Thailand’s Andaman Wonderland of Limestone Bays, National Parks, and Eco-Tourism
Phang Nga Province is a breathtaking coastal province in Southern Thailand, located along the Andaman Sea. World-famous for Phang Nga Bay, dramatic limestone karsts, emerald lagoons, and extensive national parks, Phang Nga is a global icon of eco-tourism and marine conservation. The province plays a crucial role in Andaman tourism connectivity, linking Phuket, Krabi, and inland southern Thailand.
🏛️ Formation & Historical Background
Phang Nga’s history reflects maritime trade, coastal settlements, and natural resilience.
Key Historical Timeline
| Year/Period | Major Event |
|---|---|
| Ancient era | Coastal and maritime settlements |
| Srivijaya period | Andaman Sea trade influence |
| Ayutthaya period | Regional coastal administration |
| 19th century | Tin mining and port development |
| 1933 | Established as a modern Thai province |
| 2004 | Affected by Indian Ocean tsunami; major recovery efforts |
Phang Nga is internationally recognized for its successful post-tsunami recovery and conservation planning.
🧭 Basic Provincial Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Phang Nga Province |
| Capital City | Phang Nga |
| Region | Southern Thailand |
| Governor (2025) | Appointed by Ministry of Interior |
| Area | ~4,170 sq km |
| Population (2025 est.) | ~270,000 |
| Time Zone | UTC +7 |
| Main Languages | Thai |
| ISO Code | TH-82 |
Phang Nga has one of the lowest population densities among Andaman provinces.
⚖️ Government & Administration
Phang Nga follows Thailand’s standard provincial administrative framework with strong environmental governance.
| Level | Authority |
|---|---|
| Province | Governor |
| District | District Chiefs (Amphoe) |
| Local | Municipalities & Subdistrict Administrative Organizations |
The Phang Nga Provincial Hall oversees administration and conservation coordination.
🗺️ Administrative Districts of Phang Nga
Phang Nga Province consists of 8 districts (Amphoe):
Mueang Phang Nga
Ko Yao
Kapong
Takua Thung
Takua Pa
Khura Buri
Thap Put
Thai Mueang
🌐 Geography & Environment
Topography: Limestone mountains, mangroves, beaches
Sea: Andaman Sea
National Parks: Ao Phang Nga, Khao Lampi–Hat Thai Mueang
Islands: Ko Yao Noi, Ko Yao Yai
Borders: Phuket, Krabi, Surat Thani, Ranong
Phang Nga Bay is one of Thailand’s most photographed natural landscapes.
🏘️ Local Government Structure
Phang Nga Municipality
Takua Pa Municipality
Subdistrict Administrative Organizations (TAO/SAO)
Local governance emphasizes coastal management, disaster resilience, and eco-tourism.
🧩 Provincial Development & Priorities
Key development focuses include:
Marine and mangrove conservation
Sustainable tourism and kayaking routes
Community-based island tourism
Disaster preparedness and coastal protection
Transport connectivity with Phuket and Krabi
Phang Nga is promoted as a low-impact, high-value tourism destination.
🛡️ Law Enforcement & Safety
| Agency | Function |
|---|---|
| Phang Nga Provincial Police | Law enforcement |
| Marine Police | Coastal & island security |
| National Park Rangers | Marine & forest protection |
| Disaster Response Units | Tsunami & storm preparedness |
Safety systems are strongly shaped by post-2004 tsunami lessons.
🕊️ Religion, Language & Culture
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Major Religions | Buddhism, Islam |
| Cultural Identity | Southern Thai |
| Language | Thai |
| Community Life | Fishing & island villages |
Major Religious & Cultural Sites
Wat Suwan Khuha (Cave Temple)
Phang Nga City Pillar Shrine
Coastal mosques and temples
Cultural life reflects peaceful Buddhist–Muslim coexistence.
📈 Economy & Key Sectors
| Sector | Description |
|---|---|
| Tourism | Phang Nga Bay, islands & eco-tourism |
| Fisheries | Andaman Sea fishing |
| Agriculture | Rubber, palm oil |
| Services | Hospitality & transport |
Tourism and fisheries dominate the provincial economy.
🎓 Education & Healthcare
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Higher Education | Local colleges |
| Major Hospitals | Phang Nga Hospital |
Healthcare services support residents and tourism-driven demand.
✈️ Transport & Infrastructure
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Nearest Airports | Phuket International Airport |
| Roads | Highways linking Andaman provinces |
| Ports | Local piers & island terminals |
| Sea Routes | Island and bay boat services |
Phang Nga benefits from proximity to Phuket’s global transport hub.
🏞️ Tourism & Attractions
Top Attractions
Phang Nga Bay (James Bond Island)
Ao Phang Nga National Park
Similan Islands (nearby access)
Ko Yao Noi & Ko Yao Yai
Wat Suwan Khuha Cave Temple
Phang Nga is a flagship destination for kayaking and nature tourism.
🌍 Regional & National Role
Andaman eco-tourism leader
Marine conservation stronghold
Phuket–Krabi tourism connector
Disaster resilience model province
📝 Summary
Phang Nga Province stands as one of Thailand’s most visually stunning and environmentally significant regions. With its iconic limestone bays, protected mangroves, tranquil islands, and commitment to sustainable tourism, Phang Nga plays a vital role in shaping the future of responsible Andaman coastal development.
📢 News & Articles
“Marine Conservation Initiatives in Phang Nga Bay”
“Community-Based Tourism in Ko Yao Islands”
“Post-Tsunami Coastal Resilience in Southern Thailand”
🎯 Our Mission
This profile is part of the AFP Global Knowledge Hub, delivering structured, link-ready, and authoritative provincial knowledge.