History

History of Koh Tao

The History of Koh Tao is quite interesting. Koh Tao means ‘Turtle Island’. Appropriately named as the island is actually shaped like a turtle when viewed from neighbouring islands or from out at sea.

Also, past history of Koh Tao states that the island gained its name because years ago the surrounding waters had been rich with sea turtles. Initially the island was uninhabited. Only the occasional fisherman arriving from neighbouring islands, looking for shelter in a storm.

The Edinburgh Gazetteer, or Geographical Dictionary published in 1827 mentions the island and provides a geographical position. In his 1852 book titled Narrative of a Residence in Siam, by Frederick Arthur Neale. According to the account there were farms and even cows in a village on the bay lying on the west side of the island. The book includes a fanciful illustration of “Bardia” showing huts and palm trees.

Joseph Huddart in 1801 included these directions for navigating the islands, “To the N.W. by N are two islands of about the same height as Poolo Carnom (Koh Samui). The first, called Sancory (Koh Phangan), is 7 leagues from Poolo Carnom. The other, named Bardia (Koh Tao) is 7½ leagues from Sancory.” (A league is approximately 3 nautical miles or 5.5 km).

On June 18, 1899, King Chulalongkorn visited Koh Tao and left as evidence his monogram on a huge boulder at Jor Por Ror Bay next to Sairee Beach. This place is still worshipped on the island today and proves the history of Koh Tao. In 1933 the island started to be used as a political prison. In 1947 Khuang Abhaiwongse, prime minister at that time, pleaded and received a royal pardon for all prisoners on the island. Everybody was taken to the shore of Surat Thani and Koh Tao was abandoned again.

In the same year Khun Uaem and his brother Khun Oh reached Koh Tao from neighbouring Koh Phangan. Even though the island was still under royal patronage, it did not stop these pioneers claiming a good part of land on Sairee Beach. Having brought their families over, they began to cultivate the excellent soil. As a result, forming the first generation of the present-day community. They lived a simple and tough life harvesting coconuts, fishing, and growing vegetables.

Recent History of Koh Tao

Despite the difficulties in reaching the island, the population grew steadily. In the 1980s oversea travellers began to visit and explore Koh Tao. Quickly becoming a popular destination. Consequently, bigger, faster and safer boats were used to access to the island. Furthermore, in the 1990s the island became known as Thailand’s top scuba diving destination.

Certainly today, Koh Tao is known for much more than just scuba diving. Most noteworthy, Koh Tao is an island with a magnitude of attractions and things to do. Maybe you prefer things at a leisurely pace. Even more, taking things to the extreme, well Koh Tao is the place to be. Choose from rock climbing, mountain biking or hitting the white sandy beaches.

Koh Tao has become one of the most sought-after destinations for tourists and backpackers alike, thanks to its rich history of Koh Tao and fascinating past. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that this tropical paradise has captured the hearts of travelers from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to soak up the sun, Koh Tao is the perfect place to be. So why not pack your bags and come see for yourself what all the fuss is about?