Most islands in Thailand are referred to with the prefix "koh", which basically identifies them as large rocks that emerge from the sea. Local people often drop this word when speaking informally, so Koh Phangan, for example, may simply be referred to as Phangan in general conversation. The same is true for other islands such as Samui and PiPi, while Phuket is no longer referred to as a "Koh" because it is connected to the mainland by a causeway.
Koh Phangan, or Phangan, has developed into a thriving holiday island in recent years and now offers a wide choice of options for visitors from around the globe. It has, however, managed to retain its island feel and some of the best beaches can still only be reached by boat. many local people continue to live simple lives, relying on the land and sea to provide food or generate an income for their families.
Thongsala is Phangan’s Thai capital with thriving markets selling fruit, vegetables and fresh fish. Enterprising Thais and Foreigners have created a lively social scene in Thongsala, even building a small cinema so you can catch all the latest releases and timeless classics on your holiday. A peaceful traditional Thai fishing village can be found at Chaloklum, the original safe harbour for fishing boats for hundreds of years. On the road back to Thongsala there's also a Chinese temple created by a Chinese woman who visited Phangan and built this beautiful place of worship. She can be found there reading fortune sticks.
With mountains and tropical forests making up over seventy percent of Koh Phangan, this beautiful island is a perfect getaway for those looking for somewhere off the beaten track. Only 12km from Samui, Phangan has developed at a much steadier pace than its sister is land, and although there's a small Tesco Lotus Supermarket and rumours of an airport in the near future, its national parks and sandy beaches have secured Phangan in the hearts of international travellers as a peaceful retreat.
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