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About Koh Phangan
 Koh Phangan is an island paradise in the Gulf of Thailand located about 100 km from the coast of
Southern Thailand's Suratthani Province and about 15 km from the famous resort island of Koh Samui.
Koh Phangan is the largest of Samui's neighbouring islands with an area of 168 square km. Over 70% of its total
area is mountains and tropical forest. The lowlands are beaches and coconut fields.
About 11150 people live on Koh Phangan. Some are Chinese, whose ancestors migrated from China more than hundred
years ago and the main population lives in Thongsala Town.
Standard Thai is used as the official language but the southern dialect is more widely spoken among the local people.
English is understood in business circles and tourist areas.
More than 95% of the population are Buddhist but there are few Muslims in Ban Kai village.
Koh Phangan is a district (Amphoe) of Suratthani Province into 3 subdistricts (Tumbon)
Koh Phangan, Bantai, Koh Tao.
The most important product of Koh Phangan is coconut. Each month Koh Phangan and Koh Samui
produces more than 1 million coconuts exported to Bangkok. Other are fishing and tourism business.
About Thong Nai Pan
 Thong Nai Pan Noi and Thong Nai Pan Yai are twin coves that form a scenic double bay and are the most
popular beaches in the east and sunrise side of the island. Both beaches are the image of paradise with softly curved
white sand bays surrounded by mountains covered in rich tropical rain forest. The surrounding mountains make
these beaches fairly inaccessible with a steep and rutted dirt road the only overland option. However, road
works have commenced to make it a dual lane concrete road. An alternative way to get there is by boat from Had
Rin or Chaloklum.
It is possible to swim at both beaches all year round. There are also some decent waves for body surfing.
Both beaches have a bohemian vibe and small villages with cool bars and restaurants. Early risers are treated
with breath-taking sunrises.
Thong Nai Pan Yai is the longer of the two beaches and therefore has a larger selection of accommodation.
There are numerous walking trails and waterfalls to visit, and Thong Nai Pan Yai also has a decent set of rocks
for experienced climbers. This side of the island is still pretty wild, and the surrounding jungle is haven for
many exotic tropical creatures.
(Thanks to Priscilla for translating)
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