The Best Hiking Trails in Koh Phangan: From Waterfalls to Unforgettable Views

Tough yet rewarding, the Khao Ra trail leads hikers to the highest peak on Koh Phangan, reaching 627 metres above sea level. The trail is clearly marked and is popular among visitors, although it can be challenging as it features a consistent, steep incline. What awaits at the summit are breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding landscape, from the rolling green hills to the glistening Gulf in the distance. Most hikers recommend visiting anytime from January through May to avoid monsoon season and heavy winds, which can lead to mudslides, fallen debris, and overgrown plants. Keep in mind that there is an entrance fee as the starting point is located on private land. 

One of the most essential things to do on Koh Phangan Island is explore its famed waterfalls, and, for those who prefer a shorter but equally rewarding hike, the Phaeng Noi Waterfall Loop is a great option. Located within Than Sadet National Park, this 3 km trail leads you through dense jungle and several waterfalls, including the namesake Phaeng Noi. Take a moment at the cascading waterfall and cool off in its refreshing streams before continuing forward with the trek. Along the way, you’ll pass the Domesila Viewpoint, offering sweeping views of the island’s coastline. This trail is well-marked and is considered a moderate hike, making it ideal for beginners and families.

If you’re looking for a more cultural hike, the trail to Wat Thong Nai Pan and Sala Viewpoint is a must. Starting in the charming village of Thong Nai Pan, the route officially begins at a beautiful Buddhist temple, featuring a unique, mesmerising emerald stupa made from recycled beer bottles—a stark difference from the golden structures commonly found at Thai temples. The trail continues through a tropical canopy, ascending to Sala Viewpoint. This underrated viewpoint rewards with stunning views of the twin bays, which are lined with luxury hotels like Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas. Generally, the trail is moderate in difficulty and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.

One of the lesser-known but incredibly scenic hikes on Koh Phangan is the Bottlenose Beach Coastal Trail. This undiscovered treasure takes you along a rugged coastline with vanilla-coloured beaches and dramatic rock formations. It’s an excellent spot for photography and spotting marine life, including sea turtles and tropical fish. The trail is relatively easy, making it accessible for most hikers, and takes around an hour to complete.

For another coastal adventure, the hike between Haad Yuan Beach and Haad Rin Beach is perfect. This scenic trail winds along the coastline, passing through flourishing jungle and rocky cliffs. The hike takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace. Haad Yuan Beach is known for its laidback atmosphere and slower pace of living, while Haad Rin is famous for its lively energy and is the site of the iconic full moon parties. If you time your hike right, you can catch a stunning sunset over the ocean before heading back.