Marine National Parks

Lanta Island Group National Park

Topography and climate
Mu Koh Lanta national park is an archipelago of over 15 islands in the Andaman sea, in Krabi province. This 134 square kilometers area of islands and sea was declared as a national park in 1990.
The park is characterized by the steep craggy limestone islands, typical of Krabi province and southern Thailand in general. Although most of the small islands within the park are uninhabitable by man, they support a wide diverstity of plant and animal life on the cliffs and in the sea below.

Culture and life style
There are Sea gypsy communities in the villages of Ban Sanga-U (close to the headquarters) and Ban Sala Dan, both on Koh Lanta Yai. Sea gypsies were originally a nomadic boat people of Indo-Malay origin who lived a very simple way of lives based on the sea. It is said that many sea gypsies have been granted land, surnames, and citizenship. They are also known as "Thai Mai" which means new Thai people. They looks like ordinary Thai, but speak their language. They have their traditional ceremonies. Women are seen working side by side to the men on the fishing boats.

The best time to visit the islands is from December to April while the sea is at its calmest, and the under water visibility is at its best. Diving, snorkeling and swimming are enjoyable during this time. In May to October monsoon season the high waves make the travel difficult and not very safe.

Accommodations and facilities
The park headquarters is at the southern end of Koh Lanta Yai island. Near the headquarters there are some bungalows. Privately run accommodations are also available. On Koh Ngai and Koh Rok (islands in the south) camping is possible, however tourists should prepare gear, food and drinking water.

Contact address
Mu Kho Lanta National Park
Moo 5 Tumbon Koh Lanta Yai,
Amphur Koh Lanta,
Krabi 81150