Traditions and culture in Koh Lanta

The islands of Koh Lanta and Krabi District as a whole display a veritable mix of Buddhist, Thai-Chinese, Muslim and even sea gypsy culture.

Despite this blend, there is little religious tension and the locals, who speak with thick southern dialects, are friendly and welcoming to all visitors.

Cultural attractions include the Manora, a native southern Thai dance performance, while the region is also believed to be the home of the Likae Pa, an adapted play which features folk music and traditional songs.

The fantastically diverse Lanta Old Town, with its Chinese merchants, Thai fishing families and ancient sea gypsy community is also worth a visit, as are the impressive Khao Mai Kaew Caves.

Things to do in Koh Lanta

There is plenty to occupy anyone looking to book flights to Koh Lanta, while the region's attempts to catch up with Thailand's booming tourism industry means a good value hotel is easy to come by.

The diverse religious make-up naturally means there are plenty of celebrations, such as the Laanta Lanta, the Krabi Boek Fa Andaman and the Loi Ruea Chao-Le (sea gypsy) festivals.

There is also a vast array of activities on offer for anyone choosing to holiday in the area, with the diving and snorkelling sites said to be among the best in the whole country.

Fishing opportunities abound, the east side provides excellent kayaking conditions and Koh Lanta's pristine forests are ideal for trekking, particularly on elephants.

For anyone looking for some relaxation, there are an abundance of Thai massage spas available, offering a holistic approach to soothing emotional and physical states.

The relative lack of crime in the region also means that the nightlife is lively, with bar owners generally given licence by the local law enforcers to stay open until they please.

Weather in Koh Lanta

The climate in Koh Lanta and Krabi District at large is tropical, with the average temperature throughout the year ranging from 20C to 36C.

There are two particularly hot periods between April and May, when temperatures range from 27C to 36C, and between September and October, when rainfall occasionally intervenes.

Most people who book a holiday to Koh Lanta prefer going between November and April, as this is when the monsoon season subsides.

Destination checklist for Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta has a population of around 20,000.

The region is six hours ahead of BST time.

The official currency is the Thai baht.

Thai is the official language spoken.

Koh Lanta's international dialling code is +66.