Ban Lion Village

Ban Lion Village - WAY OF LIFE ON A REMOTE ISLAND

Located on Koh Phratong Island, the village is surrounded by unusual beauty and biodiversity, including 16 km of undeveloped beach lined by coconut orchards and mangrove forests. Ban Lion is a great place to relax, swim, hike and explore.

Villagers rely on fishing as their main source of income. This includes going out to sea, and gathering shells and crabs in the mangroves and seagrass beds. Some people also work for a nearby resort in high season.

HISTORY
Ban Lion was built in the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami, near the former site of Pak Chok village. Pak Chok was completely destroyed by the killer wave, and 75 people lost their lives.

TSUNAMI STORY
While many of the people from Pak Chok found housing on the mainland, Ban Lion has become a collective of people from a number of tsunami-affected communities, creating a fascinating amalgam of cultures. There are Thais, Thai-Chinese, Moken and Burmese people in the village that was built with support of Lions Club International.

THE STORY OF TIE-DYE PRODUCTS FROM BAN LION
Muhd Yom Koh Phra Thong is a collective creating natural tie-dyed handicraft on Phra Thong Island. The group includes tsunami survivors who depend primarily on seasonal fishing for their livelihoods.

TIE DYE
These brave individuals started a handicraft group in 2010 in Lions Village, which was rebuilt after the lost of Bak Jok Village during the 2004 Tsunami. The members of Muhd Yom Koh Phra Thong are working to develop creative new designs and practical products using local knowledge.

ENVIRONMENT
Ban Lion is located on Koh Prathong Island, a one hour boat ride from Kuraburi Pier in Phang Nga province. Surrounded with mangrove forest and golden grass fields, the village is immersed in natural beauty. Ban Lion covers 23-rai and is surrounded by mangrove and swamp forests. The biodiversity of the island is extraordinary and includes turtles, dugongs, dolphins, and 137 species of birds including the last significant population of Lesser Adjutant Stork in Thailand. 

*The village itself is set up for homestays that can accommodate single travelers and groups, with many cultural and ecotourism activities available around the island.

Ban Talae Nok Village

Ban Talae Nok Village - A SEA-SIDE VILLAGE

Ban Talae Nok is a pleasant village by a beautiful beach with a way of life that remains mostly unchanged. It is a great place to relax, swim, hike and explore. Walking through the village, you’ll notice women sitting together outside their houses shelling cashew nuts, weaving palm roofs, or making fishing nets while children play around them.

The men of the village earn their living from the sea, and you can see them collecting their catch from the nets at the small pier. Once they’ve taken what they need for their family, they’ll sell the rest at the market. Some families raise buffalo, cows, goats, chickens, and ducks in and around the village.

A group of tsunami widows established two handicraft cooperatives which provide supplementary income. Visitors to the village can join in a lively handmade soap or batik print workshop, a great chance to speak with the ladies about their lives and learn their moving tsunami experiences.

HISTORY
The village was founded over 100 years ago and predates other villages in the region. Originally, the pursuit of tin and its high value brought people to the site. Tin foraging was a profitable endeavor; by scouring the beaches, people could find up to five kilograms of tin a day, which was worth 120 baht per kilo.

Eventually the tin supply dried up and the villagers took to the sea. This income could be supplemented by making coal from the mangroves, and by baking wood in huge domed ovens. For environmental reasons, in recent years this practice has been banned as commercial activity but is still permitted for personal use.

Before the road into the village was built, access was by boat or a long trek through the jungle. Electricity came to the village in 1990, and the first westerners came to the village ten years later.

TSUNAMI STORY
Ban Talae Nok lost 46 villagers in the tsunami, 16 of whom were children. Before the tsunami, the village was divided into two: an upper and lower part. The lower village, located along the beach, provided easy access for the fishermen to go out to sea. The tsunami destroyed all 20 houses in the lower village. A new tsunami village was built up near the upper village.

ENVIRONMENT
Ban Talae Nok’s 10-kilometre stretch of stunning beachfront has a distinctive golden tint, endowed by the presence of tin. Part owned by the National Park, it is bounded by casuarina pine trees, mangrove forests, and small lagoons that provide habitat and breeding grounds for an array of sea life.

When the sun sets in a red glow many villagers gather on the beach with their lawa (shrimp nets) to catch the keruy (small shrimp), believing the arresting red hue signifies the arrival of shrimp.

The sea and islands dotted off the coastline from Ban Talae Nok are an important part of village identity. Each island has been named and is treasured for its unique features. These are:
- Bat Island (Koh Kang Kao) — with a big cave home to many bats.
- Japanese Island (Koh Yee Puun) — once inhabited by Japanese people pearl farming
- Kum Nui Island (Koh Kum Nui) — a smaller island with an abundance of shells.
- Kum Yai Island (Koh Kum Yai) — with spectacular white, sloping beach with clear blue waters, great for snorkeling.
- Lan Island (Koh Lan) — a barren, rocky island with a cave.
- Buffalo Island (Koh Kao Kwaay) — there is a subsidiary office of the National Park on this island. It is one of the most beautiful islands in the area. It has a curved beach and coral reef, and is a popular fishing site.

RELIGION IN BAN TALAE NOK
Ban Talae Nok is a traditional Muslim village. Islam shapes their daily lives and throughout the year there are several important ceremonies, presided over by the Imam (Muslim High Priest).

Some of these important cultural traditions are as follows:
- The beginning of Ramadan, when the villagers prepare for the Ramadan ceremony.
- Ramadan: lasting 30 days during which villagers must not eat or drink between sunrise and sunset.
- Eid-al-Fitr, big celebrations that mark the end of Ramadan.
- The Sunut cultural ceremony, which takes place when a boy is nine years old and a girl is fourteen years old.
- Nika (Marriage ceremony), both the man and woman consent to marriage.
- Funeral ceremony at the Koobo (graveyard).
- Lamaad (praying) where Muslim people pray five times a day. 

Koh Yao Noi Homestay

Koh Yao Noi is a tiny island in Phang Nga Bay, the sea that lies between Phuket and the Thai mainland, where the population is overwhelmingly Muslim fisherfolk who still living a largely traditional existence, and who are well aware of the dangers of mass tourism development in their villages.

Phang Nga offers the classic sea images of tropical islands, palm fringed beaches, coral reefs and teeming marine life. It is therefore, obviously, in the cross-hairs of the big tourism developers who, having already exploited Phuket to the full and much of the Krabi mainland too, are eagerly searching for new places to plant their big hotels and bar strips.


This local initiative is designed to help reinforce the independence of the people of Koh Yao Noi, helping to protect their mores and customs from unwanted interference, and allowing them to choose the kind of visitors that they want to welcome – those who will respect them and their way of life. If you are one of those people, this will be a rewarding addition to your visit to Thailand.

In October 2008, Guardian journalist, Andrew Spooner, paid a visit and this is what he had to say bout his visit: http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2008/nov/11/thailand-ethical-holidays-homestay

Nakha Village

Nakha Village - CONSERVATION IN A RIVERSIDE MOUNTAIN VILLAGE

Nakha boasts stunning mountainous scenery, and is home to the highly endangered Water Lily, known locally as the “Yah Chong.” This fresh-water plant has unusually long leaves and delicate white flowers that bloom from October to December.

Unfortunately, the water lily faces serious threats from river dredging and collection for resale as aquarium plants. To help save the Water Lily, locals formed a conservation group to protect its habitat, and now offer rafting excursions to raise public awareness of this beautiful plant. Profits are used by the club to pay for school trips. The club also sponsors a nursery that is used by the youth group for replanting the water lilies.

Another highlight is the nearby Klong Nakha Wildlife Sanctuary, which takes its name from the area’s largest river and adjoins the larger Klong Saen protected area in Suratthani Province further to the east. Study groups and visits to the sanctuary’s nature trails can be organized.

HISTORY
Unlike many of the nearby locales, Tambon Nakha area has been settled only in the last thirty to forty years — by migrants from Nakorn Si Thammarat, Trang, and Krabi provinces. The area was deemed sympathetic to the communist movement in the 1970′s, and a number of student activists took refuge from government troops in the hills above Nakha.

The ecosystems around Nakha are home to rare orchids, hornbills, wild elephant; and a number of endemic species including the Water Lily, white palm, and fresh-water carp. In past, the natural resources of Nakha were often taken advantage of by corrupt business interests, leading to deforestation and poor water quality. Deforestation and poor water quality affected the human and natural communities.

Eventually, villagers from Ban Fai Tah and Ban Rai Nai banded together with national environmental activists to create Klong Nakha Wildlife Sanctuary — a 300,000 rai preserve that recognizes the access rights of local communities. Simultaneously, villagers formed agriculture and fishery associations to manage resources outside the sanctuary.

The Klong Nakha Ecotourism Club was formed to conserve the endangered Nakha water lily, which is found only in Klong Nakha and surrounding rivers. The Ecotourism Club is motivated more by a conservation ethic than income, and any profit is used to sponsor rafting trips for local school children. Groups of government officials are among the most common visitors, offering opportunities for policy influence. Local leaders also created a youth conservation group that is currently involved in water quality research, GPS mapping of Klong Nakha, garbage collection. The youth group also helps protect the Water Lily by gathering the lilies in the monsoon, propagating them in a nursery, and replanting in natural habitat.

JUNGLE RAFTING
Typically, you would spend around four hours floating down the river on inflatable or bamboo rafts, whilst helping to protect the endangered water lily along the way depending on group size and water level. Includes a stop for a delicious local-style lunch, served in a banana leaf dish. The rafting route takes you through orchards of palm, rubber, and traditional crops such as coffee, mangosteen, and durian. During the trip, you can learn about the ways that locals are working to protect their environment from commercial plantation owners and illegal logging.

Wildlife Sanctuary Camping & Natrure Trails
Klong Nakha Wildlife Sanctuary is ranked as one of most biodiverse areas in Thailand. It is home to elephants, tigers, tapir, gibbons, and eight species of hornbill. Study group visits can be arranged. Attractions include a nature trail that starts at the park headquarters, located 17km north of Kampuan. Overnight camping is available beyond the nature trail, but requires permission from the rangers.

Ta Pae Yoi Village

Ta Pae Yoi Village – Koh Phratong - PLEASANT ATMOSPHERE IN ISLAND VILLAGE
The village of Ta Pae Yoi is one of three villages located on the island of Koh Phratong and the latest to develop a community based tourism group. The main livelihood of the villagers is fishing and locals rely on the nature surrounding the village to support their simple and relaxed way of life.

This village is located on the north eastern side of Koh Phratong and situated facing the mainland, sparing it from the most devastating destruction of the 2004 tsunami that impacted the other villages on this island. The village hosts a school, health center, local government office and also a temple. Ta Pae Yoi is easily accessible by daily passenger boat service.

HISTORY
Since the time of tin mining in the area, Chinese, Thai and Moken people have lived together in harmony. The name Ta Pae Yoi translates into “Uncle Yoi’s Pier.” The name is derived from folklore that says the village was founded by a Chinese man over 100 years ago.

ENVIRONMENT
Surrounded by lush mangroves and tropical savannah, this community plays host to a wide variety of eco-systems. The community is passionate about conserving their abundant natural resources and educates both locals and visitors alike on their importance. In the mangroves you can spot a variety of birds, monitor lizards and monkeys. The area immediately in front of the pier is a sea grass conservation area that supports sea cucumbers, and larger marine animals like dugongs. The savannah is a natural wonder that is home to wild deer and storks. With the support of the village Chief, the community members are hoping to use tourism as a way to protect and conserve the natural environment of the area.

RELIGION - BUDDHIST TRADITIONS
The population is predominately Buddhist and a local temple offers a place for villagers to gather on special days and make merit. The Monks that reside at this temple make a morning alms collection where locals will offer food for their one daily meal. You can see the beautiful spirit houses that adorn the village and their offering for the spirits.

ACTIVITIES
The Ta Pae Yoi Community Based Tourism group was trained in kayaking and offer trips into the mangroves for bird watching and natural adventure. In the village participate in the morning Buddhist rituals, learn to create garden to table Thai meals and desserts all while relaxing in this peaceful and natural environment. Bike around the Koh Phratong Savannah, an environmental wonder, a desert in the midst of this tropical island. Seasonal activities can include fishing with the locals, or practicing English with children at the local school.

Tung Dap Village

Tung Dap Village - WAY OF LIFE ON A REMOTE ISLAND

Tung Dap is surrounded by natural beauty. The village is located on Koh Phratong Island, bordered by the Andaman Sea and accessible only by boat. A one-lane road connects villager’s homes, with no automobile traffic or convenience stores. Transport comes in the form of one’s feet, a bicycle, or on a small tractor with trailer.

Small-scale fishing is the predominant form of income. The villagers sell fish, squid, and crab at a local pier. Other sources of income include fish farming and collection of forest products.

Coconuts are abundant and served as a fresh, juicy beverage; a snack; a delicious ingredient for a dessert; and income for the community. Don’t be surprised if you are offered a whole coconut, still on the machete used to retrieve it!

The sea is a short, one-kilometer walk from the village school. The soothing waves rolling gently onto the beach serve as a reminder of the Moken villagers’ history. Tung Dap is a great place to relax, swim, hike and explore.

LOCATION
Tung Dap is located on the southwestern tip of Koh Phratong Island in Kuraburi District, Phang Nga Province. Koh Phratong is part of Mu Koh Ra (Ko Phra Thong National Park). Visitors can expect a tropical climate. Keep your eyes open for wildlife, including deer, which are commonly seen exploring the island.

HISTORY
The village of Tung Dap is about 80 years old.
Koh Phratong, the island that is home to Tung Dap, translates to “Island of the Golden Buddha.” The name comes from the legend of a pirate who buried a looted statue somewhere on the island. In Moken folklore, it is known as the “floating island” and plays a central part in a tsunami story.

A long time ago, the Moken of Koh Phratong received a warning from the spirits that a tsunami was coming. The whole village fled to the nearby mountain, Po Tao, also known as Khao Phra Mee. Once at higher ground, the Moken villagers looked down as the wave covered the entire island. The island of Koh Kho Khao, just south of Koh Phratong, was not submerged. When Koh Phratong emerged from the tsunami’s inundation, the Moken returned and went on with life. That is why, in Moken language, Koh Phratong is called “Floating Island” and Koh Kho Khao is known as “anchor.”

TSUNAMI STORY
Tung Dap was totally destroyed by the tsunami — the 22 Moken Thai households and 10 Buddhist Thai families lost all of their homes, possessions, and most of their boats and fishing supplies. For months, many of the residents of Tung Dap lived in temporary shelters near the mainland pier waiting for their houses to be rebuilt. The villagers remained steadfast in their determination to restore their lives and their village, and in a manner respectful of the natural environment.

CULTURE
Tung Dap is home to approximately 200 residents who are Thai and Moken. Homestay host Noi spent the first 24 years of her life as a sea gypsy, and offers a fascinating account of her time living on a “Kabang,” which is a boat that serves as a home and a means of transportation for Moken people. Visitors to Tung Dap will have the opportunity to learn firsthand about Moken culture and traditions.

Tung Nang Dam Village

Tung Nang Dam Village - WAY OF LIFE IN A VILLAGE SURROUNDED BY MANGROVES

“Treasure in the soil, wealth in the water” is a traditional Thai saying particularly relevant to the people of Tung Nang Dam village. Many families earn a living from collecting fish, shrimp, crabs and shell fish using traditional subsistence methods.

Some families also own krachang floating fish farms where they can harvest fish, mussels, crabs and edible sea weed for personal use and to sell at the markets. To supplement their income, some families also tap for rubber and grow a wide variety of crops such as rambutan, durian, longan and cashew nuts. Cows and goats can be seen wondering freely through the village.

The only way to go to and from the village is by boat and then a picturesque walk through meandering cashew orchards and plantations. Solar electricity powers their simple yet comfortable homes. There are no cars on the island and the most common form of transportation is on foot and by bike. Tung Nang Dam is a great place to relax, hike and explore.

HISTORY
There is an ancient legend about the name of the village. Once upon a time, there was a man named Porta Ratsamee. His home was on the border of Kuraburi district and Surat Thani province. He was a very rich, good looking man and women fell in love with him easily. One of the women was called Nang Dam, Miss Black, because of her dark skin. Despite dark skin being considered unattractive, Porta fell in love with her. However, Porta still had many other women, one of whom was called Nang Kao. This deeply hurt Nang Dam and she felt so embarrassed that she ran away. She went to live far from her people in a field near Hin Lad until the day she died. The place became known as “Tung Nang Dam,” the field of the black woman.

TSUNAMI STORY
The healthy mangrove forest that surrounds Tung Nang Dam village protected the villagers from the devastating affects of the wave that destroyed neighboring villages. Fortunately, the beach-front area is undeveloped and houses are set back from the beach which meant no houses were destroyed. However, many fishermen lost their boats and livelihoods, with many floating fish farms being damaged beyond repair.

RELIGION IN TUNG NANG DAM
The villagers are dedicated followers of the Islamic faith which resonates throughout their culture. Although, the majority of villagers are Muslims, there is a Chinese temple, a Wihansean. Some villagers say that settlers first came to the village because according to Chinese astrology the location had good Feng Shui.

Tung Nang Dam is a traditional Muslim village. Islam shapes their daily lives and throughout the year there are several important ceremonies, presided over by the Imam (Muslim High Priest). Some of these important cultural traditions are as follows:

- The beginning of Ramadan, when the villagers prepare for the Ramadan ceremony.
- Ramadan: lasting 30 days during which villagers must not eat or drink between sunrise and sunset.
- Eid-al-Fitr, big celebrations that mark the end of Ramadan.
- The Sunut cultural ceremony, which takes place when a boy is nine years old and a girl is fourteen years old.
- Nika (Marriage ceremony), both the man and woman consent to marriage.
- Funeral ceremony at the Koobo (graveyard).
- Lamaad (praying) where Muslim people pray five times a day.

AWARDS
In 2007, the Tung Nang Dam Community-based tourism group received the prestigious Most Outstanding Community-based Tourism award as part of the Thailand Tourism Award. The awards are designed to promote the conservation of the country’s precious natural and cultural resources and support sustainable tourism development in tandem with the quality development of the Thai tourism industry. The group was recognized for their efforts in challenging tourism revenue into their community, thereby alleviating rural poverty.