At the edge of the Gulf of Thailand, just before giving way to the mainland is an island known for its natural beauty and protected for the temples located therein. More recent additions to the man made structures on the island are the Koh Phangan Resorts where all those curious to know of the true wondrousness of Thailand congregate. The entirety of the land is 125 square kilometers, of which a large extent of is taped off as sanctuaries. The remainder of the land is shared by the tiny population and the resplendent domiciles such as the Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas.
Koh Phangan or the land of sand bars can be accessed from mainland Thailand only via ferry as the sole airport is still in the works. The entire island is a bountiful gift of nature with rivers that transform into waterfalls and rock pools, dense jungle, tiny coves and mountainous terrain. The area designated as the national park of Than Sadet is richly endowed with these gifts and proffer many an opportunity to naturalists and trekkers. The estuary of the Khao Raa River is where the trek usually commences to conquer the mountain which rises about 600m above sea level. Atop the mound, grand vistas await on all sides and it is interesting to note how the waters of the ocean change in its shade of blue around the island.
The national park also houses a large number of animals and plants amidst what is commonly referred to as the largest tree on the island. The bodies of water are where all tourists stop for a break; however, there are clear indications that the locals are serious about keeping the national park free of litter. The water also welcomes a few creatures every now and then as it gushes past adding a delicious sound to the still silence of the park.
Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world.