Kamala Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to stay, and local culture of Kamala. Learn how to get there, what to buy, and where to go next from this ultimate tour guide.


Introduction to Kamala

Welcome to Kamala, a small coastal town located in Phuket, Southern Thailand. It sits on the western coastline of Phuket and is known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and stunning natural scenery. Compared to the more bustling and developed towns of Phuket, Kamala exudes a more peaceful and authentic vibe that is sure to enchant any traveler.

List of Places to Visit in Kamala

Kamala is a small town, but it is rich in both natural and cultural attractions. We’ve listed below the must-visit places you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Phuket FantaSea - a cultural theme park with a Las Vegas-style show, food, and carnival games.

  • Wat Baan Kamala - a small Buddhist temple in the center of Kamala; don’t miss the stunning view of the town and the Andaman sea from its hilltop location.

  • Kamala Tsunami Memorial Park - a memorial in remembrance of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami victims; it features statues and plaques dedicated to those who lost their lives.

Natural Attractions of Kamala: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kamala Beach - a beautiful white-sanded beach that stretches for 2.5 kilometers. It’s quiet and less crowded than other beaches on the island.

  • Kamala Waterfall - located in the back of Kamala village, it’s a small but picturesque waterfall with a natural pool for swimming.

  • Phuket Elephant Sanctuary - an ethical sanctuary where you can enjoy an interactive experience with rescued elephants living in their natural habitat.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kamala

Kamala’s scenery and natural beauty are among the town’s highlights. Exploring the trails and the surrounding hills is a must-do activity while in Kamala. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Kamala to Kalim Beach - a 3.5-kilometer hike that passes through scenic forests, hills, and beaches, including the beautiful Kalim Beach.

  • Kathu Waterfall Track - a beginner-level 2.5-kilometer hike that leads to a stunning waterfall and natural pool suitable for swimming.

Best Things to Do in Kamala: Activities and Tours

Kamala is full of activities and tours for all ages. From beach-side relaxation to thrilling adventures, we’ve listed some of the best things to do in Kamala below:

  • Island hopping tour - Explore neighboring islands including Phi Phi Island and Similan Islands.

  • Scuba diving and snorkeling - Try some underwater adventures and explore the coral reefs nearby.

  • Thai massage and spa - Treat yourself to a relaxing and rejuvenating massage or spa treatment.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kamala

Here’s an itinerary for a week-long visit to Kamala:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Kamala, check-in to your hotel/guesthouse, enjoy the sunset at Kamala Beach
2 Visit the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
3 Explore the natural wonders of Kamala, hike to Kamala Waterfall
4 Take an island-hopping tour around Phi Phi Islands
5 Learn about local culture, visit Wat Baan Kamala and Kamala Tsunami Memorial Park
6 Explore Kamala’s cuisine, try some local dishes, and enjoy a cooking class
7 Relax at Kamala Beach, enjoy the sun and the water, check out of your accommodation

Food and Drink Scene of Kamala

Kamala offers a range of dining options catering to every taste: from delicious Thai street food to international cuisine. Here are some of Kamala’s must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tom Yum Goong - The classic spicy and sour shrimp soup.

  • Pad Thai - A stir-fried rice noodle dish with vegetables, egg, and your choice of meat.

  • Massaman Curry - A mild yet fragrant curry dish with chicken, beef, or tofu, and potatoes.

Local Beverages

  • Thai Iced Tea - A sweet and creamy beverage made with condensed milk and tea.

  • Chang Beer - A refreshing beer brewed in Thailand.

  • Mekhong Whiskey - A popular Thai whiskey that is often mixed with cola or lime soda.

Where to Stay in Kamala: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kamala has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to quaint guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in Kamala:

  • Kamala Beach Resort, a Sunprime Resort - A luxurious beachfront resort located on Kamala Beach.

  • The Tree House Resort Kamala Beach - A cozy, forest-themed guesthouse within walking distance from the beach.

  • Kamala Beach Estate Hotel - A budget-friendly hotel, ideal for backpackers and budget travelers.

What to Buy in Kamala: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kamala is known for its local markets, selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and authentic Thai products. Here are some of the best items to bring back from Kamala:

  • Hand-carved wooden souvenirs - Beautiful handcrafted wooden products, including decorative elephants and Buddha statues, are very popular souvenirs.

  • Thai silk products - Kamala has a vibrant Thai silk market selling silk scarves, shirts, and other textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Kamala

Kamala is a small, traditional town with a rich cultural heritage. As travelers, it is essential to respect the local culture and customs. Be sure to dress conservatively when visiting temples and other religious sites, and always remove your shoes before entering a home or a temple.

Best Time to Visit Kamala

The best time to visit Kamala is during the dry season, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and sunny. The rainy season from May to October can be unpredictable, with heavy rain and strong winds at times.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kamala

To ensure a pleasant and respectful visit to Kamala, here are some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Dress respectfully when visiting religious places.

  • Try the local cuisine.

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions.

  • Wear revealing clothing in public places.

  • Disrespect the local wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kamala

Kamala is a relatively safe place to visit, but travelers should always keep their belongings safe and be vigilant when traveling alone in quiet areas or at night.

Health in Kamala

When traveling to Kamala, be sure to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. Be aware of mosquito-borne diseases such as Dengue Fever and Zika virus, and wear mosquito repellent and appropriate clothing to minimize the risk of insect bites.

Getting to Kamala: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kamala

Phuket International Airport is the closest airport to Kamala, located about 27 kilometers away. Taxis, private transfers, and airport shuttle buses are available to take visitors to Kamala.

Bus Stations Near Kamala

Buses and coaches run from Bangkok to Phuket regularly, and from the main bus station in Phuket, visitors can take a local bus or taxi to Kamala.

Other Options

Taxis, tuk-tuks, and motorbike rentals are easily available in Kamala and are a convenient method of getting around.

How to Get Around in Kamala

Getting around Kamala is easy, and there are many convenient modes of transportation available, including tuk-tuks, taxis, and motorbike rentals.

Where to Go Next from Kamala: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kamala is an excellent base for exploring nearby destinations and attractions, including:

  • Patong Beach - Kamala’s more developed and bustling neighbor.

  • Phuket Town - The historical, cultural, and commercial hub of the island.

  • Phi Phi Islands - A chain of islands known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Conclusion

Kamala may be smaller and quieter than many of the other towns in Phuket, but it has plenty of natural and cultural treasures to explore. With its beautiful beaches, lush greenery, and exciting local experiences, Kamala is a hidden gem worth discovering. From outdoor activities to cultural immersion, Kamala has it all, making it an ideal destination for any traveler. Come and visit Kamala, and experience the best of Phuket’s natural and cultural heritage.

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