Koh Tapao Noi, new eco-tourism destination in Thailand

Probably within six weeks The Thai Navy will open Tapao Noi Island off Phuket for eco-tourism. Representing a lighthouse, this tranquil destination is a little more than an island. However, most likely it is going to be the Phuket area’s newest tourist attraction. The Royal Thai Navy, which currently manages Koh Tapao Noi, has realised an eco-tourism project that definitely will increase the island’s number of visiting tourists. The project is waiting for the green light, which should be given by the Navy chiefs.

Today, there are five employees from the department living on the island. It is their task to warn ships, should they get too close to the coast, by keeping the lighthouse alight. In addition, they maintain reports on seismic, climate-related and tidal issues. The lighthouse chief is convinced that increasing visitors will not damage the island’s ecology. The project will provide one 700 metres long and one 500 metres long nature trail offering great bird-watching options. More on what to see in Phuket

Approaching Koh Tapao Noi

The island’s lighthouse was constructed in 1890 during King Rama Vs reign. The building will be another interesting attraction for visitors. Solar energy provides the energy for the lighthouse’s lamp. Every 15 seconds, 24 hours per day the light in the 11-metres high tower flashes.

Koh Tapao Noi also houses around 50 couples of hornbill. These birds are difficult to find in Thailand. The Navy officers spend a monthly amount of 1,000 feeding rice and bananas to the birds, which have become used to contact with people. Feeding these birds will be the main activity for visitors to the island.

 Observing hornbill on Tapao Noi

There’s even the option to visit Tapao Noi Island before the start of the eco-tourism project. At the Ao Makham Pier boats can be rented for about 300 baht. The short trip will not take more than 15 minutes. Ao Makham is located within less than four miles from Phuket City and is accessibly by bus.