Chunphon
The province covers an area of 6,009 square kilometres. The provincial capital is 463
kilometres south of Bangkok Chumphon is best known for its 222 kilometre-long
coastline and off Shore hirds nest islands. The provincial capital is the hest place from
whence to visit the comparatively remote coral-fringed Ko Tao (Turtle Island) which
actually falls within Surat Thani province, and boasts arguably the best scubadiving waters anywhere in
the Thai Gulf.
Principal mainland beaches include Hat Phara-donphap, Hat Pha Daeng and Hat Sai Ri. The latter is
the site of a shrine, in the form of an ancient British-manufactured motor torpedo gunship, dedicated to
H.R.H. Ptince Chumphon, Father of the Royal Thai Nary. The palm-fringed Ao Thung Makham, Ao Thung
Wha Laen and Hat Wnthai are other picturesque bays and beaches. Notable off Shore islands,
few more than 30 minutes from the mainland, include Mat Phon, Sak, Samct, Mattra, Thong Lang and
Rat, the latter well known for camping, fishing and scuba-diving. Maphrao and Lanka Chui islands host
cliffdwelling sea swallows whose nests are collected to satisfy the demands of local gourmets.
Chumphon is most conveniently reached by road and rail from Bangkok where daily train and bus
services originate. Details may be obtained from Bangkok's Hualamphong Railway Station (Tel:
Bangkok 223-7010, 223-7020) and Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal (Tel: 434-5558 (non-air) or 414-
4978-9 (air). Accommodation ranges from resort bunga-lows to first-class hotels. A complete list may be
obtained from the TAT office in Surat Thani (Tel: (077)288-818-9
