Tourists who go on vacation to exotic Thailand are interested in not only the beaches, but also the sights of the country. One of the most interesting places is the island of Phangan. Sights of the region are worthy of the attention of travelers. On the island there are two national parks, temples and man-made monuments that attract guests.
Island location
Phangan Island is located in the Gulf of Thailand, it is also called Koh Phangan. It is located in the province of Surat Thani, just 15 kilometers from the famous island of Koh Samui. The name of the island comes from the Thai word “Ko”, which means “island”, and “Ngan” - “sand spit”.
There are very pronounced ebbs on Koh Phangan, at this time one can observe exposed braids around the island. 70% of the territory is occupied by mountains, which are completely covered by tropical forests. The remaining 30% of the island is coconut beaches and plantations. Rama V was very fond of resting on Phangan. He first visited the island in 1888, after which he came fourteen more times.
In tourist terms, Phangan began to develop only the last thirty years. They began to build bungalows for travelers. Until that time, the islanders were engaged in coconut cultivation and fishing. The island became famous due to the fact that it does not hold Full Moon parties. On a full moon day, thousands of tourists from around the world gather here.
Than Sadet Park
One of the attractions of Phangan is Than Sadet National Park. It is located near the river Than Sadet. You can visit the park only by renting a car. But it’s easier to get a ticket for a sightseeing tour. The park is open around the clock; admission to it is completely free. On its territory you can see tourists with tents that camp along the coast of the river. The main attractions of the park include several waterfalls and Mount Ra, whose height reaches 600 meters. Ra is considered the highest point of Phangan.
The length of the waterfalls exceeds three kilometers. They represent a system of cascades located at different heights. Than Sadet and Pheng waterfalls are connected by the Than Sadet river. It is often called the Royal. She received this name after King Rama V visited her. On one of the rocks near the river you can see the initials of the monarch. Than Sadet Waterfall is located in the eastern part of the park, it is very beautiful. If you want to visit one of the main attractions of Phangan, you will need a lot of strength and good shoes to walk around the park.
Laem Son Lake
Among the attractions of Phangan, it is worth highlighting Laem Son Lake, located in the reserve, which we talked about earlier. The pond must be shown to tourists during organized excursions. You can get to it by your own car, by taxi or with an excursion group. The lake is located on the east coast of the island. According to tourists, it fascinates with its beauty and size. The fact is that in the tropical climate of the country such reservoirs are a rarity. Around the reservoir coconut trees and other exotic plants are planted. It is worth noting that the lake is not only a landmark of Phangan Island in Thailand, but also a protected natural site. Therefore, fishing on its territory is strictly prohibited.
During the high season near the pond you can see campers who come here by car to relax in tents. Spreading plantations near the lake give a wonderful shadow.
Safari Park "Phangan"
What to see on Phangan yourself? Active travelers should visit the Koh Phangan Safari Park. You can get into it by car or join an excursion. It is located in the northern part of the island. The park is a very popular attraction.
It is visited not only by adults, but also by children. A variety of entertainments are created for them here. Entrance to the park is completely free. But for the rides you have to pay. For example, you can ride an elephant or attend a show with monkeys, elephants, crocodiles and other animals.
Wat Phu Khao Noi Temple
What to see on Koh Phangan? The island should pay attention to local temples, which are an integral part of the island's life. It is located in the village of Tongsala in the center of Phangan. An asphalt road leads to the temple, so you can get to it by bus with a guided tour or by your own car. Visit the attraction is free. However, it is worth remembering that the temple works in the mornings and in the afternoon.
Locals really revere this sacred place and conduct meditation sessions here. The temple at various times was visited by members of the royal family. For this reason, inside the complex, interior items and everyday life of royalty were preserved.
Wat Pho Herbal Sauna Temple
What to see on Phangan, if you are attracted to temple complexes. Of course, it is worth visiting the temple of Wat Pho. It’s not difficult to get to him. The temple complex has gained popularity due to the unique and unique herbal sauna, which is located on its territory.
Sauna is said to have an amazing effect on the human body. The institution has a very long history. For several centuries, a variety of ailments of internal organs have been treated here. You can visit the sauna for only 50 baht.
Chinese Temple Khuan-Im Shrine
Another attraction of Phangan Island is the Khuan-Im Shrine Temple, located in the north of the island. You can only get to it by a rented car. It is open to all comers and works only during daylight hours. The temple was erected on a high hill. During its construction, all the rules of traditional Chinese architecture were respected. The temple was named after the goddess Guan Kin. Now the complex is considered one of the most revered in the country.
It consists of three zones:
- The first is near the entrance. On its territory there is a statue of the goddess.
- The second zone is focused on conducting meditation practices, as well as on religious and solemn events.
Another part of the temple is reserved for a special room in which there is a statue of Buddha.
Observation Decks
If you want to appreciate the attractions of Koh Phangan in Thailand, pay attention to the observation deck. There are a lot of similar places of natural origin in the region. But not all Phangan sites can be easily reached. All of them are located on the tops of the mountains. There are no roads to such places. You need to get on foot along dirt tracks or sandy paths.
Among all the sites of the island, there are only two that can be reached by motobike. One of them is located near Had Rin Beach. You can drive up to it on a bike, but then walk the rest of the way. No less attractive is Wat Khao Tam. Being on it, you can admire the magnificent views and take stunning photos.
Paradise Waterfall
What to see on Koh Phangan? You should definitely visit the Paradise Waterfall. The road to it is very simple, so getting there is not difficult. There is a waterfall on the way from Chaloklum to Tongsalu. From the main highway you can get on a narrow path.
In the shade of trees near the waterfall, a recreation area is equipped. Locals even rent modest apartments for those who want to spend a little more time here. Water masses fall from a height, creating a lot of spray. The approach to the goal can be judged by the increasing noise that the waterfall creates. An interesting fact is that in the dry season Paradise is not anything interesting. If at this time you visit a waterfall, then in place of the seething masses you will see only a thin brook. But in the rainy season, the waterfall is so full that you can even swim in its waters.
Wat Paa Sang Tham Temple
What to see on Phangan necessarily? If you are interested in Thai culture, then visiting the temples will help you get to know the local traditions. The temple complex differs from others in that monks live on its territory. Stone statues of Buddha are located among stone boulders and wild thickets. Thanks to this, the complex has a mystical look.
A walk through the territory is a calming effect on guests. The peculiarity of the temple complex is that everyone can temporarily become his novice. But for this it is necessary to obtain the permission of the abbot. Everyone can visit the temple.
Diving
Koh Phangan is considered one of the most attractive diving spots in Thailand. Along the coast, the island has many interesting places where beginners and experienced divers are taken. Ang Tong Park is very interesting in this regard. It consists of a large number of small islands with corals and an incredibly rich underwater world. There are diving schools on the island. In addition, local residents offer a wide selection of sea excursions.
Tongsal Night Market
A peculiar attraction of the island is the night market near the village of Tongsala. Trading begins every evening. Here you can buy real culinary delights made from seafood. The whole market is full of colorful trays with goodies. Every traveler should visit the market. You will not find such a variety of food anywhere else. Yes, and lower prices for excellent dishes, too. The market can rightly be called the place of culinary battles between different sellers.
Amsterdam Bar
Cafe "Amsterdam" tourists call one of the attractions of the island. This place is incredibly popular among travelers. Especially adores the bar youth. The facility is located on a hill. It is equipped with outdoor terraces, which offer incredibly beautiful views of the island and the sea. It is especially beautiful here at sunset. At the bar you can have a good time sipping a cocktail and admiring the natural beauties. Another feature of the bar is the pool, around which stunningly fun parties are held in the evening. If you like fun parties, then you should definitely be here.
One day trip
Tourists are often limited in time, but at the same time I want to see a lot to have an idea about the island. What to see on Koh Phangan in one day? Experienced travelers recommend choosing one of the sightseeing tours. This will allow you to quickly see key places. Most often, tourists are offered a trip to the national park, view waterfalls on its territory and visit one of the observation platforms.
No less impressive can be a boat trip, during which you will not only admire the local beauties, but also see the underwater world.
You can rent a car on the island, this will greatly simplify the process of moving around its territory. In this case, it will be possible to see much more interesting places in one day. But organized trips are no less attractive if you are limited in time. Their advantage is that all other organizational issues will be decided for you by other people. You just have to pay for the trip. Similar excursions are sold on Phangan at every corner. They can be purchased at the main pier after arriving on the island.
Beaches
The beaches of the island can be safely called the main attraction of Phangan in Thailand. It is for their sake that thousands of tourists come here. There are a lot of beaches on the island.
Each of them is interesting in its own way. Many tourists believe that Phangan is the best place in Thailand for a lazy vacation. The most popular stretch of coast on the island is Haad Rin. He is chosen for parties and parties. The beaches of Baan Tai and Tong Sala are no less attractive. Both beaches have an excellent location, beautiful sunsets and a large selection of accommodation.