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If you think the beautiful island of Koh Phangan, Thailand is only about moon parties, then think again. The best part about being a tropical paradise is being blessed with an abundance of natural wonders. One of the which are the splendor of waterfalls.
Visit during the wet season and discover crystal clear waters gushing from hills and mountain tops into cool pools, surrounded by lush greenery and polished rocks. You can’t miss trekking into the jungles to see this.
If you’d love to commune with nature during your stay, here’s a list of all the waterfalls to check out while you’re in Koh Phangan.
1. Than Sadet Waterfall
Located west from Haad Thaan Sadet beach, this waterfall has quite the fan base. It’s famous not only for its refreshing waters, which are used in certain Royal Ceremonies, but more importantly for an inscription that was left on a rock by King Rama V in 1988. It’s said that King Bhumibol has also paid this waterfall a visit.
If you want to see the inscription, you may want to walk further down its length. But be sure to give yourself ample time to enjoy this wonder, as it’s about 3km long and has several amazing pools perfect for a quick dip on a hot day.
2. Sramanora Waterfall
If you’re familiar with Koh Phangan’s legendary party scene, then you’ve probably heard of this natural beauty thanks to the renowned ‘Waterfall Party’. This place is easily accessible by walking north from Baan Tai on the small road opposite Yam’s Kitchen.
While most people have swam here during moonlit nights, don’t discount seeing its magnificence by daylight as well. Upon entering, you’ll immediately see a big pool to your right, encircled by huge rocks that seem to be balancing itself.
But you’ll want to try the smaller, more secluded pool by crossing the river and climbing uphill. It features verdant greenery as your shade, so you can relax better for as long as you want.
3. Phaeng Waterfall
Part of the Thansadej National Park, it technically is made up of two parts: the Phaeng Noi Waterfall (small waterfall), which you can easily come across a couple of metres from the entrance; and Phaeng Yai Waterfall (big waterfall), which you can reach via a 250-meter trek and a rather steep climb.
Walk further up to about 200 meters to Dom Sila viewpoint and be rewarded with amazing views of the island. Keep going up and you’ll reach the peak of Khao Ra, Koh Phangan’s highest mountain peak. It’s definitely a nature trip you won’t want to miss out.
4. Paradise Waterfall
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Located at Chaloklum village, this waterfall redefines fun in the jungle. After entering a restaurant, you’ll find a pool with ropes hanging from tree branches. Feel free to ‘monkey around’ and swing on them to launch yourself in the air! Just be careful on your landing though.
Once you’re done, you can trek for 40 minutes in the jungle until you get to the main waterfall. Visit during January and February for an impressive cascade that will blow you away. Don’t forget to cool off in the swimming pool before you leave.
5. Wang Sai Waterfall
Should you and your friends find yourselves at Mae Head beach, simply follow the sign posts at the southern area and you’ll soon stumble upon this incredible spectacle.
Unlike other waterfalls, water here runs through numerous boulders of differing heights. This creates a unique number of basins – with some looking like they’re blue in color, thanks to the limestone sedimentation present in the area.
6. Than Prawet Waterfall
Also known as Than Prawes waterfall, this gem can be accessed by going from Thong Nai Pan Noi beach. It’s quite an adventure to get here, so it’s mainly a favorite among backpackers and nature lovers. The best part is that there aren’t as many visitors. So it should feel like you have the entire place to yourself.
Koh Phangan definitely has more to offer, especially for those curious enough. Even if you’re not big into nature, you’ll find that these waterfalls are always a welcome sight for sore eyes.
So don’t just visit for the raving parties and the great food – check out the island’s many natural wonders, too. And you’ll realize why people keep coming back.