By ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity

With photo contributions from the management of Ao Phang-Nga—Mu Ko Surin—Mu Ko Similan National Park

Ao Phang-Nga—Mu Ko Surin—Mu Ko Similan National Park

Mu Ko Surin is popular for its shallow reef; Mu Ko Similan, for scuba diving; and Ao Phang-nga, for its mangrove ecosystem and karst topography.

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Beautiful Ao Phang Nga beach (2012) by Ao Phang-Nga—Mu Ko Surin—Mu Ko Similan National ParkASEAN Centre for Biodiversity

Located in Phang-nga province, Ao Phang-Nga National Park covers 40,000 hectares; Mu Ko Surin National Park covers approximately 14,125 hectares; while Mu Ko Similan National Park covers an area of 14,000 hectares.

Coral wall (2012) by Ao Phang-Nga—Mu Ko Surin—Mu Ko Similan National ParkASEAN Centre for Biodiversity

The Fauna

The islands support rich avifauna including the white-bellied sea eagle, Brahminy kite, terns, hornbills, drongo, babblers, sunbirds and flower peckers. Mu Ko Surin is just about the only place in Thailand where the beach thick-knee can be found.

Anemone corals (2012) by Ao Phang-Nga—Mu Ko Surin—Mu Ko Similan National ParkASEAN Centre for Biodiversity

Marine life

This rich marine life includes many species of fish, whales, whale sharks, hawksbill, Olive Ridley, and green sea turtles. Another interesting species located in Similan is the hairy leg mountain land crab, which is found in large numbers.

Limestone formation (2013) by Ao Phang-Nga—Mu Ko Surin—Mu Ko Similan National ParkASEAN Centre for Biodiversity

The park covers 400 sq km and is famed for its rich folklore, prehistoric rock arts, and natural beauty.

Cave formation (2013) by Ao Phang-Nga—Mu Ko Surin—Mu Ko Similan National ParkASEAN Centre for Biodiversity

Ao Phang-Nga-Mu Ko Surin-Mu Ko Similan National Park encompasses coastal mangrove forests and a series of karst limestone hills flooded by the sea to form 42 sheer islands with high cliffs, rock overhangs and formations caves, coral gardens, and scrub. 

Koh Pan Yee (2013) by ASEAN Centre for BiodiversityASEAN Centre for Biodiversity

Ao Phang-Nga—Mu Ko Surin—Mu Ko Similan National Park

AHP logo by ACBASEAN Centre for Biodiversity

ASEAN Heritage Parks

ASEAN Heritage Parks (AHPs) are protected areas of high conservation importance that provide valuable contributions to safeguarding ecosystems and biodiversity. 

AHPs provide a window to the world, showcasing a wealth of biodiversity that is uniquely ASEAN.

Credits: Story

With photo contributions from the management of Ao Phang-Nga—Mu Ko Surin—Mu Ko Similan National Park

Credits: All media
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