Koh Lanta On a Budget
Koh Lanta, Thailand
The weather in this region is very tropical with two monsoon seasons. From November to April there is the dry monsoon. Northeastern winds blow through and bring on very dry air. With months of no rain, the island becomes very dusty. During the months of May to October, the island experiences the wet monsoon season. This is when the southwestern winds bring rain from the Indian Ocean. During this season change in April the increase in rain creates a very lush and tropical atmosphere.
Sights
One of the most magnificent sights on the island are Khao Mai Kaew Caves. Located at the center of the island, the caves are made of rocks and caverns with the most stunning stalactites and stalagmites. In order to tour the caves, you will definitely need a guide. One unique option is to take an elephant ride around the caves. Be sure to bring good shoes, as the ground can be rather slippery.For a look into the unique makeup of Koh Lanta, take a trip down to Lanta Old Town. This small village on the east side of island is home to Chinese merchants, Thai fishing families and an ancient sea gypsy community. This area was once the part and commercial center for the island as trading ships from Phuket, Penang and Singapore sailed through here. Today, it's a very endearing area with great restaurants and shopping.
And of course, who goes to an island and doesn't take in the gorgeous beach scenery? Kor Kwang is a shallow and stunning beach, while Pra Ae is a crescent shaped coast with a stunning silence.
Klong Dao is the most popular beach on Koh Lanta. It's white sand and clear waters are attractive to any visitor, but because it is so long, it never feels overly crowded.
If you need more than white sand and crashing waves, Klong Nin is also covered with coconut and pine trees with a gorgeous rain forest as your backdrop. Like every beach on Koh Lanta, this beach is perfect for a quiet day of reflection and relaxation.
If you're looking for the best spot to watch the sunsets of Koh Lanta, head to Relax Beach. There aren't many options for restaurants along this beach, but all you really need is a cocktail to enjoy the sun setting on another beautiful day of your vacation.
Neighborhoods
Ko Lanta two largest islands are Ko Lanta Noi meaning "small Lanta island," and Ko Lanta Yai meaning "big Lanta island." Most of the tourist attractions are located on Ko Lanta Yai.Activities
Koh Lanta is a great spot for people who love exploring the life just under the sea. There is sea kayaking, fishing, and, of course, snorkeling. Koh Haa is the best snorkel site in all of Thailand. Lately, Koh Haa saw its fish population significantly grow due to new, strict conservation policies.Just a short boat ride away from Koh Lanta are some of the most impressive dive sites in the world. Hin Daeng and Hin Muang are have more than two hundred corals over one hundred reef fish to explore. Keep your eyes wide for whale sharks.
Food and Dining
Look out for the spices of southern Thai food (which has an Indian influence). If you're not used to it, it can come as quite a surprise. That doesn't mean you should pass up some specialty dishes of the area like indian-style Muslim curry, rice noodles in fish curry sauce or chicken birayani.Transportation
The main roads on the island are paved, and many resorts and dive shops offer transportation to their guests. Many locals will ride motorbikes, and subsequently many are available to rent. It's also possible to hire a motorbike with a sidecar as a taxi â just be sure to negotiate the price beforehand.Related:
Partying in Chiang Mai or other parts of Thailand?
Going to the Full Moon Party in Koh Phangan?
Hitting the beach in Koh Samui?
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.