Thalang National Museum
Located near the Two Heroines Monument, the museum features a permanent exhibition of life in old Phuket and ancient artifacts and remains discovered on the coast as well as materials used during war with Burma (Myanmar). It is open daily except national holidays from 8.30 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information call 076 311426 or 076 311025. Admission fee is 30 baht / person.
Nakha Noi Island
Located near Po Bay, approximately 25 kilometers north of Phuket City, the island offers unspoiled natural beauty that is second to none. Ko Nakha Noi is approximately 6 kilometers off of Po Bay and is home to the Naga Pearl Farm the only South Sea Pearl Farm which is open to the public all year round. Visitors will be able to learn more on techniques of pearl cultivation at the farm. Souvenir shops are available.
Phra Nang Sang Temple
Located approximately 20 kilometers from town is a historic temple that serves as an invaluable reference on Thalangs history. The compound was once used as a Burmese military camp in 1785. The ubosot is where the three oldest and biggest tin Buddha images are enshrined. They are called the Three Kings and are positioned in between three other large statues.
Phra Tong Temple
The temple is a popular attraction for both visitors and local residents. Located in the temple is the upper half of a large Buddha statue which seems to emerge from the ground. Legend has it that during the invasion of Thalang town in 1785, the Burmese made several attempts to excavate the statue in order to take it back to Burma.
Each time they dug into the ground, swarms of hornets would swoop on them and they had to give up in the end. Later, the visible part of the statue was covered with gold by the villagers and has remained as such until today.
The temple is located approximately 20 kilometers from Phuket City. Travel along Thepkrasattri Road, upon reaching the Thalang District Office, turn right and proceed directly to the temple.
Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Conservation Development and Extension Center
Located in Thalang District, approximately 20 kilometers from Phuket City, the sanctuary covers an area of 13,925 rai (5,570 acres) of rich and fertile land which is home to several types of wild animals. The compound was declared a wildlife sanctuary in July 1969. The special Palm called Chao Mueang Thalang Palm (Lang Khao Palm) can only be seen here. Major attractions in the sanctuary include:
Namtok Ton Sai
The waterfall is located approximately 22 kilometers from the town. A relatively small waterfall that looks its best in the rainy season, Namtok Ton Sai is shaded by big and small trees which make it ideal for relaxation. To get there from Thepkasattri Road, turn left at Amphoe Thalang intersection and proceed for approximately 3 kilometers. Call 076 311998 for more information.
Namtok Bang Pae
A relatively small cascade located amidst the dense woods, the waterfall is also home to the Gibbon Rehabilitation Center. To get there from the town, follow the route to the Two Heroines Monument, then turn right to Tambon Pa Khlok and proceed for approximately 7 kilometers.
For nature enthusiasts, the sanctuary has mapped out some walking trails. Further information may be obtained from the Nature Study Center.
Surin Beach Located approximately 24 kilometers from town and only in a short distance north of Laem Sing is an enchanting beach lined with casuarinas trees. Isolated and secluded, the beach is ideal for sunbathing and relaxing. The beach, however, is not suitable for swimming as it has a steep sloping beach and the weather fluctuates during the southwest monsoon. In addition, there is a golf course which was established in the reign of King Rama VII.
Several Muslim fishing communities are located nearby and Mosques are situated to the west of the beach. The local Mosque, Matsayit Mukaram, is worth visiting as it is an elegant whitewashed structure with lacquered wooden doors.
To get there, travel along Route No. 402, after reaching the Two Heroines Monument, turn left and proceed for approximately 12 kilometers.
Sing Cape
Located just one kilometer from Surin Beach, Laem Sing is a relatively small quite beach perfect for a break from the crowd. Laem Sing has a white sandy beach that glitters in the sun and is dotted with uniquely shaped rocks.
Bang Thao Beach
A large open bay that is the location of one of Phuket's longest beaches, Ao Bang Thao has a long history related to the economy of the island. Previously a tin mining area the location has been transformed into an area where Phuket's luxurious resorts and golf courses, especially Laguna complex, are located. Additional accommodations outside Laguna at the bays south end are also available.
Sirinat National Park
The park is located approximately 30 kilometers from Phuket City. Occupying an area of 90 square kilometers, the park has a 13-kilometer beach. Formerly known as Nai Yang National Park, it was declared a National Park on 13 July 1981. To reach the Park, start from Thepkasattri Road and continue towards the Thalang intersection, then take a left turn at kilometer21 and 22 markers and proceed for approximately 10 kilometers. Alternatively, at kilometer 21 and 22 markers, follow the road which leads to the airport for approximately 2 kilometers. The park consists of picture-perfect beaches and mangrove forests as follow:
Hat Nai Thon
Nestled on the rim of a secluded bay south of the park is another popular tourist attraction, especially for day trippers. Nai Thon Beach has a unique natural setting with both ends of the beach being protected by granite outcrops that serve as a natural shield making the bay a perfect nursery for both marine life and corals. The beach is suitable for swimming. For those seeking utmost solitude, it's not that far. Just walk a few hundred metres to Hin Kruai Bay to savor the moment.
To get there follow the route to Sirinat National Park, then turn left at kilometer 21 and 22 markers. At the intersection of Ban Sa Ku, turn left and proceed for approximately 3 kilometers.
Hat Nai Yang
Located to the south of Mai Khao Beach, Hat Nai Yang is a serene and isolated bay ideal for swimming and family picnics. The beach itself is impressive, as it is fringed by shady pine trees. Nearby coral reefs make explorations into the underwater world worthwhile. In addition, sea turtles are inhabitants in the area. The parks headquarters is located here.
Hat Mai Khao
Also known as the Airport Beach (Hat Sanambin), the beach is located at the northern end of Phuket Island. As Phukets longest beach, Hat Mai Khao is famous for its tranquil beach set in a relaxing ambience. Camping grounds are provided. The beach is not recommended for swimming as it slopes steeply. Hat Mai Khao is home to wonderful creatures such as sea cicadas and turtles. In addition, it is an egg-lying ground for sea turtles.
The Beach can be reached by taking the Thepkasattri Road on to the Thao Thepkasattri Bridge, then taking a left turn at the directional sign pointing to Mai Khao Beach or follow the Thepkasattri Road that passes the Airport intersection. At the Sarasin Bridge, turn left and proceed for approximately 3.5 kilometers.
Hat Sai Kaeo
Located to the north, next to Mai Khao Beach, Hat Sai Kaeo is a long white powdery beach naturally decorated with groves of pines along the shore. Ideal for relaxation, the beach is Phuket's northernmost beach.
Mangrove Forest
Located in the area of Tha Chatchai, the mangrove forest covers an area of approximately 320 acres. Situated on the islands northern tip, the place offers interesting nature trails for those wishing to learn more about the forest that protects the land and natures sea creatures.
The Two Heroines Monument
This monument was established by local residents in 1966 to honor the heroic deeds of Thao Thepkasattri and Thao Srisunthorn. It is located at the Tha Ruea intersection, Amphoe Thalang.
