Surat Thani, Thailand Travel Guide

Discover Surat Thani: The heart of southern Thailand with a blend of rich history, delicious cuisine, and easy access to stunning natural wonders and islands.

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Surat Thani

Surat Thani, often referred to as the 'City of Good People,' is a vibrant and bustling city situated in the southern part of Thailand. It serves as a major transport hub for travelers heading to the famed islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao. Despite being a transit point, Surat Thani has its own unique charm and offers an authentic taste of local Thai culture. The city boasts a rich history that dates back to the Srivijaya Empire, and you can see remnants of this fascinating past in its temples and ancient ruins. The Surat Thani Night Market is a must-visit, where you can indulge in a plethora of street food delights, from spicy curries to sweet desserts. The market is also a great place to shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs. Nature enthusiasts will find Surat Thani's natural reserves and parks captivating. Khao Sok National Park, with its lush rainforests, limestone mountains, and stunning lakes, is just a short drive away. Don't miss the opportunity to take a boat tour on Cheow Lan Lake, where you can marvel at the emerald waters and spot exotic wildlife. Surat Thani also offers river cruises along the Tapi River, providing a serene escape from the bustling city life.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Surat Thani.

Visit the Surat Thani Night Market for authentic street food and local crafts.
Take a boat tour on Cheow Lan Lake in Khao Sok National Park for breathtaking views.
Use Surat Thani as a base to reach the islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao.
Explore the city's temples and ruins to get a glimpse of its historical significance.
Consider a river cruise along the Tapi River for a peaceful and scenic experience.

Explore Surat Thani: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Surat Thani

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Ko Lamphu Park

Explore the serene landscapes of Ko Lamphu Park, a tranquil escape in Surat Thani, perfect for nature lovers and relaxation seekers.

4.5

Klong Namsai

Experience the tranquil beauty and vibrant culture at Klong Namsai, a must-visit tourist attraction in Surat Thani, Thailand.

4.2

Laem Pho

Explore Laem Pho, a breathtaking state park in Surat Thani, Thailand, where nature, adventure, and tranquility await every traveler.

4.3

Khun Thale Swamp

Experience the serene beauty of Khun Thale Swamp, a picturesque park in Surat Thani, Thailand, perfect for nature lovers and peaceful escapes.

4.5

Best landmarks in Surat Thani

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Ko Lamphu Park

Explore Ko Lamphu Park in Surat Thani, a serene escape with lush landscapes, tranquil lakes, and a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.

4.5

Klong Namsai

Explore the natural beauty and cultural treasures of Klong Namsai, a serene tourist attraction in Surat Thani, Thailand, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

4.2

Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine

Experience the tranquil beauty and cultural richness of Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine, a must-see landmark for every traveler.

4.6

Surat Thani International Airport

Experience southern Thailand's charm through Surat Thani International Airport, your gateway to stunning beaches and lush landscapes.

4.2

Best restaurants in Surat Thani

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Lucky Restaurant

Experience authentic Thai flavors at Lucky Restaurant in Surat Thani - where every dish tells a story.

4.5

Lam Phu 2 Restaurant

Discover authentic Thai seafood at Lam Phu 2 Restaurant in Surat Thani - where freshness meets flavor in every bite.

4.1

Yok Kheng

Discover authentic Thai flavors at Yok Kheng in Surat Thani - where every bowl tells a story.

4.4

Day & Night of Suratthani

Savor authentic Thai cuisine at Day & Night in Suratthani – where every dish tells a story and every visit feels like home.

4.3

Best bars in Surat Thani

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The Botanist House

Discover The Botanist House, where innovative cocktails meet cozy café vibes in the heart of Surat Thani, Thailand.

4.8

Chom Bar & Bistro

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Surat Thani at Chom Bar & Bistro, where great drinks and good music create unforgettable memories.

4.4

The plean

Experience the vibrant music scene at The Plean, a live music bar in Surat Thani, where local talent brings unforgettable nights alive.

4.4

Not Teen Anymore

Discover a vibrant nightlife at Not Teen Anymore, Surat Thani's premier cocktail bar and beer haven, where every sip tells a story.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Surat Thani

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NICE Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Surat Thani at NICE Bar, where refreshing drinks and lively atmosphere create unforgettable memories.

3.9

VIBES

Dance the night away at VIBES Night Club, Surat Thani's ultimate nightlife destination with electrifying music and vibrant atmosphere.

3.9

Party Restaurant

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Surat Thani at this lively karaoke bar, where music and laughter create unforgettable memories.

4.5

Turng Print - เติ้ง ปริ้นเตอร์

Experience the electrifying nightlife at Turng Print, Surat Thani's premier night club, where music and fun come alive.

5.0

Best shops in Surat Thani

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Big C Supercenter Surat Thani

Experience the vibrant shopping atmosphere at Big C Supercenter Surat Thani – where local culture meets convenience.

4.3

Central Surat Thani

Experience the vibrant shopping scene and rich culture at Central Surat Thani, where modern retail meets traditional Thai charm.

4.5

Lotus's Suratthani

Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Lotus's Suratthani, where local flavors meet global products in a lively hypermarket setting.

4.3

Sahathai Garden Plaza Surat Thani

Experience the vibrant shopping atmosphere at Sahathai Garden Plaza, Surat Thani's top destination for shopping, dining, and local culture.

4.1

Explore Surat Thani on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Surat Thani, mapped for you.

Surat Thani Essentials

Surat Thani is well-connected by air, rail, and road. Surat Thani International Airport (URT) is the main gateway for domestic and some international flights. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to the city center. For rail travel, Surat Thani Railway Station is a major stop on the Southern Line of the State Railway of Thailand, with regular services from Bangkok and other major cities. If you prefer traveling by bus, several long-distance buses run between Bangkok and Surat Thani, as well as other regional destinations.
Within Surat Thani, you can use various means of transportation including taxis, songthaews (shared pickup trucks), and tuk-tuks. Motorbike rentals are also popular and offer flexibility for exploring the area. For longer distances, buses and minibuses connect Surat Thani with nearby towns and tourist spots such as Koh Samui and Khao Sok National Park. Note that while public transport is affordable, it may not always adhere to a strict schedule.
The official currency in Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases and in rural areas. ATMs are plentiful in Surat Thani, and currency exchange services are available at the airport and in the city center.
Surat Thani is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone late at night in isolated areas. Be cautious with your belongings, especially in crowded places such as markets and bus stations. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, petty theft can occur. Always keep an eye on your personal items and avoid displaying large amounts of cash.
In case of emergency, dial 191 for police assistance, 1669 for medical emergencies, and 199 for fire services. Surat Thani Hospital is the main medical facility in the area. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do show respect for local customs; remove your shoes and cover your shoulders when entering temples. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a traditional Thai 'wai' (placing your palms together in a prayer-like gesture). Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and street food. Don’t waste food, as it's considered disrespectful.
To experience Surat Thani like a local, visit the vibrant night market where you can sample delicious street food and buy local crafts. Take a boat tour on the Tapi River for unique views of the city. Engage with locals; they are generally friendly and willing to share insights about the area. Don’t miss visiting the Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya, an ancient temple with historical significance. For a quiet retreat, explore the lesser-known temples and natural parks around the city.

When is the best time to visit Surat Thani?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Surat Thani

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Surat Thani. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloสวัสดี
  [sawasdee]
- Goodbyeลาก่อน
  [la kon]
- Yesใช่
  [chai]
- Noไม่
  [mai]
- Please/You're welcomeโปรด/ยินดี
  [proht/yin dee]
- Thank youขอบคุณ
  [kop khun]
- Excuse me/Sorryขอโทษ
  [khor toht]
- How are you?สบายดีไหม?
  [sabai dee mai?]
- Fine. And you?สบายดีค่ะ คุณล่ะ?
  [sabai dee ka kun la?]
- Do you speak English?คุณพูดภาษาอังกฤษได้ไหม?
  [kun poot paa saa ang grit dai mai?]
- I don't understandฉันไม่เข้าใจ
  [chan mai kao jai]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseขอดูเมนูหน่อยค่ะ
  [khor doo menu noi ka]
- I don't eat meatฉันไม่กินเนื้อ
  [chan mai gin neua]
- Cheers!ชนเครื่องดื่ม!
  [chon kreung deum]
- I would like to pay, pleaseขอจ่ายเงินหน่อยค่ะ
  [khor jai ngern noi ka]
- Help!ช่วยด้วย!
  [chuai dua!]
- Go away!ไปหายไป!
  [pai hai pai!]
- Call the Police!โทรตำรวจ!
  [thoh tamruat!]
- Call a doctor!โทรหมอ!
  [thoh mor!]
- I'm lostฉันหลงทาง
  [chan long tang]
- I'm illฉันไม่สบาย
  [chan mai sabai]
- I'd like to buy...ฉันอยากซื้อ...
  [chan yak seu...]
- I'm just lookingฉันแค่ดู
  [chan kae doo]
- How much is it?ราคาเท่าไหร่?
  [ra ka thao rai?]
- That's too expensiveแพงเกินไป
  [paeng geun pai]
- Can you lower the price?ลดราคาได้ไหม?
  [lot ra ka dai mai?]
- What time is it?ตอนนี้กี่โมงแล้ว?
  [ton nee kee mong laeo?]
- It's one o'clockเป็นโมง
  [pen mong]
- Half past (10)สามทุ่ม
  [sam tum]
- Morningเช้า
  [chao]
- Afternoonบ่าย
  [bai]
- Eveningเย็น
  [yen]
- Yesterdayเมื่อวาน
  [meua waan]
- Todayวันนี้
  [wan nee]
- Tomorrowพรุ่งนี้
  [proong nee]
- 1หนึ่ง
  [neung]
- 2สอง
  [song]
- 3สาม
  [sam]
- 4สี่
  [si]
- 5ห้า
  [ha]
- 6หก
  [hok]
- 7เจ็ด
  [jet]
- 8แปด
  [paet]
- 9เก้า
  [gao]
- 10สิบ
  [sip]
- Where's a/the...?...อยู่ที่ไหน?
  [...yoo tee nai?]
- What's the address?ที่อยู่อย่างไร?
  [tee yoo yang rai?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?แสดงให้ฉันดูได้ไหม?
  [sa daeng hai chan doo dai mai?]
- When's the next (bus)?รถต่อไปเมื่อไหร่?
  [roh tor pai meua rai?]
- A ticket (to ....)ตั๋ว (ไป...)
  [tua (pai...)]

History of Surat Thani

Surat Thani, meaning 'City of Good People,' traces its origins back to the Srivijaya Empire, a powerful maritime kingdom that flourished between the 7th and 13th centuries. The region was a strategic hub for trade and Buddhism, with artifacts and temple ruins still scattered across the province. Archaeological finds at Chaiya, a district in Surat Thani, reveal remnants of ancient temples and inscriptions in the Pallava script, indicating the area's historical significance as a religious and cultural center.
During the height of the Srivijaya Empire, Surat Thani played a crucial role as a center for Buddhist learning and maritime trade. The empire's influence extended throughout Southeast Asia, and Surat Thani's strategic location on the Gulf of Thailand made it an important port for traders from China, India, and the Middle East. The Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya, an ancient temple believed to date back to the Srivijaya period, stands as a testament to the region's historical significance.
As the Srivijaya Empire waned, Surat Thani came under the influence of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, which ruled much of Thailand from the 14th to the 18th centuries. During this period, the region remained an important trade center. After the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767, Surat Thani briefly became part of the Thonburi Kingdom under King Taksin, before eventually becoming incorporated into the Rattanakosin Kingdom under King Rama I.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw significant changes in Surat Thani, as the region began to modernize under the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V). The construction of roads, railways, and the introduction of rubber plantations transformed the economy and infrastructure, integrating Surat Thani more closely with the rest of Thailand. The establishment of the Ban Don railway station in 1915 marked a turning point in the region's connectivity and development.
During World War II, Surat Thani experienced Japanese occupation, which left a lasting impact on the region. The Japanese used the province as a strategic base for operations in Southeast Asia. The remnants of bunkers and airstrips can still be found in certain areas, serving as a grim reminder of this tumultuous period in the province's history.
After World War II, Surat Thani underwent rapid development, transforming into a bustling urban center. The discovery of the natural beauty of nearby islands, such as Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao, led to a tourism boom in the latter half of the 20th century. Surat Thani became the gateway for tourists exploring these tropical paradises, significantly boosting the local economy and transforming the cultural landscape.
Surat Thani is rich in cultural heritage, with numerous festivals and traditions that reflect its diverse history. The Chak Phra Festival, a Buddhist event celebrating the end of the Buddhist Lent, features vibrant parades, boat races, and cultural performances. The city is also known for its traditional shadow puppet theater, Nang Talung, and its unique southern Thai cuisine, which offers a rich tapestry of flavors influenced by the region's historical trade connections.