangkok (Don Mueang Airport), and Chiang Mai.
- Nok Air - ☎ 1318 (non-geographical) | Flights from Bangkok (Don Mueang Airport).
- ([https://th.ehalal.io/muslim-friendly-travel-2024/Surat%20Thani Thai) Lion Air] - ☎ +66 2529-9999 | Flights from Bangkok (Don Mueang Airport).
- ([https://th.ehalal.io/muslim-friendly-travel-2024/Surat%20Thani Thai) Smile] - ☎ +66 2 118-8888 | Flights from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi Airport).
By train
Surat Thani Railway Station สถานีรถไฟสุราษฎร์ธานี | The Surat Thani train station, despite its name, is in Phun Phin, about 12 km west of the town centre. Most comfortable are the overnight trains from Bangkok, which arrive in early morning. There are always many who try to catch the tourists and sell them trips to Surat or the islands directly. Usually the most aggressive sellers are the most expensive. However, it's not a big problem to reach the city itself from the train station. Municipal buses depart the train station for Surat Thani every 30 minutes and cost 20 Baht, though the service seems to stop around 17:00. After that and the only option is a taxi and the drivers of which will come in to the station to try and find passengers. If you go outside and turn immediately to the left and there is a taxi stand with taxis charging a fixed price of 140 Baht to Surat Thani. The price is clearly indicated on a printed canvas sign attached high up.
By bus
There are 3 main bus & coach terminals in Muang Surat Thani: Talad Kaset 1, Talad Kaset 2, and Surat Thani Bus Terminal.
Talad Kaset 1 and Talad Kaset 2 are across from each other, off of Talad Mai Road in the downtown, whereas Surat Thani Bus Terminal is outside of the city off of Highway 401, behind CentralPlaza. Talad Kaset 1 is for local buses to nearby neighborhoods. Talad Kaset 2 is for coaches and buses to further neighborhoods and popular tourist destinations, such as Khanom, Khao Sok, Krabi, Phang Nga, Phuket, and Hat Yai. The Surat Thani Bus Terminal is for longer haul rides, such as overnight buses to Bangkok.
- Talad Kaset 1 Downtown Transportation Hub - For local buses to nearby neighborhoods.
- Talad Kaset 2 Downtown Transportation Hub - For coaches and buses to further neighborhoods and popular tourist destinations.
- Terminal 1: Surat Thani – Phuket
- Terminal 3: Surat Thani– Khanom
- Terminal 8: Surat Thani– Krabi
- Terminal 12: Surat Thani– Chaiya
- Terminal 13: Surat Thani– Phuket
- Terminal 14: Surat Thani– Phuket
- Terminal 15: Surat Thani– Hat Yai
- Terminal 16: Surat Thani– Hat Yai
- Terminal 17: Surat Thani– Phang Nga
- Terminal 18: Surat Thani– Phuket
- Terminal 19: Surat Thani– Krabi
- Terminal 20: Surat Thani– Ranong
- Terminal 22: Surat Thani– Khao Sok National Park
- Terminal 24: Surat Thani– Ko Lanta
By boat
There are three main ferry companies that operate from mainland Surat Thani to the islands: Lomprayah, Seatran, and Raja.
There are only two ferry piers in Muang Surat Thani: Tapee Pier, which Lomprayah's High Speed Catarman operates from, and Bandon Pier, which is for night boats only. Seatran Pier and Raja Pier are both located in Don Sak District, 65km (40mi) east of Surat Thani downtown.
Ferry piers
- Lomprayah | Lomprayah High Speed Catamaran provides service from Muang Surat Thani and Donsak to Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, Ko Tao, Ko Nanguan, and Angthong National Marine Park
- Seatran | Seatran Ferry provides service from Surat Thani to Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao.
- Raja Ferry Raja Ferry provides service from Surat Thani to Ko Samui and Ko Pha-ngan.
Surat Thani to/from Ko Samui
Operator | Surat Thani Pier | Ko Samui Pier | Travel Time | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
Seatran Discovery | Seatran (Donsak) | Bangrak | 1.5 hours | 350 Baht |
Seatran | Seatran (Donsak) | Nathon | 1.5 hours | 140 Baht |
Raja | Raja (Donsak) | Lipa Noi | 1.5 hours | 140 Baht |
Lomprayah | Tapee (Muang) | Nathon | 2 hours | 140 Baht |
Surat Thani to/from Ko Pha-ngan
Operator | Surat Thani Pier | Travel Time | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Raja | Raja (Donsak) | 2.5 hours | 210 Baht |
Seatran Discovery | Seatran (Donsak) | 2.5 hours | 450 Baht |
Lomprayah | Tapee (Muang) | 2.5 hours | 700 Baht |
Surat Thani to/from Ko Tao
Operator | Surat Thani Pier | Travel Time | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Lomprayah | Tapee (Muang) | 4-5 hours | 800-900 Baht |
Seatran Discovery | Seatran (Donsak) | 4 hours | 700 Baht |
Ferry coach stations
Seatran Coach Station
Talad Mai Rd - GPS: 9.139890, 99.323859
Raja Coach Station (Sirraja 1)
Si Wichai 16, Muang Surat Thani - GPS: 9.120762, 99.309726
Night boats
The night boat ferries are individually owned and operated. Routes can be cancelled without any prior notice. Only buy night boat tickets directly from the ferry operator. The tickets can be purchased the day of departure from the boat operators at Bandon pier. The ticket stands are directly in front of the individual night boats.
The departure times and ticket prices for the night boats can vary as the individual boat and operator are on rotations. For example and the wooden Ko Tao night boat leaves an hour earlier than the metal Ko Tao night boats. Confirm with the operators at Bandon Pier the day of departure. Arrival times are estimates as it depends on the sea conditions.
Departs | Arrives | Price | Travel Time |
---|---|---|---|
22:00 from Bandon Pier | 04:00 at Ko Samui (Nathon) | 200 Baht | 6 hours |
23:00 from Bandon Pier | 06:00 at Ko Pha-ngan | 400 Baht | 7 hours |
22:00-23:00 from Bandon Pier | 08:00 at Ko Tao | 550-600 Baht | 8-9 hours |
22:00-23:00 from Ko Tao | 07:00 at Bandon Pier | 550-600 Baht | 8-9 hours |
22:00 from Ko Samui (Nathon) | 04:00 at Bandon Pier | 200 Baht | 6 hours |
22:00 from Ko Pha Ngan | 04:00 at Bandon Pier | 400 Baht | 6 hours |
Get around
Tuk-tuks cost around 10-20 Baht/per person around the town. Hail one on any major road with a wave or yell, negotiate a fare, and sit on the bench in the back.
By motorbike
- X Motorbike Rentals - Offers motorbike rentals and full time mechanical services. Free delivery and pickup. Free motorbike riding lessons and help with (Thai) licensing also available.
Rent a Car or Limousine in Surat Thani
Car hire services are available at Surat Thani International Airport.
By taxi
Grab taxi is now available in Surat Thani
Surat Thani Halal Travel Video
What to see in Surat Thani
- Bang Bai Mai Floating Market (ตลาดน้ำประชารัฐบางใบไม้) - A "must see" in Surat Thani, this picturesque riverside market offers a range of ready-to-eat foods. The market also features a large fish pond, live music, and canal boat rides (at a cost). This market is on Sundays only and even though it’s open until 15:00, it’s best to go before noon.
Religious & historical sites
- City Pillar Shrine - ศาสหลีกเมือง | Former site of the provincial administration building. The building was first destroyed when the Japanese invaded Thailand on 8 December 1941 and landed in Surat Thani. The building caught fire during the short battle and burned down. It was reopened in 1954. On 19 March 1982 it was destroyed again by a bomb planted by communist rebels, killing 5 people. This is a religious shrine and, although it is not a temple, dress appropriately and to remove shoes when entering the structure.
- Phra That Si Surat (พระธาตุศรีสุราษฎร์์) (เขาท่าเพชร) | Khao Tha Phet is a hill outside of the downtown. It has an elevation of about 210 m (689 ft) and offers a good view over the town. On top of the hill is the Sri Surat stupa (also known by its common name, Phra That Khao Tha Phet), which was built in Srivijavan-style in 1957. The stupa contains a Buddha relic donated by India. Next to the stupa is a sweet shorea tree (Shorea roxburghii) planted by King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
Nature
- Nai Bang Area (ในบาง) – Nai Bang is an alluvial plain around the mouth of the Tapi River which is crisscrossed with networks of canals. The canals are lined with mangrove forest alternating with traditional southern-styled houses, behind which are coconut farms and orchards. The people here still maintain a simple way of life and make their living on indigenous natural resources, despite the bustling economy in the Ban Don (town) market just opposite the river. Access to Nai Bang is by the bridge across the Tapi River or by longtail boat from Ban Don. The boat can carry 6–8 people and charges 250 Baht per hour. Visitors may contact travel agents in Surat Thani who sell a one-day package tour to the Nai Bang area.
- Ko Lamphu Public Park เกาะลำพู| A small, car-free island on the Tapi River offering walking & biking paths, exercise equipment, and a playground. Great Muslim Friendly place to play volleyball and basketball.
- Rama 9 Park (สวนหลวง ร.9)| A city park offering walking & biking paths, exercise equipment, and a playground. There's also a large fish pond where you can buy fish food to feed the fish.
- Khun Thale Swamp (บึงขุนทะเล)| Khun Thale Swamp, despite its name, is a picturesque marshland just south of the downtown. A local fishing spot for many years the area is undergoing renovations (May 2018) to make the area more accessible. Despite ongoing renovations to the boardwalk and the area is still a great place for cycling. Paddle boats are available for a small fee to take out into the swamp. A troop of wild monkeys also lives on the south side of the swamp.
- Rubber Tree Road - Rubber Tree Road is a scenic stretch of Talad Klauy-Kaouhaoukway Road in Muang Surat Thani with rubber trees that form a shaded canopy over the road.
- Rice Paddy at Rice Farm Villa Hotel - This small Rice paddy is in the middle of the city. The Rice paddy can be viewed free of charge, just walk though the OTOP shopping center.
- Si Surat Bridge - Tallest bridge in Southern Thailand.
National parks
Floating Huts - Huts, Khao Sok National Park
- Khao Sok National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติเขาสก) – As part of the largest moist evergreen forest in Southern Thailand and the park is rich in flora including certain families of lotus, white palm, and fern. Khao Sok is also one of the best bird-watching spots in Thailand. Attractions in the park include:
- Ratchaprapha (Rajjaprabha) Dam: The completion of this dam in 1988 gave birth to Cheow Lan Lake about 168 square kilometers in area, which is adorned with hundreds of islands and islets.
- Tham Nam Thalu: Cave
- Tang Nam: Streams chiseled across two ridges create this striking gorge. Many people came to pay respect to this place, around which the venerable Buddhadasa Bhikkhu's ashes were traditionally showered.
- Namtok Than Sawan: This scenic waterfall is three kilometers from Tang Nam.
- Namtok Sip Et Chan: This 11-tier waterfall originates from Bang Len canal. The first level is largest and most picturesque.
- San Yang Roi Trail: This two kilometre trail begins at the park headquarters and runs along the mountain shoulder past streams, waterfalls, and moist evergreen forest. A trail to a rarely seen plant called Bua Phut at Bang Luk Chang Mountain.
- Khlong Phanom National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติคลองพนม) – High limestone mountains connected with Khao Sok National Park. Attractions in the park include Kiriwong and Chong Yung waterfalls and several caves full of stalactites and stalagmites.
- Kaeng Krung National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติแก่งกรุง) – Mountainous area covered by moist evergreen forests, where some rare and endangered species such as tree ferns can be found. Attractions in the park include thermal spas (Muslim Friendly), Bang Hoi Waterfall and Khlong Pa Waterfall.
- Tai Rom Yen National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติใต้ร่มเย็น) – The 425 square kilometre forest areas in Kanchanadit, Ban Na San and Wiang Saturday were designated a national park in 1991. The mountains of the Nakhon Si Thammarat Range are mostly covered with moist evergreen forest and exotic and rare flora and fauna. Attractions in the park include:
- Namtok Tat Fa: A perennial 13-level waterfall is the highest in Surat Thani. The fourth level is most attractive with its 80 m cliff.
- Tham Khamin or Tham Men: Exotic stalagmites and stalactites in this cave. The walkway is well-lit and fitted with stairs.
- San Yen: The eastern range, about 40 kilometers long and 1,000-1,300 metres high, is fertile with rare flora, fauna, and wildlife.
- Namtok Mueang Thuat: This seven-level waterfall has a large basin.
Nearby neighborhoods
Chaiya District
See Chaiya page
Kanchanadit District
- Monkey Training College - First Monkey School/วิทยาลัยฝึกลิงเพื่อการเกษตร | Founded in 1957 by Somporn Saekhow to train pig-tailed macaques how to properly pick coconuts. Somporn's daughter, Somjai, now runs the school. The college remains first and foremost a training centre for coconut farmers' monkeys. Visitors are of course welcome but please contact the school before your visit. The training is done in an animal-friendly fashion. No punishments are given, only rewards. Also offers home stay ("home stay" is a word frequently used to indicate basic accommodations, and joining the host for meals) in two basic bungalows.
- Monkey Training Center - Kadaejae Monkey School/ศูนย์ฝึกลิงเพื่อการเกษตรกะแดะแจะ | Demonstration and lecture on how to train pig-tailed macaques to pick coconuts.
- Kuha Cave - วัดถ้ำคูหา - Cave temple filled with multiple Buddha images of various styles including Dwaravati, Srivichai, Indian Pallava, and Siam Ayutthaya.
- Sinmana Farmstay - สินมานะฟาร์มสเตย์ - Oyster farm.
- Wat Khao Pranim Viewpoint - วัดเขาพระนิ่ม - Hillside view of the mountains and nearby fishfarms.
- Bor Numtip - สำนักสงฆ์ถ้ำบ่อน้ำทิพย์, Tham Bo Nam Thip Bureau of Monks - Cave temple. Display of large golden Buddha statues
Outer neighborhoods
Don Sak District
- Vipavadee Waterfall - Medium size waterfall. Popular socializing venue, both after school and on weekends.
- Rock Fish Museum - พิพิธภัณฑ์ปลาหิน์์ | Collection of hand carved fish made out of stone. This museum was established in 1992 by Mr. Kitti Sin-udom, an old fisherman who spent more than 10 years carving stone here. More than 1,000 lifelike sculptures of marine fish found in the Gulf of Thailand are on display.
- Wat Khao Suwanpradit - วัดเขาสุวรรณประดิษฐ์ | Wat Khao Suwanpradit was founded in 1982 by one of Southern Thailand’s most revered monks, Luang Pho Choi. The 45m tall stupa contains Buddha relics from Wat Phra Kiat from Chiang Mai. This hilltop monastery offers a great panoramic view of Don Sak as well as the Gulf of Thailand and the nearby islands.
- Hug Village Horse & Sheep Farm | A horse (pony) and sheep farm with beautiful flower gardens and a café.
- Ko Raet เกาะแรต | A traditional Chinese fishing village. It’s also the smallest populated island in Thailand connected to the mainland via bridge. You can walk around the entire island in less than an hour and enjoy the views of the nearby gulf islands. Has multiple traditional homestays for visitors.
- Cho Waterfall - A small stream popular with the local residents. Surrounded by food stalls and a couple small restaurants, people go to cool down or have their feet cleaned by "doctor fish" in the natural fish spa.
Khiri Rat Nikhom District
- Clear Water Canal - คลองน้ำใส - A crystal clear stream. Popular local swimming spot.
- Hin Pat หินพัด - A giant fan-shaped rock that sits on top of a cliff. It has been a popular viewpoint among local residents for many years but only became an "official tourist attraction" in 2014.
- Than Thong Waterfall น้ำตกธารทอง| Small waterfall, popular with the local residents as a swimming spot.
- Phasuankwang Farm - An animal farm/petting zoo with multiple animals including: deer, rabbits, turkeys, ponies, buffalo, and crocodiles.
- Wat Tham Singkhorn วัดถ้ำสิงขร - Wat Tham Singkhorn is an ancient temple built in the Ayutthaya period (1351 to 1767). Behind the temple is a large cave with multiple Buddha statues.
- Tham Singkhorn Hotsprings บ่อนำร้อนถำสิงขร - Nine natural thermal spas (Muslim Friendly). The hottest is around 70°C.
- Namrad Forest Headwaters ป่าต้นน้ำบ้านน้ำราด - Entrance is free but you have to pay to use the toilets. Clear, fresh water swimming spot. As of 2022, this spot has been featured in numerous local travel blogs making it very popular. Get there early in the morning if you want to avoid the crowds.
- Kunfai Farm สวนคุณฝ้าย - U-Pick strawberry farm. Strawberries don't grow very well in the southern (Thai) heat so be sure to check ahead to see if there is any fruit available.
Ban Ta Khun District
- Rajjaprabha Dam Golf Course สนามกอล์ฟเขื่อนรัชชประภา - Par 72, 18-hole course.
- Khao Theppithak Suspension Bridge สะพานแขวนบ้านเขาเทพพิทักษ์ - Wooden suspension bridge with a heart shape mountain in the background.
Phanom District
- Ban Thum Phueng - บ้านถ้ำผึ้ง | Small farming village offering numerous homestays and cabins for visitors. Fruit orchards, rubber and palm plantations, and vegetable farms. Small waterfall and hotspring nearby.
- Rajjaprabha Dam (เขื่อนรัชชประภา) - 165-km² (64-sq mi) man-made lake in Khao Sok National Park. Known for its floating raft-houses, it's an extremely scenic place great place for wildlife watching, swimming, kayaking, and even diving.
- Wat Phanom's Fishes River แหล่งปลาวัดพนม The only waterfall in Khao Sok National Park that can be visited by car. Approximately 30 m high. Best time to visit is during the rainy season.
Tha Chang District
- Wat Mun Lek Folk Museum พิพิธภัณฑ์พื้นบ้าน วัดมูลเหล็ก์
Khian Sa
- Nong Thung Tong - A wildlife sanctuary/no-hunting area. It is home to over 70 species of migratory birds and the oriental small-clawed otter, and the Asian Golden Cat. The area is mixed grasslands, marshes, and swamps. During the rainy season (October-December) the area is almost completely flooded.
- Thamma Park - Hilltop temple with a picturesque view.
- 514 Base Historical Learning Centre - Formerly the People's Liberation Army 514 Camp. Provides information on the tropical rainforest’s ecosystem, social history, fighter and mass struggle during the movement of the Party of Thailand, folk wisdom, indigenous values, and the concept of sacrifice for common good to youth.
Phrasaeng District
- Ang Nam Pood อ่างน้ำผุด | Clear water spring. You can see the bubbles come up from the sand. Cabomba, a non-native invasive aquatic plant with pretty white flowers, can be viewed in the clear water. In addition to swimming, kayaks and paddleboats are available to rent.
- Tourism Attraction Bangsawan สถานที่ท่องเที่ยวบางสวรรค์ | River swimming spot.
What to do in Surat Thani
- Nakwaree Shooting Association - สนามยิงปืน นาควารี - Across from Lotus - Pistol rental 300 Baht; rifle rental 350 Baht, Range fee 100 Baht. Ammunition extra - Shooting range with a variety of pistol and rifle rentals. Memberships also available.
- Bang Yai Fishing Park - บางใหญ่ฟิชชิ่งปาร์ค - Stocked fishing park pond. Bring your own rod.
Festivals
Ang Thong Marine National Park
- Chak Phra Festival - ชักพระ - Celebrates the return of Gautama Buddha from heaven to earth to be greeted by multitudes. The celebration takes place every year immediately after the end of three month rain retreat, about October. It is celebrated in many parts of Southern Thailand, but especially in Surat Thani. The evening prior to Chak Phra Day, billboards are erected showing Buddha's story around the city and celebrations continue day and night. On land and the splendidly adorned floats are pulled across the town by the participants. At the same time, on water a float decorated with colourful (Thai) designs carries Buddha's image. Chak Phra festivities conclude with a boat race and traditional games.
- Rambutan and (Thai) Fruit Festival - Rambutan trees were first planted in Surat Thani at Ban Na San in 1926 by Mr. K. Vong, a Chinese (Malay). The annual Rambutan Festival is held during the August harvest.
- Boon Sad Dean Sib Festival - Held on the full moon of the 10th month in traditional calendar (about August). People go to the temple in remembrance of ancestors.
- Surat Thani Songkran Festival - (Thai) New Year water festival is celebrated every year on 13 April.
- Surat Thani Loy Krathong Festival - Held on the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional (Thai) lunar calendar. In the Western calendar this usually falls in November. During the evening of the full moon, people launch symbolic floating "krathong" on the river.
- Surat Bike Week - งานสุราษฎร์ฯ ไบค์ วีค - Held annually in February in Muang Surat Thani.
- Surat Thani Kite Festival at Tha Chana Beach มหกรรมว่าวนานาชาติ ท่าชนะ | Held annually in February or March in Tha Chana District.
- Hae Pha Hom Pharthat Si Surat Lae Thammachat Khao Tha Phet Fair - งานประเพณีแห่ผ้าห่มพระธาตุศรีสุราษฎร์แลธรรมชาติเขาท่าเพชร | Held annually in March in Muang Surat Thani.
- Surat Thani Food Fair - งานสุราษฎร์ธานี ฟู้ดแฟร์ | Held annually in March along the Tapi River in Muang Surat Thani.
Swim
Water parks
- The Pirates Park - Water park featuring inflatable slides, obstacle courses, kids' pools, and a garden/banquet area.
Public pools
- Praram Surat Thani - Nicknamed 'The Mushroom Pool' for its mushroom waterfall structure. Popular swimming spot for the local expat English teachers.
- Provincial Sport Centre Pool - Olympic-sized swimming pool
- Sport Club Pool - Partially shaded swimming swimmingpool with a children's swimmingpool and 2 small water slides. Popular with local residents for children's swimming lessons.
- Rajabhat University Sport Complex Pool - 80 Baht
Muslim Friendly Shopping in Surat Thani
Local products
- Chaiya Salted Eggs (ไข่เค็มไชยา) – Ducks in Chaiya eat mollusks, crabs, and fish on the farm, which make their egg yolks particularly red. Eggs are covered with soil mixed with salty water and Rice husks.
- Oysters (หอยนางรม) – Surat Thani's oysters are well known for their size, cleanliness, taste, and smell.
- Rambutan – Rambutan here are exceptional due thanks to their sweet taste, crisp Meat, big size, small seeds, and thin peel.
- Phumriang Silk Cloth (ผ้าไหมพุมเรียง) – Hand-woven products of a Muslim village. The weavers here create their own patterns which are embossed on the silk by shuttle looms.
- Tha Krachai woven cloth (ผ้าทอท่ากระจาย)
- Para-rubber leaf butterflies (ผีเสื้อใบยางพารา)
- Bulrush wickerwork (ผลิตภัณฑ์จักสานจากกระจูด)
- Kalamae (กะละแม)
- Processed seafood products (ผลิตภัณฑ์อาหารทะเลแปรรูป)
- Coconut wooden products (ผลิตภัณฑ์ไม้มะพร้าว)
Groceries
- Tops Supermarket - Good selection of International foods with limited Halal food.
- Lotus - One of the larger grocery stores in Surat Thani. Good selection of Meat, produce, and grocery items.
- Big C - One of the larger grocery stores in Surat Thani. Good selection of Meat, produce, and grocery items.
- Makro - Most items sold in bulk. Cheap Meat and vegetables. Large selection of spices as well as some imported products. No membership needed, pick up a pass from the client service desk on the way in.
Souvenirs
- OTOP Souvenir Shop at 100 Islands Resort - Large number of souvenirs and local handicrafts, including hand woven baskets, coconut and mango wood products, pearls, clothing, dried fruit, and fish products.
- OTOP Product Zone in Central Plaza Surat Thani - Selection of (Thai) products and souvenirs, including hand woven baskets, coconut and mango wood products, clothing, and cosmetics.
Muslim Friendly Food & Restaurants in Surat Thani
Night markets
- San Jao Night Market - Talat Sanjao - ตลาดศาลเจ้า | Walk the block and pick up whatever treats catch your eye, or grab a table at one of the restaurants and watch the market scene as you dine. Freshly juiced fruits, corn on the cob, squid-kebabs, fried Chicken, saffron Rice, pad (Thai), sushi.
- Night Boat Pier - ท่าเรือกลางคืน - A popular spot for tourists to eat and drink organic juice before boarding the night boat to Ko Tao or Ko Pha Ngan. Lots of food carts selling seafood and Noodles and standard (Thai) fare at only slightly elevated prices. If you walk further down the road toward the bridge, you'll find fruit vendors galore.
- Diamond Night Market - One of the largest night markets in Surat Thani. Good variety of food.
Vegetarian & Halal
- Jay Wa Wa (อาหารเจวาวา)
- Jae Tom Vegetarian Restaurant (ร้านอาหารเจเจ๊ต้อม)
- Jay Hong Vegan Restaurant (ร้านอาหารเจ เจ๊หงษ์)
- Vegetarian Cafe
- Surat Thani Vegetarian - Cafeteria style Vegetarian restaurant with a nice garden ambiance. Selection of juices as well as free cleansing Tea to go with your meal. Open since 2006.
Halal
- Madube (ม๊ะดูบี) GPS = 9.146042, 99.360830
- Bismillah (บิสมิลลาฮ) GPS = 9.136329, 99.318401
Seafood
- Lamphu 3 (ลำพู 3) - Lampu 3 offers up some of the freshest seafood in Surat Thani. Giant river prawns, shrimp, crab, squid, cockles, fish, and Surat Thani's famous giant oysters. Menu in (Thai) and English.
Muslim Friendly Hotels in Surat Thani
For a list of hotels please click here
Go next
- Khao Sok National Park — jungle adventures
- Ko Samui — backpacker paradise gone up-market
- Ko Pha-ngan
- Ko Tao — popular diving spot and a good place to get certified
- Ang Thong National Marine Park
- Khao Lak — coastal resort region and diving centre just north of Phuket
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