Nakha Pearl Farm
Nakha Pearl Farm is a popular tourist attraction in Thailand’s Phuket resort. The farm, where pearl oysters are farmed, is located on the small island of Nakha Noi, near the northeastern tip of Phuket. It was established in 1964 and today has grown into one of the largest pearl farms in Thailand. Farmers grow between 80,000 and 100,000 shells each year.
Cultivating pearls
To produce a finished pearl, garlands of shells must spend between 2 and 10 years in warm seawater. During this time, Nakha Farm staff monitor the water temperature and the condition of the shellfish. They clean the shells of accumulated algae and treat the clams if necessary. The technology behind the Nakha pearl farm was developed by the Japanese.
Thailand grows pearls of different colors – white, gray, pink and black. It is believed that it was here that the largest pearl on the planet was grown, with a diameter of up to 4 centimeters. Thai pearls are highly quoted on the world market as they meet all international standards.
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On a trip to the island, one can learn the secrets of growing sea oysters, from placing a piece of coral in the shell to extracting the mature pearl. Visitors are shown aquariums with shells, told about real and fake pearls, and the rules of care for pearl products.
>Nakha Noi Island
Nakha pearl farm tours are very popular with Phuket holiday travelers. Tours to Nakha Noi are sold at any tour desk on the island.
Nakha Pearl Farm has a workshop where original pearl crafts and jewelry are made, and a small souvenir store is open. Small local restaurants serve dishes made from freshly caught fish and seafood. If desired, travelers can walk around the farm’s scenic surroundings and check out other attractions such as Thai boxing competitions and cockfights.
.How to get there
Nakha Pearl Farm is located on the west coast of the small island of Nakha Noi. Most tourists come here on organized tours. Those who reach the attraction on their own get to the island by ferry or boat from Bang Rong Pier. The sea journey to Nakha Noi Island takes 20-40 minutes.
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