Surat Thani is Thailand's largest southern province, renowned as the gateway to world-famous Gulf islands including Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao. The province combines pristine island beaches, the ancient rainforest of Khao Sok National Park, and the emerald waters of Cheow Lan Lake, making it one of Thailand's most diverse destinations.
Surat Thani province has one of the richest histories in Southeast Asia, having served as the center of the powerful Srivijaya Empire from the 7th to 13th centuries. The town of Chaiya, just north of the current provincial capital, was likely a major Srivijaya capital and is home to some of the finest Buddhist art ever produced in the region. After the decline of Srivijaya, the area came under successive Thai kingdoms before becoming part of the Ayutthaya Kingdom and eventually modern Thailand. The province's name, meaning 'City of Good People', reflects its historical importance as a prosperous administrative center.
Historical timeline
Key moments that shaped Surat Thani.
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1
Srivijaya Empire Rises
The Srivijaya Empire, centered partly around Chaiya (modern Surat Thani), emerges as a major maritime power controlling trade routes between India and China. Buddhism flourishes.
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2
Chaiya as Srivijaya Capital
Chaiya serves as a major center of the Srivijaya Empire. Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya and other temples are built, producing some of Southeast Asia's finest Buddhist sculpture.
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3
Decline of Srivijaya
The Srivijaya Empire weakens due to competition from the Chola dynasty of India and internal conflicts. The region comes under increasing Thai Buddhist influence.
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4
Ayutthaya Control
The Ayutthaya Kingdom extends its authority over the southern Thai peninsula, including the Surat Thani region, integrating it into the expanding Siamese state.
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5
Trade and Development
Surat Thani's position on the Tapee River makes it an important trade and agricultural hub. Rice cultivation and fishing sustain the growing population.
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6
Burmese Attacks
During the fall of Ayutthaya, Burmese forces raid the southern peninsula. The town of Surat Thani suffers disruption but quickly recovers.
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7
Monthon Suratthani Established
The modern administrative region of Surat Thani is formally established by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) as part of sweeping reforms of provincial administration in Thailand.
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8
Provincial Capital Status
Surat Thani City is officially designated the provincial capital with formal administrative structures.
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9
World War II Japanese Occupation
Japanese forces occupy Thailand. The southern peninsula including Surat Thani becomes a strategic military zone and suffers economic disruption.
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10
Economic Development
Post-war recovery sees expansion of rubber plantations and fisheries. The Tapee River and Ban Don Bay make Surat Thani an important southern commercial hub.
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11
Tourism Begins on Koh Samui
Backpackers begin arriving on Koh Samui by boat, drawn by the island's spectacular beaches. The Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan begins in 1985.
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12
Ang Thong Marine Park Established
The Ang Thong National Marine Park is officially gazetted, protecting 42 islands in the Gulf of Thailand within Surat Thani province.
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13
Indian Ocean Tsunami
The catastrophic Indian Ocean tsunami on December 26, 2004 affects some areas of Surat Thani province's coastline, though the Gulf of Thailand islands were largely shielded by the landmass.
Historical eras
The chapters of Surat Thani's past.
Srivijaya Period
The most historically significant era for Surat Thani — the region formed part of the Srivijaya Empire, a powerful Buddhist maritime trading empire that dominated Southeast Asian trade routes. Chaiya was a major political and religious center.
Ayutthaya and Siamese Period
The region came under Siamese control as part of the expanding Ayutthaya Kingdom. Trade and Buddhist practice continued to define the area's culture.
Modern Thailand
Administrative reforms under King Chulalongkorn established modern Surat Thani province. The 20th century saw the rise of rubber, fishing, and eventually tourism as the province's economic pillars.
Historical sites
Places where Surat Thani's past comes alive.
Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya
One of Thailand's most important ancient Buddhist temples, dating to the Srivijaya Empire era. The remarkably preserved prang (tower) is the finest example of Srivijaya architecture in existence. Still an active temple.
Where: Chaiya District, Surat Thani
Admission: Free
Chaiya National Museum
Thailand's finest museum for Srivijaya Empire artifacts, including bronze Buddha statues, ceremonial objects, and inscription tablets. The collection represents centuries of artistic and cultural achievement.
Where: Chaiya District, Surat Thani
Admission: 20 THB ($0.60)
Wat Suan Mokkh
A famous forest meditation monastery founded by the revered Buddhist monk Buddhadasa Bhikkhu in 1932. The monastery hosts internationally renowned 10-day silent meditation retreats on the first of each month. The natural forest setting and Buddha images are beautiful.
Where: Chaiya District, Surat Thani
Admission: Free
Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine
The spiritual heart of Surat Thani City, this ornate white and gold shrine marks the founding of the provincial settlement. Local ceremonies and offerings mark important Buddhist dates.
Where: Tapee River, Mueang Surat Thani
Admission: Free
Ancient Chaiya Town
The small town of Chaiya itself contains remnants and references to its ancient Srivijaya heritage — old temples, traditional wooden architecture, and a museum. Often overlooked by foreign tourists, it rewards exploration.
Where: Chaiya District, 50km north of Surat Thani City
Admission: Free to explore the town
Museums
Curated collections that tell Surat Thani's story.
Surat Thani City Museum
A modest city museum in Surat Thani City Center covering local history, the Chak Phra festival, and the province's cultural traditions.
Hours: 8:30AM-4:30PM Monday-Friday
Admission: Free
Historical tours
Guided experiences that bring history to life.
Walking tours
Self-guided walking tour of Surat Thani City's waterfront — maps available at the tourist information office near Tapee River
Day tours
Day trip to Chaiya by hire car or tour includes Wat Phra Borommathat and National Museum — approximately $30-50 for private car hire from Surat Thani City
Private tours
Private history guides available through hotels in Surat Thani City — from $50 for a half-day guided Chaiya excursion