Choa Le Village (To Ba Leaw Community)

What to Expect

This is a Chao Le (sea-gypsy) community of the Urak Lawoi people — not a hill tribe. Koh Lanta is regarded as the central home of the Urak Lawoi, and the village (locally known as Ban Sang Ka U) lives by fishing, shellfish gathering and small-boat seafaring. Its signature event is the Loy Ruea boat-floating ceremony, held on the full moons of the sixth and eleventh lunar months, when villagers launch small wooden spirit boats to carry away misfortune, accompanied by Rong Ngeng music and dancing.

Visitor Information

• Entry Fee: Free (Thai nationals: Free)

Getting There

Choa Le Village (To Ba Leaw Community) is located at Koh Lanta, Krabi. View on Google Maps.

Tips for Visitors

• Visit around the sixth or eleventh lunar month to catch the Loy Ruea boat-floating ceremony.

• Always ask permission before photographing people.

• Buy seafood and goods directly from local stalls to support the community.

• A local guide helps bridge the language and cultural gap.