Famous for its 5 km long crescent shaped beach and the many secluded beaches on wooded limestone islands close by, Si Kao is never far away from some of the key attractions in the area such as limestone caves, pristine forests and the marine wildlife park. Part of the Trang Province, Si Kao comprises of 21 of the 46 islands that make up the province. Added to its natural beauty Si Kao is part of the rich cultural heritage of Thailand that dates back several hundred years with artistic traditions that have been handed down through the generations.
Intertwined with religion and ritual, Manor Nora or Chakri, the traditional dance drama of Southern Thailand is one that many visitors get to see in Si Kao. The graceful stylized movements, particularly the hand movements of the female dancers with their long curved elongated nails, the colourful costumes and traditional songs performed to the accompaniment of cymbals, drums, Java pipes and castanets contribute to the visual and auditory experience provided by these inimitable dances. There are 12 poses and 17 movements of the dance of which various combinations are performed at different occasions as appropriate. There is even a modernized version made more palatable to visitors. Shadow plays, a popular theatrical tradition in Si Kao feature well loved figures in dramas such as lords, ladies, giants and clowns, cut out from animal hide and held up behind a lighted screen to create shadows which are manipulated by a puppeteer who also describes the action in song. Traditional musical instruments add the required noise and excitement to the performance. Shadow plays are a feature at temple fairs and rural celebrations and tend to go on all night. ‘Li Kae Pa’ is another form of popular traditional drama where only three performers enact a whole drama clad in colourful and varied costumes to the accompaniment of gongs, cymbals, pipes and tambourines.
Long known for their craftsmanship the traditional crafts of the area are still very much alive. While providing interesting shopping options for visitors they also showcase the skill of rural crafts people. Products that were made from natural materials of the locality for daily use of rural folk are now popular souvenirs. Mats with intricate geometric designs and colourful inserts woven from pandanus, containers called ‘muk’ to store miscellaneous items, sting ray leather products particularly shoes and bags, baskets for various uses, handbags and hats made of cattail reed stems, carved religious and other statuary are some of these. Products made from Thep Tharo scented wood with insect and ant repelling properties, rubber wood toys, batik cloth as well as hand woven and dyed colourful traditional damask cloth are some of the most popular products of the area. Local women’s groups still maintain this weaving heritage, contributing to the host of products that provide interesting browsing among the handicraft shops in Si Kao.
Enjoy the luxury and comfort of Anantara Si Kao Thailand enhanced by the amazing natural beauty of the location. Equipped with a series of well appointed, spacious family oriented rooms and suites this Krabi resort hotel is never far away from the white sandy beaches, clear blue water and year round gorgeous weather – the components for ideal beach holidays. This one of the exceptional Krabi resorts sets the tone for memorable stays with access to plenty of water based action, excellent food and beverage options, great service, the amenities and refinements of a luxury hotel enveloped in the relaxing ambience so necessary for a rejuvenating holiday.
