Similan Islands National Park, Marine national park in Phang-nga, Thailand
Similan Islands National Park consists of nine granite islands in the Andaman Sea with white sand beaches and underwater rock formations. The waters surrounding these islands are home to coral reefs and a variety of marine life.
The Thai government established this national park in 1982 to protect the marine ecosystems and coral reefs of the archipelago. Since then it has remained a protected area preserving the fragile habitats of the region.
The name Similan comes from the Yawi language spoken in southern Thailand and refers to the nine islands of the archipelago. Local communities have maintained a deep connection to the sea and its resources over generations.
The best time to visit is from November to April when weather conditions allow for safe boat trips and diving activities. During these months the sea remains calm enough for comfortable island access.
The park is home to over 500 species of hard corals and regularly attracts manta rays and whale sharks that move through the island channels. These large marine animals appear especially in the deeper waters and passages between islands.
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