Ko Pha-ngan - TourismThailand.org

Contents 

• Ko Pha-ngan: From Past to Present 4 

• Ko Pha-ngan and Virtues and Meaning of Royal Visits 8 

• Ko Pha-ngan: Heaven of Lature Lovers 16 

• Geography of Ko Pha-ngan: Gem of the Gulf of Thailand 21 

• Seasons and Traveling to Ko Pha-ngan 24 

• Sites of Visit at Thong Sala Beach 29 

• Thong Sala Beach 30 

• Walking Street: Colorful Ways of Life at Weekends 32 

• Western Beaches and Their Evening Charms 38 

• Beautiful Ways of Life, Thinking of the Inclined 41 

Coconut Tree at Wok Tum Bay 

• Spectacular Sunset at Hat Si Thanu, Hat Chao Phao, and Hat Son 44 

• Magnificent Beaches of Hat Yao and Hat Salat 49 

• Amazing Emerging Sandbar at Mae Hat and Ko Ma 52 

• The Unique Lifestyle of Local Community at 57 

Hat Chalok Lam and Fine Stones at Hat Hin Ngam 

• Back to the Past on the Community Path at 66 

Ban Maduea Wan, Ban Nai Suan 

• Khao Ra and Phaeng Waterfall, the Green Heart of Pure Beauty 74 

• Timeless Natural Beauty of the 80 

Old Ban Tai - Ban Khai Community 

• Exquisite Sand Beach, Clear Water and Alluring Sea View: 87 

Hat Thong Nai Pan 

• Stunning Lunar Light, Full Moon Party of Your Life 90 

• Interesting, Up-to-the-standard Lodgings on Ko Pha-ngan Beaches 97 

• Examples of Hotels on the Beaches of Nai Wok, Thong Sala, 98 

Bang Charu, Ban Tai, Bang Nam Khem, Ban Khai, and Hin Lo 

• Examples of Hotels on the Beaches of Bang Son, 109 

Rin Nai, Sali Kan Tang, Lee-la, Hua Laem, Rin Nok, 

Khon Thi, Yuan, Eastern Thian, Eastern Yao, and Wai Nam 

• Examples of Hotels on the Beaches of Thong Nai Pan Noi, 119 

Thong Nai Pan Yai, Than Sadet, and Thong Reng 

• Examples of Hotels on the Beaches of Salat, Mae Hat, 132 

Thong Lang, Hin Ngam, Chalok Lam, Khom, and Khuat 

• Examples of Hotels on the Beaches of Plai Laem, 142 

Wok Tum, Hin Kong, Si Thanu, Chao Phao, Son, 

Dao Duek, Yao, Thian, and Kraut 

• Accommodations in Ko Pha-ngan 160-168

4 

Ko Pha-ngan: From Past to Present 

Ko Pha-ngan is a large island near Samui Island, located in 

Ang Thong Channel, off Surat Thani’s coast in the Gulf of Thailand. 

Dominating 122 square kilometers, it is the country’s fifth largest 

island after Phuket, Samui, Chang and Tarutao. 

Based on historical and archaeological evidences, 

Ko Pha-ngan was believed to be first settled by men over 1,300- 

2,000 years ago. The first group of people arriving in this island 

was believed to be Chola explorers, better known as Tamils, 

who were natives of southern India and whose realm prospered 

during the 14th-18th Buddhist centuries. During the reign of King 

Rajaraja Chola I and Rajendra Chola I, their influence expanded 

to Malay Peninsula, coinciding with the Thai kingdom of Srivichai. 

The Chola people often navigated to the peninsula for trade 

and finally settled on several islands in the area including 

Ko Pha-ngan. 

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However, permanent settlements on Ko Pha-ngan 

were believed to begin in late Ayutthaya period. During 

early Rattanakosin period, Ko Pha-ngan was affiliated 

to Chaiya Town while Ko Samui was subordinate to 

Nakhon Si Thammarat. In the reign of King Rama IV, 

Ko Samui and Ko Pha-ngan were merged into one district 

called Amphoe Ko Samui, on 10 May B.E. 1897. The new 

district was under the jurisdiction of Kanchanadit Town, 

which later became Surat Thani Province. Ko Samui and 

Ko Pha-ngan had been made one district for 63 years, 

before Ko Pha-ngan was reorganized as a sub-district 

(king-amphoe) in 1970. Ko Pha-ngan was upgraded to 

Amphoe Ko Pha-ngan in 1977. 

The word ‘Pha Ngan’ is said to have many origins. 

Some said it was an inconsistent form of an Indian or Malay 

word ‘Rahan’ used for sand bars. Rahan means indistinct 

shadow. Others believed this island was originally called 

Ko Ngan, a native word meaning sand bars which emerge 

around the island when tides are low. The phenomenon 

was specific to this island, resulting in locals to call the 

island ‘Lang Ngan’ (after tide), which was later shortened 

to Ph-ngan. When Ko Ph-ngan Sub-district was established 

as a district, vowel ‘A’ was added after ‘Ph’. The name 

‘Ko Pha-ngan’ has been used since then. 

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8 

Ko Pha-ngan and Virtues and Meaning 

of Royal Visits 

In the history of royal visits to various places by Thai kings, 

King Chulalongkorn or King Rama V loved to constantly visit his people 

in the provinces. He sometimes travelled incognito to create 

familiarity with his subjects, to find out their hardships and happiness 

on different occasions. 

Ko Pha-ngan was one of King Chulalongkorn’s favorite places 

of visit. He stopped by the island 14 times during 1888-1909, more 

often than any other places he had visited, sometimes on his way to 

Malay Peninsula or during his visits to southern provinces such as 

Nakhon Si Thammarat and Songkhla. His first visit to Ko Pha-ngan 

was made on 31 August, 1888 on his way back from Songkhla. On this 

visit, King Chulalongkorn went to a waterfall. He later named it “Than 

Sadet Waterfall”, where he came back several times. And as a record 

of his visit and a gesture to declare his possession of the land against 

the effort of colonization by western people, King Chulalongkorn 

inscribed his initials ‘จปร’ [read: jo po ro] on a rock at the waterfall. 

Than Sadet Waterfall in 1888 was said to be splendidly beautiful 

with unspoiled nature. Today, after 124 years, forest conditions at 

Than Sadet are still pristine and considered the most beautiful on 

Ko Pha-ngan, although water is not as plentiful in the dry season as it 

was in the old days. Its natural charms always remain. 

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In his later visits to Ko Pha-ngan, King Chulalongkorn often went to swim at the 

waterfall. The royal retinue also used water at the waterfall for consumption as 

freshwater was scarce. As a keen traveler and man of great vision, King Chulalongkorn also 

explored another two waterfalls in nearby areas which he later named as ‘Than Praphat’ 

and ‘Than Prawet’. 

At present, traveling to Than Sadet Waterfall is much easier than in the old days 

because the road being built across Ko Pha-ngan to Thong Nai Pan Bay on the northeastern 

side of the island is nearly finished, leaving only a short distance of laterite path that 

also joins with the entrance to Than Sadet Waterfall and leads to the office of Than Sadet 

National Park. In the dry season, the road is easily accessible by pick-up trucks, but in 

the rainy season, only four-wheel drive vehicles can be used while sedans are not 

recommended. 

From this junction, the land is truly historical as Than Sadet Waterfall was visited 

by not only King Rama V but also by King Rama VI, King Rama VII and Queen Rambhai 

Bhanni, as well as King Bhumibol Adulyadej or Rama IX. Those kings had inscribed their 

initials on rocks, numbering a total of 10, lying one after another along the stream, for 

the younger generation to study. 

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From the junction to the right of 

the road heading towards Than Sadet 

Waterfall stands a group of ancient 

buildings where a statue of King 

Chulalongkorn is located. Nearby is a 

rock with the inscription of royal initials 

in Thai alphabets and numerals ‘จปร 

108’. Adjacent are some plantations. 

Opposite the stream stands a rock 

inscribed with royal initials and years 

in Rattankosin era ‘ปปร 2469, 2471’. 

Walking further down the path, visitors 

will find the second group of ancient 

buildings on the right-hand side. Here, 

more royal initials ‘วปร 130’ and 

another ‘จปร’ with the year of visit are found, followed by ‘ปปร, รพ 

2469’. Walking past the national park office will lead to the third 

group of ancient buildings where royal initials are found on both sides 

of the stream including ‘รพ’ and ‘ภปร’ 23 April 1962, as well as the 

name ‘Than Sadet’ in Thai which he had it inscribed when coming here 

in 1889. Close to the mouth of the stream stands the last group of 

ancient buildings. Royal initials of the three mentioned kings and an 

old pavilion where they used to stay appear on the left-hand side. 

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The pavilion has been renovated as a memorial of the royal visits. Near the stream 

find royal initials in Chinese of King Chulalongkorn and numerals 119. The inscriptions 

are the last set found along this historical stream. As for the four ‘Jankapho’ (Vatica 

diospyroides) trees recorded to have been planted by King Chulalongkorn at 

the pavilion, they no longer exist. 

The best time to visit Than Sadet Waterfall is at the end of the rainy season 

or in January when there is more water seen than in the other months. In the dry 

season, the amount of water in the falls is quite low, but the waterfall is still worth 

a visit for those who are interested in history or long for a rest in pristine forest. 

As for ‘Than Praphat’ Waterfall, the 4-km access road is reachable only by 4-wheel 

drive vehicles with several hills to cross, and road conditions are not good. 

To access Than Prawet Waterfall, visitors have to take the road branching out 

from a bend that goes to Thong Nai Pan Beach. The road heads to Hat Khuat Beach 

and the waterfall is only 300 meters away from the bend. Recommended vehicles 

are pick-up trucks only due to laterite road surface. At present, the two waterfalls 

have water only in the rainy season and are not attractive. 

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16 

Ko Pha-ngan: Heaven of Nature Lovers 

Many people recognize Ko Pha-ngan as a site of world-famous full-moon party, 

which was initiated by a group of foreign tourists who arrived in Ko Pha-ngan on a fullmoon 

night and were impressed by the sand on Hat Rin Beach. They later put their 

impression in a book by mentioning Ko Pha-ngan as one of the best beaches to watch 

a full moon. The book has inspired many other tourists to visit Ko Pha-ngan on full-moon 

nights, leading to a full-moon party on the beach held under the most wonderful 

atmosphere. A trend was finally set among foreign tourists that a full-moon party on 

Ko Pha-ngan is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should not be missed. Today, of tens 

of thousands people come to the party on every full-moon night on the island. 

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As a result, many look at Ko Pha-ngan as an island full 

of drunkards and parties, and this gives the island a negative 

image. As a matter of fact, Ko Pha-ngan’s full-moon party is 

fun-filled, lively and has its own charms identical to nowhere. 

Many other places tried to imitate Ko Pha-ngan but nowhere can 

surpass the original site. In all, a full-moon party is a gathering 

of fun-loving people who want to unleash their freedom within 

manageable limits. Such a party, if carried out within limits, 

free from negative aspects, can be an additional magnet that 

no other islands all over the world have. 

However, the full-moon party is not the only attraction at 

Ko Pha-ngan. If strolling around the island to witness the unspoiled 

nature, visitors will find that all beaches circling the island, have a unique 

charm and identity, like Wok Tum and Nai Wok bays, Thong Sala, 

Si Thanu, Yao, Salat, Mae Hat beaches in the West, Chalok Lam, Khom 

and Khuat beaches in the North, Ban Tai, Ban Khai, Rin Nai, Si Kantang, 

Rin Nok, Yuan and Thian beaches in the East and even Thong Nai Pan 

Noi and Thong Nai Pan Yai beaches on the northeastern-most spot of 

the island, which drivers have to venture across the mountainous terrain 

in the middle of the island to reach. People on Ko Pha-ngan have 

culture and traditions that are tied to nature which still doesn’t change 

much compared to other islands which have mostly turned into 

full-scale tourist spots. There are still many corners of Ko Pha-ngan 

to explore, especially in terms of nature and friendliness of people. 

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Geography of Ko Pha-ngan: 

Gem of the Gulf of Thailand 

Located in Ang Thong Channel north of Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan 

covers an area of 122 square kilometers, making it the fifth 

biggest island of Thailand after Phuket, Samui, Chang and Tarutao. 

Geographically, Ko Pha-ngan is abundant in natural resources, 

surrounded by many beaches. The western side of the island consists 

of coral reefs idealistic for diving, and numerous sand bars or Lang Ngan, 

from which the island takes its name. Beyond those beaches are 

hill-foot plains planted with coconut and other fruits, as well as rubber 

trees. These plantations stretch up to the mountain range standing 

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vertically to the middle of the island. The mountains 

have been covered with rich forest since the old 

days and are watersheds of many streams that feed 

people on Ko Pha-ngan. Waterfalls and streams here 

are so famous in their beauty that they had attracted 

several royal visits, including 14 by King Chulalongkorn. 

The forests have at the same time provided habitats 

to a lot of wildlife, especially deer. Early evidence 

said a number of deer was prepared to be released 

by King Rama VI during his planned second visit to 

the island. Although the visit was later cancelled, 

the deer were released into the wild and later 

produced offspring that were often spotted by 

tourists at Phaeng and Than Sadet waterfalls and 

even in the open field. They also leave their traces 

along jungle treks, showing that their number is quite 

substantial, but no official record has been made. 

Rare plants are also found here such as 

grammatophyllum, which is the world’s largest 

orchid growing 2-3 meters tall, bearing yellowish 

flowers with brown or dark red spots, coming out 

during July to October. In the rainy season, heavy 

clouds often lie around mountain tops challenging 

mountaineers to win the height for a great view up 

there. The tallest mountain is Khao Ra, with a height 

of 627 meters above sea level. On the northeastern 

side of the island lies a clean white sand beach 

more beautiful than others named 

Hat Thong Nai Pan Noi and Hat 

Thong Nai Pan Yai. 

These are the reasons why 

Ko Pha-ngan is still today an island 

with much of the nature remaining 

the same, making it an ideal place 

for eco-tourism. 

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Seasons and Traveling to Ko Pha-ngan 

Seasons in Ko Pha-ngan are influenced by monsoons. The best 

period to visit the island is during January to May because of the 

bright and warm weather. During June to September, the Phattaya wind 

usually brings some rain, making traveling a bit more difficult. During 

the day, the tide is out, allowing ‘Lang Ngan’ or coral reefs surrounding 

offshore to emerge. The tide is in again in the evening and at night. 

Beaches affected by such phenomenon are Rin Nai, Ban Tai, 

Ban Khai, Thong Sala and Hin Kong. However, the Phattaya wind 

is favorable to fishing as fish and crabs during this period are more 

abundant than in other seasons. During the monsoon time from 

October to December, Lom Wao, or kite wind, blows to 

the island bringing in more rain. The heaviest rain is seen 

in November, and the beaches most affected by the 

wind are Rin Nok, Than Sadet, Thong Nai Pan Yai, Thong 

Nai Pan Noi, and Khuat. Seasons are therefore the 

key factors of tour activities on the island. However, 

Ko Pha-ngan is considered convenient for tourism for most 

of the year, unlike those islands on the Andaman coast 

which are dominated by rain for up to 6 months a year 

because of the monsoon. 

Traveling to Ko Pha-ngan is not difficult, especially 

from Don Sak Pier where Raja Ferry provides boat services 

five times daily both to and fro. From Don Sak Pier, the 

first boat leaves at 8.00 am. and the last one at 6.00 pm. 

Return trip starts at 5.00 am and the last boat leaves 

at 5.00 pm. Each trip takes two and a half hours. 

Tourists taking a tour bus to Pha-ngan can easily catch an 

early boat at Don Sak Pier while those taking their own 

cars can also do the same. For visitors flying to Surat Thani, 

there are air-conditioned shuttle buses taking them from 

the provincial airport to Don Sak Pier at the same frequency 

as the planes stop. For those who have visited Ko Samui 

and Ko Tao and wish to continue their trip to Ko Pha-ngan, 

they can take high speed catamaran provided by 

Lomprayah Company every day to connect their trips. 

Detailed information about the service and maps are 

distributed free at all stations. 

Taking a sightseeing trip to 

Pha-ngan can be made in several ways. 

You may drive your own car and take 

it on a ferry to Ko Pha-ngan. In this way, 

you can plan your own journey using 

maps provided free of charge on the 

island and enjoy driving around. If you 

don’t have a car, you may rent a car or 

a motorcycle available at many shops 

in Thong Sala which is the largest and 

most modern community where the 

island’s pier for ferry service is located. 

However, you must be very careful, 

avoiding accidents which often happen 

on the island. You may also buy tour 

service from local agents in Thong Sala. 

Ask for more information at various 

shops or study related brochures 

available in plenty on the island. 

25

อ.ละแม 

Amphoe 

Lamae 

ชุมพร 

Chumphon 

41 

จากสนามบินสุวรรณภูมิและสนามบินดอนเมือง From Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Muang Airport 

ทาเรือทุงมะขาม 

Thung Makham Pier 

41 

อ.ทาฉาง 

Amphoe 

Tha Chang 

41 

อ.ทาชนะ 

Amphoe 

Tha Chana 

Lomprayah 

High Speed Catamaran 

67 kms. (1.30 hrs.) 

ทาเรือทาทอง 

Tha Thong Pier 

สนามบินสุราษฎรธานี สุราษฎรธานี 

Surat Thani Airport Surat Thani 

อ.พุนพิน 

Amphoe Phunphin 

จากสนามบินสุวรรณภูมิ From Suvarnabhumi Airport 

อุทยานแหงชาติทางทะเล 

หมูเกาะอางทอง 

Mu Ko Ang Thong 

National Park 

401 

3 hrs. 

2.30 hrs. 

อ.ดอนสัก 

Amphoe 

Don Sak 

เกาะเตา 

Ko Tao 

65 kms. (1.30 hrs.) 

4142 

2.30 hrs. 

2 hrs. 

ทาเรือดอนสัก 

Don Sak Pier 

4142 

ไปนครศรีธรรมราช 

To Nakhon Si Thammarat 

เกาะพะงัน 

Ko Pha-ngan 

ทาเรือทองศาลา 

Thong Sala Pier 

ทาเรือหาดริ้น 

Hat Rin Pier 

ทาเรือลมพระยา ทาเรือบอผุด 

Lomprayah Pier Bo Phut Pier 

สนามบินเกาะสมุย 

Ko Samui Airport 

ทาเรือซีทรานเฟอรรี่ 

Seatran Ferry Pier 

1.30 hrs. 

30 mins. 

1 hr. 

45 mins. 

ทาเรือราชาเฟอรรี่ 

Raja Ferry Pier 

เกาะสมุย 

Ko Samui 

Bangkok Airways 0 7742 2512-8 www.bangkokairways.com 

Thai Airways 0 7760 1331-2 www.thaiairways.com 

Firefly Airlines 0 7760 1400 www.fireflyz.com 

SilkAir 0 7760 1172-73 www.silkair.com 

Raja Ferry 0 7741 5230-3 www.rajaferryport.com 

Seatran Ferry 0 7742 6000-1 www.seatranferry.com 

Lomprayah High Speed Ferries 0 7742 7765-6 www.lomprayah.com 

Songserm Express Boat 0 7742 0157 www.songserm-expressboat.com 

Seatran Discovery 0 7724 6086-8 www.seatrandiscovery.com 

Haad Rin Queen Ferry 0 7742 7650 - 

Petcherat Marina 0 7742 5514, 0 7742 5262 www.samuispeedboat.com 

Cycling, a Leisurely Safety Way 

to Get You through Ko Pha-ngan 

Due to the size, geographical features, the utility 

areas which are zoned cleverly by the nature and Pha-ngan 

life style, cycling is a strongly recommended option that is 

also certified to be suitable. On Ko Pha-ngan, the roads go 

straight, cross cut, converge and spread out like a spider web 

for the total length of 74.72 km. The longest connected road 

is Thong Sala - Ao Thong Nai Pan, 17.0 km. The roads are the 

combination of cement and dirt. Even there is not a specific 

bike lane, but there are very few vehicles on the roads and 

there are a lot to see on both sides of the roads. This island 

has rice field, Melaleuca cajuputi field. The architectures 

that are in line with the climate, small organic fields, 

sufficient economy, clean, nature loving and the traditional 

homey life style are the local Pha-ngan life style that leads 

the way to the green island. The best time for cycling are 

both morning and afternoon, 

just beware of fierce dogs that 

will bark when they see strangers. 

Keep calm and carry on is the best 

way to silent them. The bicycles 

can be rented at shops in Thong 

Sala Pier area. 

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Sites of Visit 

at Thong Sala Beach 

Thong Sala Beach takes its name from a 

pavilion, locally called sala, built in 1884 near 

the pier’s bridge. At that time, the governor of 

Chaiya sat in this sala to administer the town. 

The beach surrounding the pavilion was later 

called Thong Sala Beach and became the center of 

growth of the island, encompassing a ferry pier, 

speed boat and tour bus services, restaurants 

selling international food, souvenir shops, internet 

cafes, lovely coffee shops, hostels, banks, 

tour-guide business, car rentals, etc. The beach 

has become the center equipped with more 

modern facilities than any other places. 

During Songkran Festival, Thong Sala Beach 

is the place where Thai and foreign tourists 

gather for the fun-filled water-splashing activity. 

Another important tradition is the age-old Chak 

Phra ceremony (towing a Buddha image) at the 

end of the Buddhist Lent. The ceremony was 

originated in Ko Pha-ngan. 

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Thong Sala Beach 

Thong Sala Beach provides the most idealistic site to watch the sunset. From 

here, visitors will be able to see Ko Tae Nai Island which is not afar. The beach is the 

meeting point where tour guides take tourists in kayak to nearby Ko Tae Nai for sightseeing 

and leisure. At the front of the beach lies the decommissioned HTMS Pha-ngan, placed 

as a memorial to remind the public of its history. HTMS Pha-ngan was a landing ship 

originally named USS Stark County LST 1134 procured by the Royal Thai Navy under the 

US military assistance program. Its commissioning ceremony took place on 16 January 

1966. The ship was decommissioned on 5 June 2008, after serving in the Royal Thai Navy 

for over 40 years. The ship used to take part in the Vietnam War as an amphibious 

transport and coastal patrol boat to prevent marine infiltration. It also served as 

amphibious cargo and replenishment ship sending arms and food to various cities in 

Vietnam. It had been ambushed several times but received little damage. At present 

the RTN has agreed to give the ship and its equipment to Surat Thani Province in a project 

to establish a museum of the ship located at Thong Sala pier in Ko Pha-ngan District, 

Surat Thani Province. The museum serves as a learning center with historical value for the 

younger generation and a pride for the RTN and the Surat Thani people as well. 

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Walking Street: Colorful Ways 

of Life at Weekends 

Every Saturday, people in Thong Sala jointly hold a walking street at the 

old market. During 4 - 9 pm. the street was closed to vehicular traffic, allowing 

locals to put their products for sale freely. On both sides of the street, some old 

wooden houses have been maintained to good conditions. Some used to belong 

to rich merchants such as a liquor shop owner. “Ko Yi” who was famous for his tasty 

‘Phat Thai’ used to own his shop here. Although those businesses no longer exist 

with owners changed, all shop houses have been maintained and sell some 

other products. These old houses line up the street until the post office, adjacent 

to the Siam City Bank which was the first bank established on the island. 

The atmosphere of good old days adds increasing charms to the 

street, particularly in the twilight with the help of light from electric 

lamps whereas tourists and locals have gone off on a shopping 

spree, attracted by cheap clothes and tasty confectionery like 

‘Khi-ma-tuang or Khao Tu’, both fresh and dried, etc. Beautiful 

postcards are offered in numerous choices. Music lovers are 

suggested to stop by an Irish restaurant where former-singer expats 

from faraway countries entertain visitors with old country songs. 

Those happenings have become the identity of this walking street. 

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Apart from the Saturday walking street, those who are 

interested in ways of life of Thong Sala people should visit 

the ferry pier where local traders sell snacks and drinks in 

push-carts. Even the famous dried ‘Kulao’ salted fish is 

sometimes found in the cart. Regular food center is Phan Thip 

Market located on the bend of Talat Mai Road. In the evening, 

it is the center where travelers gather to observe the lively 

market. Here, Thai food, confectionery, and fruits, as well 

as Japanese and other foreign foods are available in a wide 

variety at reasonable prices. 

Along the beach road are a number of 

cafes for visitors to enjoy coffee in a 

memorable atmosphere. Some offer 

open-air tables like Jungle Yellow Café’, 

Sweet Café , and Café Footprints while 

others are in air-conditioned coffee houses 

and bakeries like Nira’s Home Bakery. 

Shopping lovers can easily find clothes and 

souvenirs along the beach road, Mi Phian 

Road, and Talat Mai Road. Those looking for 

a good place to have unparalleled ‘Khao 

Khluk Kapi’(cooked rice mixed with shrimp 

paste) are advised to visit Kapi Hut located 

around the Krung Thai Bank Lane. 

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Thong Sala is not only interesting in its ways of creating 

food, it is also a center of interesting artistic works such as 

tattoos. There are many tattoo shops and clubs. One bestknown 

club is in the Krung Thai Bank Lane and offers the 

service in all patterns and styles, be they Thai or western, 

religious or spiritual. Both Thai and foreign clients are 

welcome equally. Although tattooing is not my style, after I 

had a chance to observe the technique, I have to admit that 

it requires an interesting artistic skill not inferior to any work 

of art. Furthermore, Thong Sala is the site of annual gathering of motorcycle lovers with 

the visit of a Big Bike caravan from Asian neighbors. Organized by Ride to the Moon Club, 

the caravan comes here every year with motorcycles in elaborated patterns driven in 

unfamiliar style and powerful noise, but not disturbing anybody. Riders help raise money 

for charity through auctions of goods. The activity is found only at Thong Sala, Ko Pha-ngan. 

For those wishing to pay homage to holy places, Thong Sala has some shrines 

such as the Kuan-Ou Shrine in San Jao Lane, not far from the Old Market Road. The shrine 

is most respected by Ko Pha-ngan people who are of 

Chinese descent. Inside the shrine stand the 200-year-old 

statues of God Kuan-Ou and Goddess Tabtim. The shrine 

holds an annual celebration during the Chinese New Year 

festival. Another respected figure is Venerable Phra Khru 

Suphatthara Dhammaphirom, known as Luang Pu Lob. 

He is respected by Buddhists, both local and foreign. In 

the main temple of Luang Pu Lob monastery, there are 

statues of two deceased senior monks, Luang Pho Phrink 

and Luang Pho Phrom. Because of the two monks’ undying 

charisma, people keep stopping by the monastery to pay 

respect to the statues. More information can be obtained 

from Uncle Lo. (Tel. 08 7387 5654) 

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Western Beaches 

and Their Evening Charms 

The western part of Ko Pha-ngan is an important tourist spot comprising beautiful bays 

and pristine white sand beaches holding characteristics different from beaches on other parts 

of the island. Western beaches begin with Nai Wok, Plai Laem, Wok Tum, Hin Kong, Si Thanu, 

Chao Phao, Son, running up to Yao, Thian (west), Salat and Mae Hat. These beaches are 

outstanding in that all of them provide impressive and different views of sunset. The best 

time to visit these beaches is from January to May when the sky is bright and clear with the 

summer-holiday atmosphere. From June to September, some rains are expected with the 

coming of the Phattaya wind and a westerly wind. The sea level is low during the day and 

rises again in the evening. This might be inconvenient for swimming. Though not the best time 

for swimming, it’s still worth a visit and it is the best season of abundant seafood. 

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Beautiful Ways of Life, Thinking of 

the Inclined Coconut Tree at Wok Tum Bay 

A tour of the western beaches starts from Thong Sala, from 

where there is a little road running around Nai Wok Bay and Plai Laem 

Bay to Wok Tum Bay. Seabed along this area is muddy and shallow, 

not suitable for swimming. Besides, it is covered with mangrove forests, 

alternate with a few small beaches with bungalows and few large 

resorts. However, as villagers in the area earn their living from coastal 

fisheries, visitors can observe their ways of life and their dockyards 

of small boats. In another aspect of life here, villagers often spend 

time during the day when the tide is out, finding Hoi Klom or rounded 

clam, and spear prawns during the night. In picking Hoi Klom, they use 

a technique handed down from their ancestors, by pouring a drop of 

used vegetable oil on the sea surface which will make water clearer, 

allowing them to see rounded clams lying on seabed and easily to be 

picked. Hoi Klom is sweet tasting and good for frying with basil leaf or 

oyster sauce, or to be cooked in coconut milk. The Hoi Klom festival is 

held once a year during June to July when the Phattaya wind blows 

in with the arrival of more clams. In the festival jointly organized by 

the Provincial Administrative Organization and the municipality, 

tourists and villagers compete in picking as many Hoi Klom as 

possible and together enjoy a variety of clam dishes. The festival is a 

well-known activity of Wok Tum Bay. There is also an ecological 

conservation activity in which dead corals are dropped into a specific 

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sea zone to create habitats for Hoi Klom. Planting of mangroves are also encouraged 

among villagers and tourists in order to incite their awareness of natural conservation 

and co-existence with nature. 

In Wok Tum Bay also stands a century-old reclining coconut tree which has become 

the highlight of tourism on the island as it was mentioned in many guidebooks and told 

from mouth-to-mouth among foreigners. Some villagers quoted their parents as saying 

the tree stood in the reclining position long time ago and must have been nearly 100 years 

old. It is amazing how the tree, which bends down nearly to the water, has managed 

to resist the wind and monsoons until today. The tree is said to have been photographed 

more than one million times. It forms a stunning photo if pictured with a setting sun 

and has become a best-known symbol of Ko Pha-ngan. Besides, there is a monument 

of Hoi Klom at Hin Kong Beach, built to symbolize the long co-existence of the 

crustacean and the people of Pha-ngan. 

Inland landscape behind Wok Tum Bay is coconut plantations and villages. 

In this area stand three old monasteries, namely Amphawan, Phu Khao Noi and Samai 

Khong Kha. Amphawan Monastery was the first to be built by Luang Pho Phet Wachiro, 

or Venerable Phra Khru Wibun Thammasan, the most revered Buddhist monk of 

Ko Pha-ngan. The monk later built Phu Khao Noi Monastery. He was well-known for 

his strict observance of Buddhist teachings. He was ordained at 17 and had stayed 

in monkhood since then. He always adhered to ascetic life, ate no meat and took 

religious studies at many monastic centers including those in 

Samui, Chaiya and Chetuphon Monastery in Bangkok. As part 

of his practices of austerities, he traveled to the jungles in the 

North, the Northeast, India and Sri Lanka. In 1887, he returned 

to Wok Tum village and had Amphawan and Phu Khao Noi 

monasteries built respectively for meditation purpose. At Phu 

Khao Noi Monastery today, a square spired pavilion has been 

built and named after Luang Pho Phet. One of the rocks in the 

monastery also has a footprint believed to belong to Luang 

Pho Phet and highly respected by worshippers. Besides, a vihara 

has been built to house the statue of the former abbot. 

He also ordered the construction of an Ubosot or the main 

temple of the monastery and built Phra Khwan Muang as its 

main Buddha image. There is also an old pagoda decorated 

with ancient dishware which the Fine Arts Department has 

registered as important historic spot. Samai Khong Kha Monastery 

was the third ‘wat’ to be built on the island by Luang Pho Phet. 

Ko Pha-ngan also owns a sacred pond with water said to be 

able to cure illnesses and bring good luck if sprinkled on anyone. 

A tower of ancient bells is another attraction at this monastery. 

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Spectacular Sunset at Hat Si Thanu, 

Hat Chao Phao, and Hat Son 

Among all beaches on the west coast of Ko Pha-ngan, Hat Si Thanu, Hat Chao 

Phao, and Hat Son have the best spots to view a spectacular sunset. On this western 

side, the Ang Thong group of islands can be seen clearly, and all spots offer varying 

scenic views, depending on which angle the view is seen. Hat Si Thanu stretches 

from the end of Laem Si Thanu to the northern part. Its headland is a slope, which 

is also the location of several beautiful resorts. On the top of the slope, the sunset 

is clearly visible. Next to Laem Si Thanu is Hat Si Thanu 

stretching 800 meters towards Laem Niat. Since this area 

boasts fine beaches and rows of pine trees, it is also called 

Laem Son (Pine Cape). Many bungalows are available, as 

beaches in this site are of good quality for swimming, 

sunbathing, and sunset watching. Back to 40 years ago, local 

residents in this area were mainly engaged in tin mining, 

which stopped operations around 20 years ago. A tin mine 

that was turned into a large lagoon still exists here for 

people to remember the legend of miners on Ko Pha-ngan. 

It is generally referred to as Laem Son lagoon. 

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Buffalo fighting, like that on Ko Samui, is 

an activity carried out by Si Thanu local villagers. 

But no fixed schedule is set for the show. It is 

probably arranged on special occasions, such as 

major festivals here. Interested persons should 

seek more information about this activity. As for Wat 

Si Thanu, it is regarded as a significant religious 

structure on Ko Pha-ngan, as this temple provides 

training and examinations on Buddhist teachings 

each year. 

Moving on to Hat Chao Phao, it is situated next 

to Laem Niat to the North and is 700 meters long. 

There are several small bungalow resorts, where 

the route after them begins to slope down along the hills. Beautiful 

resorts are found on this slope, as well, which provides a good spot 

for amazing views of sunset and for relaxation. After this spot is the 

Hat Son area, comprising a small secluded beach. Since there are only 

few resorts nearby, beaches here are pleasantly quiet and calm. 

Visitors may walk down from a resort directly to the beach 

without passing through any other resorts. The best spot for 

picturesque scenery is found on this steep route where a panoramic 

view of the group of Ang Thong islands is seen far away to the sea. 

It is also the best site to watch the sunset and is also attractive to 

tourists who stop here for relaxation and fantastic views, at both 

daytime and in the evening when a spectacular sunset is visible on 

the group of Ang Thong islands. 

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Magnificent Beaches 

of Hat Yao and Hat Salat 

Hat Yao and Hat Salat are the two beaches where the sand is more beautiful 

and softer than other beaches on the west coast of Ko Pha-ngan. Hat Yao, in particular, 

is 1.5 kilometers long, lined up with large resorts and small bungalows along the 

beach where visitors can jog, play beach sports, and even lie in the sun. Outside the 

beaches, from Hat Chao Phao to Hat Son, Hat Yao, Hat Salat, and Mae Hat, coral reefs 

spread over a vast area. There are several good spots for scuba diving to view coral 

reefs. This area is also a center for diving outfits and diving services for tourists wishing 

to snorkel along coral reefs. Hat Yao is also one of the best spots to watch the sunset. 

Every evening when the sky is clear, a number of tourists usually gather here to watch 

the sun gradually disappear. 

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Hat Salat is a beach next to Hat Yao to the North, 

lined up with Western Hat Thian and Hat Kruat, 

with Laem Ta Thong In between the end of Hat Kruat 

and Hat Salat. It is believed that, in the past, this 

area was a haven for pirates. Hat Salat (Pirate Beach) 

lies from north to south and its curve meets with 

the headland of Laem Chua. The one-kilometer-long 

beach looks like a semicircle, and it houses many 

good resorts. The resort business in this area began 

15 years ago and was better known among the 

Swedish, since a Swedish couple was the owner of 

bungalows here launched marketing campaigns 

among Swedish tourists. The booming period of Hat 

Salat was in 2004, when the devastating tsunami 

took place in the Andaman Sea. As a result, a large 

number of tourists turned to the Gulf of Thailand, 

and many new resorts have been built on Ko Pha-ngan. 

To this date Hat Salat has become one of the popular 

beaches among tourists visiting Ko Pha-ngan. 

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Amazing Emerging Sandbar 

at Mae Hat and Ko Ma 

Krabi province is famous for a sandbar emerging from 

the waters, and the phenomenon is recognized as “Unseen 

Thailand.” The emerging sandbar is locally referred to as thale 

waek, literally meaning divided sea. How many people know 

that Ko Pha-ngan is another place in Thailand where an 

emerging sandbar is discovered? The sandbar here is located 

at Mae Hat linking to Ko Ma, about 350 meters far away. 

The sandbar in this area emerges almost all year round, unlike 

that of Krabi, where the sandbar emerges at low tide, 

especially when the moon is waxing or waning. 

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The emerging sandbar comes from the influence of sweeping wind from Phattaya 

to the southwest of Ko Pha-ngan during June-October each year. The wind has brought 

about the amazing accumulation of sand stretching from Mae Hat to Ko Ma. The sandbar 

would be fantastic or not depends on the strength of winds and waves. For instance, 

northerly wind will bring down the sandbar, and if the monsoon wave is not so strong, 

the sandbar will retain its beauty as usual. However, during the northerly wind season, 

some sections of the sandbar may disappear because of the effect of sea level rise. 

When waters come down, the sandbar will emerge again, and it will remain throughout 

the year until the arrival of the new northerly wind season. After 1992, the sandbar in this 

area is likely to remain permanently, as the strength of winds in the monsoon season is 

on the decline. The situation is a result of the accumulation of corals outside the 

northern coast of Ko Ma, thus slowing down the movement of waves from northerly wind 

during the monsoon season. 

Ko Ma is a perfect spot for snorkeling to view coral reefs offshore where many 

kinds of corals are found, as well as fish of diverse colors, such as parrotfish, angelfish, 

pink anemonefish, rabbitfish, sergeant major, and Christmas tree worm. 

As for Mae Hat, it is a white sandy beach on the 

northwest of Ko Loei, next to Hat Salat. The peaceful 

1.1-kilometer-long beach comprises rows of pine trees 

and beach morning glory. It is suitable for recreation, 

sunbathing, and swimming. The beach is also one of the 

best spots on Ko Pha-ngan to watch the sunset. From 

here, Ko Ma is visible, and during low tide, you can walk 

to Ko Ma through the sandbar. 

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The Unique Lifestyle of Local Community at 

Hat Chalok Lam and Fine Stones at Hat Hin Ngam 

The north end of Ko Pha-ngan is the location of Hat Chalok Lam, which 

has the shape of a semicircle, like a half-moon. This 3.5-kilometer-long beach 

is the settlement of an old fishing village. It is said that “Chalok Lam” comes 

from “Dola Talam,” the name of the first Malaysian resident living on this 

cape. Later, the name was wrongly pronounced as Chalok Lam. Another 

explanation is that Chalok might partly come from the name of the position of 

the governor of the old Chaiya city, Khun Yok Krabat. Ko Pha-ngan was once 

under the supervision of this city. In addition, a number of Chinese immigrants 

lived on Ko Pha-ngan, and they called members of their community Loban, 

while old members were called Loban Kao. The word might later be 

pronounced as “Lo” in short and then became Loklam. Finally it might be 

turned into Chalok Lam. This can be another assumption for the birth of 

Chalok Lam, the name of the beach which houses this little fishing village. 

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The community was founded when a group of Chinese from the 

island of Hainan began to settle on Ko Pha-ngan 250 years ago, during the 

late Ayutthaya period towards the Thon Buri period. They first came to 

settle at the old areas of Ban Tai and Ban Hin Kong, Ban Si Thanu and 

Wat Bon. Local residents called their areas old Chalok villages, which 

might refer to Loban Kao, or old village members in the assumption 

mentioned earlier. This is an example of how a group of villages is called 

by the names that do not appear on the map of Ko Pha-ngan. 

The Hainanese people are expert fishermen and Ao Chalok Lam is 

also a good location with water deep enough to build a sea port. This area 

abounds with fish resources, especially sharks that were caught in those 

days for making dried fish, while their fins were sent for sale in China to 

fetch better prices. Later, more Chinese immigrants came to settle at Ban 

Chalok Lam, which was later developed into a permanent fishing community. 

The fishing occupation has been passed on to the present generation. 

Around 25-30 years ago, squid-jigging, a way to catch squid, has become 

a major occupation in this village. As time has passed by, the lifestyle of 

Chalok Lam fishermen still leaves a lasting impression to all visitors. 

If you travel to Hat Chalok during daytime and stay at the end of the jetty 

to appreciate scenic views, what you will see are tens of fishing boats anchored 

at the jetty where fishermen fill up their boats, or repair fishing nets. The fishermen 

will wait until nighttime in order to go out for fishing and squid jigging. 

The green light glittering in the sea is attached to squid fishing boats in an 

attempt to lure squid into playing with the light, so that the fishermen will be 

able to catch them easily. Some boats anchored there are for crab catching, as 

seen from their crab nets. Every morning, this jetty is busy with fishermen bringing 

in marine resources for sale to traders. So it is not surprising at all to see many 

seafood restaurants offering fresh food to tourists here. 

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From the jetty, if you look at the left and right-hand sides, you will see 

white soft sand lying prominently in the shape of a semicircle. Several resorts are 

located on this pine-fringed beach. On the right-hand side, mountains are seen 

from north to south. At the middle of Ko Pha-ngan, there are several high 

mountaintops, such as Kinnon mountaintop, which is locally known as Khao Nom 

Sao, and Khao Ra mountaintop, which is the highest of all on Ko Pha-ngan. Khao Ra, 

which is 635 meters high, stands prominently waiting to be conquered by adventurers. 

There is a beachfront road inside the village, with preserved old houses along 

the two sides of the road. The backyards of all beachfront houses are easily 

accessible to the beach. So this is considered a golden location for the 

operations of restaurants and other shops. Even so, almost all houses in this 

area still retain the status of an old fishing village by trying not to introduce 

many changes. A popular occupation here involves making dry squid as 

a unique product of the village. Like other Buddhist communities, several 

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temples are found in Ban Chalok Lam. In the middle of 

the community is the location of Wat Chalok Lam, an old 

temple in this village. Called Phra Buddha Mongkhon 

Pathip, the presiding Buddha image at Wat Chalok Lam is 

in the posture of subduing Mara. A wall inside the ubosot 

(main chapel) features a mural illustrating the life of the 

Buddha. Another wall features the history of Ko Pha-ngan 

written for next generations to study and learn further. 

Moreover, paintings of several masters on Ko Pha-ngan and 

Ko Samui are also shown on the wall opposite the presiding 

Buddha image. Moreover, images of well-known monks in 

Surat Thani, as well as those of other respected monks, 

are installed at the Khantikonuson pavilion. These 

respected monks include Venerable Luang Pho Chan 

Khantiko, Venerable Luang Pho Rob Ongsutharo, Venerable 

Luang Pho Bun Khantiko, Venerable Luang Pu Thuat, and 

the Most Venerable Phra Phutthachan To Phromrangsi. 

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About 12 kilometers from the pavilion, 

Wat Chalok Lam is located at Mu 7, Ko Pha-ngan 

subdistrict, Pha-ngan district, Surat thani 

province. The current abbot is Phra Maha 

Sonthaya Paphaso. 

There are also small beaches next to 

Hat Chalom Lam. On the right-hand side of 

Hat Chalom is a pine-fringed small beach, called 

Hat Khom. This 300-meter-long beach has a 

peaceful atmosphere and is the location of 

several bungalow resorts. It is a perfect spot for 

recreation, sunbathing, and swimming, as well. 

Almost every day, many tourists travel on board 

hired boats for snorkeling here to view corals. 

On the left-hand side of Hat Chalok Lam is a 

small beach, called Hat Hin Ngam. Unlike other 

beaches on Ko Pha-ngan, Hat Hin Ngam has a 

special feature, as the whole beach consists of 

stones, taking birth from strong waves, especially 

during the northerly wind season. The main 

attraction is the 20-meter-long beach, making up 

of a pile of big and small round stones. This is a 

natural wonder, indeed. There is a signboard 

showing the direction to a small road leading to 

Hat Hin Ngam. It is not a convenient walkway, 

but pick-up trucks can run on this road. The way 

down to the beach and up from it is rather steep. 

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Back to the Past on the Community Path 

at Ban Maduea Wan, Ban Nai Suan 

From Ao Chalok Lam, there is a road passing through a narrow hill between 

Khao Ra and Khao Ta Luang and leading to the pavilion. Throughout the 15-kilometer-long 

road are alternate green-belt areas, rubber plantations, farmland, and communities. 

This beautiful road boasts several tourist attractions. Visitors who are able to go along 

the western beach to Chalok Lam may go back in a circular manner to the pavilion, 

without wasting their time to return to the original way.They will have an opportunity 

to experience the green world of Ko Pha-ngan, as well. 

The first spot at which visitors should stop here is the Guanyin shrine 

and Wat Pa Saengdham, situated about six kilometers from the Chalok Lam 

community. The shrine of Guanyin, or the Goddess of Mercy, stands on a slope 

of Khao Ta Luang, the top of which is 478 meters above sea level, and it is 

opposite Khao Ra. The shrine area is on a hill, which is one of the best spots 

for scenic views. Here Ao Chalok Lam on the northern part can be seen clearly. 

It is said that a woman, named Malawan, had great faith in Bodhisattva 

Guanyin. She traveled to Ko Pha-ngan for Thot Pha Pa, a merit-making 

ceremony, and on this occasion, she visited Ban Chalok Lam, a Hainanese 

community where local residents were engaged mainly in fishing. Because 

of her strong faith, she was determined to build a shrine of Guanyin for 

people to worship and also as a lighthouse for fishermen during nighttime. 

When she returned to Bangkok, she managed to collect money to build the 

shrine, and the construction was completed in 1993. 

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Within the shrine area, there is a pavilion with Chinese-style 

roofs. Inside the pavilion are a bell and a drum for visitors to ring 

and hit, as it is believed that the action will bring about luck and 

prosperity in life. Visitors usually ring the bell and hit the drum three 

times each. The baton for hitting the drum is carved in the form of a 

creature in the Chinese mythology. The creature looks like a combination 

of fish and dragon pained in a gold color, which represents prosperity. 

The figures of dragon are found on the roofs on the left and the right 

of the pavilion. In a clear sky during daytime, the two dragons are seen 

in a manner like they are moving actively towards the sky. 

Opposite the pavilion is the place where the image of Bodhisattva 

Guanyin is installed. It is believed that the Goddess of Mercy Guanyin 

once came down from heaven to be born on Earth in order to help 

ease human suffering. Legend has it that she was the daughter of a king 

and was interested in Dhamma since her childhood. Her father would 

like her to marry, so that she would have an heir to the throne. As 

she refused to marry, her father ordered her to be executed. Thanks to 

her merit, she was saved from all dangers. Finally, she entered 

the monkhood and attained enlightenment. A large number of 

Buddhists have great respect for Guanyin, and many worship her by 

not consuming meat throughout their life. 

It is said that there are altogether 84 postures of the Guanyin 

image for people to worship. For instance, the posture of thousand 

eyes and thousand arms means that it was a miracle that the Goddess 

of Mercy was born to free all human beings on Earth from suffering. 

The posture of giving blessing represents longevity, good health, and 

a healthy mind. The worshippers apparently opt to the two postures most. 

Visitors may come to pay homage to Bodhisattva Guanyin at this shrine, 

located in the fishing village of Ban Chalok Lam. 

Near the Guanyin shrine is the location of Wat Pa Saengdham, which 

is peaceful with big and small shady trees. This forest temple was founded 

less than 20 years ago. In July 1984, a monk and a novice, in their pilgrimage, 

came to put up long-handled umbrellas at an old cemetery in Ban Chalok 

Lam. Later, they had to move out of the cemetery. While they were 

heading to the pier in order to return to the mainland, a group of villagers 

who had faith in them asked them to continue to stay at Ban Chalok Lam. 

The monk and the novice considered that the deserted cemetery in 

Wat Pa Saengdham was tranquil and far from busy areas. They then decided 

to stay there as a pilgrimage place. Local villagers joined hands in 

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developing the area as a religious center, which 

today has become Wat Pa Saengdham, which is a 

Dhammayut temple focusing on strict Dharma practices. 

This forest temple is, therefore, suitable for those 

seeking tourism for peace or for Dharma study. 

Leaving Wat Pa Saengtham temple, we journey 

into the village of Ban Maduea Wan, one of the three 

indigenous communities in Ko Pha-ngan. The other 

two are Ban Tai and Ban Luk Ban Kao villages, situated 

deep into the land near Samai Khongkha Temple, 

locally known as Wat Bon. It is interesting that these 

communities are in a distance from the strand. 

Assumably, it is because people in the past led a 

reclusive life, eking out a living on crop-farming and 

growing coconuts. Indeed, there are a number of 

coconut plantations existing in the area, and related 

domestic industrial products, such as dried coconuts, 

have been supplied to factories to make coconut oil. 

The manufacturing process uses traditional wisdom. 

Visitors can stop by neighborhood that runs dried 

coconut production behind Maduea Wan school. 

Over and above that, in Ban Maduea Wan village 

lives an attractive ninety-three year old house. House 

number 45, 3, Ban Maduea Wan village, Ko Pha-ngan 

sub-district, belongs to Mr. Prapas Maduea-wan, a local 

savant in Pha-ngan traditional knowledge. 

Mathura Wararam Temple, widely known as 

Wat Maduea Wan, a respectable monastery, has 

enshrined a stunning white jade Buddha image, called 

in Thai language “Phra Sila Yuang” sheltered in a mondop 

at the hilltop. The image was made in Mandalay, 

Myanmar, of crystalline white jade. It portrays a sitting 

position of the Lord Buddha with left hand turned up, 

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rested gently on the knee, right hand on the ankle. 

Phra Sila Yuang of this attitude can be found in 

only four temples in Thailand, namely, Wat Don 

Kaeo (Mae Ramat district) in Tak province, Wat 

Samret (Ko Samui district), Wat Amphawan and 

Wat Maduea Wan (Ko Pha-ngan district) in Surat 

Thani province. The hilltop stupa where this image 

resides also houses a replica of Lord Buddha’s 

footprint, worshiped by Pha-ngan people. A nearby village to Ban Maduea Wan that 

has nurtured an intriguing lifestyle is Ban Nai Suan 

village. The village is a center for natural tie 

dyes, supplying to souvenir shops within the 

island and across the southern region. A handmade 

natural product, very popular among foreign 

tourists, has a wide selection of sizes and designs 

including hammocks and t-shirts. For more 

information, please contact Mr. Kirati Diewwanit. 

(Tel. 08 1979 6451) 

Not far off from the tie dye center, lies 

a hundred-year old classic-style house. House 

number 9, Ban Nai Suan village, Ko Pha-ngan 

sub-district, Ko Pha-ngan district, is owned by 

Mr. Kunton Thongnuan. The house bears relatively 

complete evidence of traditional architectural 

techniques, -- chiseled columns, wedging, regal 

tile roofing --, and has become a place where we 

can explore the livings of Pha-ngan predecessors. 

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Khao Ra and Phaeng Waterfall, the Green 

Heart of Pure Beauty 

The thirst for adventure makes the peak of Khao Ra, 

the highest peak on Ko Pha-ngan, a regular visit by explorers. 

At 627 meters, this mountaintop sits right in the middle of 

the island like a well-hidden green heart waiting to be found by 

the determined trekker. 

The start of the journey to Khao Ra peak is 

clearly marked with a sign at Ban Maduea Wan. 

The road passes through a local orchard until the 

foot of the hill. From there, it is a trekking path all 

the way to the top. A small reservoir and sparse 

wood are the first views on the path before 

reaching the steeper trail that leads the trekker to a 

dense forest of many large trees like Yang, Ironwood, 

Boonoot and a refreshing little creek surrounded by 

tiger orchid-covered tree branches. Don’t be 

surprised to see plenty of birds in this area, and if 

you’re lucky, monkeys, wild deer and wild boar too. 

Leaving the forest, the trail leads to an even 

steeper path through smaller trees, alongside a 

spring, before conquering Khao Ra. The spring is the 

source of Khao Nop that runs through Ban Maduea 

Wan to Nai Wok bay. On the other side of the small 

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area of forest is a clearing with space for about 10 tents. This is the best viewpoint on 

Ko Pha-ngan. If you reach this point you have earned the right to claim yourself as 

the conqueror of the highest peak on Ko Pha-ngan. 

For the peak there is a fabulous view of Chalok Lam bay and Khom beach. The sunset 

view and Khao Ta Luang are equally if not more rewarding. Pha-ngan Airport is part of 

the view to the East and at night the lights from Ban Chalok Lam provide a different 

beauty to the sight. To the South, the eye-catching range of Khao Mai Ngam and distant 

Ko Samui is the main view. In the morning, the peak is covered by fog and the weather 

is cold as if you were in the northern part of Thailand. Hard to believe that the weather 

like this can be found on the island in the middle of the Thai Gulf. 

Khao Mai Ngam, situated in the southern of Khao Ra peak, is one of the most 

important green areas of Ko Pha-ngan. At the foot of the hill, not so far from Ban Maduea 

Wan, is Phaeng Waterfall the highest and most beautiful waterfall on the island. It is also 

the site of Than Sadet - Ko Pha-ngan National Park Office. The area is one of the most 

diverse on the island, covered by extensive 

forest, and home to wildlife. It is also the main 

source of freshwater for Ko Pha-ngan. Yet 

there is still a problem of encroachment and 

deforestation from local people living in the 

nearby community. 

Around 1967 Venerable Phra Khru 

Suphatthara Dhammaphirom of Wat Rat 

Charoen, Ko Pha-ngan, realized how important 

it was to conserve the forest for future 

generations. As a result, Phra Khru Suphatthara 

Dhammaphirom led the monks, novices, and 

locals to construct a one kilometer road toward 

Phaeng Waterfall and asked for the cooperation 

of villagers to conserve the forest for the future 

instead of destroying it. Historically, the waterfall 

was called Wana Utthayan Karun Met Nam Tok 

Phaeng. At that time there was no national 

park, however, Phra Khru Suphatthara 

Dhammaphirom accompanied with the villagers 

looked after this forest area until 1977, Phra Khru 

Suphatthara Dhammaphirom handed over 

responsibility to the then Royal Forest Department 

in order to raise the status of the area to be Wana 

Utthayan Nam Tok Phaeng (Phaeng Waterfall 

Forest Park). Therefore the forest can be managed 

properly by the appropriate government agency. 

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In 1987, there was an official survey to integrate the national park area on 

Ko Pha-ngan with the existing Mu Ko Ang Thong Marine National Park. However, the survey 

showed that the forest on Ko Pha-ngan has such high biodiversity, historical and 

archaeological value to be established as a separate national park. In 1989, a more 

detailed survey was done again, and this time the survey results led to Forest Reserve 

Area : Ko Pha-ngan Forest, Nam Tok Than Sadet Forest, Khao Lat Kaeo Forest, Khao 

Khai Forest, Khao Ta Luang Forest, Khao Hin Nok Forest, Laem Pho - Laem Katha Khwam 

Forest and Khao Fai Mai Forest, was prepared to announce as Than Sadet - Ko Pha-ngan 

National Park. Later on the area was expanded around Ko Pha-ngan to cover 62 square 

kilometers. The Than Sadet - Ko Pha-ngan National Park proposal was agreed by 

the national park committee on 10 February 1999 and now in the process with Council 

of Ministers to approve. 

Nowadays, Phaeng Waterfall is a hot spot especially for foreign tourists. 

The National Park has made the 2.5 km. trail for tourists wishing to spend the 1 hour 

walk through the forest to admire the fertile dense forest and interesting plants and 

animals such as tiger orchids, different variety of ferns, and wild mushrooms that bloom 

in rainy season; bulbuls, drongos, spider and butterflies, monkeys, samba deer, and 

wild boar can also be found on the trail for those luck to spot them. 

This trail goes along the stream to Phaeng Waterfall and up many levels, each 

level with a different name : Phaeng Noi, Than Nam Rak, Thang Song Phraeng, Than Kluai 

Mai for example. Phaeng Waterfall will be most beautiful in the rainy season. Beyond 

the waterfall, the trail climbs higher and grows steeper leading to Dom Sila View Point, 

a stunning viewpoint for both scenic and sunset views. From this point, there are 

splendid views view of the islands from Mu Ko Ang Thong Marine National Park, 

Ko Tao and Ko Samui, as well as the south and west of Ko Pha-ngan. 

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Timeless Natural Beauty of 

the Old Ban Tai-Ban Khai 

Community 

Ban Tai is one of the three earliest 

settlements on Pha-ngan island, presumably 

since late-Ayutthaya period. Chinese 

emigrants, mostly Hainanese fishermen, 

came to settle and work in the area, blending 

with local people through marriage. Over 

several generations, the village has today 

become one of the largest in Ko Pha-ngan. 

Traces of ancient civilization still 

survive in temples, manifesting a strong 

Buddhist Chinese community. There are a 

lot of old temples, for instance Wat Nai, 

Wat Nok, Wat Pho, Wat KaoTham, and Chinese 

shrines situated across the village. It is 

supposed that these religous places were 

built at the very same time between late- 

Ayutthaya period to early-Rattanakosin period. 

Wat Nai is the oldest temple in Ban Tai 

community. Built in the late-Ayutthaya 

period, the now-uninhabited temple has 

been included in the monastic territory of 

Wat Pho in Mu 3, Ban Tai sub-district, Ko Pha-ngan district. The site reveals 

archaeological evidences, in particular the three outworn pagodas, two of which have 

been ruined by time that only their pedestals remain visible: One is made of coral 

stone hugged by a Bodhi tree, the other is a small brick structure. The only one which 

is relatively complete is a square brick cement-bounded pagoda with rabbeted 

angles, decorated with Chinese ceramic crockeries. Its high pedestal has two door facades 

on each of the four sides. The excavation unveiled a horde of bluewares from Ming 

and Qing dynasties, leading to the hypothesis that this area was a residential 

area since Ayutthaya era up to the reigns of King Rama III and IV of Rattanakosin. 

Townspeople took part in building these monuments at the center of their community, 

manifesting the firm relationship among Thais and Chinese living together. 

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The second old temple is Wat Pho. It has a history that a Pha-ngan boat builder and 

coconut and sugar farmer named Samphao Chaochaiya asked his son to build a temple 

for the community when he passed away. The temple was first named Wat Samphao 

Thong (Golden Junk). Later, a venerable monk named Pho was assigned to be the abbot 

here, and people started calling the temple Wat Po Tan Pho, or in short Wat Pho. Wat Pho 

thrived in the periods of abbot Muen and abbot Khwan. After abbot Khwan passed away 

in 1906 (B.E. 2449), there was no successor to run the monastery hence it was abandoned 

for years. Soon after monks returned to reside in the temple, it has become the community’s 

center. Temple fairs have been organised occasionally and, on the opposite side of 

the temple, a health center using various kinds of medicinal herbs was erected. 

The heated medicinal herbs are from the recipes to cure paralysis and beriberi by 

Master Chat Sutthathiko, abbot of Wat Mapring, Mueang district, Surat Thani province, 

compounded by Mr. Chamras Siriwat. The center opens everyday at 1 pm. to 7 pm. 

The last of the three oldest temples is Wat Nok, built after Wat Nai as its twin temple 

and located near Wat Pho. It is assumed that it was constructed at the same time as 

Wat Pho, although there is no clear supporting evidence. At present, the temple is 

unoccupied by any monk. In the main pavilion inside the temple, a Buddha 

image called Po Than Wat Nok in Mara Vichai posture (Victory over demon) is 

enshrined, well respected by townspeople. At the crossroad in front of the 

temple’s entrance, lives a gigantic Dipterocarpus tree of 14.70 meters in 

diameter, assumably aged over a hundred years. It has been preserved 

by people in the area and become one of the tourist’s attractions of the 

town. Apart from the giant tree, nearby is an equally famous two-headed 

coconut tree. It was grown in a coconut plantation 2 kilometers away from 

Wat Pho on the right of a roadside toward Hat Thong Nai Pan. Rumour has 

it that it used to have three tops but one was accidentally broken. 

Another prominent temple in Ban Tai is Wat Khao Tham or Wat Suan 

Suwan Chotikaram, originally known as Samnak Song Wat Pa Phra Dong 

(Wat Pa Phra Dong house of monks). It is located on Khao Haeng hilltop, 

Mu 1, Ban Tai sub-district. The temple focuses on dharma practices, in 

particular meditation. The serene ambience attracts both Thai and foreign 

Buddhists. The center of the temple is an ubosot or chapel housing the 

principle Buddha image called Phra Buddha-Saiyat Lokkanatbophit 

Siriwisit Pha-nganmongkhon. The courtyard in front of the chapel serves 

as a space for meditation and walking meditation. Behind the chapel is a 

Luang Po Phet holy hall. Further up the hill is another holy hall for a replica 

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of Lord Buddha’s footprint and a mondop. It is a scenic spot that overlooks 

the landscape of Ban Tai beach and Samui island (Ko Samui). 

On the shoulder of the hill at the back of the temple, lies a stone 

shed, a peaceful corner for an isolated meditator. 

The meditation class began for the first time in 1962 (B.E. 2505) 

when Master Pradoem Komalo from Wat Soi Thong, Bangkok, and 

other three monks travelled to Pha-ngan and found this place 

suitable for practicing dharma and teaching about cogitation. They, 

hence, decided to reside at this sanctuary even though it was then 

only a house of monks. Since then, the house has by degrees gained 

the status of a temple. 

Among the monks who followed Master Pradoem Komalo to 

practice the dharma in Pha-ngan, there is a Jewish-born American 

Zen monk, Emanuel Sherman. Though he had a chance to live in 

Pha-ngan for a very short period of time before he passed away of 

influenza, this artist monk has left behind a number of paintings 

that illustrate quandaries of religious percepts. Today, these 

paintings are exhibited at the Spiritual Theater, Suan Mokkhaphalaram, 

Wat Tan Nam Lai, Chaiya district, Surat Thani province. 

Apart from Ban Tai that has a long history, Ban Khai, a sub-district nearby also bears 

numerous fascinating legends. It started off in 1857 (B.E. 2400) when a villager found a 

lump of gold while panning for minerals in the island. He told Chaiya city governor that 

there were golds in Ko Pha-ngan, and the governor levied a troop of workers to camp in 

this area for gold digging. The excavation went on for months, yet they found very little 

gold and had to give up eventually. The sub-district where the workers camped then 

adopted the name Ban Khai (camping village) since. 

Today, the Ban Tai - Ban Khai community has become a large town with beaches 

connecting and stretching out on the seashore for no less than 7 kilometers from Thong 

Sala, Bang Charu beach, to Ban Tai and Ban Khai beaches. All the beaches face the south 

overlooking Ko Samui which is located not far away from the coast, creating a sublime 

scenery and attracting tourist accommodations - from boutique resorts to economy 

bungalows - which have quickly mushroomed along the shoreline. The high season of 

this area is the summer time from December to May. From June to November, there are 

strong gusts that blow from south-west to north-east direction bringing storms from the 

sea to the land; nonetheless, the good point is that the water level decrease and increase 

rather dramatically, hence visitors will get to see the local people coming out to find rock 

oysters when the tides go down and conducting shoreline fishing when the tides rise. 

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Exquisite Sand Beach, 

Clear Water and Alluring Sea View: 

Hat Thong Nai Pan 

The northeast of Ko Pha-ngan lies a crescent-shaped 

sand beach hugging a small bay. In the past, this place had 

hidden from people’s sight until a southern man from Songkla 

named Pan ran away from Arabian pirates and discovered 

this peaceful, secluded strand, therefore decided to harbor 

there. This incident took place in the time of King Rama III. 

Even after the pirates were subdued, Mr. Pan still resided on this 

beach until he passed away in the period of King Rama V. People, 

thus, called the beach “Hat Thong Nai Pan” (Thong Nai Pan 

beach). Presently, the beach can be divided into two parts 

according to the geographical appearance: Hat Thong Nai Pan 

Noi (small Thong Nai Pan beach) and Hat Thong Nai Pan Yai 

(big Thong Nai Pan beach). 

Hat Thong Nai Pan Noi stretches out 700 meters in the 

north of the shore, from the south of Laem Pak Chong which 

is the location of Santhiya Resort & Spa, down to a hill that 

splits the two beaches where Panwiman Resort & Spa stands. 

This beach is known to be the most beautiful beach in the 

Pha-ngan island, with long range of white sand, still rather 

untampered. Nonetheless, the waterfront has been mostly 

occupied by several five-star resorts similar to those in Phuket. 

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Hat Thong Nai Pan Yai extends from the south end of Hat Thong Nai 

Pan Noi to the end of Tham Thong Rak. The beach is much longer and 

wider than Hat Thong Nai Pan Noi. With the length of 1,00 meters, this 

equally soft and white sand beach gives the visitors the same impression 

as Andaman beaches. Resorts queueing up along the shoreline reserve 

private paths down to the beach. However, there is a public path on the 

way toward Thong Nai Pan house of monks and Thong Nai Pan school. 

If you drive to the end of Hat Thong Nai Pan Yai, to Tham Thong Rak, 

there is an ideal view spot that overlooks both beaches. It has become 

one of tourist’s favourite landmarks. 

Traveling to Thong Nai Pan in the past was 

very difficult considering that it could be 

accessed only by four-wheel vehicles. The 

distance from Thong Sala is 20 kilometers 

and 17 kilometers from Ban Khai. Today, 

the road development from Ban Khai to Hat 

Thong Nai Pan has enabled any cars to travel 

more easily, leaving only a short distance of 4 

kilometers from the elephant camp to Than 

Sadet waterfall which is still a non-asphalt road. 

In rainy season, even on the paved roads, it is 

still inconvenient to commute, but it is hoped 

that the new road cutting will complete soon. 

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Stunning Lunar Light, 

Full Moon Party of 

Your Life 

About 45 years ago, way back 

in 1967, Ko Samui started to gain a 

reputation among foreign tourists. 

After adventurous nature trips, the 

word of mouth spread just how 

fantastic the place was. Of course, 

at that time very few foreign tourists 

knew about Ko Pha-ngan and it had 

been that way until 1972. Before 

Ko Samui became famous, some 

travellers were getting curious and 

explored its nearby twin island called 

Ko Pha-ngan to find out what was there to be discovered. The first group of foreign 

tourists to visit Ko Pha-ngan were from New Zealand and followed by Australians. 

It was the biggest milestone for Ko Pha-ngan as it was the first time that foreign 

tourists experienced what no outsider had seen before: the natural beauty of Hat Rin and 

how spectacularly wonderful it is. 

Boon Bungalow (later called Rin Beach Bungalow) was the first to open for service 

in 1980. After the first bungalow, many followed to meet the growing number of 

tourists visiting Hat Rin. Small parties were held at each bungalow. In those days the 

atmosphere was full of laughter, joy, food, booze, music, and people dancing on the 

beach; it could have been used as a movie set. With a dreamy scene like this, the story 

of living free among nature was spoken about widely and in articles publicizing the legend 

of the full moon night on the beautiful Hat Rin ; this made Hat Rin even more famous. 

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The white sand beach stretches for 700 meters and faces directly east, perfect 

for moon rise. This is what makes Hat Rin the best place on Ko Pha-ngan for the full 

moon night. On a full moon night, as the moon rises over the horizon and climbs up to 

the dark blue sky above, the sea underneath twinkles with the color of molten silver 

and peaceful waves gently lap at the beach making that night the most romantic night 

that anyone could imagine of. 

On a night like this, both foreign and local fun lovers will gather on Hat Rin to sing, 

dance, drink and have a good time surrounded by nature in their own free-spirited world. 

The party starts in the early evening, people rally from everywhere on the island to Hat 

Rin where loud rousing music plays from one end of the beach to other. More than 10 

resorts try their best to entertain the guests: the fire batons show, Polynesian dance, 

and fire breathing competitions. Competitors spit alcohol on to a flaming torch and the 

one who makes the highest flame is the winner; the big round of applause will be the 

prize. The stages are set for people to go up and show their dance steps. Some may prefer 

to bar hop from this one to that since they are located all along the 700-meter beach 

so that could take some time. The beach is full of dancers. According to the record, 

on Full Moon Party night, there are approximately more than 30,000 people each month 

and the number could increase to 100,000 during Christmas, New Years Eve and Valentines, 

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generating more than 1 million baht cash flow for the 

community. Another popular activity is glow-in-the-dark 

body painting. The party crowd will queue up and wait for 

their turn to create artistic work on their body; the proud 

owners then dance on the beach to show themselves off. 

The bright and shining full moon rises in the sky from 

the east after sunset and sets in the west just before dawn. 

As the moon dips, it signals the end of a night of unforgettable 

experience that will have to wait another 4 weeks for the 

magical time like this to come back. The only thing that the 

visitors can take with them is the memorable happiness that 

will last in their heart forever. The same memory also brings 

back many people over and over again who are still so fond 

of the charm of the full moon on Hat Rin. 

Apart from the famous Hat Rin for the full moon party 

(Thai name is Hat Rin Nok), there are also the 1.4-kilometerlong 

Hat Rin Nai and the 500-meter-long Hat Si Kantang, 

both have many lovely resorts and since these beaches 

face the west they make the good spot for sunset views. 

On the east side of Hat Rin Nok, up to the north, there is 

Hat Khon Thi, Hat Yaun, Hat Thian Tawan Ok (Eastern Thian 

beach), Hat Wai Nam and Hat Yao Tawan Ok (Eastern Yao 

beach). These beaches have many livable cozy resorts 

among the peaceful natural atmosphere, though they are 

not quite as convenient to travel to. Guests have to travel 

by boat from Hat Rin Nok or by 4-wheel drive vehicles 

across some mountains from Ban Tai. 

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Interesting, Up-to-the-standard Lodgings 

on Ko Pha-ngan Beaches 

Accommodations in Ko Pha-ngan have increased considerably, from a 

few bungalows to accommodate groups of tourists on Hat Rin Beach in 1980. 

Many hotels and resorts have emerged, particularly in the last decade. 

Nowadays, almost all beaches in Ko Pha-ngan have 3- up to 5-star hotels. Most of 

them are on Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach, which is one of the most beautiful beaches 

on the island. Another charming aspect of these hotels is their friendly and eagerto-please 

service offered in a heartfelt manner. This is a endearing characteristic 

that visitors can always find from people of Ko Pha-ngan. 

In the future, travelers can expect more as the island will not stop going 

for excellence. It will establish greater value and higher standard of service to 

make Ko Pha-ngan a long-lasting paradise in the Gulf of Thailand.

Examples of Hotels 

On the Beaches of Nai Wok, Thong Sala, Bang Charu, 

Ban Tai, Bang Nam Khem, Ban Khai, and Hin Lo

100 

101

102 

103

104 

105

106 

107


On the Beaches of Bang Son, Rin Nai, 

Si Kantang, Lee-la, Hua Laem, Rin Nok, 

Khon Thi, Yuan, Eastern Thian, Eastern Yao, 

and Wai Nam

110 

111

112 

113

114 

115

116 

117


On the Beaches of Thong Nai Pan Noi, 

Thong Nai Pan Yai, Than Sadet, 

and Thong Reng

120 

121

122 

123

124 

125

126 

127

128 

129

130 

131


On the Beaches of Salat, Mae Hat, 

Thong Lang, Hin Ngam, Chalok Lam, 

Khom, and Khuat

134 

135

136 

137

138 

139

140 

141


On the Beaches of Plai Laem, Wok Tum, 

Hin Kong, Si Thanu, Chao Phao, Son, 

Dao Duek, Yao, Thian, and Kraut

144 

145

146 

147

148 

149

150 

151

152 

153

154 

155

156 

157

158 

159

160 

Accommodation in Ko Pha-ngan 

• AD. VIEW 

2/2 Moo 5, Thong Nai Pan Noi, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 445- 047 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Ananda Wellness Resorts 

16/3 Moo 6, Haad Rin, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : 081-397-6280 

Fax : - 

Website : www.anandaresort.com 

e-mail : info@anandaresort.com 

• Baan Haad Yao Villas 

56/16 Moo 8, Haad Yao, Ko Pha-ngan,Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 349 160 

Fax : (077) 349 161 

Website : www.baanhaadyaovillas.com 

e-mail : - 

• Ban Tai Resort 

13 Moo 1, Ao Baan Tai, Ko Pha-ngan,Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 238596 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Baan Panburi Village 

7/8 Moo 5, Thong Nai Pan Noi, Ko Pha-ngan,Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 238594 

Fax : (077) 445 076 

Website : www.baanpanburivillage.co 

e-mail : - 

• Banana Beach 

Ao Thong Nai Pan Noi, Ko Pha-ngan,Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : - 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Bancha Sramanora Resort 

Haad Yuan, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : - 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Bay View Bungalow 

57/1 Moo 8, Haad Son, Ko Pha-ngan,Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 349235 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Beer Bungalow 

29/7 Moo 4, Ao Baan Khai, Ko Pha-ngan,Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 238 488 

Fax : (077) 238 089 

Website : www.beerbungalow.com 

e-mail : - 

• Bird Bungalow 

Haad Rin Nai, Ko Pha-ngan,Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375191 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Black & White Bungalow 

110/2 Moo 6, Haad Rin, Ko Pha-ngan,Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 187 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Blue Hill Resort 

17/9 Moo 6, Ko Pha-ngan,Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375559 

Fax : - 

Website : www.bluehillbeachresort.com 

e-mail : - 

• Blue Marine Resort 

110/6 Moo 6, Haad Rin Nai, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 407 

Fax : (077) 375 407 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Bounty Resort 

85/1 Moo 8, Haad Son, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 349 105 

Fax : (077) 349 106 

Website : www.bountyresort.net 

e-mail : bounty@phangan.info 

• Buakao Inn 

Moo 1 Ao Thongsala, Ko Pha-ngan,Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 377226 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

อีเมล์ : buakอ่าว@samart.co.th 

• Chai Country 

14/3 Moo 8, Ao Srithanu, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 349 024 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Chokkana 

100 Moo 1, Ao Baan Tai, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 238 085 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Coco Hut Village 

130/20 Moo 6, Haad Seekantang, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 368 

Fax : - 

Website : www.cocohutvillage.com 

e-mail : info@cocohut.com 

• Cookies Bungalow 

Moo 1, Ao Plai Laem, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : 08 1677 4472 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Cookies’s Salad Resort 

61/8 Moo 8, Haad Salad, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : 083-1817125 

Fax : - 

Website : www.cookies-phangan.com 

e-mail : cookies’s.salad@gmail.com 

• Coral Bungalow 

Moo 6, Haad Rin Nai, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 023 

Fax : - 

Website : www.coralhaadrin.com 

e-mail : 

• Delight Resort 

Moo 6, Haad Rin, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375527-9 

Fax : - 

Website : www.delightresort.com 

e-mail : - 

• Dew Shore Bungalow 

99/1 Moo 1, Ao Baan Tai, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 238 128 

Fax : (077) 238 128 

เว็บไซด์ : www.dewshore.com 

e-mail : - 

• Dreamland Resort 

11 Moo 5, Thong Nai Pan Yai, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 84 280 

Fax : (077) 238 549, 445 051 

Website : - 

e-mail : dreamland_resort@yahoo.com 

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Accommodation in Koh Phangan 

• Drop In Club Resort 

154/1-10 HaadRin, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 444-7 

Fax : (077) 375 448 

Website : - 

e-mail : info@dropinclubresortandspa.com 

• Family House 


Tel : (077) 375 173 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Fanta 

Moo 7, Ao Chaloklum, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 374 132 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• First Villa 


Tel : (077) 377 225 

Fax : (077) 238 352 

Website : www.firstvilla.com 

e-mail : info@firstvilla.com 

• Friendly Bungalow 

110/13 Moo 6 Tambol Baan Tai, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 167 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Golden Beach Resort 

Moo 4, Ao Baan Khai, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 238 074 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Grand Sea Resort 

152 Moo 1, Ao Nai Wok, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 377 776-7 

Fax : (077) 377 777 

Website : www.grandsearesort.com 

e-mail : info@grandsearesort.com 

• Green Peace Bungalow 

Moo 4, Ao Baan Khai, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 238 436 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Haad Lad Prestige Resort 

64/3 Moo 8 Haad Salad, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 349 285 

Fax : (077) 347 220 

Website : www.prestigeresortphangan 

e-mail : info@prestigeresortphangan.com 

• Haad Salad Villa 

Haad Salad, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : 08 1894 1758 

Fax : - 

Website : www.haadsaladvilla.com 

e-mail : reservation@haadsaladvilla.com 

• Haad Son Resort 

85 Moo 8, Haad Son, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 349 103-4 

Fax : (077) 349 103-4 

Website : - 

e-mail : info@haadson.net 

• Haad Tian Beach Resort 

59/1 Moo 8, HaadTian (west), Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 349 009 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : haadtian@hotmail.com 

• Haad Yao Bay View Resort 

57 Moo 8, Haad Yao, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 349 140-1 

Fax : (077) 349 140 

Website : - 

e-mail : bayviewresort@hotmail.com 

• Haad Yao Bungalow 

Moo 8, Haad Yao, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 349 159 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Haad Yao Over Bay Resort 

101/12 Moo 1, Haad Yao, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 349 163 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Haad Yao Resort 

53/4 Moo 8 Haad Yao, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 349 145 

Fax : (077) 349 152 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Haad Yao Villa 

53/3 Moo 8, Haad Yao, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 349 317-8 

Fax : - 

Website : www.haadyaovilla.com 

e-mail : - 

• Haad Rin Sea View 

130/12 Moo 6, Ao Thongsala, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 425 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• High Life Bungalow Resort 

85/5 Moo 8 HaadYao, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 349 114 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Ibiza Bungalow 

53 Moo 8, Haad Yao, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 349 121 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Island View Cabana 

Moo 7, Haad Mae Haad, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 374 172 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Jungle Hut 

50/1 Moo 8, Haad Chao Phao, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 349 087-8 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Khao Guesthouse 

210/10 Moo 1, AoThongsala, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 238 326 

Fax : (077) 377 242 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Kung Bungalow 

Moo 5, Haad Than Praphat, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : 08 1891 5592 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

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• Laid Back Resort 

Moo 6, Haad Rin, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 190 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Lee Garden Resort 

17/2 Moo 4, Ao Baan Kai, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 238 150 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Loyfa Bungalow 


Tel : (077) 377 319 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Lucky Resort 

Moo 7, Haad Khuad, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 349 007 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Mae Haad Bay Resort 

106/4 Moo 7, Haad Mae Haad, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 374 171 

Fax : - 

Website : www.maehaadbay.com 

e-mail : reservation@maehaadbay.com 

• Malibu Bungalow 

Moo 7, Ao Chaloklum, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 374 057 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Mandalai Boutique Hotel 

2/3 Moo 7, Ao Chaloklum, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 374 316-9 

Fax : (077) 374 320 

Website : - 

e-mail : reservation@mymandalai.com 

• My Way Bungalow 

62 Moo 8, Haad Salad, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 349 267 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Nee’s Bungalow 

86 Moo 6, Haad Rin, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 193 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Neptune’s Villa 

110/6 Moo 6, Haad Rin Nai, Ko Pha-ngan, SuratThani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 251 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• New Porn Sawan 

Moo 4 Tambol KohPhangan, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 377 599 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Niramon Villas 

113/3 Moo 7, Ao Chaloklum, Ko Pha-ngan,Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 374 115 

Fax : (077) 374 131 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• O K BUNGALOW 

54/1 Moo 4, Ao Wok Tum, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 377 141 

Fax : (077) 377 567 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Orchard House 

7/7 Moo1 Baan Tai, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : 08 9070 3163 

Fax : (077) 377 754 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Panviman Resort 

221 Moo 5, Thong Nai Pan Noi, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 445 100 

Fax : (077) 445 100 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Pariya Resort & Villas 

Haad Yuan, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : 08 1895 1337 

Fax : - 

Website : www.pariyahaadyuan.com 

e-mail : - 

• Pen’s Bungalow 

8/3 Moo 5, Thong Nai Pan Yai, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 445 093 

Fax : (077) 238 592 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Phanganbayshore Resort 

141 Moo 6, Haad Rin, KohPhangan, Suratthani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 224 

Fax : (077) 375 227 

Website : www.phanganbayshore.com 

e-mail : - 

• Best Western Phanganburi Resort & Spa 

120/1 Moo 6, Haad Rin Nai, Ko Pha-ngan,Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 481-9 

Fax : (077) 375 482 

Website : www.bestwesternphanganburi.com 

e-mail : - 

• Phangan Orchid Resort 

148 Moo 6, Haad Rin Nok, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 156 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Phangan Villa 

223 Moo 1, Ao Bang Charu, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 377 083 

Fax : (077) 377 408 

Website : www.phanganvilla.net 

e-mail : phanganvilla@gmail.com 

• Phuvadee Resort 

22/6 Moo 5, Ao Thongsala, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 445 132 

Fax : (077) 445 131 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Pingjun Resort 

10 Moo 5, Thong Nai Pan Yai, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 299 004 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Pooltrup Village 

111/1 Moo 6, Haad Rin, Ko Pha-ngan,Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 104 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

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• Rainbow Bungalow 

Moo 6, Haad Rin Nai, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 293 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Anantara Rasananda Ko Pha-ngang Villa Resort & Spa 


Tel : (077) 239 559 

Fax : (077) 239 559 

Website : www.phangan-rasananda.anantara.com 

e-mail : - 

• Rin Bay View 

110/4 Moo 6 Haad Rin, Ko Pha-ngan,Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 188 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Rin Beach Resort 

94/2 Moo 6, Haad Rin Nai, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 112 

Fax : (077) 375 112 

Website : www.rinbeachresort.com 

e-mail : info@rinbeachresort.com 

• S.P. Resort 


Tel : (077) 238 442 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Saithong Resort 

Ao Chaloklum, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 374 115 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Salad Beach Resort 

64 Moo 4 Haad Salad, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 349 149 

Fax : (077) 238 242 

Website : www.saladbeachphangan.com 

e-mail : info@pgangan-saladbeachresort 

• Salad Buri Resort & Spa 

60/2 Moo 8, Haad Salad, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 349 187 

Fax : - 

Website : www.saladburi.com 

e-mail : - 

• Sandee Bungalow 

7/6 Moo 5 Ao Thong Nai Pan Noi, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 445 089 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Sandy Bungalow 

70 Moo 6, Haad Rin Nai, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 138 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Santhiya Resort & Spa 


Tel : (077) 238 333 

Fax : (077) 428 999 

Website : www.santhiya.com 

e-mail : reservation@santhiya.com 

• Sarikantang 

129/3 Moo ,6 Haad Srikantang, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 055-7 

Fax : - 

Website : sarikantang@yahoo.com 

e-mail : www.sarikantang.com 

• Sea Breeze Resort 

94/11 Moo 6 Haad Rin, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 362 

Fax : - 

Website : www.seabreezekohphangan.com 

e-mail : - 

• Sea Flower Bungalow 


Tel : (077) 349 090 

Fax : (077) 349 091 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Sea Scene 

56/2 Moo 4 Ao Plai Laem, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 377 516 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Sea View Haad Rin Resort 


Tel : (077) 375 160 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Sea side Bungalow 

Moo 8 Haad Rin, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 349 160-1 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• See Through Boutique Resort 


Tel : (077) 349 315 

Fax : (077) 349 316 

Website : www.seethroughresort-kohphangan.com 

e-mail : - 

• Srithanu Bungalow 


Tel : (077) 349 112 

Fax : (077) 349 112 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Serenity Hill Bungalow 


Tel : 08 9472 5687 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Silver Beach Bungalow 


Tel : (077) 349 171 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Siripun Bungalow 

152/1 Moo 1, AoNai Wok, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 377 140 

Fax : (077) 377 242 

Website : - 

e-mail : info@siripungalow.com 

• Star Hut 

7/3 Moo 3, Thong Nai Pan Noi, Ko Pha-ngan,Surat Thani 84280 

โทรศัพท์ : (077) 445 006 

Fax : (077) 445 006 

Website : - 

e-mail : star_hut@hotmail.com 

• Starlight Bungalow 


Tel : (077) 375 018 

Fax : (077) 445 027 

Website : - 

e-mail : starligth@kohphangan.com 

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• Sun Beach Bungalow 


Tel : (077) 375 192 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Sun Cliff Bungalow 


Tel : (077) 375 134 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Sun Sea Resort 


Tel : (077) 238 193 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Tantawan Bungalow 


Tel : (077) 349 108 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Thong Nai Beach Resort & Spa 

Moo 5, Ao Thong Nai Pan Noi, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 445 131-3 

Fax : (077) 445 130 

Website : www.thongnaipanbeachresortandspa.com 

e-mail : - 

• Thong Yang Bungalow 

32/1 Moo 4 Ao Baan Khai, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 238 192 

Fax : - 

Website : www.thongyangbungalow.com 

e-mail : hongyangbungalow@hotmail.com 

• Thongsala Guesthouse 

Moo 1 Ao Thong Sala, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 377 252 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Tommy Resort 

90/13 Moo 6 Haad Rin Nok, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 215-6 

Fax : (077) 375 253 

Website : www.phangantommyresort.co 

e-mail : tommyresort@hotmail.com 

• Triangle Lodge 

64/6 Moo 2, Ao Baan Khai, Ko Pha-ngan,Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 377 432 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Venus Resort 

145 Moo 6 Haad Rin Nok, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 375 011-2 

Fax : (077) 375 354 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• Wattana Resort 

69/2 Moo 7 Ao Chaloklum, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 374 022 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

• White Sand Bungalow 

2 Moo 5 Ao Thong Nai Pan Yai, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat Thani 84280 

Tel : (077) 445123 

Fax : - 

Website : - 

e-mail : - 

หาดสลัด 

Hat Salat 

หาดกรวด 

Hat Kruat 

หาดยาว 

Hat Yao 

หาดสน 

Hat Son 

หาดเจาเภา 

Hat Chao Phao 

อาวเหนียด 

Ao Niat 

เกาะมา 

Ko Ma 

หาดแมหาด 

Hat Mae Hat 

อาวหินกอง 

Ao Hin Kong 

อาววกตุม 

Ao Wok Tum 

เกาะแตใน 

Ko Tae Nai 

บานหาดยาว 

Ban Hat Yao 

อาวในวก 

Ao Nai Wok 

บานแมหาด 

Ban Mae Hat 

บานศรีธนู 

Ban Si Thanu 

วัดศรีธนู 

Wat Si Thanu 

บานทองศาลา 

Ban Thong 

Sala 

ทาเรือทองศาลา 

Thong Sala Pier 

อาวหินงาม 

Ao Hin Ngam 

อาวโฉลกหลำ 

Ao Chalok Lam 

วัดโฉลกหลำ 

Wat Chalok Lam 

วัดปาแสงธรรม 

Wat Pa Saengdham 

ศาลเจาแมกวนอิม 

Guanyin Shrine 

Contributors 

Advisors : Ko Samui Tourism Coordination Center 

Saipayom Somsuk 

Writer : Surajit Jamornman 

Translators Sirinthip Sitabutr 

Chamnong Pakaworawuth 

Yathanee Chengbumpenthan 

Montakarn Suvanatap 

Photographs : Photo Square and Graphic Co., Ltd. 

Tel : + 66(0) 2969 5879, 08 1483 2048 

Surajit Jamornman 

Chaiyot Sriwarunnont 

Vorawit Srithongkul 

Proofreader : Sasinand Jamornman 

Graphic Design : Ruangwit Pootharaporn 

อาวบางจะรุ 

Ao Bang Charu 

หาดขอม 

Hat Khom 

บานโฉลกหลำ 

Ban Chalok Lam 

บานมะเดื่อหวาน 

Ban Maduea Wan 

บานใต 

Ban Tai 

วัดเขาถ้ำ 

Wat Khao Tam 

อาวบานใต 

Ao Ban Tai 

เขาหรา 

Khao Ra 

วัดสมัยคงคา 

Wat Samai 

Khongkha 

วัดมะเดื่อหวาน 

บานวกตุม 

Wat Maduea Wan 

Ban Wok Tum 

วัดภูเขานอย 

น้ำตกแพง 

Phaeng Waterfall 

Wat Phu Khao Noi 

วัดอัมพวัน 

Wat Amphawan 

บานในสวน 

Ban Nai Suan 

วัดใน 

Wat Nai 

วัดโพธิ์ 

Wat Pho 

อาวบานคาย 

Ao Ban Khai 

หาดขวด 

Hat Khuat 

วัดนอก 

Wat Nok 

น้ำตกธารประเวศ 

Than Prawet 

Waterfull 

บานคาย 

Ban Khai 

บานทองนายปาน 

Ban Thong 

Nai Pan 

เกาะพะงัน 

Ko Pha-phan 

หาดริ้นใน 

Hat Rin Nai 

อาวทองนายปานนอย 

Ao Thong Nai Pan Noi 

อาวทองนายปานใหญ 

Ao Thong Nai Pan Yai 

น้ำตกธารเสด็จ 

Than Sadet 

Waterfall 

น้ำตกธารประพาส 

Than Praphat 

Waterfall 

บานหาดริ้น 

Ban Hat Rin 

หาดสีกันตัง 

Hat Si Kantang 

หาดธารเสด็จ 

Hat Than Sadet 

หาดเทียน 

Hat Thian 

หาดยวน 

Hat Yuan 

หาดคนที 

Hat Khonthi 

หาดริ้นนอก 

Hat Rin Nok 

Copyright : © 2012 by Ko Samui Tourism Coordination Center 

All rights reserved

Ko Samui Tourism Coordination Center 

370 Mu 3, Tambon Angthong, Ko Samui, 

Surat Thani, Thailand 84140 

Tel : 0 7742 0504, 0 7742 0720-2 

Fax : 0 7742 0721 

E-mail : tatsamui@tat.or.th 

Website : www.samuitourism.org

Ko Pha-ngan - TourismThailand.org

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