Enchanting Pha Ngan Island

Posted by admin on January 22nd, 2008 filed in sightseeing, Tourist tips, bars & beers

Also known as Island Paradise, the islands which are situated in the southern part of Thailand are blessed with splendid beaches and they enjoy a year-round pleasurable climate. Another great experience is to absorb the unique laid-back atmosphere on the islands.

Throughout the seasons travellers coming from each continent visit these stunning destinations. Their goal is mainly to fully unwind with the help of ‘this other dimension’s’ soothing ambience. It is the ideal spot to revitalise and get away for a while from the daily pressures of life. The serenity and wonderful nature will certainly help to achieve a desirable state of mind!

Travellers who aren’t familiar with Thailand will most likely see no difference between the islands. Each of the islands is tropical, idyllic and tranquil. However, those who are willing to learn more about the islands’ geographical circumstances will soon discover that each destination represents its own unique range of attractions.

It might be rather expensive to stay on certain island locations while you can find bargain destinations here as well. There are several extreme serene islands while a bustling nightlife scene can be experienced on some of the more popular spots. Both backpackers and water sports enthusiasts will find ideal conditions as well.

I can say without a single doubt that Koh Pha Ngan is the most stunning of all as for many years I intensively explored each Southern Thai island. Pha Ngan is simply the best location to enjoy a relaxed vacation. The island boasts the most comprehensive tourist infrastructure and therefore providing all the essential needs for each type of traveller. Mentioned below are the five main reasons, which make Koh Pha Ngan the ultimate island holiday destination:

A) The exciting Full Moon Party. Since 1989 this lively party takes place on the island’s beach. This dancing event draws mainly young visitors from all over the world. Even if you are not really into techno and house music, joining the party might be experienced as an awesome and unforgettable happening as the thousands of happily dancing people create a joyful, peaceful and bohemian atmosphere.

Dance the night away at the Full Moon Party

B) Very affordable living costs. Koh Pha Ngan always had the reputation for mainly being a backpackers’ haven. However, today the living costs have been adjusted to the island’s target audience. Accommodation and meals are amazingly cheap, so it is even possible for the budget-minded backpacker to live on 20 euro per day. With this amount he or she should be able to live on the island, according to nearly Western standards. Air-conditioned accommodation and tasty and healthy local meals are included. Recently the more wealthy and demanding tourists discovered Koh Pha Ngan as well and local businessmen invested in the development of luxurious lodging establishments. Nevertheless, the finest standards of accommodation on the island are still very affordably priced, compared to similar establishments available on its counterparts.

Koh Phangan is a haven for backpackers

C) The availability of deserted beaches. Even the true fans of the country will sadly agree that a deserted beach in Thailand has become rather rare. Fortunately on Koh PhaNgan it is still possible to experience the tranquility of a deserted beach while sharing your inner thoughts with a single waving palm tree. Picturesque beach areas such as Haad Sadet, Haad Yao and Haad Thong Reng feature limited accommodation establishments. In the middle of the lush jungle on some of these isolated locations all you can find are several bungalows. These beaches still offer a paradisiacal atmosphere boasting untouched nature, which is not yet ruined by the tourist industry.

Deserted beach

D) A choice of unique adventurous outdoor activities. Despite its compact size Koh Phangan offers a wide range of exciting activities. Spending Sundays at Sunrise Beach is a great option for the backpacker while advanced divers will appreciate Mondays on Koh Ma. Become a seasonal party animal on Tuesday when the booming full moon celebration takes place. If you still have sufficient energy left to get out off bed on early Wednesday morning, you have the option meeting the locals in the quaint fishing village of Chaloklum. In the village you might learn something about the fishermen’s traditions and customs. Alternatively, a Thursday trekking adventure might be a good exercise for the sporty visitors while on Friday you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to make a trip on the back of an elephant. Spoil yourself on Saturday by enjoying a relaxing spa treatment, offered at one of the luxury resorts.

Exploring Koh Phangan by motorbike is great fun

E) Stunning dive sites. Some of the world’s best dive locations are positioned in the Gulf of Thailand’s crystal clear waters. The enormous variety of marine life guarantees mind-boggling underwater adventures. Until recently, it was Koh Tao having the reputation being the Gulf’s sole true scuba diving spot. Today more and more diving enthusiasts choose to practice their beloved sport in the waters around Koh Pan Ngan. Linked by a sand bar to Pha Ngan, tiny Koh Ma island is a popular and spectacular dive site as are the Haad Chaophao, Haad Yao and Haad Salad beaches. The Ang Thong National Marine Park consists out of 42 islands and has become a much appreciated dive location as well.

Mind-boggling underwater landscapes

Guide to Southern Thailand’s islands