Koh Phangan Thailand : Information

Koh Phangan has always been a beautiful and spiritual place for the Thai people, it has been visited by no less than four Kings of Thailand; with the Great Rama V coming over 10 times, leaving his royal seal engraved on a rock at Thaan Sadet Waterfall; and the current King Bhumibol following in his footsteps. The island was uninhabited until about 600 years ago when passing monks realised its tranquillity and spiritual importance and settled in Wat Phu Khao Noi just outside Thongsala. It is Thailand’s fifth biggest island and has an area of 167km2, thus over 90% of Phangan is unspoilt tropical forest; and due to its granite structure, there are several small mountains where it’s possible to trek and even camp.

There is an abundance of wildlife from monkeys to birds of paradise and then there is the amazing underwater world that surrounds Koh Phangan; with over 10kms of vibrant coral and 20 local dive sites. And if you have any energy after that, there is the nightlife that the island became internationally famous for, with the globally renowned Full Moon Party and weekly outdoor events in jungle and beachfront venues; not forgetting the daily session that goes off in Haad Rin.

Koh Phangan has been officially designated as a zone for eco-tourism, so if you are planning to visit make sure that you join in. There are plenty of activities such as doing a local trek up the highest mountain or beach hopping along the east coast - check out the trekking section.

For those that need a bit more speed pick up a mountain bike for around 100 Baht per day. See for more information on recommended routes.

Koh Phangan also has a rescue service kindly run by a group of volunteers to help in any kind of medical emergency. The staff are trained at the Narenthorn EMS Center to be skilled in dealing with common life threatening events, such as motorbike accidents. In the unfortunate circumstance that there is a fatality the Rescue service will help by providing support and guidance, contact friends and family, while also dealing with the police and hospital. The service is free and open 24 hours a day, entirely run on donation any kind of offering is wholeheartedly appreciated.

Koh Phangan is a very safe place where most troubles are self inflicted; with drink driving and drug arrests the biggest problem makers. Motorbike accidents are fairly common; the unsightly scar has become known as a “Koh Phangan Tattoo” so you should always wear a helmet and shoes; most of the roads here are concrete now so they are crucial, jeans and a jacket are advisable. If you are an inexperienced rider, be careful on sandy corners and do not attempt the hills of Haad Rin or Thong Nai Pan. Taxis and rental jeeps are cheap, especially if you hire one in a group!

Our advice is don’t be tempted by drugs; this island has had a bad reputation for a long time and the open taking of drugs is not tolerated. Thailand has also had a crackdown and the police are very hot on stopping the problem. The days are gone when you could buy your way out for a few dollars and the penalties in Thailand are harsh to say the least - expect a hefty fine and possibly an extended jail term if caught.

Theft is uncommon, but if it does happen go to the police station and get a report for your insurance. Always leave your valuables in the resort safe (especially at FMP) and do not give opportunists the chance, as most theft is through an open bungalow window or from the front basket on the motorbike.

Trekking and rock climbing without a guide or proper equipment is not recommended, the island is a big place and gets dark early. Guides can be contacted at the Phaeng Waterfall National Park.