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Where is the Moken Village located?
The Moken Village is situated on Surin Tai Island (South Surin Island), part of the Mu Ko Surin National Park in Phang Nga Province, Thailand.
The Surin Islands lie in the northern Andaman Sea, about 10 kilometers south of the Thai–Myanmar border and 60 kilometers west of the Thai mainland.
Visitors usually depart from Kuraburi Pier to reach the islands.
What are the Surin Islands?
The Surin Islands consist of five main islands:
- North Surin Island
- South Surin Island
- Ree Island
- Khai Island
- Klang Island
The Moken Village is located at Ao Bon Yai (Bon Yai Bay) on South Surin Island — an area rich in cultural heritage and marine biodiversity.
Who are the Moken people?
The Moken, often called “Sea Nomads”, are an indigenous group who have lived and traveled throughout the Andaman Sea for centuries.
They traditionally lived on boats, moving between the islands of Thailand and Myanmar, living in harmony with the sea and relying on it for food and shelter.
Since 1990, the Moken community has settled permanently on the Surin Islands. After the 2004 tsunami, the two original Moken villages merged into one — the current Moken Village at Ao Bon Yai.
How large is the Moken Village today?
Today, the Moken Village has about 70 households and approximately 300 residents.
It includes a school, health center, and information center that support both community life and visitors who come to learn about Moken culture.
How does the Moken lifestyle change with the seasons?
The Moken lifestyle follows two major seasons: the monsoon season and the dry season.
- During the monsoon season (May–October), high waves make travel difficult, and the national park closes. The Moken rest, fish for family use, and focus on community life.
- In the dry season (November–April), the park reopens. The Moken welcome visitors, share their traditions, and take part in eco-tourism activities.
How should visitors behave when visiting the Moken Village?
When visiting the Moken Village, please be respectful and open-minded:
- Ask before taking photos or videos.
- Join simple activities like playing games with children or listening to elders’ stories.
- Avoid showing off personal gadgets or wealth.
- Support responsible tourism that helps preserve their traditions.
Your visit encourages the Moken to take pride in their culture and share it with the world.
How can I visit the Moken Village?
You can visit the Moken Village through Love Andaman’s Surin Islands tour, which includes snorkeling, coral viewing, and cultural experiences.
👉 Book the Surin Islands Tour