Koh Hin Ngam: Black Stones, Island Legend & Stone Stacking Rules
Tarutao National Park is a beautiful nature area in Thailand, located in the Andaman Sea, close to the border with Malaysia. The park was established in 1980 and is about 1,490 square kilometers in size. It is the oldest national park in Thailand and is known for its stunning nature and diverse wildlife. Within the park, there are important islands like Tarutao Island, Koh Adang, Koh Rawi, Koh Lipe, and Koh Nin Ngam. These islands are perfect if you want to enjoy nature and do fun activities like hiking, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beach.
Koh Hin Ngam: Stone Stacking and Island Curses
Koh Hin Ngam is also known as the island of stones. These stones are shaped by the waves that crash over the island during the rainy season. If you visit Tarutao National Park and see a sign or banner stating that you are not allowed to stack stones, it specifically refers to the stones on this island. People are concerned that the stones may break when the stack collapses. So, you might as well play a game of Jenga in a nice bar or hostel.
You usually only stop by Koh Hin Ngam during a snorkeling tour in the national park—just a quick pit stop. That makes sense, since there’s not much there besides rocks. But according to legend, this island isn’t just any old rocky patch…
The Story of the Black Stones on Koh Hin Ngam
Koh Hin Ngam literally means “Beautiful Rock Island” and has a special story behind it. According to a local legend, a mermaid and a young man were deeply in love. When the young man was killed by pirates, the mermaid was so heartbroken that her tears turned into the black stones that now cover the island. These stones symbolize her love and the deep sorrow she felt – a raw and powerful story that makes the island truly unique.
Removing rocks from the island may cause bad luck
You can get a fine for stacking stones, but beware if you take a stone away from the island! There is a curse on the stones once they leave the island. The God of Tarutao becomes angry, which could lead to the death of one or more family members… Not exactly cheerful!
Discover more Islands of Koh Tarutao NP
Islands at Tarutao National Park
Koh Adang
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Islands at Tarutao National Park
Koh Khai
Koh Khai (Egg Island), located between Koh Tarutao and Koh Adang, is accessible only through excursions, with no overnight stays allowed. Its main attraction is the arch-shaped rock formation, which many tourists photograph during speedboat stops on the way to Koh Lipe in Tarutao National Park.
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Koh Yang
Snorkeling in the waters around Koh Yang was the best snorkeling spot we experienced near Koh Lipe! This tiny island lies between Koh Adang and Koh Rawi and is a must-visit spot during a snorkeling trip from Koh Lipe. While there is little coral, there are countless fish to see!
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Koh Ra Wi
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Islands at Tarutao National Park
Koh Tarutao
Koh Tarutao, is the largest island among the 51 islands in Tarutao National Park, offers a unique getaway where adventure, nature, and relaxation blend perfectly.
Islands at Tarutao National Park
Koh Lipe
Koh Lipe is a paradise with crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and vibrant marine life ideal for snorkeling and diving. The island offers a relaxed atmosphere, excellent din […]
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