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### Ko Tarutao: An Island of Natural Beauty and Historical Significance
#### Overview of Ko Tarutao
Ko Tarutao is the largest island within its park, covering a substantial area of 152 square kilometers. The landscape is predominantly mountainous, characterized by lush, moist evergreen forests. The island is home to a variety of fascinating flora and fauna, with sections of its terrain comprising mangrove forests. Alongside these natural wonders, Ko Tarutao features numerous picturesque bays, both large and small, lined with stunning beaches. The surrounding seas are teeming with diverse marine life, including several species of fish and marine creatures, among which are endangered sea turtles.
#### Historical Background
Ko Tarutao holds a remarkable historical narrative. In 1928, the government devised a policy under the Department of Corrections to utilize the island as a site for a vocational training settlement and a detention center for prisoners. The island’s remote location from the mainland rendered it an ideal site for a prison, as it minimized the risk of prisoner escapes. In 1938, the initial group of 500 prisoners was relocated to Ko Tarutao, and this number peaked at 3,000 inmates. The onset of World War II in 1941 severely impacted the settlement due to shortages in food and medicine, leading to widespread illness among prisoners. Consequently, some guards and prisoners resorted to piracy, targeting merchant ships in the Strait of Malacca, which deterred maritime passage in the area.
In 1946, a collaboration between the Thai government and the British army successfully eradicated piracy on Ko Tarutao. The island remained uninhabited for 26 years until 19 April 1974, when the Royal Forest Department declared the establishment of Tarutao National Park.
#### Tourist Attractions on Ko Tarutao
Ko Tarutao offers a variety of attractions for visitors. Among them is Ao Pante Malacca, which houses the Tarutao National Park office and serves as a vantage point for breathtaking sunsets. Other notable sites include Pha Tobu Viewpoint, Ao Chak, Ao Mo, Ao Son, Ao Ralo Wao, Ao Talo Udang, Lu Du Waterfall, and Tham Chorakhe.
#### Access and Facilities
Travelers can reach Ko Tarutao by chartering a boat from Pak Bara Pier or purchasing a day trip package from tour companies in Satun Province and at Pak Bara Pier. A speedboat journey typically takes around 30 minutes. On the island, visitors will find accommodation options, a camping ground, and welfare shops to cater to their needs.
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## Detailed Exploration of Ko Tarutao
### The Natural Landscape of Ko Tarutao
#### Geographical Features
Ko Tarutao is renowned for its diverse and captivating natural landscape. Spanning 152 square kilometers, the island’s topography is predominantly mountainous, with verdant, moist evergreen forests covering much of the terrain. These forests are not only a haven for an array of plant species but also provide sanctuary to a myriad of wildlife.
The island’s diverse ecosystems include sections of mangrove forests, which play a crucial role in maintaining coastal stability and biodiversity. Mangroves serve as vital breeding grounds for fish and other marine life, contributing to the ecological richness of the region.
#### Marine Biodiversity
The waters surrounding Ko Tarutao are rich in marine biodiversity. The island’s marine environment supports a wide variety of fish species and other aquatic creatures. Notably, the area is home to endangered sea turtles, which are often spotted nesting on the island’s beaches. Conservation efforts are in place to protect these majestic creatures and ensure their survival for future generations.
### Historical Significance of Ko Tarutao
#### The Island as a Penal Colony
Ko Tarutao’s history as a penal colony is both intriguing and poignant. In 1928, the Thai government designated the island as a site for a vocational training settlement and a prison. The island’s isolation made it an ideal location for this purpose, as it was difficult for prisoners to escape.
In 1938, the first batch of 500 prisoners was transported to the island, with the population eventually swelling to 3,000. The onset of World War II in 1941 brought significant challenges to the settlement. The war led to shortages of food and medicine, causing widespread illness among prisoners. Some guards and inmates resorted to piracy in the Strait of Malacca, targeting passing merchant ships and creating a sense of peril in the waters.
#### The End of Piracy and the Establishment of Tarutao National Park
In 1946, the Thai government and British forces collaborated to eliminate piracy on Ko Tarutao. Following this, the island lay abandoned for 26 years until 1974, when it was designated as a national park. The establishment of Tarutao National Park marked a new chapter in the island’s history, focusing on conservation and tourism.
### Tourist Attractions on Ko Tarutao
#### Ao Pante Malacca and Other Scenic Spots
Ko Tarutao offers a range of attractions for visitors to explore. Ao Pante Malacca, the site of the Tarutao National Park office, is a popular destination for its breathtaking sunset views. Visitors can also explore other scenic spots on the island, such as Pha Tobu Viewpoint, which offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Other notable locations include Ao Chak, Ao Mo, Ao Son, Ao Ralo Wao, and Ao Talo Udang. Each of these spots offers unique natural beauty, from serene beaches to rugged cliffs and lush greenery. Lu Du Waterfall and Tham Chorakhe are also popular among tourists, providing opportunities to experience the island’s natural wonders up close.
### Accessing Ko Tarutao and Visitor Facilities
#### Getting There
Travelers have several options for reaching Ko Tarutao. Boats can be chartered from Pak Bara Pier, and day trip packages are available from tour companies in Satun Province and at Pak Bara Pier. For those opting for a speedboat, the journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
#### Accommodation and Amenities
Ko Tarutao is equipped with a range of facilities to accommodate visitors. The island offers various accommodation options, from basic camping grounds to more comfortable lodgings. Welfare shops are available to cater to tourists’ needs, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable stay on the island.
### Conclusion
Ko Tarutao is a destination that beautifully blends natural beauty with historical intrigue. From its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes to its captivating history as a penal colony, the island offers a unique experience for visitors. As a protected national park, Ko Tarutao serves as a testament to the importance of conservation and the preservation of natural and historical heritage. Whether exploring its scenic vistas or delving into its fascinating past, Ko Tarutao is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Address And Location:
Ko Sarai Mueang Satun Satun 91000