Koh Pha Ngan offers a wide selection of budget accommodations, ideal for backpackers. One of the most recommended places is See Sea Backpackers. Located in Ban Tai, this cozy hostel impresses guests with its friendly atmosphere and proximity to the beach. Guests praise the cleanliness, peaceful atmosphere and helpful staff. This is an ideal place for those looking for more than just a party hostel. Prices are affordable and the location is perfect for exploring the island.

Another great option is The Wanderlust Hostel. This place is known for its fantastic atmosphere and amenities such as a pool with volleyball net and a small gym. The hostel offers good value for money and is ideal for both those looking for peace and quiet and those looking to party. Guests especially praise the friendly staff and the opportunity to meet other travelers.

For those looking for something special, The Nomad House is a hit. This hostel stands out for its welcoming atmosphere and regularly held communal meals, which helps integrate guests. The owner, Shine, often cooks for everyone, creating a truly homey atmosphere. This is an ideal place for solo travelers who want to make new friends quickly.

After settling in, it's time to explore the beaches of Koh Pha Ngan. Haad Yao is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. It is characterized by crystal clear waters and a sandy shore. It is a great place to relax, swim and snorkel. On the beach you will find many bars and restaurants, as well as massage studios offering traditional Thai massage at affordable prices. The only downside may be the difficulty of getting into deeper water, but this is a small problem compared to the overall charm of the place.

For those looking for more secluded beaches, Bottle Beach is worth a visit. Getting there takes some effort - you can use a boat or trek through the jungle. Headtrail for Bottle Beach is a popular trekking route that leads to this hidden gem. The trail is well marked and offers beautiful views along the way. The route is moderately difficult and takes about 1.5-2 hours one way. This is a great option for those who want to combine physical activity with beachcombing.

Koh Pha Ngan is a paradise for trekkers and lovers of beautiful views. One of the most popular trails is the route to the summit of Khao Ra, the highest point on the island. The hike to Khao Ra is a challenge, but the views from the top are worth it. The trail is about 3.5 kilometers long and takes about 1-2 hours one way, depending on your fitness. At the top, a panoramic view of Chaloklum Bay and the surrounding islands awaits you. Remember to bring enough water and appropriate trekking shoes.

For those looking for a shorter but equally spectacular route, we recommend Bottle Beach Viewpoint. This spot offers a breathtaking view of one of the island's most beautiful beaches. The route is relatively short, taking about 15-20 minutes, but is quite steep. At the end, you will be rewarded with an amazing view of turquoise waters and a white beach surrounded by lush jungle.

Another must-see for trekkers is Haad Khom Viewpoint. This short but intense trail leads to a viewpoint with panoramic views of the island's north coast. The hike takes about 10-15 minutes, but requires some physical fitness due to the steep ascent. At the summit, not only a magnificent view awaits you, but also peace and tranquility - the perfect place for contemplation and taking souvenir photos.

For those who want to combine trekking with swimming in waterfalls, the ideal place is Namtok Than Sadet National Park. The park offers a network of trails leading to scenic waterfalls. The most famous is the Than Sadet waterfall, which was a favorite of King Rama V. The trails in the park vary in difficulty, so there is something for everyone. Remember to bring your bathing suit - swimming in the natural pools below the waterfall is an unforgettable experience!

Last but not least on the trekking map of Koh Pha Ngan is Phaeng Noi Waterfall. This place is part of a larger complex of waterfalls in the national park. The route to the waterfall is relatively easy and short, making it an ideal option for families with children or those who don't feel up to longer hikes. The waterfall is particularly impressive during the rainy season, but even in the drier months the surrounding jungle and rock formations are impressive.

Remember that you should always be properly prepared when trekking on Koh Pha Ngan. Take with you enough water, mosquito repellent, sunscreen and comfortable shoes. It's also a good idea to bring energy snacks and a camera to capture the beautiful views. Most routes are well-marked, but it's always a good idea to bring a map or an offline map app such as Maps.me, which works well on the island.

Traveling around Koh Pha Ngan as a backpacker can be extremely rewarding, but it also requires some preparation. Here are some practical tips to help you save money and fully enjoy your stay on the island.

Transportation on the island: the best way to get around Koh Pha Ngan is to rent a scooter. This is not only the cheapest option, but also gives you the most freedom to explore the island. However, remember to always drive carefully - roads on the island can be steep and winding. If you don't feel confident on a scooter, you can use songthaew - local cabs that run along the island's main routes.

Food: To save money on meals, eat where the locals eat. Night markets and small local eateries offer delicious and inexpensive meals. We especially recommend trying pad thai or som tam (papaya salad) at one of the roadside stands. Also keep in mind that many hostels, such as The Nomad House, offer communal dinners, which is a great way to integrate and save money.

Water: Don't drink tap water. Always buy bottled water or, better yet, invest in a filtered bottle to reduce plastic waste.

Events: Koh Pha Ngan is famous for its Full Moon Party, but be aware that during these events, accommodation prices increase dramatically. If you want to save money, plan your stay outside the dates of the biggest parties or stay in a less party-oriented part of the island.

Safety: Koh Pha Ngan is generally a safe island, but always use common sense. Don't leave valuables unattended on the beach and be careful with your belongings during parties.

Internet: Wi-Fi is available in most hostels and cafes, but if you plan to travel around the island a lot, consider buying a local SIM card with a data package.

Respect the local culture: Remember that Thailand is a country with a rich culture and traditions. Always show respect for local customs, especially when visiting temples or other places of worship.

Environmental protection: Koh Pha Ngan is a beautiful, natural island. Do everything in your power to preserve it as such. Use coral reef-friendly sunscreen, don't litter, and try to minimize your impact on the environment.

Season: Remember that Koh Pha Ngan has its rainy season (October to December). During this time, some attractions, like waterfalls, are most impressive, but be prepared for frequent rainfall.

Koh Pha Ngan is an island that has a lot to offer backpackers. From cheap hostels to beautiful beaches to scenic trekking trails, there is something for everyone. Remember to enjoy every moment, meet new people and respect the local environment. With the right attitude and these tips, your adventure on Koh Pha Ngan is sure to be unforgettable!