Ko Lipe Culture
Ko Lipe home to a resident population of Chao Ley, or Sea Gypsies which live in small villages, predominantly around the far east side of the island near Sunlight Beach. While they are distinct from regular Thai culture in many ways, there are a number of overlaps. Chao Ley speak Thai, share the same religion (Buddhism), celebrate Thai holidays, and have a reverence for the King. The Chao Ley have their own separate holidays, including a large ceremony in April honoring their ancestors.
Despite these similarities, there is a lot of tension between the locals and the mainland Thais over land and water rights.
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| Ko Lipe History | Ko Lipe Politics | Ko Lipe Culture | Ko Lipe Economy | Ko Lipe Geography |