Ko Pha-ngan Hotels from RM55

Koh Phangan is a sunny island lying in the Gulf of Thailand slightly north of Koh Samui. Although famed all over the world for its full moon parties, Koh Phangan has much more to offer holidaymakers. Visitors can choose from a collection of beaches which provide everything from peace and quiet to party venues open until early hours of the morning. Koh Phangan features a range of activities that includes diving, snorkelling, jungle treks and meditation courses.

Don’t Miss

Although beaches are the main feature of Koh Phangan, there are plenty of other sights and activities to occupy visitors. Hikes in Thansadet National Park or up to waterfalls such as Phaeng Waterfall take people through shady jungles. The viewpoint at Khao Ra is another popular trek. Guided tours or do-it-yourself trips by rental car or motorcycle are the best ways of getting to these places.

Koh Phangan’s cultural side is evident in its temples. Wat Maduea Wan is a sacred site for Buddhists as it houses a model of the Lord Buddha’s footprint. Wat Pho is an easy trip from Haad Rin and gives visitors the chance of taking a rejuvenating sauna. The statue of Chinese goddess Kuan Yin plus the Wat Khao Tham meditation retreat are the other main cultural hotspots.

Haad Rin Nok (Sunrise Beach) is the most famous of Koh Phangan’s beaches and the venue for the monthly full moon parties. Up to 40,000 partygoers attend each party. The quieter Haad Rin Nai is on the other side of a narrow cape. Other great beaches on the island are Haad Mae Had, Haad Kuat, Thong Nai Pan‘s twin beaches and Thong Reng.

Restaurants and Bars

Wining and dining is a delight on Koh Phangan. Many of the hotels, resorts and guest houses here have an in-house eatery and finding delicious Thai and seafood dishes is never a problem. They are also numerous other options within a few minutes’ walk. The biggest choice of restaurants and bars in one location is between the two Haad Rin beaches. Beachside bars at Sunrise play varied types of music and have nightly fire shows. Sunrise and Thong Sala have a few eateries serving international dishes such as sushi, burgers and pizza.

Shopping

Shopping venues on Koh Phangan are not equal to Bangkok or Chiang Mai, yet holidaymakers will have no problems buying gifts, souvenirs, clothing or daily necessities. The bulk of the speciality stores and boutiques are near the main ferry pier in the town of Thong Sala and at Haad Rin. Traditional Thai handicrafts and utensils, jewellery and paintings are among the items sold in these two locations.