Chumpon(sometimes Chumporn) is one of the places waiting to happen in Thailand. Since the country is just full of world-class beaches and islands to explore, the convenience of Phuket and the long-stay tradition in Hua Hin, it is easy to forget that there are so many other beautiful places out there. Chumpon is for many just where you get on the ferry to Koh Tao. For us, Chumpon also became a lovely stay over on our route from Hua Hin down to Phang Nga and Krabi. But the place deserves better, and we will for sure be back again. A laid back town and we also ate some of the best seafood ever in Thailand. Trying African pompano (ปลาผมนาง) was a very memorable experience.
Location of Chumpon
Chumpon is a province with a province capital with the same name on the Isthmus of Kra. It is located west of the Phuket mountain range and the Tenessarim Hills’ northern continuation. To the east, it faces the Gulf of Thailand with a 200 km coastline, and the Mu Ko archipelago has more than 40 islands. In the west, it is directly bordering Myanmar. Chumpon is either related to a tree or “to accumulate forces”.
The great seafood with the African Pompano as a highlight, all that bone-free white meat we indulged in a restaurant called Thale Tong Seafood located on a beach that probably is very nice during daylight, as well.
Our stay was at The Beach Resort and Residence, convenient and not expensive.
The next day we started the day with some delicious noodles before continuing to Khao Sok national park. Read more by clicking the blue text.
On the way, we drove in for some panorama view at a viewpoint commemorating a revered Thai admiral. One out of 200 shrines to the Prince of Chumphon, in Thai, is known as Sadej Tia.
Referred to as the ‘Father of the Royal Thai Navy, Sadej Tia treated patients since he was educated in medicine. He was also believed to possess supernatural powers. People who work at sea carry amulets of the Prince for protection. People bring nine roses and nine incense sticks when they pray to him.
Suppose you are heading for Koh Tao. Check the Songserm website for more information on ferries.