Mu Ko Lanta National Park is a beautiful marine park in the southern part of Krabi Province, Thailand. It was created on August 15, 1990. There are 16 islands in the park, and Ko Lanta Yai and Ko Lanta Noi are the biggest. The park covers 134 km². “Mu Ko” means “group of islands” in Thai. These islands have a wide range of landscapes, including pristine beaches, rainforests, mangroves, and beach forests. Ko Lanta Yai is the main tourist spot, but there are also smaller islands that are quieter and have hidden gems. The park is also home to the Chao Le, nomadic sea gypsies who are known for their cultural rituals, such as setting ceremonial boats adrift during full moons to keep bad things from happening and bring good luck.
History of Mu Ko Lanta National Park
The Chao Le lived on the islands before they became a national park. They have lived in harmony with the environment for generations. The area was made a marine park to protect its unique ecosystems, which include coral reefs, mangrove forests, and a wide range of animals. The park has become more popular with eco-tourists and adventure travellers over the years, but it has kept its natural beauty. The park’s conservation work is mostly about protecting endangered species like the dugong and Sunda colugos and keeping the cultural heritage of the local communities alive. Mu Ko Lanta National Park is a symbol of eco-friendly tourism and a must-see place for people who love nature.
Things to Do in Mu Ko Lanta National Park
- Take it easy on the clean beaches: On Ko Lanta Yai and other islands, you can sunbathe, swim or just enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Snorkelling and diving are great ways to see colourful coral reefs and tropical fish around Ko Ngai and nearby smaller islands.
- Hiking and nature walks: Hike through the rainforest and mangrove forests to see animals like dusky leaf monkeys, crab-eating macaques and Sunda slow lorises.
- Birdwatching: The islands are home to more than 130 species of birds, so birdwatchers will love it there.
- Cultural Experience: Go to the Chao Le (sea gipsy) community to see traditional ceremonies, like the ceremonial boat ritual that happens on full moons.
- Watching the sunset: The western coast of Ko Lanta Yai has some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world, making it a great place for photography or a romantic evening.
Timings, Entry Fee and the Best Time to Visit
The best time to go is between November and April, when the weather is dry and sunny, which is great for hiking, snorkelling, and going to the beach. The park is open every day from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Adults pay 200 THB and kids pay 100 THB to get into Mu Ko Lanta National Park.
Tips before you visit the park
- Wear clothes and shoes that are comfortable and good for hiking and going to the beach.
- Bring a lot of water, sunblock, and bug spray.
- If you want to see underwater life, bring snorkelling gear.
- To protect the environment, don’t leave trash behind and follow the rules of the park.
- You can rent a scooter and explore the islands at your own pace.
- When you plan to hop from one island to another, keep an eye on the weather and the tides.
Parks to Visit in Krabi
- Than Bok Khorani National Park is special because it has green pools, limestone cliffs, and mangrove forests.
- Khao Phanom Bencha National Park has trails, caves, and a beautiful rainforest to explore.
- The Khao Pra–Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the rare black-breasted pitta bird, which you might see near the beautiful Emerald Pool.
