Chareena Hill Beach Resort
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People & Culture
Koh Lipe is more than just turquoise waters and sandy shores, it is home to a unique community whose roots lie deep in the Andaman Sea. The Chao Ley, also known as the Urak Lawoi’ or “Sea Gypsies”, have shaped the island’s identity with their traditions, seafaring skills, and vibrant spirit. Exploring their way of life offers visitors a deeper connection to the island and its people.
The Chao Ley Community
Koh Lipe is home to the Chao Ley, often called the “Sea Gypsies” or Urak Lawoi’ people. For centuries, this seafaring group has lived along the Andaman coast, tracing their roots to Austronesian peoples who migrated through the Malay Archipelago. Oral traditions suggest that their ancestors travelled by boat from island to island, eventually settling in parts of southern Thailand, including Satun Province and the Tarutao Archipelago.
The Chao Ley first arrived on Koh Lipe over a hundred years ago, drawn by its rich fishing grounds and sheltered bays. Their small settlements grew along Sunrise Beach, where many families still live today, maintaining their traditions while adapting to the island’s growing tourism economy.
Timeline of the Chao Ley in Koh Lipe
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Prehistoric Austronesian Migration (2,000–3,000 years ago)
Ancestors of the Chao Ley migrated across the seas from island groups in present-day Malaysia and the Nicobar Islands, bringing with them seafaring traditions and animist beliefs.
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Settlement along the Andaman Coast (several centuries ago)
The Urak Lawoi’ people spread across coastal areas of southern Thailand, including Satun and Phuket, living in small, mobile communities that relied on fishing and boat building.
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Arrival in Koh Lipe (late 19th century)
Chao Ley families settled on Koh Lipe, drawn by its calm lagoons and abundant marine resources. They built stilt houses near Sunrise Beach and established a close-knit village community.
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Cultural Adaptation (20th century)
As Islam and Buddhism spread through the region, some Chao Ley communities blended these religions with their traditional animist practices, while still preserving their own language and rituals.
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Tourism Era (late 20th century – today)
With the rise of Koh Lipe as a travel destination, many Chao Ley shifted from subsistence fishing to tourism-related jobs. Despite modern influences, they continue to celebrate traditional festivals and maintain a deep connection to the sea.
Way of Life
Fishing remains a key part of the Chao Ley culture. Traditional longtail boats, which you will see lining the beaches, are still crafted and used by locals. Family and community gatherings often centre around the sea, with festivals, food, and storytelling that reflect their maritime heritage.
Beliefs & Practices
Alongside Islam and Buddhism, animist traditions are also part of the cultural landscape. Small spirit shrines can be found around the island, where offerings are made to seek protection for families, fishermen, and travellers. Respecting these sacred spaces is an important way for visitors to connect with the island’s spiritual life.
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Festivals & Celebrations
One of the most significant cultural events is the Chao Ley Boat Floating Festival (Loi Ruea Chao Ley), held twice a year (usually in May and October). Colourful model boats are set afloat to carry away bad luck and bring blessings for the community. Tourists are sometimes invited to observe the celebrations, which feature music, dance, and traditional rituals.
Modern Influences
With the rise of tourism, many Chao Ley families now work in hospitality, guiding snorkelling tours, running guesthouses, or operating restaurants. Despite these changes, their identity as guardians of the sea remains strong, and visitors will notice their warm and welcoming spirit in daily interactions.