Page 186 - TICA'S MICE GUIDE TO THAILAND 2018-2019

The Northeast The South

Khao Yai National Park Phang Nga Bay
Covering 2,000 square kilometres, Khao Yai Limestone islands, mangrove forests,
National Park is Thailand’s oldest and most mysterious lagoons and spectacular caves
visited national park, because it harbours one characterise this area between southern Thai-
of the largest intact monsoon forests in main- land’s mainland and Phuket Island. James Bond
land Asia. Also recognised as a UNESCO World Island, Koh Panyee (a village built over water
Heritage Site, Khao Yai has enchanted visitors on stilts), and Hong Island are just some of the
for decades, especially those who enjoy the va- sights waiting to be explored.
riety of waterfalls, panoramic hilltop viewpoints
and versatile flora and fauna. This property en- Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park
compasses 3,000 types of flowers, 250 kinds of A perfectly pristine archipelago of 42 islands
birds and 67 varieties of mammals. in the Gulf of Thailand, Mu Ko Ang Thong
National Marine Park features limestone moun-
Phanom Rung Historical Park tains, a thick jungle, waterfalls, hidden coves
A glorious memento of the Khmer empire, and lakes. It is also home to a variety of wildlife
Phanom Rung Historical Park is by far one of and sea creatures. Accessible by day trips from
the most beautiful temple complexes in South- Koh Samui, this marine park is definitely worth a
east Asia. Located at the top of a dormant visit for its stunning tropical paradise charms.
volcano 350 metres above sea level, it echoes
the architectural style of Angkor Wat, and is Koh Tao
filled with giant stairways, dramatic entrances Known as a haven for divers and coral reef
and majestic pavilions presenting surprises enthusiasts, this small island shelters various
around every corner. kinds of exotic marine life like whale sharks and
rays. Meanwhile, coastal forests in the centre
Mae Hong Son of the island give hikers a rewarding time with
Surrounded by a dense forest, high up in the plenty of photo opportunities.
mountains on the Burmese border, Mae Hong
Son is a quaint town home to a number of hill
tribes, as well as rivers great for water rafting.
Natural attractions encompass the lake in the
centre of this Thai provincial capital,
with several Shan-style temples and teak
constructions in the surrounding hills.

Phang Nga Bay
184 MICE GUIDE TO THAILAND