Shopping

Cultivated pearls, batiks, pewter ware and tailor-made clothing are Phuket’s best known buys. The widest range of shops, including department stores, are found in Phuket town and at Hat Patong.
Situated immediately north of Phuket, from where it is an easy excursion option, Phang-nga covers an area of 4,170 sq. km. and its provincial capital lies 788 km. to the south of Bangkok. The province’s main attractions stem primarily from the area’s geological formations. This has produced an extraordinary number of islands, caves and rocky outcrops, the most notable being those preserved in the national marine parks of Ao Phang-nga, Mu Ko Similan and Mu Ko Surin.

Inland the major sights are caves, waterfalls, temples and the archaeological site of Ban Thung Tuek. With a remarkable geological site, Phang-nga is essentially a province to explore, as well as where to find some of the country’s best scuba-diving spots. There are, however, beaches and a choice of resort accommodation, which allow for a tranquil vacation amid the most stunning natural scenery.