How to Pronounce Surat Thani

Meaning and Context

Surat Thani, a major province (changwat) in southern Thailand, serves as the principal commercial and transport hub for the upper southern region. Encompassing a vast area that stretches from the verdant foothills of the Phanom mountain range to the intricate coastline along the Gulf of Thailand, it is historically significant as the seat of the ancient Srivijaya Empire, with ruins at Chaiya bearing testament to this rich past. While the provincial capital, also named Surat Thani, is a bustling riverine city on the Tapi River, the region is globally renowned as the primary gateway to the world-famous islands of Ko Samui, Ko Pha Ngan, and Ko Tao, making it an essential stop for travelers seeking both cultural depth and tropical paradise. The province's economy is bolstered by agriculture, notably rubber and coconut plantations, and its unique geography supports diverse ecotourism, from the pristine Cheow Lan Lake in Khao Sok National Park to the serene mangrove forests along its shores, offering experiences that range from vibrant Full Moon Parties to tranquil jungle retreats.

Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings

The standard and correct spelling is Surat Thani, which is the official Romanization from the Thai spelling (สุราษฎร์ธานี). A common alternative spelling is Suratthani, often seen in older texts or as a condensed form, though the two-word version is now predominant for official and travel purposes. Frequent misspellings and typos arise from phonetic misinterpretations or keyboard errors, such as Surat Thanai, Suratani, Surrat Thani, or Surat Thaini. The province is also sometimes colloquially referred to by the name of its capital city, simply "Surat," though this can be ambiguous. When searching for information, it is crucial to use the correct spelling to distinguish it from Surat in India, a city with which it is sometimes confused due to the shared name origin from the Sanskrit "Sura" (god) and "Dha" (land), meaning "City of Good People."

Example Sentences

Most travelers bound for the idyllic shores of Ko Samui will first pass through Surat Thani to catch the ferry from Don Sak pier.

Exploring the ancient temple ruins in Chaiya offers a profound glimpse into Surat Thani's history as a center of the Srivijaya kingdom.

For an unforgettable adventure, consider spending a night in a floating bungalow on Cheow Lan Lake, a breathtaking reservoir in Surat Thani's portion of Khao Sok National Park.

The provincial capital, Surat Thani City, provides a more authentic Thai experience compared to the tourist-heavy islands, with its lively night market and riverside walks.

Agricultural tours showcasing rubber tapping and coconut farming are popular ways to understand the economic backbone of Surat Thani province.

Related Pronunciations

• How to pronounce Timor
• How to pronounce Siem Reap
• How to pronounce Tangerang
• How to pronounce Phnom Penh
• How to pronounce Iloilo City