Ko Lanta Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture and customs of Ko Lanta, Thailand. Read on for a comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Ko Lanta

Ko Lanta, located in Krabi Province of Southern Thailand, is a perfect destination for those looking to escape the crowded beaches of Phuket and Krabi. It’s a serene and laid-back island that attracts visitors with its clean beaches, impressive coral reefs, lush jungles, and diverse wildlife.

Ko Lanta offers a variety of activities for travelers, from island-hopping and snorkeling to cooking classes and elephant trekking. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to plan your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Ko Lanta

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sang Ga U: The remains of an ancient settlement that dates back to around 500 BC
  • Lanta Old Town: A quaint and charming old town with traditional Chinese-style wooden houses and shops
  • Sea Gypsies Settlement: A small fishing village of the Chao Leh people who have their unique way of life and traditions

Natural Attractions of Ko Lanta: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Khao Mai Kaew Cave: A beautiful and serene cave filled with stalactites and stalagmites
  • Klong Jark Beach: A vast and private beach nestled in the lush rainforest, offering a great place for relaxation or snorkeling
  • Thung Yee Pheng Mangrove Forest: A stunning mangrove forest that you can explore on a kayak or a guided tour

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ko Lanta

  • Khao Mai Kaew Cave: A short and easy trek from the entrance of the cave to the main chamber
  • Klong Dao Beach to Klong Nin Beach: A scenic bike route along the west coast of Ko Lanta
  • Lanta National Park: A beautiful park with well-marked trails, a waterfall, and a lighthouse

Best Things to Do in Ko Lanta: Activities and Tours

  • Island-hopping: A must-do activity on Ko Lanta, taking you to nearby islands like Koh Rok Nok, Koh Muk, and Koh Phi Phi
  • Elephant Trekking: A great way to explore Ko Lanta’s lush jungle and wildlife
  • Thai Cooking Classes: Learn how to prepare traditional Thai dishes from local chefs
  • Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Explore the colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life around Ko Lanta and its surrounding islands

Week-Long Itinerary for Ko Lanta

Day Activity
Day 1 Relax on Klong Dao Beach and enjoy a sunset drink
Day 2 Go on a day trip for snorkeling to Koh Rok Nok
Day 3 Explore the Old Town of Ko Lanta and Sea Gypsies Settlement
Day 4 Visit Lanta National Park and go on a hike
Day 5 Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Thai dishes
Day 6 Go on a day trip to Koh Phi Phi
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the last day on the Klong Nin Beach

Food and Drink Scene of Ko Lanta

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tom Kha Gai: A delicious soup made with coconut milk, chicken, and spices
  • Massaman Curry: A mild curry with influences from Indian and Muslim flavors
  • Som Tam: A spicy salad made with papaya, chili, and lime

Local Beverages

  • Chang beer: A popular Thai beer that pairs well with spicy food
  • Krabi Rum: A locally produced rum that you’ll find in most bars on Ko Lanta
  • Fresh coconut: A refreshing drink that you can find on the street vendors across the island

Where to Stay in Ko Lanta: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Houben: A luxurious and stylish hillside resort with stunning views of the ocean
  • Lanta Sand Resort & Spa: A serene beachfront resort with excellent spa services
  • Escape-Cabins: A budget-friendly option with cozy cabins nestled in the lush forest

What to Buy in Ko Lanta: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade coconut shell soap dishes and spoons: A unique and eco-friendly souvenir
  • Batik and Silk Scarves: A great gift for fashion lovers
  • Local spices and herbs: Bring home some of the unique flavors of Thai cuisine

Local Culture and Customs of Ko Lanta

  • Buddhism: The majority of Thai people are Buddhists, and you’ll see many temples, shrines, and monk processions around the island.
  • Respect Thai customs: Avoid pointing your feet at people or sacred objects, as this is seen as disrespectful in Thai culture.
  • Dress appropriately: When visiting temples or other religious sites, dress conservatively and cover your shoulders and knees.

Best Time to Visit Ko Lanta

The best time to visit Ko Lanta is from November to April when the weather is sunny and dry, offering the best conditions for snorkeling, diving, and outdoor activities. The rainy season starts in May and lasts until October, with occasional showers and moderate heat.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ko Lanta

Do:

  • Respect local customs: As mentioned above, it’s essential to respect Thai customs when visiting the island.
  • Drink bottled water: To avoid getting sick, drink only bottled water and avoid drinking water from the tap.
  • Use sunscreen: Ko Lanta can be scorching, and it’s important to use sunscreen and wear a hat to avoid sunburn.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter: It’s essential to protect the environment and keep the island beautiful by disposing of waste properly.
  • Do not touch animals: Avoid feeding or touching wild animals, like monkeys or snakes, as these interactions may be dangerous.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ko Lanta

Ko Lanta is a safe destination, with low crime rates. However, it’s always essential to keep an eye on your valuables and stay alert in crowded areas.

Health in Ko Lanta

There are no major health concerns in Ko Lanta, but it’s wise to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites, especially during the rainy season. It’s also essential to stay hydrated and avoid excessive drinking, as the heat can be overwhelming.

Getting to Ko Lanta: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ko Lanta

The closest airports to Ko Lanta are Krabi Airport and Trang Airport, both located less than two hours away by car. From there, you can take a taxi or a shared minivan to reach the island.

Bus Stations Near Ko Lanta

If you’re coming from Bangkok or other major cities in Thailand, you can take a bus to Krabi or Trang, and then take a taxi or a minivan to Ko Lanta.

Other Options

You can also reach Ko Lanta by ferry from the nearby islands of Phi Phi, Koh Lipe, Koh Ngai, and Koh Muk.

How to Get Around in Ko Lanta

The easiest way to get around Ko Lanta is by renting a motorbike or a car. Taxis and tuk-tuks are also available but can be more expensive.

Where to Go Next from Ko Lanta: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Koh Ngai: A small and idyllic island known for its clear waters and powdery white sand beaches.
  • Koh Lipe: A paradise-like island on the edge of the Andaman Sea, famous for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.
  • Krabi: A popular tourist destination with magnificent limestone cliffs, hot springs, and beautiful beaches.

Conclusion

Ko Lanta is an idyllic island offering a great mix of adventure, relaxation, and local culture. It’s an excellent option for those looking to escape the crowded beaches of southern Thailand and enjoy a laid-back holiday in a beautiful setting. Plan your trip ahead and explore all the attractions and experiences this hidden gem has to offer.

Ko Lanta Yai Beach Ko Lanta Yai Beach Diving near Ko Lanta Diving near Ko Lanta Longtail boat Longtail boat Basic wooden bungalows as found in cheaper resorts Basic wooden bungalows as found in cheaper resorts