Home to the famous Full Moon Party, the island of Koh Phangan is one of Thailand’s top backpacker destinations and is situated just 15 kilometers (9 miles) north of the larger island of Koh Samui. This idyllic location, near the western shore of the Gulf of Thailand, graces Koh Phangan with beautiful beaches and, more recently, the facilities and attractions for family visitors too. A popular place to spend a few days of sun and sand away from Bangkok, you can get to Koh Phangan by air, road, train and ferry.
| Transport | Departure Times | Duration | Price (THB) |
| Bus+Ferry | 06:00, 18:50, 19:00, 21:00 | 10h 10m – 15h 40m | 1,200 – 1,650 |
| Bus+Van | 19:00 | 18h | 1,500 |
| Bus+Van+Ferry | 19:00 | 15h 30m | 1,200 |
Read about:
• Flying from Bangkok to Koh Phangan
• Taking a Bus and Ferry from Bangkok to Koh Phangan
• Train, Bus and Ferry from Bangkok to Koh Phangan
• Ferry Schedules and Departure Points
• Getting to Your Accommodation and Exploring Koh Phangan
Flying from Bangkok to Koh Phangan
The quickest way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Phangan is by air. However, there is no airport on Koh Phangan itself, so you will actually be flying to Koh Samui and then taking a ferry across to Koh Phangan. Despite this, the total journey time is still significantly faster than any other form of transport from Bangkok. Bangkok Airways is the only airline available to Koh Samui but they have frequent flights, departing almost hourly from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Once you’ve landed in Koh Samui, the Big Buddha Pier is close by for catching a ferry to Koh Phangan. The fast ferries take about 30 minutes and usually the last one departs at 6:30pm, except during the Full Moon Party when they run all night.
Taking a Bus and Ferry from Bangkok to Koh Phangan
To save money, take the bus and ferry with Lomprayah or Seatran. You can buy a combined ticket covering your entire journey from Bangkok to Koh Phangan. The buses and ferries are comfortable, well-maintained, and clean.
The total journey time is between 10 and 14 hours. The bus takes you right to the ferry terminal, ensuring a smooth connection to the ferry operated by the same company.
Train, Bus and Ferry from Bangkok to Koh Phangan
Another cheaper option is traveling by train, bus, and ferry. In addition to the train, you will need to take a bus from the railway station to the ferry pier, and then a ferry across to Koh Phangan. Take the night train from Bangkok to Surat Thani to save time and the cost of a hotel. Sleeper tickets in first and second class provide beds to lie on.
Trains arrive at Surat Thani railway station. With a combined train, bus and ferry ticket, you’ll be driven by bus to the ferry port about an hour away. Then take the final ferry leg to Koh Phangan.
Other Ways to Travel from Bangkok to Koh Phangan
Visit Khao San Road and book your tickets at least a couple of days in advance because buses, trains and ferries do become full, and, if you’re visiting Koh Phangan around the Full Moon Party you should book even further in advance and be prepared for travel delays because of the sheer volume of people traveling between Bangkok and Koh Phangan.
Ferry Schedules and Departure Points
| Bus Surat Thani - Koh Phangan ฿ 560–700 2h 45m – 5h 30m | |
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| Taxi Surat Thani - Koh Phangan ฿ 4,254–7,700 4h – 5h | |
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| Ferry Surat Thani - Koh Phangan ฿ 430–850 2h 50m – 9h | |
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| Van Surat Thani - Koh Phangan ฿ 950 3h 50m | |
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During the Full Moon Party, ferries run all night from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan. The last regular ferry usually departs at 6:30pm. Ferries arrive at the Thong Sala Pier on the west side of Koh Phangan.
The Full Moon Party dates for 2024 are:
- April 23
- May 23
- June 21
- July 22
- August 19
- September 17
- October 18
- November 15
- December 15
- December 31 (New Year’s Eve)
Book your tickets well in advance, especially around the Full Moon Party dates, as ferries can get fully booked.
Getting to Your Accommodation and Exploring Koh Phangan
Once you arrive at the Thong Sala Pier ferry terminal, you have several options to reach your accommodation:
- Songthaews (shared taxis): These converted pickup trucks are the main form of public transport. Prices vary and can be negotiated, with shared rides being cheaper. Prices are usually higher at night.
- Motorbike rental: A popular choice for exploring the island. Practice on a quiet road before setting out and always wear a helmet. Book through reputable companies to avoid overcharging for minor scratches.
- Car rental: Available but can be expensive. You’ll need a valid driver’s license and an international driver’s permit.
- Boat tours: Offer a scenic way to explore the island’s bays and nearby islands, with stops along Koh Phangan’s shore.
While exploring Koh Phangan, be sure to check out these main landmarks:
- Thong Sala: The island’s administrative center and a top spot for shopping and dining, with a variety of restaurants and an English pub.
- Kuan Yin Temple: A picturesque Chinese temple featuring an impressive Great Treasure Hall and a 1,000-hand Guanyin statue.
- Yang Na Yai Tree: A towering, 400-year-old tree in Ban Nok village, adorned with small shrines and colorful ribbons.
- Wat Pho: A scenic temple known for its free herbal sauna and affordable massages.
- Haad Rin Beach: The iconic location of the monthly Full Moon Party, famous for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful sandy shores.
You can easily book your entire journey, including transfers, through reputable websites like 12Go and compare different transportation options. Direct links within the article make it convenient to reserve tickets for your preferred travel choice.
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