Saline Hot Spring Surat Thani - Mud Spa

Information on Surat Thani's Saltwater Wells: From Natural Hot Springs to Sacred Coronation Wells
Surat Thani province is home to two distinctly different and significant saline water sources: the Saline Hot Spring in Tha Chang District, a natural health tourism destination, and the Sacred Well within Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya Ratchaworawihan in Chaiya District, an ancient water source used in sacred royal ceremonies of the nation.
The Saline Hot Spring of Tha Chang District: A Natural Wonder for Therapy

Located in Ban Thar Nam Ron, Khao Than sub-district, Tha Chang district, this saline hot spring is one of Surat Thani's "Unseen" attractions, popular among health-conscious tourists.

Key Features:

• Hot Spring with a Salty Taste: A rare and special characteristic. The water in the spring has a temperature of approximately 35-60 degrees Celsius with a slightly salty taste but no sulfur smell.
• Natural Mud Spa: In addition to the hot spring, the site features fine black mud that tourists can apply to their bodies for skin nourishment, believed to be rich in various minerals.
• Naturally Occurring: This hot spring is situated in an environment that was formerly a mangrove forest. It is presumed that geothermal heat raises the temperature of the groundwater, and its previous existence as a mangrove area infuses the water with minerals and salinity.

History and Legends:
In the past, local people believed this hot spring was a sacred place, calling it "Toh Nam Phu Ron Khem" ("Toh" is a term used by Muslims to show respect for elders or revered figures). They believed the water possessed healing properties, especially for muscle pain and various skin conditions. There are also old tales that the area was once a nesting site for crocodiles.
Today, the Saline Hot Spring has been developed into a tourist attraction with designated pools for foot and full-body soaking, complete with facilities to accommodate visitors seeking relaxation and health therapy.

The Sacred Well of Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya Ratchaworawihan: A Holy Water Stream of the Kingdom
Within the grounds of Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya Ratchaworawihan, a first-class royal temple and a major historical site of Southern Thailand, lies an ancient well that has been recognized as a source of sacred water since ancient times.

Characteristics and Significance:

• An Ancient Well Over 1,200 Years Old: It is believed that this well was constructed at the same time as the Phra Borommathat Chaiya stupa during the Srivijaya period (circa 8th-9th centuries CE) for use in religious rituals.
  
• Water for Major Royal Ceremonies: Water from this sacred well has been used in the coronation ceremonies of several monarchs of the Chakri Dynasty. This includes the coronation of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great (Rama IX) in 1950. Most recently, a ritual was held to draw water from this well for the royal ceremonies celebrating the 6th cycle (72nd) birthday of His Majesty the King on July 28, 2024.
  
  
• The sacred well is located in the Phutthawat (Buddha's abode) area, next to the old vihara (sermon hall) built alongside the main stupa. In the past, locals believed the water from this well was holy and could cure illnesses. The significance of this well is deeply rooted in local and national history and culture. Its selection as one of the sources of sacred water for royal ceremonies reflects its historical importance and the long-held beliefs passed down through generations.

In summary, the term "saltwater well" in Surat Thani has different meanings and roles. The Saline Hot Spring in Tha Chang is a natural phenomenon valued for health tourism, while the Sacred Well at Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya is a priceless cultural heritage, deeply connected to the Thai monarchy and the nation's history.