The Southern Thailand Region is on the Malay Peninsula, the narrowest part of the peninsula is in the north at Kra Isthmus. The western part has steeper coasts, while on the east side river plains dominate.
Running through the middle of the peninsula are several mountain chains, with the highest elevation at Khao Luang, 1,835 m.
The limestone of the west coast has been eroded into many steep singular hills. Those parts submerged by the rising sea after the last ice age now form many islands, like the well-known Phi Phi Islands. Also quite famous is the so-called James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay, featured in the movie The Man with the Golden Gun.
Main cities and attractions of the Southern Thailand Region
- Chumphon – snorkeling at local unspoiled islands, rafting and jungle trekking, canoeing, fishing, kite surfing, fire fly watching, walks, visit temple caves, beaches, golf.
- Hat Yai – the fourth largest city in Thailand. Extremely popular tourist spot for Malaysians and Singaporeans on holiday. This place does not have many Western visitors.
- Koh Lanta – an island off the Andaman Coast of Southern Thailand, known for its diving and long white beaches.
- Koh Phangan – is an island off the Central Gulf Coast. Known as a land of coconut trees and the world (in)famous full moon parties.
- Koh Phi Phi – is a small archipelago of six islands in Krabi Province, Southern Thailand. It is touted to be one of the most beautiful yet easily accessible island groups in the world.
- Koh Samui – an island of great natural beauty and variety, A kayaking and snorkeling paradise
- Koh Tao – this island is geared towards diving tourists more than backpackers on a budget.
- Krabi – a coastal province, abounding with countless natural attractions that never fail to impress tourist.
- Nakhon Si Thammarat – history, pristine jungles abundant with vegetation, picturesque beaches and beautiful waterfalls.
- Narathiwat – Malaysians like to spend their holiday and shop. The area has a constant flow of culture and trading. Mostly Muslim area.
- Pattani – For several years the region has been experiencing violence. Foreign governments frequently issue travel warnings and parts of the area can be unsafe.
- Phang Nga – scenic forests and islands, superb natural beauty both onshore and underwater
- Phatthalung – the performing arts of Nang Talung (puppet shadow play) and Nora dance have their origins in this city
- Phuket – Thailand’s wealthiest province. Expect prices to be a bit higher than on the mainland. Popular tourist destination.
- Ranong – various natural attractions, hot springs and unspoiled mangrove forests.
- Satun – pristine nature and mountainous forests with more than eighty beautiful surrounding islands.
- Songkhla – beaches, historical centers and nice green parks
- Surat Thani – with not many international travelers, it is a great opportunity to see a more real Thailand with local foods, prices and friendliness.
- Trang – unspoiled beauty, kind and friendly people, delicious food, amazing islands and paradise white sand beaches.
- Yala – if you do really need to travel to this area, due to recent bombings your cell phone’s SIM card will most likely be disabled.