The main port town of Koh Phangan is called Thongsala. It is regarded by most visitors to the island as just a transit point or a place to change money at the best rates. Unlike Koh Samui, Koh Phangan is an island without an airport so most people are forced to at least pass through Thongsala when they arrive and depart. For those catching the night boat or an early ferry they sometimes find themselves stuck in Thongsala for the night. It shouldn’t be considered a bad thing. Here are a few ways in which the reader can make the most of his or her time in Thongsala.
Thongsala has the best range of shops on the island. Items sold in Thongsala are often 10% cheaper than the same items sold on the beaches of Koh Phangan. It is thus a good idea to stock up on suntan lotion, mosquito repellent and other essential sundries. There are several good shops to buy clothes, shoes and souvenirs. These shops will often give a small discount if asked politely.
Thongsala has a very relaxed atmosphere. Unlike Haad Rin it is not full of hustle and bustle. Often the streets are virtually empty. It makes a pleasant distraction to walk around the town checking out the food markets and the small China town on ‘walking street’. There are a couple of hole in the wall places where you can get a plate of authentic Thai food for just over a dollar. There are also a couple of good sea food restaurants to try.
In the evening there is the popular night market off the main road that sells lots of interesting Thai delicacies and is a great place to sit for a while and muse over a cold beer. In the back lanes there are a few good bars to check out. These include Bangers and Mash that has live music every Monday and Thursday Night. Jumanji has a small cinema that shows new films most nights of the week. Just outside of Thongsala is the strange sight of a mock Tudor pub. The Mason’s Arms has English pub food and a great range of beers on tap.
For those looking for a bit of culture, near Thongsala is the island’s first temple, Wat Phu Khao Noi. It was built 600 years ago when the first monks arrived on the island. It is on a hill and has a great view of the surrounding area.
Finally, there is plenty of accommodation in Thongsala. Just outside of the town is A’s Beach Place with beachfront bungalows and also Sea View Resort which includes a large swimming pool. For those on a tight budget there are some cheap hotels. Buakao Inn above A’s Coffee Shop has rooms from $20 a night.
Having to stay in Thongsala doesn’t have to be a drag. It can in fact be a pleasurable experience and a chance to do some shopping and find out more about the culture and history of Koh Phangan.