Pengan Island, Thailand (Koh Phangan, Thailand)
Pengan Island is a famous tourist destination in Thailand, well known for its Full Moon Party, but it also boasts beautiful nature, quiet beaches, and rich cultural heritage. In this article, I will introduce the history of Pengan Island, major tourist attractions, and foods to taste in detail.
History
For centuries, Pengan was an island that was mostly inhabited by Thai fishermen and coconut farmers. By the 1980s, the island's beauty and unique atmosphere began to become known to foreign tourists, gradually building its reputation as a tourist destination. Specifically, the Pulmun Party, which began in 1985, has turned Pengan into a world-famous party island, attracting thousands of visitors every month.
a major tourist attraction
Bottle Beach
Description: Bottle Beach is an isolated beach located in the northern part of the island, featuring clear blue waters and white sandy beaches. With limited access, there are fewer tourists, so you can have a quiet and peaceful time.
Recommended Activities: Enjoy swimming and sunbathing at the beach, and take snorkeling gear to appreciate beautiful coral reefs and marine life.
Than Sadet-Ko Pha-ngan National Park
Description: The national park is famous for its lush rainforests and several waterfalls. You can enjoy nature while taking a walk along the hiking trail.
Recommended Activities: Than Sadet Waterfall is a famous waterfall with royal visit records, and you can enjoy beautiful scenery. Also, you can observe various plants and animals in the park.
Full Moon Party
Description: Held on Hardline Beach on a monthly full moon day, the Pulmun Party is Pengan Island's most popular event. It is full of music, dance, fire, and more, and attracts travelers from all over the world.
Recommended Activities: To participate in a party, it is recommended to plan ahead and book an accommodation. Various music genres are played, so you can enjoy a party that suits your taste.
Ang Thong Marine National Park
Description: A boat ride from Pengan Island, Angtong Marine National Park consists of 42 small islands. Boasting clear water and an amazing marine ecosystem, it is an ideal place to enjoy diving and snorkeling.
Recommended Activities: Explore the beauty of the ocean through kayaking and snorkeling, and visit uninhabited islands. Also, climb the observatory at Wua Talap Island and enjoy a spectacular panoramic view.
What Pho Khao Noi
Description: The oldest temple on the island of Pengan, where you can meditate and take a spiritual break in a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.
Recommended Activities: Look around the temple and learn about Buddhist traditions and culture. You can feel a calmer atmosphere, especially when you visit at dawn.
food worth tasting
You can taste various Thai dishes at Pengan Island. You can enjoy delicious dishes at local restaurants and beach restaurants, as well as local street food.
Pad Thai
Description: Thailand's signature stir-fried noodle dish, made with shrimp, chicken, tofu, etc. and served with peanuts, lime, and red pepper flakes.
Recommended Places: Open-air restaurants near Tong Sala Beach.
Som Tam (Som Tam)
Description: This is a spicy green papaya salad that features a refreshing taste with fresh papaya, red pepper, garlic, lime juice, and more.
Recommended places: a local market or beachfront restaurant.
Massaman Curry
Description: Curry originating from southern Thailand, it is characterized by a soft and rich taste made with potatoes, peanuts, coconut milk, meat, etc.
Where to go: Fisherman's Restaurant and Bar, a famous restaurant.
Khao Pad
Description: Thai fried rice, a simple yet delicious dish fried with various vegetables, meat, and seafood.
Recommended places: Open-air restaurants and restaurants across the island.
Mango Sticky Rice
Description: Sticky rice with sweet mango and coconut milk, a classic Thai dessert.
Recommended places: a local market or beachside cafe.
Pengan Island is not just a party island, but a place where you can experience rich nature, diverse cultures, and delicious food. Enjoying nature at Bottle Beach and Fangan National Park, having fun at full moon parties, and enjoying local food will provide unforgettable memories.