Chumphon Sights, POI and things to do
Chumphon is a real underdog of the South. Many tourists bypass the area in favour of the islands, unaware of the plethora of sights and activities available in Chumphon. Surrounded by immaculate and virtually uncultivated sand beaches, Chumphon has a variety of activities for the intrepid traveller, including snorkelling, kite surfing, and kayaking.
Chumphon National Museum
When visiting the town area, make sure to visit Chumphon National Museum. Established in 1995, this museum covers a wide range of history, with displays and artifacts attracting the more historically inclined hitch-hiker. The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm and cost THB30.
Prince Chumphon Shrine
On the outskirts of town on Hat Sai Ri Beach, the Prince Chumphon Shrine sits in breath-taking silence. A popular spot amongst tourists and locals alike, it is a sacred place for the people to pay respects to the man who helped establish the modern day Thai Navy. A notable feature is the decommissioned warship onsite. Entrance is free.
Khao Chao Mueang Viewpoint
Khao Chao Mueang, located only 2.4 km from the beach, is recognized for being the highest viewpoint in the area. Shutterbugs, get your cameras ready: the pavilion affords stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and archipelago.
Trekking to Khao Dinsor
Budding bird watchers, make sure to pack some binoculars. The trek to Khao Dinsor is not only great for observing the thriving bird-life, but for catching a truly stunning sunrise. Khao Dinsor is one of the best places to view the seasonal migration of several species of raptors. The best time of year to witness this spectacle is between September and November.
Mu Ko Chumphon Nationa Park
One of the more famous reserves is the Mu Ko Chumphon National Park. Not only does the park consist of boardwalk paths through mangrove forests, but it also encompasses a vast area of islands, reefs, beaches, jungles, mountains and ocean. Visitors can enjoy an island escape, with snorkeling expeditions arranged through the park office. The entrance fee is THB200 for adults and THB100 for children.
Bamboo rafting in Chumphon
More of a gung-ho traveller? Bamboo rafting organized by the Malin Rafting Service may be right up your alley. Though bamboo rafting may not be as high intensity as white water rafting (which can also be done in the area), it allows for a more local experience: with views of tropical forests, and small farms cultivating coffee, and fruits and the opportunity to spot some incredible wildlife
Coffee in Chumphon
San Nai dum, (on Highway 41) might be the ultimate stop for a caffeine fix. As a fruit orchard, it also includes a restaurant, coffee shop and a place to get some funky souvenirs. The unusual thing about San Nai Dum? The toilets! In 2006 they won the nation’s annual toilet competition. Since winning, the owner has created a variety of fully functional toilets including the Sky Toilet, the Tarzan and Jane toilet and one that requires climbing down into a hole. The bashful bathroom user beware, after a few cups of coffee (which are served in miniature toilets) you may need to brave these bizarre installations.
Diving in Chumphon
Though not as known to tourists, Chumphon should be high on the list of places to visit, if not simply for its excellent diving. With almost 50 islands to choose from, there is no limit to what can be explored and certainly, there is no shortage of beautiful corals, rock formations or caves.
Diving from Chumphon gives the best of all seasons as you can dive on the Andaman Sea or in the Gulf of Thailand depending on the time of year.
The list of sights and activities to explore when in Chumphon could go on. No matter what kind of traveller you are, there is something sure to appease every taste.
