Famous for the Full Moon Parties held every month in Haad Rin, Koh Phangan draws a steady stream of bakcpackers from all over the world. This island has the reputation of being a drug haven. In other words, the perception is commot that it is a loose place where anything goes. For the most part, this is true. However, most of the island does not really mesh with the hype. In fact, it is one of the most beautiful and fun places in Thailand.

There are many locations on Koh Phangan. Each one has a slightly different feel. Where you go entirely depends on what you are looking for. The insanity of Haad Rin is great for some, but the peace and quiet of Than Sadet are what some people are after. You can check out the specifics of each place and decide for yourself!

Some places accept reservations, but keep in mind that many do not. During the Full Moon Party period and during high season, it can be helpful to have a room when you get there. Otherwise, you might find yourself searching for a while. If you need to book a room in Koh Phangan Click Here and see some decent rates. Most of these rooms are slightly upmarket which is why they accept reservations. The cheaper ones are on a first come, first serve basis.

How to Get to Koh Phangan:

From Bangkok:

By Air - Flying to Koh Samui is by far the easiest way to get to Koh Phangan. See the getting to Koh Phangan from Koh Samui for boat information. Bangkok Airways built the airport in Samui, so for the time being they are the only airline servicing this route. It is cheaper on the first and last flight of the day, but you are still looking at around 2500 Baht at best with a promotional fare on the first or last flight of the day.

Alternatively, it is cheaper to fly into Surat Thani on the mainland. This airport is serviced by some of the low cost carriers in the region. Air Asia and Nok Air frequently have promotions, so be on the look out. From there, boat transportation can be arranged.

By Train - "Joint Tickets" are combination tickets that include all parts of your journey. Many travel agents can arrange a joint ticket that combines your train ride with the bus journey to Koh Phangan.

By Bus - You will want to head to the Southern Bus Terminal. They also sell joint tickets. Most English speaking taxi drivers will know what you are talking about when you tell them southern bus terminal, but it might be helpful to know that it is called "sai tai mai". Alternatively, you can opt to go with a private company. The only one that I recommend is Lomprayah. They are especially convenient if you are staying in the Khao San Road area, as their offices are one street removed from the main drag.

WARNING: Many travel agents in the Khao San Road area will be more than happy to sell you a dirt cheap joint ticket. The lowest I have seen was 450 Baht. The operators of these busses can be problematic. There are many reports of stolen possesions on board. Personally, I have used their services a number of times and never had anything stolen. If you do choose to use them, keep your valuables secure. These buses stop in isolated locations where prices are raised because you have no choice. Also, you will need to switch buses a few times and sit in less than desirable places waiting for your next transport to come and pick you up. Again, prices will be jacked up.

What to do on Koh Phangan:

Many backpackers descend upon the island for the infamous full moon party. Because of the overwhelming amount of information about this and the Half Moon Party along with others, head over to the Koh Phangan Parties page. Aside from partying all the time, Koh Phangan offers a wide array of things for people to do.

Hiking - There are a number of good trails to hike. Some offer stunning views of the island. There is nothing like looking down upon a sea of palm trees as you can see in this picture taken a few years ago.

Diving - A number of dive shops are around the island. Although there are not nearly as many as you would find in nearby Koh Tao, it remains a lively business for some on the island. They are able to reach many of the same dive sites you would experience on Koh Tao, but they have the advantage of being located on a larger island with more activities. I can attest to the fact that the girls running the H2O dive shop in Thong Nai Pan are pretty nice people. I would certainly go there if I were to dive from Koh Phangan. Other than that, MTF Divers, Choluklum Divers, and Lotus Divers are pretty well established.

Snorkeling - Some people choose to snorkel. The best snorkeling to be had is near Koh Ma, a small island in the northwest of Koh Phangan. It is interesting because Koh Ma connects to the mainland during low tide.

Driving - It is possible to rent 4 wheel drive vehicles, but most people opt to rent a motorbike. Over the last few years there has been a real transition to automatic models, but you can still find bikes of other varieties. Driving is essential on Koh Phangan unless you just plan to sit in Haad Rin all of the time or you intend on staying in a more isolated beach. Driving around can be great fun. I recommend driving the entire loop from Thong Sala to Chaluklum and around. You can stop off in each of the areas and have a look around. The scenery is quite nice. I have to admit that I wonder what would happen if a coconut fell off of a tree and onto my head, but that is another story.

WARNING: You will undoubtedly hear the term "Koh Phangan Tattoo" in reference to the road rash people often have. In fact, I have a few Koh Phangan Tattoos myself (and a real one). The roads can be quite dangerous in some areas. Only experienced drivers should attempt the road from Baan Tai to Haad Rin, as it is quite hilly. Also, the road from Baan Tai to Thong Nai Pan should be avoided. It is a VERY dangerous road that is unfinished in many areas. It is much longer in duration than the road to Haad Rin and the hills are much larger. If you are in anyway uncomfortable on a motorbike, you should think carefully about attempting either of these routes.

Thong Sala - this is where you are most likely going to get off of the boat

• Includes surrounding areas: Baan Tai, Baan Kai, Ao Wok Tum

Haad Rin - home of the Full Moon Party

• Sunrise Beach & Sunset Beach

Bottle Beach

Thong Nai Pan

• Thong Nai Pan Noi & Thong Nai Pan Yai