Similan Islands National Park is a group of 9 islands off the west coast of the city Phang Nga in the Andaman sea. The name ‘Similan’ comes from the Malay word ‘sembilan’, which means nine. This National Park is an invaluable site of national heritage. The Koh Similan National Park is free from crass commercialism, is unspoiled and has a rich natural flora and fauna.
The Similans is a convergence of several forest types and micro climates, evergreen forest and coral reefs. Granite boulders stand guard around the islands, protecting them from the elements and providing a sanctuary for a host of marine creatures. The area contains a rich bio-diversity ranging from the largest fish in the world, the Whale Shark, to rare birds such as Nicobar Pigeon and Pied Imperial Pigeon, as well as 27 species of mammals, 22 species of reptiles and at least 4 species of amphibians. These animals have been living, foraging and breeding here for a long time without the presence of humans.
Indeed, the Similan National Park is a great place for diving and snorkeling and are rated by the ‘Skin Diving’ magazine amongst the 10 best diving sites in the world.