Satun, Southern province near Andaman Sea, Thailand
Satun is a southern province facing the Andaman Sea, encompassing around 51 islands including Koh Lipe and portions of Tarutao National Marine Park. The land combines coastal zones with limestone mountains and forest cover.
The province grew out of the former Malay sultanate of Kedah and was incorporated into Thailand's administration in the early 20th century. This transition shaped both its boundaries and the cultural makeup that remains visible today.
The communities here blend Thai Buddhist and Malay Muslim traditions, which you notice in the food, celebrations, and daily practices across towns and villages. Walking through local markets and gathering spaces, you encounter both temple decorations and prayer calls naturally coexisting in the same area.
You can reach the province by domestic flights to the regional airport or by ferries from Pak Bara Pier heading to the islands. Travel is easiest during the drier months when sea conditions are calmer.
The Tham Le Stegodon cave system holds fossils of prehistoric elephants and stretches several kilometers through limestone mountains. These ancient remains offer a glimpse into the region's past wildlife.
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