Phang Nga

พังงา

Famous for the dramatic limestone karst formations rising from Phang Nga Bay, including the iconic James Bond Island and sea caves. The bay offers spectacular boat tours through otherworldly seascapes with limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons.

Things to do

• James Bond Island Boat Tour — Cruise through Phang Nga Bay to the limestone outcrop featured in 'The Man with the Golden Gun', surrounded by emerald waters and dramatic karst cliffs.
• Phang Nga Bay Sea Cave Exploration — Paddle through hidden sea caves and emerald lagoons accessible only by small boat at high tide, discovering stalactites and pristine natural pools.
• Koh Panak Cave Adventure — Explore a massive limestone cave system with a lagoon inside, navigating through narrow passages and viewing ancient Buddhist shrines carved into cave walls.
• Phang Nga Town Walking Tour — Wander through the quiet provincial town to discover the Phang Nga Shrine, old shophouses, and local markets showcasing traditional Southern Thai life.
• Similan Islands Diving — Take a day trip to pristine coral reefs and underwater rock formations with excellent visibility for snorkeling and scuba diving among tropical fish.
• Ao Phang Nga National Park Kayaking — Paddle between limestone islands and mangrove forests, exploring hidden coves and beaches only accessible by kayak in this protected marine park.

Food to try

• Khao Yam — A rustic Southern Thai dish of rice mixed with herbs, shredded coconut, dried shrimp, and pounded dried fish, eaten with curry paste and fresh vegetables.
• Gaeng Som — A sour and spicy curry made with tamarind, turmeric, and fresh seafood like fish or squid, representing Phang Nga's coastal culinary tradition.
• Satay Seafood — Grilled squid, fish, or prawns threaded on skewers and served with peanut sauce, a popular street food along Phang Nga's night markets.
• Roti with Condensed Milk — Thin, crispy fried dough served with sweet condensed milk and sometimes banana, a beloved breakfast or dessert found at local stalls throughout town.
• Curry Puff (Karipap) — Deep-fried pastry filled with curried potato, chicken, or seafood, a common snack sold at markets and bakeries throughout Phang Nga province.

Local customs & good to know

• Show Respect to Buddhism — Dress modestly when visiting temples, remove shoes before entering, and never point feet toward Buddha images or monks.
• Greet with the Wai — Use the traditional Thai greeting by pressing palms together at chest level with a slight bow; the higher the hands, the greater the respect.
• Negotiate Boat Prices — Tour prices are often negotiable, especially during low season; bargain respectfully and agree on rates before departure to avoid misunderstandings.
• Respect Local Customs at Markets — Ask permission before photographing people or their goods, avoid touching merchandise without buying, and always handle money with the right hand.