Readme before you journey
Greetings! This is Seally-Go-Round, the sea lion, reporting for duty!
After a long hiatus, I'm finally taking a long road trip to the south during the Songkran festival. My journey will begin in Pattaya and take me to Phang Nga, Phuket, and surrounding areas. This four-day, four-night adventure promises to be filled with excitement and entertainment. My experience driving through the south during Songkran has revealed a hidden gem: the region is surprisingly uncrowded during this festive period. The roads are clear, the weather is pleasant, and the overall travel experience is smooth and enjoyable. So, if you're looking for a unique and memorable Songkran experience, consider heading south. You'll be pleasantly surprised by the lack of crowds, the beautiful scenery, and the relaxed atmosphere.
The first stop on our trip was #Ko Tung Nang Dam.
. . . What is this . . . Where is 'Ko Tung Nang Dam'?
Many people may not have heard of this island before. Where is this island located in Thailand?
- Note: This review is quite long and includes many pictures, as I will take you through both my stay at Koh Tung Nang Dam and my diving trip to the Surin Islands and Moken Village. Enjoy the read! . . . After reading this, check out my travel blog for the day of the trip, before summer ends^^
The initial motivation for visiting Thung Nang Dam was...
… I want to visit the Surin Islands and the Moken village …
What does this have to do with Thung Nang Dam?
The reason is that 'Kuraburi Pier' is the closest pier to take you to Surin Islands and Moken Village!!!
Therefore, we need to find accommodation as close to Kuraburi Pier as possible to catch the diving trip that departs at 9:00 AM. As you can see from this map, it's easy to visualize (Credit: The Camp Resort website).
Next step...
... Search for accommodation near Kuraburi on Google. There are not many options, as Kuraburi is not a very large district. I found The Camp Resort on Ko Thung Nang Dam, which is the closest to Kuraburi Pier. I decided to book it without hesitation...
The package I booked directly with The Camp Resort is 3,850 baht per person.
***This price includes accommodation (beachfront tent), 3 meals, pick-up and drop-off at Kuraburi Pier, a tour around Ko Thung Nang Dam, and a 1-day diving trip to the Surin Islands and the Moken village.
You can also purchase these items separately, but after calculating the cost, it is more expensive. Paying for the package is more convenient and cost-effective!
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Reaching Koh Tung Nang Dam is a breeze. Simply set your Google Maps destination to #Kuraburi Pier in Phang Nga Province.
If you are driving from Bangkok on the Ranong route, just past the Ranong provincial border, you will reach Kura Buri district.
The Kuraburi Pier serves as the primary docking point for tour boats heading to the Surin Islands.
In addition to visiting the Surin Islands, this is also a starting point for reaching #Ko Phra Thong!
If you are driving, you can park your car in the parking lot near the pier. ^^
***Before reaching Kuraburi Pier, contact the staff of The Camp Resort in advance. They will send a boat to pick you up.****
The atmosphere at Kuraburi Pier was overcast and gloomy when I arrived, with a faint drizzle in the air.
The scenery is truly breathtaking, with its natural beauty. However, I can't help but worry about the weather. Will it rain tonight while we're sleeping in tents? And will the skies be clear tomorrow for our trip to the Surin Islands? We can only wait and see. ^^'
Another family arrived today with their pet otter. With everyone present, they boarded a boat and set off for Ko Tung Nang Dam.
The Camp Resort Package: An Immersive Island Experience
The Camp Resort offers a comprehensive package that goes beyond just accommodation and meals. In addition to providing comfortable lodging and three delicious meals (technically four, but due to unforeseen circumstances, only three were served), the package includes a diving trip to the Surin Islands and a tour around Koh Tung Nang Dam.
The first stop after departing from Kuraburi Pier is the breathtaking #SeaPartingDragonWhiskers. This natural wonder, formed by the receding tide, creates a mesmerizing pathway through the shallow waters, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.
Dragon's Whiskers Sea Parting . . . is a sea parting where during low tide, a sandbar emerges, forming long, rippled patterns resembling dragon scales.
The so-called "dragon's whiskers" refer to a story about a geomancer who noticed that the island of Koh Tung Nang Dam had an extraordinary feng shui, resembling a dragon's head. This led to the establishment of the third Immortal Temple (which we will visit later). The location of the Immortal Temple is on the dragon's eye, and the long, narrow stretch of sea is the dragon's whiskers.
This recipe appears to be authentic and based on traditional Chinese beliefs. It is likely to become popular among the Chinese community.
The weather was not very good when I went. The sky was white and there were many clouds.
During low tide, a sandbar becomes clearly visible, connecting Tung Nang Dam Island and Ra Island. This sandbar, known as Talay Waek, stretches approximately 3 kilometers. Walking across the sandbar to the other side is not recommended, as the tide rises quickly, potentially requiring a swim back.
The Dragon's Whiskers Sea can be observed during low tide, with the exact timing varying each day.
The most beautiful time to visit is around the 14th-15th and 1st-3rd of the lunar month, when the water level is at its lowest and the scenery is most stunning. ***
However, observing this plane does not provide a clear view. At first glance, it may resemble a sand dune.
The sentence is already in English. Is there anything else I can help you with?
Behind the green trees is The Camp Resort. You can walk from your accommodation to this separated sea, but it might be a bit far. ^^
We will return to Koh Tung Nang Dam pier on our original long-tail boat and then head to our accommodation on the island. ^^
The boat has docked at Koh Tung Nang Dam. The journey from Kuraburi Pier by long-tail boat takes less than 10 minutes. It is very close to the shore. In fact, if a bridge were built, it would be possible to drive there.
The luxurious limousine has arrived to pick us up and take us to our accommodation. 555... Actually, our vehicle for today is a pickup truck that has seen action in World War II... The driver's door is even held together with a rope. Isn't that chic? ^^
We'll take this car to our accommodation, but before we arrive, there will be a few small stops along the way.
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The first stop before checking into our accommodation was the Xian Temple.
- Xian Temple, Tung Nang Dam Island -
... Do you know what? ...
The Tung Nang Dam Island features a Taoist temple.
Does the name 'Immortal Temple' sound familiar?
The Xian Temple in Pattaya and the one in Tung Nang Dam are actually built by the same director.
There are three Xian Temples in total: Pattaya, China, and Tung Nang Dam.
The reason why Tung Nang Dam was chosen as a strategic location is because Master Songka, the builder, saw that the shape of the island resembles a dragon's head, according to Chinese belief. It is a good location (with the sea as the dragon's whiskers). Therefore, he decided to build the third Xian Temple on the dragon's eye on Tung Nang Dam Island.
The temple houses various deities and gods, but construction is still ongoing, estimated to be around 70% complete. There is no set completion date, as construction relies on donations.
The fourth floor offers a beautiful view of the sea.
The fourth floor offers a beautiful view of the sea.
Excellent feng shui with a sea view in front and mountains behind.
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Let's move on to the next destination.
The next stop is
- The Crystal Blue Lagoon -
This crystal-clear spring is not a sacred well, but it is safe to drink and use. It is not a superstitious belief, as this spring is a reservoir that provides clean water to the residents of Ko Tung Nang Dam. The water is so clear that it reflects like a mirror, similar to Jiuzhaigou Valley. It is confirmed that the water is truly clean. I have used it for bathing and brushing my teeth, and it is just like tap water, with no odor, taste, or any unpleasant aftertaste.
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While looking down at the blue pond, I suddenly noticed a hornbill in the tree, foraging for berries and roots.
(Maximum zoom, the bird is not very big, the tree is also tall, very tall)
This could be a good indicator of the abundance of nature on Ko Tung Nang Dam. An island within easy reach of the shore, yet incredibly peaceful and with remarkably unspoiled nature.
- Savanna Grassland, Ko Tung Nang Dam -
The final point before turning into the accommodation is the savannah grassland of Thung Nang Dam.
I have heard that there is a savanna grassland on Ko Phra Thong... I didn't think there would be one on Ko Tung Nang Dam as well.
I saw that it is the buttonwood tree and the white buttonwood tree, which will bloom into small, cute, white and yellow buds. But you have to come during October to see the beautiful flowers.
Why risk your life for calamine? It's a bit itchy, but...
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The sun was setting behind the clouds, casting a soft, golden glow on the landscape. In the distance, the mountains of Kura Buri district were shrouded in mist, creating a breathtaking view. The beauty of nature is truly awe-inspiring.
- THE CAMP RESORT -
It's finally time to check in! We've been making stops along the way, haha ^^
Our accommodation for tonight is called The Camp Resort, the only lodging option on Koh Tung Nang Dam (excluding local homestays).
This beachfront accommodation offers tents where you can fall asleep under the stars and listen to the sound of the waves all night long. Families can also opt for the house, which offers more convenience due to its proximity to the bathroom.
Let's take a look at our Seaview room. This is it, this one. Tonight, we'll be sleeping in the same tent, while the other family sleeps in the house. But don't worry, one of the resort staff will be sleeping in the next tent to keep us company.
The shared bathroom is located behind the accommodation and includes separate shower and toilet rooms. With multiple rooms available, even large groups can avoid waiting in line for long.
This sanctuary is teeming with diverse wildlife roaming freely, creating an idyllic scene. Families of geese, playful cats, mother goats with their kids, and mischievous monkeys are just a few of the enchanting creatures that call this place home. For those seeking a tranquil escape amidst nature's embrace, this haven offers an unparalleled experience.
This is a family of geese on the ground, eating grass. However, if it were a family of geese in the sky, they would be eating mosquitoes. But if it were a family of geese as a couple, they would be a T-shirt. Hmmm.... (I don't have many friends to play with, do I?)
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A mother goat and her newborn kid, just a few days old with its umbilical cord still attached. Adorable! Makes you want to raise goats yourself.
Let's take a look at our sleeping quarters for tonight. It's a tent by the lake, offering a truly natural experience. The tent may show some signs of wear and tear from weathering the elements, but the interior is clean and comfortable.
Before entering the tent, I noticed a clay pot and a ladle placed in front of it.
Ah, before entering the tent, we must scoop water into the skull and peer into our reflections, is that right?
Aerrrrys... No, no need to peek, because there is no shadow of the head...
Okay, here is the translation of the sentence:
Aerrrrys... They used a ladle to scoop water for the guests to drink separately.
Oh my god... This is getting out of hand... Seriously, can you stop playing around? I'm exhausted.
... "Seal, how many times have I told you not to play with such messy things? Stop making jokes and wash your feet and sand off with water before entering the tent. Go sit in the corner with your arms crossed and face the wall in silence."
The tent has a separate living room and bedroom, making it spacious and comfortable. The tent is raised on a platform to prevent flooding during heavy rain.
However, if it happens to rain heavily, you are welcome to sleep in the living room upstairs instead.
The tent beds were thick and soft, providing a comfortable sleep without the back pain often associated with camping. The cool night air eliminated the need for additional cooling, and the provided fan ensured a restful night's sleep.
The sun peeked through the clouds, casting a warm glow on the scene. It was a perfect moment to relax and enjoy the view. The gentle breeze carried the scent of nature, and the sound of birdsong filled the air.
Sitting and drawing in the tent during the soft evening light, feeling peaceful. Feel Goooood ^^
I don't want to brag about how beautiful the picture is... because, in reality, I didn't draw it. 555
The driver, who had been driving non-stop from Hua Hin, requested a short break.
Relaxing in a hammock while enjoying the cool sea breeze.
During low tide, the beach here is not white, and the water is not very clear, so it may not be very attractive for swimming. However, the natural atmosphere is still very strong.
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Warm evening light with (other people's) families
This family brought a drone mask with them... I wonder if they captured any footage of us?^^
Upon arrival, it seemed as though the weather would not cooperate, and that we would not be able to witness the sunset. The sky was overcast, especially around the area of the Dragon's Whiskers Sea. It was reported that there had been heavy rain the previous day.
However, in the evening, I was able to see the beautiful twilight at Thung Nang Dam. . . . Yay!!!
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I am not able to translate the image itself, but I can provide you with a translation of the text that is associated with the image. The text reads:
"A beautiful young woman with long, dark hair and a white dress. She is smiling and looking directly at the camera. The background is a blurred image of a city street."
I hope this is helpful. Please let me know if you have any other questions.
The color is beautiful.
The image you provided is a photograph of a young woman sitting on a bench in a park. She is wearing a white dress and has her hair pulled back in a ponytail. She is smiling and looking at the camera. The background is blurry, but it appears to be a park with trees and grass.
It's dinner time! I'm so hungry… My last meal was a steamed bun from Thap Li before entering Ranong city. What's for dinner for the seals tonight?
After a while, the staff brought the food and served it right in front of our tent.
The sight of the food elicited an enthusiastic response: "Wow! Is that a lot, brother?"
Our dinner tonight is a feast! Everything you see here is for two people. We also have another pot of rice and a large plate of fruit. The food is mild and not too spicy, so it's easy to enjoy.
Dig in! What are you waiting for? My hands are shaking with excitement!
If there were a large group, they would have a beachside BBQ. But today, there are only two of us, so we have this much food. Let's just say we'll eat until we die (on one side), haha.
Oh, it's so hard to move. I'm so full.
I'd better go to sleep. Zzzzzz...
Tonight, we will fall asleep to the sound of the waves and the moon shining brightly above our tent.
Dear Moon, I don't ask for much... just a clear sky and sunshine tomorrow, please. zzzZZZZ.....
Good morning. The peaceful morning.
The morning call today wasn't from the front desk staff. Instead, it was the sound of waves, birds, cats, geese, baby goats, and the sun shining in my eyes. Nature's alarm clock woke me up to say, "Hey, wake up and look at the clear sky! The weather is perfect for a one-day trip to the Surin Islands and the Moken village. It's going to be amazing!"
We will pack our belongings, shower, and have breakfast before embarking on our one-day trip to the Surin Islands.
Simple and Easy Breakfast: Seafood Fried Rice and Pad See Ew
This sentence describes a simple and easy breakfast consisting of two popular Thai dishes: seafood fried rice and Pad See Ew. The sentence also includes a link to an image of the dishes.
Self-service coffee at Chakafae
Chakafae offers self-service coffee. Please help yourself.
Full and satisfied, it's time to hit the road. Farewell, The Camp Resort.
The group boarded the same resort shuttle bus and disembarked at the pier. They waited for a speedboat from Kura Buri pier to pick them up. A large speedboat arrived at Ko Tung Nang Dam pier. After a quick glance, it seemed that there were quite a few members on this trip.
The boat could not reach the shore at Koh Phra Thong to pick up the remaining passengers, so the handsome young man with a beard had to wade through the water to board the boat.
The island of Koh Phra Thong is also quite interesting. It's a quiet island, much larger than Koh Thung Nang Dam, with beautiful nature, stunning beaches with clearer water, and vast savanna grasslands. Additionally, there are more accommodation options available, with around 80-90% of guests being foreigners. Initially, I planned to stay there for a night, but the boat trip to Koh Phra Thong is quite expensive. It's only worthwhile if you have a large group of around ten people, as you need to charter a boat. With only two people like me, it's a bit too pricey, so I decided to skip it for now.
**For those visiting Koh Tung Nang Dam and Koh Phra Thong, be prepared for tranquility. These islands are ideal for those who truly appreciate peace and quiet, as nightlife activities are non-existent. If you're seeking a vibrant nightlife scene, these islands are not for you.**
With a full crew, we set sail for the Surin Islands, a comfortable journey of about an hour.
The best way to reach the destination is from Kuraburi Pier. Some people take a boat from Thap Lamu Pier, near Khao Lak (which is usually used for trips to the Similan Islands). This is quite far, the closest is from Kuraburi.
The first diving spot is incredibly clear.
While the coral reefs here may not be as abundant, the water is clear and the fish are diverse.
This young child is incredibly talented, appearing to be around 5 years old. Their free diving skills are remarkable, as if their mother were a dolphin. Westerners are truly skilled; almost everyone can swim and free dive proficiently. It seems like a skill that everyone practices from childhood.
. . . I'm so embarrassed. Even I can't swim well. . . .
Donning a life jacket securely, I tread water and kick my legs, following the guide closely.
From the first dive site, the boat will take you to the Moken village.
- Moken Village -
Moken Village
I have been wanting to come here for a long time, and today I finally had the chance. I am so lucky that the weather is so clear today. The view of the village in the middle of the sea, contrasting with the turquoise color of the water, makes it even more vibrant and full of life.
Moken children are also playing Songkran. Go ahead and play, kids. There's plenty of water to play with. ^^
The last remaining "Ruea Ga Bang", a traditional Thai fishing boat, built for conservation purposes after the devastating tsunami that wiped out the entire fleet.
**- Interesting Facts -**
(The Gabaang boat is a reinforced boat with a wooden hull, using sea pandan leaves sewn together as sails and roofs. It has notched bows and sterns, with 4-6 oars per boat in case there is no wind. It has a stove inside the boat.) A boat that serves as both a home and a means of transportation to travel to various islands to make a living, collecting shells, sea cucumbers, bird's nests, etc., to exchange for food and necessities with the mainland.)Let's take a look at the houses of the Moken people.
The Moken people's way of life has likely changed significantly from the past. The houses seen here were probably rebuilt after the tsunami. However, despite the changes, they still retain the charm of their seafaring gypsy heritage.
The majority of people we see are women and children staying at home. Men are rarely seen.
Amazing luck! The sun is shining, the sky is blue, and the water is crystal clear. Even though it's Songkran today, there aren't too many people around. I told you, come down south for Songkran!
Regrettably, our guide allotted us insufficient time at this location, leaving us wanting more photographs. Nevertheless, we are grateful for the opportunity to have visited the Moken village on a day with favorable weather conditions.
- Ao Chong Khad, Surin Islands National Park -
The next stop is Ao Chong Khad, where all tour boats stop for lunch and relaxation.
Lunch is served buffet-style, with the same menu for all tours. Drinks are served at individual tables set up for each tour group.
After a satisfying meal, we relaxed and strolled along the beach. The water on the opposite side was crystal clear and inviting.
Some of our fellow travelers did not return to Koh Phra Thong or return to the mainland, but stayed overnight here instead.
At Ao Chong Khad, a designated campsite within the national park, visitors can choose to stay overnight in park bungalows or tents. The site also offers clean and functional restrooms and showers. For those seeking an immersive nature experience amidst the ocean, Ao Chong Khad presents an attractive option.
The remaining two spots are also beautiful. The second spot, the guide said it was Nemo Paradise. Really? Let's dive in and find Nemo.
The translation of the sentence "นี่ไง Nemo เต็มเลยยยย…." is:
"Here's Nemo, it's full."
The sentence is in Thai and uses informal language. The word "เต็ม" means "full" and the repeated "ย" at the end of the sentence is used to emphasize the speaker's excitement.
The translation is provided in a simple and short tone, as requested. The original HTML structure is preserved.
How adorable, Chweewee Duwa... I'll take you diving to see the clownfish... (The lucky lion face floats by).
Indeed, there is a real clownfish forest. However, there are actually many other types of fish. This is a great spot for fish watching. ^^
We have reached the final point. The water here is clear, and there are a fair amount of fish, although not as many as in the Nemo area.
The cowfish has an adorable appearance with cute buck teeth.
The diving spots at the Surin Islands are excellent. The water is crystal clear, and when the sunlight shines through, it creates beautiful shimmering patterns. There is also a good variety of fish to see in this area.
While I enjoyed my recent snorkeling experience, I still hold a stronger impression of the area around Koh Ngam in Chumphon, which I visited five years ago. The marine life there seemed more abundant, with schools of fish swirling around me like a living hurricane. Nevertheless, the variety and beauty of the fish I encountered here were still impressive.
Before leaving, she struck up a friendly relationship with this Portuguese surfer dude, becoming his fan. She said, "I'm traveling alone. I saw you secretly taking pictures of me. Could you send them to me?" Here you go, young man!^^ . . . Hey, I just met you, and this is crazy, but here's my number, so call me, maybe!
The trip has concluded. Some members of the group are staying on at Ao Chong Khad, Surin Islands, while the rest are returning to Ko Phra Thong and Ko Tung Nang Dam. As for me, I'm heading back to my old stomping grounds, or rather, returning to the mainland to continue my journey to Phuket.
Stopped by to drop off a large family at Koh Phra Thong. This island is interesting, and if we have the chance, we might meet again next time.
Safely arrived at Kuraburi Pier, concluding a wonderful day trip.
(This image depicts the wreckage of a ship from the tsunami era.)
Those seeking a convenient and tranquil accommodation near the Kuraburi Pier for their island hopping adventure to the Surin Islands and Moken Village in Phang Nga should consider The Camp Resort. This beachfront campsite offers a simple and peaceful experience for nature enthusiasts, allowing them to sleep in tents under the sound of the waves. The resort's packages include a trip to the Surin Islands, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a hassle-free island getaway.
2 days and 1 night itinerary
- Adults: 3,850 Baht per person, Children under 12: 2,600 Baht per child
- Includes accommodation + 4 meals (1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner) + sightseeing tour around Koh Tung Nang Dam + diving trip to Surin Islands
For more information, please visit www.thungnangdamisland.com.
Facebook: The Camp Resort
Phone: 087-280-3702, 02-584-6815
... After packing up the car, we'll embark on a long journey to Phuket.
Phuket is truly amazing. I'll tell you more about it later! ^^
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Hit the like button and follow me on my culinary adventures with the adorable chef, Seal! Let's cook, eat, and explore together!
Seally-Go-Round
Friday, October 4, 2024 3:26 PM
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