Tarutao National Park

รายละเอียด

Tarutao National Park is Thailand's first marine national park, located in the Andaman Sea, in the Strait of Malacca, Indian Ocean. It is approximately 40 kilometers from the town of Satun and 22 kilometers from Pak Bara Pier. The park covers a total area of about 1,490 square kilometers (931,250 rai), consisting of 51 islands, including 7 major ones: Tarutao Island, Adang Island, Rawi Island, Lipe Island, Klang Island, Batuang Island, and Bissi Island. The park is divided into two main groups: the Tarutao Islands and the Adang-Rawi Islands.
The name "Tarutao" is derived from the Malay word "Talo Tera," meaning "many bays," which reflects the park's landscape, filled with beautiful bays and beaches. Tarutao National Park was officially declared a national park on April 19, 1974, and was later recognized by UNESCO in 1982 as an ASEAN Heritage Park, highlighting its exceptional natural beauty and ecological importance. And, now, Tarutao island is part of Satun UNESCO Global Geopark.
 
History of Tarutao National Park:
Historically, Tarutao was used as a penal colony. In 1936, under the "Criminals Detention Act," the government chose Tarutao Island as a suitable location for a prison. In 1937, the Department of Corrections sent the first group of prison staff to survey and establish a prison on the island. This site also became a vocational training center for convicts. The island continued to be used for this purpose until 1949, when it was cut off from the mainland during World War II, leading to food shortages and a lawless environment. In the early 1940s, the prison officers became pirates and raided merchant ships passing through the area, but the pirates were eventually defeated in 1949 by Thai and British forces.
In 1972, the Department of Forestry proposed the idea of turning the area, which included Tarutao, Adang, Rawi, and nearby islands, into a national park due to its rich natural resources. In 1973, a survey was conducted, and the proposal to create Tarutao National Park was approved. On April 19, 1974, Tarutao officially became Thailand's eighth national park.
 
Natural Features and Tourism Activities:
Tarutao National Park boasts diverse ecosystems both on land and in the sea. It is home to lush tropical forests, which provide a habitat for various wildlife species, as well as vibrant coral reefs that attract divers and snorkelers. The park's clear waters and colorful marine life are some of its main attractions. Visitors can enjoy activities such as diving, snorkeling, fishing, hiking, and relaxing on the peaceful beaches.
The park is also an important area for eco-tourism and environmental education, with its diverse marine life and pristine natural surroundings drawing both local and international visitors.
 
Getting There and Best Time to Visit:
To reach Tarutao National Park, visitors can take a ferry from Pak Bara Pier, located about 8 kilometers from the town of La-ngu in Satun province. The best time to visit is between November and May, as this period avoids the monsoon season. From May to October, the Adang-Rawi islands are closed for tourism due to the rainy season, making it important to plan trips during the dry months.
Tarutao National Park is not only famous for its stunning natural beauty but also for its historical significance as a former penal colony. Its combination of rich wildlife, history, and crystal-clear waters makes it one of the most renowned national parks in Thailand.