Koh Tao

Located on the western shore of Thailand, facing north to Koh Samui, Koh Tao is situated about 700 km away from Bangkok. The meaning of Tao is Turtle. This island was named after its turtle like geographical form and spans a total area of 21 square km. This tropical island, also known as  Turtle Island, was once used as a prison.

Apart from its turtle-like shape, this island is also known as a significant breeding destination of Hawksbill and Green turtles. Koh Tao was uninhabited till King Chulalongkom visited this island and left his monogram on a large rock near the Sairee beach.

Koh Tao enjoys a tropical climate for the greater part of the year. While the summers are quite hot, the monsoon ranges from November to December, for a period of six weeks. Apart from occasional storms, the weather remains fine with a little humidity.

About 100,000 travellers visit this island every year and 1990 onwards this place has developed as a popular diving site. Koh Tao has some 30 diving sites and the island is also known for snorkelling. Koh Tao is one of the main hubs of traditional Thai food with barbecue fish being a speciality.

The island is characterised by its beaches. The island also offers hiking, rock climbing and bouldering. A multitude of granite boulders, found both in the forests and on the beaches of Koh Tao, have encouraged climbers to visit the island. Koh Tao offers fishing opportunities with the favourite catch being marlin, sailfish, king mackerel, cobia, barracuda, trevally and snapper.

Tourists can use motorbikes or opt for the ferry or speed boats to go around the island. However, those hiring bikes should be careful during the monsoons.

The town offers internet cafes, bars and beach-side restaurants. However, sometimes there is a scarcity of drinking water and electricity. There are many medical centres, clinics and nursing homes with fully operational Hyperbaric Chambers and permanent doctors in Koh Tao.