Joanna James
Although Koh Phangan is typically considered THE party island due to its famous full-moon revelries, there is more to the place than merriment on the beach! Check out some of these options to diversify your holiday more!
Although many consider the neighbouring Koh Tao an awesome diving region, don't forego Koh Phangan's diving spots, which lie mid-way between the two islands.
Diving locations like Southwest Pinnacle and Sail Rock are situated in the centre of these two islands, and divers will have a great time exploring this region. When it comes to snorkelling, some of the best sites include Haad Salad, Haad Ya, Haad Chao Pao, and Haad Khom. In some of these places in Koh Phangan, spa options are worth checking out! These are remarkably affordable and offer top-quality services.
Thong Sala Night Market is perfect for sampling all the delicious food that Thailand is famous for! This particular market only has food so you can have an all-out Thai feast. The meals are fresh, delicious and full of variety to suit everyone's food preferences. You can encounter classic Thai meals like pad Thai and mango sticky rice to fried potatoes and kimbap! However, don't allow the beaten-up parking space where the market is held to discourage you from visiting it! Other markets worth exploring are Big C Market, Saturday Walking Street Market, and Chaloklum Market. All these places will feature a range of goodies, from food and clothes to trinkets!
Explore the beautiful beaches close to Koh Phangan by going on a boating excursion from Koh Phangan. You can also try heading out to Ang Thong National Marine Park for a day of snorkelling and relaxing. Take the whole experience to new heights by opting to include an overnight camping stay! These boat tours will take you on a journey to isolated and difficult-to-access locations such as Thong Nai Pan, Ko Tae, Ko Ma, and Bottle Beach. You can also check with accommodations like Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas to help arrange your trip.
If lounging on the beach all day is becoming monotonous, try going on a trek along the Eastern coast of Koh Phangan. Hike to the loftiest peak in Khao Ra or journey to Phaeng Waterfall National Park. If you're trekking up to Khao Ra on a clear day, you will spot the adjacent island of Tao. These treks can get isolated in certain parts, so pack sufficient food and drinks! For guided hikes, inquire with the National Park, which will provide all the necessary arrangements.
There are over 20 Buddhist temples on the island and some are centuries old! Take a break from the revelry and delve deep into spirituality by going on a temple tour if that sort of thing interests you! If visiting only one, don't forget to go to Wat Chaloklum. It is a gold-embellished temple on the north of the island, next to the fishing town of Ban Chalok Lam. It is among the quietest temples on the island! The temple grounds are beautiful, with stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings with little to no tourists. These temples are great places to uncover the Buddha's teaching and take a glimpse into the life of Buddhist monks! Other temples worth visiting include Wat Paa Sang Tham, Wat Nai, and Wat Rat Charoen.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
