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Everything You Need to Know about Koh Lanta Old Town
- Where is Koh Lanta Old Town?
- How to Get to Koh Lanta Old Town
- Best Time to Go to Koh Lanta Old Town
- What to Do and See in Koh Lanta Old Town
- Explore traditional wooden stilt houses along the main street
- Stroll along Koh Lanta Old Town Pier for scenic sea views
- Visit Koh Lanta Community Museum
- Check out the iconic Lobster Monument
- Admire the Chinese Shrine’s ornate designs
- Discover Tham Khao Mai Khew, a nearby limestone cave
- Shop and eat at Old Town Lanta Street Market
- Plan a boat tour with Lanta Dream & Paradise to nearby islands
- Head to Mu Ko Lanta National Park for nature trails and beaches
- Where to Eat and Drink in Koh Lanta Old Town
- Grandma’s House
- View Point Restaurant
- Heaven Hill & Seascape Lanta Cafe
- Chill Lay Lanta Restaurant
- Where to Stay in Koh Lanta Old Town
- Verona Lanta Resort
- Baan Purada Lanta Seaview
- FAQs about Koh Lanta Old Town
Originally a sea gypsy settlement and bustling trading port, Koh Lanta Old Town carries whispers of its rich history—from Chinese shopkeepers to Muslim traders, all leaving their cultural heartbeats behind. It’s not flashy or past-faced, but that’s the charm.
You’ll see wooden houses on stilts lining the waterfront, each weathered by sea breezes and connected by a sense of timelessness.
While Koh Lanta’s beach resorts are all about sandy beaches and tropical escapism, Old Town offers a cozy vibe—local shops, family-run restaurants, and a chance to slow down.
Where is Koh Lanta Old Town?
Koh Lanta Old Town is on the southeast side of Koh Lanta Yai, the larger of the two main Koh Lanta islands in Thailand. It’s tucked away along the coast, overlooking the calm waters of the Andaman Sea.
If you’re coming from the beachy side of Koh Lanta, like Klong Dao or Long Beach, it’s about a 20-30 minute drive across the island.
How to Get to Koh Lanta Old Town
By scooter or tuk-tuk: If you’re already on Koh Lanta, you can easily hop on a scooter or grab a tuk-tuk—it’s about a 30-minute ride from the popular beach areas like Long Beach or Kantiang Bay.
By ferry: If you’re coming from the mainland, you’ll likely need to take a ferry from Krabi or Trang to Koh Lanta first. Once you arrive, you can rent a scooter right at the pier or arrange a taxi to take you directly to Old Town.
Best Time to Go to Koh Lanta Old Town
The best time to visit Koh Lanta Old Town is around April for the Laanta Lanta Festival! This vibrant festival happens right in Baan Sri Raya, the heart of Lanta Old Town, and it’s a celebration of the island’s rich cultural heritage.
Expect live music, traditional dancing, food stalls serving mouthwatering local dishes, and a mix of activities that truly highlight the cultural influences of the area. It’s the kind of event that gives you a real sense of Old Town’s soul, so mark your calendar!
What to Do and See in Koh Lanta Old Town
Explore traditional wooden stilt houses along the main street
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Koh Lanta Old Town’s traditional wooden stilt houses are the heart of its charm and one of the main attractions for visitors. As you walk along the main street, it feels like stepping into a piece of living history.
These century-old houses are built on stilts over the water, a design originally intended to adapt to the tidal conditions of the Andaman Sea. While many of these homes have been converted into shops, cafes, and guesthouses, their style remains intact.
You’ll find colorful wooden facades, intricate details in their frames, and wide verandas that often stretch over the water. Some families still live in these homes, so you’ll see children playing outside or locals chatting on their porches.
Stroll along Koh Lanta Old Town Pier for scenic sea views
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Contact details: +66 89 296 8866
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
At the end of the main street in Koh Lanta Old Town, the pier awaits with unbeatable panoramic views of the Andaman Sea and nearby islets. This long wooden jetty is a fantastic place for a stroll, especially during sunrise or sunset.
As you reach the end of the pier, you can catch the cool sea breeze and take in the serene vibe of the sea. There are also plenty of small seafood restaurants and cafes, so it’s worth planning a stop here around lunchtime.
Visit Koh Lanta Community Museum
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Address: Ko Lanta Yai District Office (Old Building), Sriraya Community
Contact details: +66 7 528 1985
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 8 AM to 4:30 PM
The Koh Lanta Community Museum is a small but invaluable stop if you want to understand the island’s history. The displays here are simple but convey a lot of information about the three main cultural groups in the area: the Thai, Chinese, and sea gypsy (Urak Lawoi) communities.
The artifacts, photographs, and relics here offer insights into everything from centuries-old traditions to day-to-day life in Koh Lanta’s past. The building itself, like many others in town, is designed with traditional wooden architecture, making it almost part of the exhibit.
Check out the iconic Lobster Monument
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Address: G3JW+F27, Ko Lanta Yai, Amphoe Ko Lanta
Contact details: +66 9 526 74309
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Just a short walk from the pier in Koh Lanta Old Town, you’ll find the quirky and iconic Lobster monument. Lobster fishing has long been a backbone of the island’s economy, and the monument is a celebration of that heritage.
The monument is beautifully designed and captures the intricate look of a lobster, making it more than just a random statue. Nearby, you’ll find food vendors or small markets, especially in the late afternoon.
Admire the Chinese Shrine’s ornate designs
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The Chinese Shrine in Koh Lanta Old Town is a captivating cultural landmark.Tucked along the main street, this shrine is a beautiful example of Chinese architecture that reflects the historical influence of Chinese settlers.
As soon as you approach, you’ll notice the intricate carvings, vibrant red and gold paint, and auspicious symbols that cover the structure. Once inside, you’ll see a small altar adorned with offerings and incense sticks.
Discover Tham Khao Mai Khew, a nearby limestone cave
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Contact details: +66 89 288 8954
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 4:30 PM
Cost: 300 THB
Tham Khao Mai Khew, a limestone cave system, is nestled in the heart of Koh Lanta’s jungle, and getting there requires a bit of an adventure on its own. The trek usually takes about 30-40 minutes, and you’ll pass through thick tropical forest.
Inside the cave, you’ll be welcomed by stunning natural formations like stalactites and stalagmites created over centuries. There’s even a small natural pool within, which looks almost magical under the play of light!
If you’re traveling with guides (you should!), they’ll likely point out interesting rock formations that resemble animals or other shapes. Torchlights are usually provided, but it’s a good idea to bring your own for backup.
Shop and eat at Old Town Lanta Street Market
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Operating hours:
- Saturday and Sunday – 11 AM to 10 PM
For an authentic taste of Koh Lanta’s Old Town vibe, the Old Town Lanta Street Market is where you want to be. You’ll find everything here—food, souvenirs, handmade crafts, clothing, and even trinkets.
Spend some time sampling food from stalls, offering everything from fresh seafood to spicy Thai curries and irresistible sweets. Much of the produce and dishes sold here are made or caught fresh that very morning, giving everything a wonderful farm-to-table feel.
Just bring some cash (most vendors don’t take cards), and don’t hesitate to bargain a little.
Plan a boat tour with Lanta Dream & Paradise to nearby islands
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Address: Ban Klong Khong
Contact details: +66 89 099 9423
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 9 PM
Cost: Starts at 7,000 THB
If you’re up for exploring beyond Koh Lanta, booking an island-hopping tour with Lanta Dream & Paradise is one of the best ways to make the most of your time. They offer excursions to nearby islands, including Koh Rok, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Bamboo, and Koh Ngai, to name a few.
These islands are famed for their crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and powdery white sand beaches. The boat tours are usually well organized, with most packages including snorkeling equipment, lunch, and drinks onboard.
Head to Mu Ko Lanta National Park for nature trails and beaches
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Address: Moo 5, Tambon Ko Lanta Yai, Amphoe Ko Lanta
Contact details: +66 7 565 6576
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Cost:
- Adult – 40 THB (Locals), 200 THB (Tourists)
- Children – 20 THB (Locals), 100 THB (Tourists)
Mu Ko Lanta National Park is where you get to combine nature, adventure, and relaxation all in one visit. This well-preserved park at the southern tip of Koh Lanta is known for its beaches and forest trails.
The beaches here are gorgeous—quiet, clean, and perfect for a little downtime. One of the highlights is its iconic lighthouse, sitting atop a small hill overlooking the coastline.
A short hike up to the lighthouse rewards you with panoramic views of the Andaman Sea—worth the effort! Just be cautious with your belongings as monkeys are commonly spotted here and they can be cheeky!
Where to Eat and Drink in Koh Lanta Old Town
Grandma’s House
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Address: 32 Moo2 Sriraya Ko Lanta Yai
Phone: +66 90 565 5099
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 7:30 AM to 6 PM
Good to know: Ideal for cozy, home-style Thai meal
Grandma’s House is nestled in a home that’s been standing proudly for over four generations. While the setting alone makes it worth stopping by, the real magic here lies in their menu.
First and foremost, they’re famous for their mango crumble dessert, which, of course, you have to try. Aside from that, they’ve got great coffee to keep your caffeine needs covered, along with homemade offerings such as sandwiches and ice cream.
If you’re looking for something savory, their smoked salmon with cream cheese sandwich is definitely worth ordering, along with hummus on olive bread. They’ve also got a rotating selection of ice cream flavors, so keep an eye out for any seasonal treats!
View Point Restaurant
@parenthese_en_asie Very good restaurant with a great view in Koh Lanta 📍🇹🇭 #fyp #thailand #viewpoint
♬ Sunset Lover – Petit Biscuit
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Address: 192, Ko Lanta Yai
Phone: +66 81 787 8697
Pricing: ฿
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 9 PM
Good to know: Great for relaxing sunset dinners
View Point Restaurant sits high on Koh Lanta Yai, giving you a dining experience with a view you won’t forget—think sweeping panoramas of the Andaman Sea and lush greenery stretching as far as the eye can see.
The menu delivers, too! There’s plenty of fresh seafood (your choice to have it fried, BBQ’d, baked, or steamed) and classic Thai dishes.
For must-tries, the Massaman curry with chicken or beef is a winner—a perfect mix of coconut milk and bold spices that makes Thai curries a hit.
Heaven Hill & Seascape Lanta Cafe
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Address: 242 Ko Lanta Yai Subdistrict
Phone: +66 94 650 6611
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Good to know: Perfect for couples or small groups
Heaven Hill & Seascape Lanta Cafe is perched on Ko Lanta Yai, featuring jaw-dropping sea views. It’s the quintessential cafe-bakery shop-meets-bistro experience! The best part? The beer garden—the perfect spot for an ice-cold brew paired with fresh seafood.
For baked goods, their fresh pastries are always a hit, such as croissants. When it comes to something savory, they serve up solid Western-style breakfasts and Thai classics.
Chill Lay Lanta Restaurant
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Address: G2XW+G5G, Ko Lanta Yai
Phone: +66 86 414 8732
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Good to know: Excellent for families or big groups
Chill Lay Lanta Restaurant has that laid-back island vibe that’s popular for its offer halal food and an impressive variety of seafood dishes. It’s right near the water, so you get those lovely sea breezes while you dine.
Now, let’s talk about food—Chill Lay Lanta offers grilled fish, giant prawns, and flavorful squid, all cooked to perfection. They also have delicious Thai dishes if you’re not in the mood for seafood, like stir-fried vermicelli and pad Thai.
Where to Stay in Koh Lanta Old Town
Verona Lanta Resort
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Address: 172 Sriraya Soi 5 M.2, Sriraya Rd.
Phone: N/A
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 2 PM
- Check-out – 11 AM
Verona Lanta Resort is right in the heart of the area, making it super convenient to explore the local shops, restaurants, and charming streets. It’s a bonus that they have a bike rental service!
The rooms here are clean, spacious, and designed for a comfy stay, with all the basics you’d expect—plus a private balcony. One of the highlights here is the resort’s outdoor pool, which feels like a perfect escape from the tropical heat.
Baan Purada Lanta Seaview
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Address: 1/2 Moo 1, Tambon Kho Lanta Yai
Phone: +66 81 535 7551
Pricing: ฿฿
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 2 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
Baan Purada Lanta Seaview has homey rooms—simple but designed with all the essentials you’ll need.
And yes, the name says it all—you’re waking up and winding down to some of the best sea views in town. The staff here is incredibly hands-on, and they’re great at arranging boat tours or recommending great spots to check out.
