There are varieties of activities in Koh Phangan, and you don't have to be neither experienced nor wealthy to take a part in the most exciting ones. An unspoiled tropical forest covers Koh Phangan, and experienced trekkers can walk through significantly challenging trails over there - e.g. up to the tallest mountain Khao Ra. On the other hand, there are some easy and fun treks, which can also be savored by the more lazy adventurer wannabes like myself. These include one of the most amazing treks in Phaeng Waterfall National Park, recommended for anyone who appreciates a real genuine beauty; the two hours Bottle beach trek; and the popular trek from Haad Rin.
| Archery |
Archery can be attempted at the "First Bow and Arrow Archery" close to Chaloklum on the road to Thongsala. Four archers can have a go at the same time, people are very friendly (German spoken during high season) and helpful. |
| Hiking |
Hiking can be done all around the island. There is a trail that leads between Haad Rin and Haad Tien, which many enjoy however the route can become difficult to discern, and bringing enough water is necessary. |
| Muay Thai |
Muay Thai gyms such as "Jungle Gym" in Haad Rin and Thong Sala Muay Thai offering training and work out facilities, as well as camps such as "Horizon" located in Haad Tien (east) which is an intensive training camp. There are also frequent matches in Thong Sala and Haad Rin for spectators who don't want to learn the sport.
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| Yoga, Wellness & Spa Treatments |
Koh Phangan has developed into a true paradise for Yoga lovers and now offers a large variety of different yoga retreats and schools, where one can learn the ancient art of Yoga. Although surprisingly little is known of the early history of yoga, evidence of Yoga tradition is found as early as 5,000 years ago around the beginnings of human civilization. Contrary to popular western belief, Yoga is not simply a series of stretches but an entire way of life. And as a way of life it has certainly withstood the test of time. The term yoga is derived from its Sanskrit form 'yuj' which means 'yoke' or 'to join' thus bringing into harmony body, mind and spirit. Most forms of yoga in the western world are variations of Hatha Yoga, which emphasizes methods of doing yoga postures (asanas) and energetic breathing (pranayama) for physhical health and well being.
Recommendations
Jungle Gym, Haadrin Beach, Tel: +6677375115
Tantra Yoga, Ao Hing Kong, Tel: +6692330217
Monte Vista Retreat Center, Tel: +6617477329
Siam Healing Centre, Haadrin Beach, Tel: +77375450
Agama Yoga, which is located in the northwest of the island, and has month long intensive courses.
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| Kiteboarding |
Kiteboarding in Koh Phangan is an extremely fun sport and incredibly easy to learn. There are several kiteboarding schools on Koh Phangan, all offering training or just rental of the equipment. There is no thrill as great as being towed with full speed behind a kite over the azure water. Great fun.
Recommended Operators
Cuttlebone Kiteboarding School, Thongsala, +661940-1902
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| Scuba Diving |
Koh Phangan offers excellent scuba diving with several dive sites of very high quality, including Koh Ma, Sail Rock, Koh Tao and Angthong National Marine Park. There are several PADI accredited dive centers on the island and all offer exciting dive trips, certification courses and even professional level courses - and much cheaper than if you were to take said courses in your home country. Needless to say, taking part in a PADI sanctioned course will ensure that the quality is high and safety guaranteed.
Recommended Operators
Lotus Dive Resort, Chaloklum Bay, Tel: + 667737412
Phangan Divers, Haadrin Beach, Tel: +6677375117
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| Snorkeling |
Good Snorkeling spots are found throughout the island. Especially Koh Ma and Haad Khom beach are excellent spot and a great window to the underwater world of The Gulf of Thailand.
Snorkeling gear can be rented cheaply at most resorts and beaches or even purchased at some of the local dive shops.
Please ensure that you never feed any marine life nor step or touch the coral, which is very fragile. If you can, try also to purchase an underwater camera (disposables are great fun) to get some lasting memories.
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| Thai Cooking School |
If you been to Thailand before then one of things you missed upon returning home was surely the excellent cuisine. Koh Phangan now offers several places where you can learn to cook Thai food, just like the Thais themselves.
Same Same Thai Cooking School is one of the only that is actually accredited by The Ministry of Education of Thailand and highly recommended. It is located in Haad Rin.
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| Trip Around The Island |
One day in Paradise, see everything interesting in one day trip Safari Boat. Daily Tour. Visit Chinese Temple, Elephant Camp, Bottle Beach, Thong Nai Pan, Thansadet Waterfalls, try to catch a fish, wonderful snorkeling.. have a fun with your friends.
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