How To Reach Ko Pha-Ngan

Ko Pha Ngan, one of the least known places of Thailand’s tourist circuit, is right on point when it comes to some very coveted activities - like open sea diving and Full Moon parties. It is located in the Surat Thani Province in the Gulf of Thailand, not too far from Koh Samui. And Ko Pha Ngan is also very well connected to Bangkok, making it easy for you to reach this paradise.

From India, the best bet to reach Ko Pha Ngan is by taking a flight from Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore or Delhi to Bangkok and then flying off to the Chumphon International airport and Koh Samui International airport, both nearby to this island. Buses as well as ferries and catamarans leave both these ports to go to Koh Pha Ngan on a daily frequent basis. You can also hire a private boat if you so wish.

Two of Ko Pha Ngan’s most prominent piers are Haad Rin and Thong Sala, both receiving ferries, boats and catamarans from Koh Samui. It takes around 20 minutes to an hour to reach one of these piers from Ko Samui and multiple ferries depart at different times through the day, with prices varying for different ranges of boats from THB 250- THB 465. If you wish to take a ferry from Surat Thani, then be prepared for a longer, 3 and a half hour journey.

You can reach Ko Pha Ngan directly by road from Bangkok as well as Surat Thani and Ko Samui. No direct trains connect to Ko Pha Ngan but you can reach the nearest station at Surat Thani from Bangkok on an overnight train. From there onwards, your options are bus or ferry.

In Ko Pha Ngan, the best way to get around is by setting out on foot, especially if you are going beach-hopping. For forest walks, make sure you hire a guide to help you through the terrain and the dangers of wild creatures. For other town exploration, motorbikes, bicycles and scooters are readily available for rent and most tourists prefer these over rented cabs or taxis. In case you need one, taxi stands are found at important area junctures and piers like Haad Rin and Thongsala.