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Contents:
- How to get there by plane?
- How to get there by low-cost airlines in Thailand?
- How to get there by bus?
- How to get there by ferry?
- How to get there with your own car from Phuket?
- How to get around Koh Phangan?
- Tips for visitors to Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan Island is one of the most famous Thai islands, located in Thong Nai Bay in the east of the Surat Thani Peninsula. This tropical paradise is famous for its white beaches, crystal clear waters and an exciting atmosphere that attracts people from all over the world.
The island has become world famous for its Full Moon Parties, which take place on Haad Rin Beach. Thousands of tourists gather here to enjoy music and dancing in the open air. Koh Phangan is famous for the variety of its beaches. From quiet and secluded coves to wild party beaches, there's something for everyone. The island has extensive natural beauty, with the hinterland offering scenic jungles, waterfalls and picturesque hills. This is a great place to enjoy nature.
How to get to Koh Phangan by plane?
There is no operating airport on the island of Koh Phangan, despite attempts to build one; currently the site remains abandoned. In the context of air transport infrastructure, the nearest airport is Samui Airport, which receives flights from Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya. Consequently, air travel is limited to domestic routes only, which limits the accessibility of the island due to the lack of international flights.
How to get to Koh Phangan by low-cost airlines in Thailand?
In order to optimize costs, you can take advantage of low-cost airlines flying from Bangkok to key centers in the southern provinces of Thailand, such as Surat Thani, Chumphon and Nakhon Si Thammarat. These regional carriers provide more affordable air travel options that can add significant savings to your travel budget.
All low-cost airlines, with the exception of Thai Smile, operate their flights through Bangkok's old Don Muang Airport. You can get to the airport from the center by metro, and then by bus or taxi. When transferring between Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports, a free shuttle service is provided. This option is the most convenient when moving between airports.
However, it is important to note that due to possible traffic jams in Bangkok, which are not uncommon, travel time between airports can take from one to two hours. It is important to take this into account when planning your route to avoid being late for your flight. It is recommended to take into account possible delays and plan your travel with plenty of time to ensure timely arrival at the airport.
How to get there by bus?
From Bangkok and other cities in Thailand, it is possible to get to Koh Phangan Island by bus. Typically, the bus route includes transit through the city of Surat Thani, but there are also direct buses heading to Donsak Pier, from where passengers can directly transfer to the ferry.
Having arrived at the bus station in Surat Thani, you can purchase a comprehensive transfer, including a bus to Donsak pier and a ferry to Koh Phangan, or you can take this route yourself, which is also not very difficult. However, it is preferable to immediately purchase a combined ticket to Koh Phangan. This ticket includes the cost of bus travel, transfer to the pier and the cost of the ferry. In this case, there is no need to deal with transport from the bus station and coordinate bus schedules with ferry departure schedules. These combined tickets are available for purchase at government bus stations in major cities in Thailand. It is not recommended to use guide services from private travel companies for this purpose.
How to get there by ferry?
The final stage of the route towards the island of Koh Phangan is a water crossing using boats or ferries. When purchasing a package transfer with a pre-determined destination on Koh Phangan, all aspects of transportation are organized by the operator. In case of independent travel to Koh Phangan, it is possible to use water transport from the Don Sak pier or several piers on Koh Samui, Koh Tao, as well as from the city of Chumphon.
The closest option is the pier on Koh Samui, followed by Donsak and Koh Tao, and the most distant is the pier in the city of Chumpon. The main arrival point to Koh Phangan is usually located at Thong Sala pier, from where most ferry services operate.
How to get to Koh Phangan with your own car from Phuket?
To travel from Phuket to Koh Phangan, you can consider the option of traveling with your own vehicle or renting a car in Phuket. It is recommended to book a car in advance, as there may not be a suitable car available at the right time[2].
To ensure trouble-free travel, it is recommended to rent a navigation device that will provide accurate direction to your destination. It should also be noted that there are signs along the road, which prevents the possibility of deviation from the route.
To travel to Koh Phangan, it is possible to use ferries that provide transportation in Surat Thani province from Thathong Pier or in Donsak from Seatran Pier. Please note that if the car is transported, additional payment will be required.
The ferry departure schedule covers the time period from 6 am to 7 pm, providing a frequency of departures every hour. This makes it convenient to choose the appropriate crossing time, which is especially important for route planning. Travelers have the option of choosing between two piers, depending on their location and preferences. Regular ferry departures provide flexibility in planning your arrival time on Koh Phangan.
How to get around Koh Phangan?
There is no public transport system on Koh Phangan. Several options are available to get around the island, including Songthaew shuttles, motorbike or bicycle rentals, and boat rentals to get between the island's beaches.
Share taxis, also known as Songthaews, are trucks specially equipped to transport passengers[1]. Unlike other regions of Thailand, in Koh Phangan they operate as taxis and do not follow fixed routes. However, they can pick up passengers heading in the same direction. If the offered price seems too high, it is recommended to carry out a trading procedure or look for an alternative taxi.
The ideal option for mobility on the island is to rent a motorcycle. This does not require a driver's license, although according to traffic regulations it is desirable to have one. In Thailand, it is theoretically possible to use a Russian driver's license, but difficulties may arise due to the lack of category "A" (the right to drive motorcycles).
Tips for visitors to Koh Phangan
For those planning to get to Koh Phangan, the following tips may be useful:
- Decide in advance the routes and places you would like to visit. This will help optimize your time and make your stay on the island comfortable.
- Consider the climate and weather conditions of the island. Bring light clothing, beach shoes, and comfortable shoes for exploring.
- Humid tropical climates can attract insects. It is useful to carry repellents for mosquitoes and other insects.
- It is important to ensure the quality of drinking water. When in doubt, bottled water is preferable.
- The island is famous for its local cuisine. Open yourself up to new tastes by trying local dishes in local cafes and restaurants.
- Follow safety precautions, especially when traveling on motorcycles or watercraft.
We hope these tips help you get to Koh Phangan and enjoy your stay on Koh Phangan to the fullest.
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References:
[1]. Vlasov D. A. Game modeling of strategies for providing a tourist product in various information conditions // Bulletin of the Russian Economic University named after GV Plekhanov. – 2022. – No. 4. – pp. 32-42..
[2]. Glushchenko Yu. N. et al. Ornithological observations in Thailand in 2006-2018 years //Russian ornithological journal. – 2018. – T. 27. – No. 1627. – pp. 2951-2979.
