Detailed map of Phangan. Koh Phangan in Thailand - a complete overview of the island. Who should choose Koh Phangan

The island of Koh Phangan is 45 km away from the mainland of Thailand, and very close (8 km) from it is the popular island. Phangan is not crowded, is medium in size (168 km 2), tourist infrastructure is developed only in some parts of the island, but it has magnificent beaches, clean water, and invigorating air. Most of the territory is mountainous with impassable tropical forests. And here undersea world is very rich in a variety of exotic fish and plants, because it is not for nothing that Koh Phangan is one of the best places for diving and snorkeling, along with.

Who better to relax here? This place is most suitable for two groups of people:

• For those who love silence and solitude
• For the active cheeky nightlife

Photo: Olesya Kuznetsova/Shutterstock.com

How so? Yes, very simple. All conditions have been created for youth recreation on the west coast on Had Rin Beach. It is here that the world-famous monthly Full Moon Party is held, attracting up to 30,000 people from different parts of our planet. The party is held on the full moon and officially lasts one day, although in fact the festivities begin 3 days before the party and last 3 days after it, i.e. in fact it lasts a whole week.

The most popular drink at this event is called a “bucket”: a bottle of whiskey, Coca-Cola and energy drink is poured into a small bucket of several liters - this is the “standard” composition, although a wide variety of “buckets” are sold. You can look at the Full Moon Party schedule a little. It is worth noting that there are parties almost every day on Had Rin Beach, they just attract far fewer people than the Full Moon Party.

Photo: flatbox/Shutterstock.com

For lovers of peace and solitude, all the beaches of Koh Phangan are suitable, with the exception of Had Rin. The island itself is considered a paradise for those looking for a break from noisy cities. You can walk around white sand barefoot, dozing in the shade of palm trees, swimming in the clear sea, basking in the sun all day. If you want to be completely alone, then you can find such beaches, although you need to get to them either by boat or through the jungle along very narrow paths. You can also choose where the atmosphere of calm and romance reigns everywhere.

There are not very many shops on Koh Phangan, mostly souvenir shops. If you want to buy something worthwhile, it’s better to go to Koh Samui; boats ply between these islands constantly. Diving is in great demand on Koh Phangan, which is why certified diving centers are open here to help anyone who wants to learn how to scuba dive.

Beach cleanliness:

Number of vacationers.

Koh Phangan is a paradise for romantic trips and for families who want to relax with children. The Thais have created the most convenient and comfortable infrastructure for relaxation and enjoying natural beauty.

• Phangan, Ko Pha-ngan District, Surat Thani, Thailand

Where is it and how to get there

Phangan is washed by the waters of the Gulf of Thailand. The area of ​​the island is 125 sq. km. More than 70% of the entire territory is mountainous and jungle. The Thais make sure that nature is preserved as much as possible. in its original form. The rest of the territory is beaches with coconut groves. The nearest island of Koh Samui is 15 km away. Mainland Thailand is located 55 km from the island.

The island is home to 10,000 inhabitants. Around Thongsala – central city– small settlements have been formed.

Koh Samui is the closest airport to Koh Phangan, which receives flights from the largest cities in Thailand. The time it takes to fly is 20-50 minutes. It all depends on which airline is chosen. You can also use the services of the airport, which is located on the mainland - Surat Thani. But you will have to get to the island from there by bus and water transport.

The fastest way to get there is by speed boat. But this pleasure is not cheap. You can go to the island in this way 3 times a day. Mostly boats from Samui moor near Haad - Rin and Maenam beaches.

The cheapest option is to purchase a comprehensive ticket in Bangok. The price includes bus travel and ferry travel. The price of such a trip is from 1300 baht.

You can also buy a comprehensive ticket when traveling by train. They need to get to Surat Thani, after which they take advantage of bus transportation and ferry crossing.

Who should choose Koh Phangan

It is not surprising that on the island of Koh Phangan both avid party-goers and those looking for peace and quiet can find a secluded place. West Coast more suitable for active holidaymakers. The famous parties throughout Asia take place here, which begin on the full moon and last for a day. Official preparations begin 3 days before the celebration. All other beaches and tropical jungle wildlife are for those who love nature and slow life.

Urban transport

There are quite a few high-quality roads on Koh Phangan. All settlements that are accessible to tourists have good tracks. Most often, people travel within the island by songthaew or rented transport.

One of the most convenient rental points is located near the Thong Sala pier. Songthaews also depart from here. Depending on the route, travel by public transport will cost 5-10 dollars. Renting a car will cost from $10 per day, depending on which car you choose.

There are plenty of rental points on the island. To rent a motorbike you will need to pay from 150 baht. Tour operators warn that you need to be especially careful on serpentine roads. In addition, it is not uncommon to see drivers driving them in a not entirely sober state. As a result, damage to the bike can cost more than the rental fee.

Even if a tourist drove a rented vehicle very carefully, enterprising Thais will find a small scratch or defect and will have to give it their all. Sometimes tourists paid an additional 5-6 thousand baht for such “breakdowns”. Complaining to the police about injustice is practically useless, since they know the whole situation and can cover for “their own.” Therefore, it is imperative to have money in reserve at the end of your vacation.

Those who rent vehicles should know a few important nuances. You can rent a bike only on the security of your foreign passport (not a copy). The other one doesn't fit. At the same time, they check whether the document is expired, since many people want to leave their old passport as collateral.

Weather on Koh Phangan and when is the best time to go

Like most of Thailand, Koh Phangan is divided into two tourist seasons:

• High. The period falls on autumn and winter time. It is during this period that tourists from all over the world hide from winter under the tropical sun. Although the conditions at this time are far from ideal: the cost of vacation is high due to the large influx of vacationers, the weather can suddenly deteriorate, there are often high waves. This popularity is also explained by the desire of tourists to meet New Year in the tropics, spend your holidays in the warmth.
• The low season occurs in the summer and spring months. There are not many people willing. Discounts on housing and products can reach 70%, big waves and there are no prolonged rains, the water and beaches are clean and well-groomed. During this period there is an opportunity to live in good hotel for a relatively nominal fee. In this season rainy days are not excluded, but most precipitation falls at night, and the sky is cloudless during the day. The temperature is quite comfortable for relaxation.

Fortunately, even in the rainiest months (October, November) there are no floods or terrible downpours on Koh Phangan. Even in winter, when the rains have not yet completely stopped, the climate and conditions are comfortable for spending a holiday here. If you have the opportunity to choose what winter time to go on vacation to the island, then it is better to give preference to a vacation on Koh Phangan in February or early spring.

Beaches

Beaches on Koh Phangan occupy almost the entire coastline. Each individual beach is either a small bay or sand spit. They are separated from each other by rocky areas. Paid beaches No.

Conventionally, beaches can be divided into several regions:

• West Bank. An ideal place for lovers of wild tourism. For housing, you can rent inexpensive bungalows. It is very convenient to move around the territory, there are good transport links with other regions.
• The southern coast overlooking Koh Samui receives the most tourists. The presence of reefs has contributed to the formation of shallow beaches, which are ideal for have a relaxing holiday with small children. Housing and infrastructure for every taste and budget.
• Eastern Shore. Here are the most picturesque beaches islands. Many bays are located in such a way that they can only be reached by water transport. Both people with low incomes and lovers of luxury villas like to relax here.
• North Shore. The most popular beach is represented by Ma Island, which is connected to the shore by a sand spit. The largest fishing port is also located in this region.

What to see and do on Koh Phangan

Young people should definitely attend the most incendiary parties on the beaches, which are somewhat similar to those held in Ibiza or Kazantip. Here you can not only dance, try the most unusual alcoholic cocktails, but also watch a fire show. There are a lot of visitors, so you should not forget about caution and pickpockets.

Nature lovers can head to the local national park, where there is the largest waterfall on the island - favorite place kings of Thailand. Excellent excursion program could be a hike to an elephant camp and a Chinese temple. There are shows with snakes and crocodiles. The park is open from 8.00 am to 6.00 pm, seven days a week.

Fans of active recreation can try kiteboarding, book walks along the sea and wild jungle, and learn the laws of yoga. Near Koh Phangan there are several small islands that are ideal place for diving and snorkeling. During the dive you can see extraordinary beauty small colorful fish and coral reefs.

If you want something unusual, it is recommended to visit the herbal sauna, the entrance to which will cost 75 baht. Most visitors are residents of Russia and former CIS. It is only open from 3 pm to 7 pm. Here you can use or buy soaps and scrubs made from medicinal herbs as souvenirs.

Those who want to leave a mark on their body as a memory of Thailand can use the services of tattoo parlors.

Those who came here for shopping will be upset because large shopping centers with famous brands and super affordable and favorable prices there is no. As an option, you can purchase genuine leather products, items for relaxing on the beach, figurines, and hammocks as souvenirs.

Prices on Koh Phangan

IN high season prices on Koh Phangan can be 15-20% higher than on Koh Samui. This is especially true for food and drinks. You can eat in a good restaurant or cafe for 150 baht (per person).

Most often food is purchased at central market. So, fried fish here can be bought for an average of 100 baht (it all depends on the type of fish and its size), an average portion of salad - 60 baht, a small portion of grilled meat - 40 baht, pancakes with different fillings - from 40 baht.

Koh Phangan or Phangan is an island located in the Gulf of Thailand. Its area is 125 sq. km. The name Koh Phangan comes from the Thai words “Ko” and “Ngan”, which mean “island” and “sand spit” respectively. The distance separating the island from the mainland is approximately 56 km, it is located 16 km from Koh Samui and 35 km from Koh Tao. More details can be found on the map.

Phangan Island began to attract tourists relatively recently - about 30 years ago. But during this time, it managed to fall in love with both young people who prefer active parties and lovers of a relaxing holiday.

In contact with

Classmates

How to get to the island

One of the features of the island is the Full Moon Party held on it - a large-scale event held under open air and gathering several thousand people.

For those who prefer sports and leisure created wonderful conditions for extreme sports on the water. Lovers of peace and quiet will love it untouched beauty wild nature and deserted beaches.

By plane from Bangkok

There is no airport on Koh Phangan; the closest ones are located in Surat Thani.

The fastest and most convenient flight will be from Bangkok to international Airport Samui, however, the price of such air travel can hurt your pocket. At the airport you can purchase a combo ticket (for bus and ferry) or you can take a taxi to the pier. Ferries depart from the pier to Koh Phangan. The price of a one-way ferry ticket ranges from 200 to 300 baht.

The second option is to fly to the airport in Surratani. This flight will cost much less, since you can use the services local airlines such as:

• Nok Air
• Air Asia
• Thai Smile
• Lion Air

The first two have the opportunity to purchase combination ticket(joint ticket), which includes flights, bus travel and ferry travel. The cost of a plane ticket from Bangkok to Surratani is 1,300 baht, however, very often there are discounts on evening flights, as a result of which you can buy a ticket at half the price. Tourists should be aware that there are no return flights from Surat Thani.

By bus

You can take the bus to the bus station in Surrat Thani, where you can purchase a comprehensive bus ticket that takes passengers to Donsak pier, from which the ferry goes to Koh Phangan. The price of such a ticket is from 300 baht. There are also routes that go straight to the pier, meaning you don’t have to change trains at the bus station.

Buses from Bangkok to Surratani depart from the South Bus Station. Ticket prices start from 500 baht and depend on the comfort and class of the bus. Buses to Surratani run from all resorts in Southern Thailand:

• Krabi
• Hat Yai
• And other resorts

By train

One more in an accessible way getting to Koh Phangan is a train ride. Trains depart from stations located in Hua Hin and Bangkok (Hualamphong Station). The final point of the route is Phun Pin Railway Station, located near Surat Thani. Ticket prices range from 150 to 1500 baht, the price is affected by the comfort of the chosen seat (from seating in the general carriage to the compartment).

The best option is an overnight trip.

Minibuses and buses run regularly from the arrival station to the pier, from which the ferry to Koh Phangan departs.

By sea

Crossing by water is one of the most accessible and comfortable ways to get to the island. This is especially true for tourists who have a comprehensive ticket in their hands - on which is indicated Ending station Koh Phangan island. They won’t have to worry about possible problems—everything will be organized for them.

Those who prefer to travel independently can take a ferry from any pier. There is a very well developed ferry service between the mainland and the islands.

On Koh Phangan, ferries stop at Thong Sala pier.

Weather in Koh Phangan

This is a resort that can be visited at any time of the year. It's always warm and comfortable here, but don't forget that The island has two rainy seasons, during which holidays on the island are less attractive than at other times.

The rainy season, also called the low season, occurs from September to December. The most precipitation falls in October and November, and in December this figure decreases. In mid-December the weather stabilizes and becomes quite good. The second rainy season is the period from April to June - during this time there is not much rainfall and sunny days predominate, however, the water level remains low. And the water in the sea is becoming polluted. For those who are going to sunbathe and take part in the Full Moon party, this will not cause any trouble. But if the purpose of the trip is to swim in the sea, then it is better to reschedule the trip to another time.

The dry or high season is the optimal time for relaxing on the beach and other entertainment and occurs from December to March, and July and August. When planning a trip to Koh Phangan based on the weather, it is best to focus on these time periods.

Transport Koh Phangan

The most common means of transport on Koh Phangan are motorcycles and scooters. They are available to tourists at prices starting from 150 baht for rent per day. You can also get around the island by Songthaew taxi - these are unique pickup trucks with a roof and benches in the luggage compartment, the fare starts from 20 baht. And on the central street of Thong Sala you can rent a pickup truck (price from 1,500 baht per day) or a sedan (price 1,000 baht per day).

There are beaches on Koh Phangan that are best visited on foot or using special taxi boats. Travel for one person on such a boat will cost 150-400 baht, depending on the distance of the route. To avoid getting lost when independent travel, it is best to grab a map of the island.

Beaches of Koh Phangan

Haad Rin Beach, located in the southeast of the island, is one of the most popular, and therefore crowded, beaches. Among tourists it is usually called the beach rising sun. This is where they take place monthly Full Moon Festivals. Therefore, lovers of loud parties and fun get-togethers flock here. On this beach there is a small path leading to Naad Tian and Naad Yuanili beaches, where there are no people and complete peace reigns. You can also get to these beaches by boat.

The beaches of Thong Nai Pan Yai and Thong Nai Pan Noi are located in the northeast of the island. They are surrounded by beautiful green mountains. Fans of scuba diving can go here because on these beaches you can get acquainted with the beauty of underwater flora and fauna.

Not far from the main port of the island - Thong Sala, there is Ban Tai Beach. It is interesting because not far from the shore there are coral reefs that lovers of snorkeling and scuba diving can admire. But you need to know that swimming will be very problematic for those who went on a trip from May to November.

In the port itself there are several small beaches near the hotels. But since they are located near the port, and also close to the regularly occurring night parties - Middle Moon and Shiva, these beaches will not be attractive for those who prefer to enjoy peace and quiet during their holidays.

Tan Sadet - very secluded beach, walking close to which you can admire the delightful waterfall of the same name. It is noteworthy that this was once favorite place for the royal family of Thailand.

All beaches of the island are marked on the map.

Island hotels

Any tourist can find accommodation here to suit his taste and budget. The most common are wooden bungalows, however, not all of them have hot water, so you definitely need to clarify this issue when looking for housing. Prices per day for bungalows start from 400 baht.

Guesthouses are very popular - they are equipped with air conditioning, refrigerator, internet and TV. Their prices are very reasonable and range from 300 to 700 baht per day.

On Koh Phangan - hotels are available for any tourists. Finding a suitable one in terms of comfort and price is not difficult. After all, there are more than 290 of them here. three star hotel the room will cost 1000 baht.

The hotels in greatest demand among tourists are:

• Le Divine Comedie is located 8 kilometers from Haad Ried beach.
• Milky Bay is a hotel near Ban Tai Bay with an outdoor swimming pool.

All hotels have free Wi-Fi (but not always in the rooms). Most have free parking spaces. But each room has air conditioning and its own bathroom.

Conveniently, you can pay either in cash or by card.

Koh Phangan Island - attractions

All natural beaches with waterfalls located there can be called attractions. There is always something to see on Koh Phangan. But the most significant one is National Park Than Sadet. You can visit it at any time, especially since admission is free.

The park is famous the most beautiful and big waterfall on the island of Peang. This is a multi-tiered waterfall that has a very impressive appearance, especially in winter. In the spring, due to the lack of rain, it dries up and looks like a thin stream of water flowing over the stones.

Also located in the park Lem Son Lake, it is surrounded by coconut trees, under which you can relax and enjoy the wonderful view.

More interesting place will be available for visiting Chinese Temple with a statue of the Mother of Mercy of the East - Guan. Most popular among tourists

Koh Phangan attractions

Do not deny yourself the pleasure and visit herbal sauna – Wat Pho Herbal Sauna. Here you can relax and unwind after long excursions, recharge your batteries with energy and good mood.

In the marine reserve area there is a so-called “little copy of paradise” - forever green island Ko Nang Yuan. Here you can enjoy the view of rare underwater fauna, such as angelfish and clown fish.

Koh Phangan Island is perfect for traveling with children - because there is a lot of unforgettable entertainment for them here. This vacation will become an unforgettable fairy tale for them, filled with the beauty of nature.

Phangan or Phangan (Kho Phangan) is an island located in the Gulf of Thailand with an area of ​​125 square km. The name Ko Phangna comes from the Thai "Ko" - "island" and "Ngan" - "sand spit". The distance to the mainland is about 56 km, distant from the islands: Koh Samui is 16 km, Koh Tao is 35 km.

Tourism on the island is a relatively young industry, no more than 30 years old, but in such a short time the island of Koh Phangan has managed to gain popularity both among European youth with the opportunity to participate in party events in the south of the island, and among lovers of quiet exotic holiday(west and north).

Koh Phangan island on the map of Thailand

A special feature of the island is the (Full Moon Party) - a grand open-air event that brings together thousands of people in one place.

Sports lovers on Koh Phangan have excellent conditions for active and extreme recreation on the water. Fans of a relaxing holiday will find the wild beauty of untouched nature, deserted beaches and a leisurely, quiet life here.

Approximate prices:

• Taxi from the main pier in Thongsal to many parts of the island 150-200 baht per person;
• Scooter rental from 200 baht per day;
• Accommodation from 300 baht per day;
• Meals from 100 baht per person for 1 meal in a cafe or restaurant.

How to get there

By plane from Bangkok

There is no airport on Koh Phangan, the closest ones are Surat Thani and.

Sending from Bangkok to Samui is very expensive, but the fastest and most convenient. You can go to the pier from the airport by taxi. And from the pier you take a ferry to Koh Phangan. Ferries cost 200-300 baht one way. At Samui airport, you can buy a combo ticket (bus + ferry).

The second option is to fly to the nearby airport in Suratthani. You can fly to the airport much cheaper using the services of local airlines: Nok Air, Air Asia, Thai Smile and Lion Air. From airlines Air Asia and Nok Air you can purchase a combined ticket (Joint ticket) plane + bus + ferry. Tickets from Bangkok to Surat Thani cost 1,300 baht; there are often discounts for flights after 17.00, resulting in tickets available for 600 baht. (there are no return flights from Surat Thani).

By bus

Buses run to the bus station in Surat Thani, from where you can buy a package ticket that includes a bus ride to Donsak Pier and a ferry to Koh Phangan. The cost of such a ticket will be from 300 baht. There are also routes that go straight to the Donsak pier, from which you can take a ferry.

Bangkok-Surat Thani depart from Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal or Sai Tai Mai. The typical cost is from 500 baht, depending on the class of the bus.

You can easily get to Surat Thani by bus from anywhere southern Thailand: Phuket, Krabi, Hat Yai and other resorts. For schedules and prices, visit www.sawadee.com

By train

You can get there by train from Hua Hina and Bangkok. The train goes to Phun Pin Railway Station, near Surat Thani. The train departs from railway station Bangkok - Hualamphong. The cost of the trip ranges from 150 to 1500 baht depending on comfort (from seated 3rd class to compartment).

It is most convenient to travel at night.

Very often with railway station There are buses and minibuses to the pier, from which you can cross to the island of Koh Phangan.

Sea communication

The final stage of each of the above transport is crossing by water. If you have a comprehensive ticket with the final stop on Koh Phangan, then you don’t have to worry about anything, everything will be organized for you.

Sea routes

If you decide to travel alone, you can take a ferry from any pier. Ferry service between the mainland pier Donsak (Donsak International Port), Koh Samui (Koh Samui), Koh Tao (Koh Tao), Koh Phangan (Koh Pangan) is very well developed. Ferries to Koh Phangan dock at the Thong Sala pier.

Ferry schedule

The information above is for informational purposes only, as schedules may change.

Transport

The main transport on Koh Phangan is scooters and motorcycles. They can be rented from 150 baht/day. There is a taxi Songthaew on the island - pickup trucks with a roof and benches, fares from 20 baht. On the main street in Thong Sala you can rent a pickup truck from 1500 baht per day, a sedan 800 - 1000 baht per day.

It is better to go to some beaches of Koh Phangan on foot or travel on specially equipped boats (taxi-boat). The fare for one person will be 150-350 baht depending on the distance.

Beaches

Crowded Haad Rin beach. Tourists call it the beach of the rising sun. Located in the southeast of the island, it is famous for its monthly Full Moon festivals. This is where lovers of fun evenings and parties flock. From Haad Rin, you can take a small path or boat to the beaches of Naad Yuanili Naad Tian, ​​where peace and quiet reign.

In the northeast of Koh Phangan are the beaches of Thong Nai Pan Yai and Thong Nai Pan Noi, surrounded by green mountains. Here you can dive into the water to discover the beauty of the underwater world.

Not far from Thong Sala, the main port of the island, is Ban Tai Beach. The beach is interesting for those close to the shore coral reef, which can be clearly seen by scuba diving daredevils. But it is precisely because of it and the pronounced low tides that swimming here is problematic from May to November.

But in the port itself there are small beaches at hotels. However, the proximity of the port and the ongoing Half Moon Festival and Shiva Moon Party for accommodation here does not attract tourists who come to take a break from the hustle and bustle.

Tan Sadet. This secluded beach and nearby Than Sadet Waterfall were once a favorite destination for the Thai royal family.

Hotels

There are different types of accommodation on Koh Phangan depending on the preferences of the tourist. Wooden bungalows are the most common type of housing. But it is worth considering that not everyone has hot water. Prices per day start from 400 baht.

▣ Housing is presented for every taste and budget.

You can also rent a good guesthouse on the island, equipped with air conditioning, internet, refrigerator and TV. Its cost is very pleasing and amounts to 300-700 baht.

There are more than 290 hotels on the island. You can choose the one that suits you based on price or comfort. Prices range from 1000 to 1200 baht per room in a 3* hotel.

The most popular among tourists are:

• Le Divine Comedie, located 8 kilometers from Haad Ried beach.
• Milky Bay. The hotel with its own outdoor pool is located near Ban Tai Bay.

All hotels have free wifi(but not always in the rooms) and almost all have free parking areas. All rooms are equipped with amenities and air conditioning.

Hotel prices are approximate. Depending on the season, they increase and especially during periods national holidays and festivals.

Attractions

All the natural beaches of the island with their waterfalls can be classified as its attractions. But the largest is Than Sadet National Park. The park is open to visitors at any time and admission is free.

The park is famous for the largest and beautiful waterfall Phangan with the name Peang. Its multi-tiered structure gives the waterfall an impressive appearance, especially in winter. In the spring, in the absence of rain, it dries up, and instead of a stormy stream of water, a thin stream of water flows down the wet stones.

In the park there is also wonderful lake Laem Son, surrounded by coconut trees under which you can relax. The Chinese temple with the statue of Guan Yin, the Mother of Mercy of the East, is also interesting to visit.

One of the popular temples is Wat Thong Sala. Wat Pho Herbal Sauna is also worth a visit. Here you will relax, relieve fatigue after long excursions, gain new vital energy and recharge in a good mood.

▣ Wat Pho Herbal Sauna - herbal sauna.

On the territory of the marine reserve you can visit a “small copy of paradise” - the evergreen island of Koh Nang Yuan. Here you have the opportunity to see rare inhabitants of the underwater kingdom, such as clown fish and sea angels.

Since the island is very large, there are also a lot of attractions on Koh Phangan. We will tell you more about the attractions in the next article.

Phangan, an island in Thailand, has become very popular among tourists. People come here to relax from the bustle of the city.

The place is different deserted beaches, wildlife. Only once a month does it get crowded here: on the full moon Haad beach Rin hosts a youth party with cocktails in a bucket.

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Island on the map of Thailand

The name translates from Thai as “sand barrier”. On the map, the island of Koh Phangan or Kho Phangan looks very small, but in reality it is one of large islands Thailand.

It is about 15 km in diameter and its area is 170 square meters. km. It is located in the southwest of the Gulf of Thailand, 55 km from the mainland. During low tide, many small shallows appear around, forming a kind of obstacle to the waves. Thanks to this, the water on the beaches is always calm.

The landscape is not very diverse: half the territory is occupied by mountains and jungles, the rest by fields and beaches. If you look at the map of Thailand, you will see that its larger neighbor is located not far from the island of Koh Phangan. Koh Samui.

Weather

It's warm in Koh Phangan all year round, but there is still a period not recommended for visiting the resort. The rainy season begins here from September to December. In December the rains begin to decline, and already in January dry weather sets in, ending in April. This is the best time to relax on Koh Phangan.

Separately, it is necessary to say about May and June. During these months it is also rainy here, but the weather is quite hot, you can sunbathe successfully, but it is better to refrain from swimming because of the dirty water.

A little about Thailand

Thailand is located in the southeastern part of Asia. This is a state with a constitutional monarchy, the head of which is the king. “Thai” translated into Russian means “freedom”; Thailand is the English name (“land of the Thais”).

It is not only the capital, but also a separate province; there are 77 of them in Thailand. The international name of the Thai currency is TNV; in everyday speech, Thai money is called the baht.

Feature geographical location is a shape elongated from south to north, the distance between extreme points is 1860 km. This explains the diversity of climatic zones. The population is multinational, but most still made up of Thais and Laotians. The country has developed agriculture; 9 million tons of rice are supplied to the world market from Thailand.

Thailand is one of the popular Asian tourist destinations. Travel business- one of the main ones. Available here different types recreation: traditional, diving, search for ways of enlightenment. This a good place and for honeymoon, and to search for adventures of various kinds, and for family vacation– everyone finds entertainment and relaxation for themselves.

It is important to know: they allow the transportation of a carton of cigarettes, a liter of alcohol, for excess there is a fine. And the import and export of drugs is punished extremely seriously.

Developed infrastructure and national customs coexist perfectly in one place. Tourists from Russia can vacation here without a visa, but not more than 30 days. Regulars are advised to take out insurance in advance for the entire duration of the trip.

How to get there

There is an opinion that it is impossible to get lost in Thailand. This may be true, but getting to Koh Phangan is not so easy. There are several routes, you just have to choose one of them:

• via Bangkok. There are two ways to get to the island: by plane or by boat. tourist bus. The latter is more convenient: it will take you to the pier in Donsak, from where the ferry goes to Tong Sala - everything is simple;
• via Suaratthani, which is closest to Koh Phangan locality on the mainland. There is also an airport here, the cost of tickets here is much lower, and you can buy a combined one: plane - bus - ferry;
• via Koh Samui. If you fly here from the capital of Thailand, then you need to get to the pier and transfer to water transport. Tourists from Russia land in Suvarnabhumi airport, from here the plane flies to Koh Samui.

The most famous attractions

The main port and main city of the island is Thong Sala. There are large stores here, but even there the choice is small. There is a market here, but prices are higher than on the mainland. You can visit the evening market with Thai food.

You can relax, sunbathe and soak up the warm sand on the beaches of Sritanu, Ao Niad (Zen Beach) and Chao Pao.

The main attractions on Koh Phangan are parks, temples and natural beauty. Let's look at the most interesting ones.

Parks

Than Sadet National Park is named after the body of water in which it is located. The name of the park and river means "Royal River". The park owes its foundation and name to the visit of King Rama V to these places. The national park is a virgin corner of nature.

The most visited places are waterfalls, there are two of them. Than Sadet (Royal Stream) is a multi-stage waterfall. The steps are created by huge boulders; the length of this water cascade is about 3 km. Interestingly, the waterfall is considered sacred; water from it is even used for state ceremonies.

The second Phaeng waterfall is also attractive because there is an excellent observation deck next to it. But the path to the waterfall is thorny: a steep path about 300 m long leads to it. Comfortable shoes and a map of the area can make the hike easier, but not much. Near Phaeng there is a trail to famous mountain Ra, from here to good weather neighboring islands are visible.

Another amazing place in the park there is Laem Son Lake. It is protected by the state, fishing is prohibited here, but sunbathing or relaxing in the shade of trees, bungee jumping, and swimming are allowed. Therefore the lake is quite popular place family holidays, especially on hot days. Moreover, admission is free and it is open to visitors around the clock. Perhaps the only drawback of the park is the road that leads here; during the rainy season it is almost impassable. It is better to go to the park on a tour or with a personal guide.

Safari Park is essentially an elephant nursery, located two kilometers from Chaloklum Beach. Here tourists are offered to ride elephants and watch the life of monkeys, squirrels, and snakes. Tourists are offered shows with crocodiles and snakes.

Ang Thong is not located on the island itself, but excursions are organized there. Ang Thong is a group of islands that are under the influence natural phenomena have acquired amazing forms, which attract tourists. There is also salt Lake, Emerald Lake lagoon with nice beach, beautiful views.

Temples

For such small island there are quite a few temples here, which are the architectural landmarks of Koh Phangan.

Guan Yin- the temple of the goddess of mercy, personifying the feminine principle of Buddha. Erected on a hill in the traditions of Chinese architecture. It is located near the village of Chaloklam and is especially loved by women and traders. The temple is divided into several parts: the first with a statue of Guan Yin, another for meditation, and another for receiving guests. Entrance is free, the temple is open only during the day. An asphalt road leads to the shrine.

Guan Yin

Wat Phu Khao Noi located near the Thong Sala pier. Elements of ancient Thai architecture, which abound in the building, create an unusual atmosphere. Difficult to find the best place for meditation. In the temple you can talk with the local monk about lofty topics. A dress code is observed here: revealing and transparent clothing is prohibited. Locals come here in the hope of finding good luck. And from the temple site a wonderful panorama opens.

Wat Phu Khao Noi

Wat Pho is located next to Thong Sala and has become popular for its herbal sauna. The healing properties of herbs and hot steam tone the body. Here you can enjoy a real Thai massage. The sauna is open in the afternoon; visitors give 50 baht as a donation to the temple.

What else can you see

Many people visit the Purina farm, where you can watch the pets and pet them, just like in petting zoo. Mountainous terrain means there is observation platforms, of which there are many on Koh Phangan, but the roads leading to them leave much to be desired. Not far from Wat Phu Khao Noi there is mini golf where you can practice your accuracy.

Had Lila beaches

And the beaches with beautiful white sand are not a tourist attraction? It is important to remember that beaches are not always suitable for swimming. Strong low tides on the beaches occur during the full moon, the water can go up to 300 m. The southern and western beaches Had Leela, Had Salad, Haad Yao Beach, Sri Thanu. Young people love to relax on Haad Rin, and for families better than Sri Thanu, Haad Salad, Haad Yao - there are no waves here.

Island hotels

Despite the small number of tourists on Koh Phangan, it is better to book a hotel in advance, especially during moonlight parties. Booking sites provide additional discounts. Many hotels have swimming pools, which are especially useful in bad weather.

All standard hotel services(internet, free bottled water, air conditioning, hygiene items) are provided. Upon eviction, the deposit for the key and safety of the property is returned. If the quality of housing is not important, then you can do without a reservation.

At the pier in Thong Sala, tuk-tukers even offer free delivery to your hotel. There are also bungalows on the beach with a minimum of amenities and at a reasonable price. But during the Full Moon Party, even here prices go up.