What Makes Koh Lanta Unsurpassed

        In the eye of the visitor, the charms of Koh Lanta are found not only in its azure and natural beauty but also in the hospitality of its people. Here, you meet visitors who return time and again, while some stay for weeks to months or choose to live on Koh Lanta year round.

        Among some of the reasons they give include the unique cultural features that Koh Lanta has: the diversity of inhabitants which is made up of Thai Muslims, Chinese Muslims and the Chao Lay or sea gypsies. They have all lived harmoniously in various parts of the island for hundreds of years. Nowadays, it’s hard for anyone from out of town to tell the difference between any of the groups. They have mingled and built up their personality which ultimately, has become the unique trait of Koh Lanta.

        Another attraction of Koh Lanta is the unrivalled beauty of its waters and lushness of its terrains. Koh Lanta itself comprises 52 islands that form the southernmost district of Krabi province. The two largest islands, Koh Lanta Yai (Big Lanta) and Koh Lanta Noi (Little Lanta), are separated by a narrow strait. Koh Lanta Yai is also home to a well-preserved national marine park.

        The two main islands are quite mountainous and dotted with dense jungles. There is a large variety of wildlife, and the terrains make it ideal for trekking. Lots of small islands surround Koh Lanta and are abundant with coral reefs, providing opportunities for diving and snorkeling . Some of the islands worth mentioning are Koh Hin Daeng and Koh Hin Muang, which are considered ideal diving sites.
The best beaches are along the north and south of Koh Lanta Yai’s west coast. There are two main communities on the island. Ban Koh Lanta in the southern part of the island’s east coast is the administrative center. The other is Ban Saladan, a mangrove village at the northern tip of Koh Lanta Yai.

        Life moves slowly on Koh Lanta, making it peaceful and excellent for sun-worshippers who can spend hours on the beaches lined with coconut trees.

        The best time to travel to Koh Lanta is between November and April. This is the dry season, although by April there are occasional downpours. The period from May to October is the rainy season and the sea become quite rough, restricting boat trips and ferry services. Diving visibility usually suffers as well.

        Flights leave daily from Bangkok to Krabi. On your arrival, transportations such as mini-vans can take you to Koh Lanta. The entire trip, combining vehicle and ferry, takes three hours. The first half is by car and the second by ferry. The ferry trip is quite pleasant and you can enjoy the scenic view of the Andaman Sea. Once you are on Koh Lanta, you’ll be so overwhelmed by the charm of the island that you’ll find it hard to leave.