By Rama Gaind.
Koh Ngai is a tropical island paradise in Thailand where the stress and strain of everyday life completely disappears.
When escaping to a tropical island, what do you dream of doing during your holidays.
Is there a longing to discover unspoiled beaches and hidden coves and swim in crystal clear seas, surrounded by colourful fish? Is there an appeal in trekking through the lush rainforest? Do tastebuds crave local signature cuisine and what about a soothing massage?
All of these experiences and activities await at the Pimalai Resort & Spa, the five-star haven on the shores of Koh Lanta in Thailand. It’s an eco-sensitive, five-star sanctuary.
The past two years have allowed management to re-examine its operations, resulting in a new 10-year plan for preserving the environment and to design a series of new activities and excursions that highlight the beauty of Koh Lanta.
Nestled in 100 acres of jungle cascading down to a 900-metre-long beach, Pimalai has always strived to preserve its surroundings. Filled with exotic plants and native species such as hornbills and flying squirrels, the resort feels like a private nature reserve. A walking tour allows you to uncover this eco paradise, including its cashew nut trees, and two trekking trails where intrepid explorers can hike to Klong Chak waterfall or Lam Tanode (where Koh Lanta’s famous lighthouse awaits).
Pimalai Resort & Spa, a haven on the shores of Koh Lanta, is surrounded by 100 acres of lush, unspoiled jungle, cascading down to a beautiful beach.
Koh Ngai is a tropical island paradise where the stress and strain of everyday life completely disappears. For those who prefer offshore adventures, Pimalai has crafted two, day trips: the Emerald Cave & Koh Ngai Excursion gives the chance to swim in a stunning hidden lagoon and relax on a pristine beach, enclosed by unspoiled jungle, while the Talabeng Scenic Cruise lets explorers unearth Koh Talabeng, which has been nicknamed ‘Little Halong Bay’ due to its dramatic limestone karsts, cliffs and caves.
Offshore excursions
Both excursions allow you to swim in the sea, savour snacks and enjoy cool drinks aboard the boat, and end in Koh Lanta’s old town, which is filled with traditional shophouses and seafood restaurants. This enchanting archipelago is wonderfully secluded with few tourist boats. Alternatively, a mangrove tour lets groups head out on a gondola boat and delve deep into this environmentally rich coastal forest.
For travellers who love learning new skills, Pimalai has relaunched its popular Thai cooking classes. The resort’s chefs will escort visitors on a tour of the organic gardens to pick fresh herbs, before using them to craft a delicious dish. Non-motorised water sports, such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, are available, free-of-charge. Thai boxing sessions offer invigorating workouts and yoga sessions promote mindfulness in a stunning setting, with panoramic sea and sunset views.
Koh Talabeng has been nicknamed ‘Little Halong Bay’ due to its stunning seascape of limestone karsts, cliffs and caves.
Alternatively, wellness seekers can soothe their senses at the award-winning Pimalai Spa, which has unveiled four new massages that embrace ancient Thai healing wisdom.
For a more distinctive gesture during your stay, why not help and make a difference to the lives of local communities in Koh Lanta. The resort’s beach cleaning sessions let tourists come together with staff members and islanders to keep Koh Lanta’s coastlines free from litter, which often washes ashore and can pose a danger to marine life. Pimalai is part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World’s Considerate Collection, an exclusive community of 26 socially responsible and eco-conscious five-star hotels worldwide.
This getaway also features world-class restaurants, a sports centre with tennis, badminton and basketball courts, a running track and cycling trails and two infinity pools that appear suspended in the forest canopy, overlooking the ocean. Children will be inspired, educated and entertained at the Kid’s Corner.
The two, day trips are valid until 31 October 2024. That’s why, it’s time to rediscover Koh Lanta and enjoy a series of experiences, all sustainably created to showcase the destination’s authentic spirit.
FACT BOX
Pimalai Resort & Spa
www.pimalai.com
