Joanna James
Koh Phangan is a large sea-view island. It is a dreamy island surrounded by blue-green salty depths. This tropical haven is enchanting as they come. But it can be hard to reach the island. You will have to get to Koh Samui or Surat Thani to then reach Koh Phangan. In this article, we talk about all the ways to reach the large paradise.
Koh Phangan is a big island located in the Southern Gulf of Thailand. This island amongst others makes up the Samui archipelago in Surat Thani. As it is a big island, there are plenty of things to do in Koh Phangan. The main pier to the island is called Thong Sala, and it is about 30 minutes away from resorts like the Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas.
If you are planning to catch a flight towards Koh Phangan, you can fly to Koh Samui airport and then catch a boat. The last boat to the island leaves Koh Samui around 6 30pm, so you’ll need to make arrangements accordingly. If you arrive after that time, you’ll need to pay for a private speedboat. You can catch a flight with Bangkok Airways from Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket. You can even fly to Koh Samui from Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. However, flying into Koh Samui is pretty expensive. Alternatively, you can take a budget plane to Surat Thani and catch a five-hour ferry to Koh Phangan.
If you are on a budget, it is better to take a bus to the island. It will take longer to travel. Hence, it is better to take an overnight bus. A bus ride from Bangkok to Surat Thani can take over 10 hours. From there, get a ferry to Koh Phangan. You can book a bus/ferry combo ticket with a tour company. This way, you don’t have to worry too much about the logistics.
Be prepared for a long journey. You’ll spend about 14 to 16 hours on the journey including the ferry ride. An overnight train is more comfortable than an overnight bus. And it is definitely cheaper than flying. Your train will leave Hua Lamphong station in the evening and arrive close to the Thong Sala Pier. You would need to put up with a short bus ride to the pier and then get on the ferry to arrive finally at your destination. It could be tiring but drink water, hydrate, and snack on the way to feel less uncomfortable. Think of the great adventure by the sea that awaits you.
As the island is large, you cannot see it on foot or cycle. Some people choose scooters. But, unless you are already a good rider, it can be dangerous. You should try to find a scooter rental shop that doesn’t require your passport as a deposit. And, if you ride one, always place your belongings in a backpack and keep it strapped onto your chest. Never place valuables in the front basket as this would be inviting thieves and pickpockets to rob you. Ride slowly to avoid potholes. It is best not to ride your scooter in the rain. Always wear your helmet and never take more than one passenger.
If scooters are not your thing, you can choose Songthaews. These Thai ‘taxis’ are not metered. You’ll need to negotiate the rate with the driver. You can team up with fellow travellers to pay less.
Long-tail boats are good for seeing places that are hard to reach.
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.
