Koh Hin Ngam | Satun

Koh Hin Ngam – The Island of Cursed Black Stones

Koh Hin Ngam is a unique and mysterious island located within Tarutao National Marine Park, near Koh Lipe in Satun Province, southern Thailand. Unlike the other islands in the area, which are known for their white sandy beaches, Koh Hin Ngam is famous for its black volcanic stones that cover the entire shoreline.

Legend has it that anyone who takes a stone from the island will be cursed by the spirit of Chao Pho Tarutao, the guardian of Tarutao National Park. Because of this, visitors are warned not to remove any stones from the island.

Overview of Koh Hin Ngam

• Location: Tarutao National Marine Park, Satun Province, Thailand
• Island Size: Small, uninhabited island
• Main Attraction: The black polished stones covering the beach
• Accessibility: Only reachable by boat from Koh Lipe
• Accommodation: None (only a day-trip destination)
• Activities: Photography, exploring the beach, snorkeling

Koh Hin Ngam is a protected island, meaning no one is allowed to stay overnight. Most people visit as part of a half-day or full-day island-hopping tour from Koh Lipe.

How to Get to Koh Hin Ngam

Since Koh Hin Ngam is an uninhabited island, the only way to get there is by boat.

From Koh Lipe:

• Longtail Boat Rental: Private boat hire from Sunrise Beach or Pattaya Beach in Koh Lipe.
• Island-Hopping Tours: Many snorkeling and island-hopping packages include Koh Hin Ngam.

From Pak Bara Pier (Mainland Satun):

• First, take a speedboat to Koh Lipe (1.5-2 hours).
• Then, take a longtail boat from Koh Lipe to Koh Hin Ngam (10-15 minutes).

Since the island is within Tarutao National Park, visitors must pay an entrance fee before visiting.

• Entrance Fee for Tarutao National Park:
  • Foreigners: 200 THB (adults), 100 THB (children)
  • Thai Citizens: 40 THB (adults), 20 THB (children)

The Black Stones of Koh Hin Ngam

Unlike the white-sand beaches of Koh Lipe or Koh Rawi, Koh Hin Ngam is entirely covered with smooth, black volcanic stones. These stones are believed to have formed from lava flows millions of years ago.

The Legend of the Cursed Stones

Local folklore says that Chao Pho Tarutao, the guardian spirit of the national park, placed a curse on anyone who removes stones from the island. According to legend, those who take a stone will experience bad luck, misfortune, or illness until they return it.

Many visitors have reportedly sent stones back to Thailand by mail after experiencing unexplained misfortunes. Because of this, taking stones is strictly forbidden by the national park authorities.

Things to Do on Koh Hin Ngam

1. Explore and Photograph the Black Stone Beach

• The black volcanic stones glisten in the sunlight when wet, making them appear even more beautiful.
• Visitors often try to stack the stones into towers for fun, but it is said that only those with pure hearts can successfully build a tall tower.
• The contrast between the dark stones, turquoise water, and lush green surroundings makes for stunning photographs.

2. Snorkeling in the Surrounding Coral Reefs

• While the beach itself is rocky, the waters around Koh Hin Ngam are crystal clear and full of marine life.
• The snorkeling spots around the island are home to colorful fish, sea urchins, and coral formations.
• Many snorkeling tours include stops at Koh Hin Ngam, Koh Rawi, and Koh Yang.

3. Enjoy the Peaceful Atmosphere

• Koh Hin Ngam is usually quiet and uncrowded, as it is not a place for swimming or sunbathing.
• The island is ideal for visitors looking for a unique and peaceful spot away from the crowds of Koh Lipe.

Best Time to Visit Koh Hin Ngam

• Best Season: November to April (dry season)
• Avoid Rainy Season (May to October): Heavy waves can make boat travel dangerous, and Tarutao National Park closes during this period.

Important Travel Tips

• Do not take any stones – The curse may or may not be real, but removing stones is also illegal.
• Wear water shoes – Walking on the stones can be uncomfortable and slippery.
• Bring snorkeling gear – There are no rental shops on the island.
• Respect the environment – Since Koh Hin Ngam is part of a marine park, leave no trash behind.
• Book an island-hopping tour from Koh Lipe – This is the easiest way to visit Koh Hin Ngam along with other nearby islands.

Nearby Islands to Visit

Since Koh Hin Ngam is part of Tarutao National Marine Park, it is often included in island-hopping tours along with:

• Koh Rawi – A pristine island with white sandy beaches and snorkeling spots.
• Koh Adang – Known for hiking trails, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints.
• Koh Yang – A small island with colorful coral reefs.
• Koh Lipe – The most developed island, offering accommodations, restaurants, and nightlife.

Why Visit Koh Hin Ngam?

• One-of-a-kind black stone beach – Unlike any other island in Thailand.
• Fascinating local legends – The cursed stones make the island even more mysterious.
• Great for photography and snorkeling – Stunning landscapes and rich marine life.
• A peaceful escape from tourist crowds – Unlike the busy beaches of Koh Lipe.

If you're visiting Koh Lipe or Tarutao National Marine Park, a stop at Koh Hin Ngam is a must to experience its rare volcanic beauty and intriguing local folklore.