A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koyasan vs. Koh Pha Ngan for Backpackers, Attractions, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Koyasan and Koh Pha Ngan. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Koyasan

Koyasan is a peaceful, serene, and spiritual town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Koyasan is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums. See Koyasan travel costs.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a beautiful, backpacker-friendly, and tropical party island. The beauty of Koh Pha Ngan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Koh Pha Ngan travel costs.

Koyasan and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan. Although Koyasan and Koh Pha Ngan are popular destinations, Koh Pha Ngan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Pha Ngan is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Koyasan attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, historical sights, and small town charm. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Koyasan and is known for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. It is also well known for the Full Moon Parties. Koyasan is famous for its temple complex, spiritual history, and being the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism in Japan.

How is Koyasan different from Koh Pha Ngan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Koh Pha Ngan and Koyasan. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan?

Koyasan is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to Koyasan specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. This spiritual destination is filled with temples. Some of the most notable are Okunoin Temple, Torodo Hall, Kongobuji Temple, Danjo Garan, and Daimon (the Great Gate).

While most people don't head to Koh Pha Ngan specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors come of the natural beauty, outdoor sports, and hardcore parties more than the sights and museums. Kuan Yin Temple is worth visiting, as is Wat Pho and Wat Phu Khao Noi.

Is the Food Better in Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Koyasan and Koh Pha Ngan both to be nice destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Koyasan. There are cafes in town that serve simple udon noodle dishes and other local options. If you do a temple stay, it will likely include a meal, which is usually vegetarian and prepared by Buddhist monks. A typical menu includes miso soup, soba, pickled vegetables, tofu, tempura vegetables, rice, tea, and melon. Breakfast is similar but smaller in size.

Koh Pha Ngan is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There is frequent turnover in the restaurant scene around town, but there are a few mainstay restaurants that offer consistent and reliable Thai or international cuisine. In general, the food is fresh and the typical Thai favorites are available most places. Also make sure you check out the Thong Sala Night Market, which offers unique snacks and local dishes.

Is Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. However, Koyasan is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

People head to Koh Pha Ngan just to party. The island's famous Full Moon Parties have landed it on many lists for top party destinations around the world. These parties are held every month on the night of the full moon, with the biggest crowds between November and March. The parties are traditionally held at the beach in Haad Rin. If you miss the Full Moon Party, you can check out the Half Moon Festival on Baan Ti. During other times, you'll find a variety of different parties that capitalize on the party reputation of the island, so whenever you visit, you can enjoy some level of festivities.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Koyasan This spiritual town is not a place for nightlife, but it is fascinating to take a night tour of the area.

Is Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Pha Ngan is a good destination for its resorts. However, Koyasan is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Koh Pha Ngan makes a nice vacation spot. Much of the island caters to the backpacker crowd, but there are some luxury resorts to choose from as well. Many resorts take advantage of the beautiful nature on the island or intentionally prioritize a serene environment where you can relax by the pool.

Koyasan is not a resort destination.

Is Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Pha Ngan is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Koyasan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Koh Pha Ngan. The island has its share of dive shops and a nice underwater setting where you can see coral and a variety of marine life. The island doesn't draw the huge diving crowds like some of the other islands, but that isn't always a bad thing.

Koyasan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Koyasan is not a beach destination.

Koh Pha Ngan offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters make this island a truly beautiful destination. While most people think of beach parties and Full Moon Parties, the island also has some quieter beaches where you can relax in a peaceful paradise. The parties are mostly concentrated around Sunrise Beach in Haad Rin. This beach also has cheap bungalows that are popular with the backpacker crowd. For the quieter beaches, head to the northern side of the island around Hat Khuat and Hat Thian.

Koyasan is not a beach destination.

Is Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan Better for its Old Town?

Koyasan is well known for its historic old town. However, Koh Pha Ngan does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Koyasan. The town center is filled with spiritual temples and many people prefer to do a temple stay for a night.

Koh Pha Ngan does not have a historic old town.

Is Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Koh Pha Ngan is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Pha Ngan. In its interior, the island has beautiful jungle and impressive hikes. Some of the best hikes are found in Than Sadet National Park, but come prepared because they can often be challenging. They usually end with a breathtaking viewpoint, secluded beach, or stunning waterfall though.

Koyasan is a good destination for hiking. Most people arrive by cable car, but this area has been a long running pilgrim destination and you'll find many historic pilgrimage trails that are still in the area. The Koyasan Choishi Michi trail is one of the most well known.

Is the Shopping Better in Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with a few options for its shopping opportunities. However, Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Pha Ngan has some nice offerings. Although shopping isn't particularly popular on the island, it does offer a unique opportunity to support individual shop owners as there are more independently owned vendors on this island than in many other areas. Head to the markets and you'll find the most independent shops to support.

Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan More Beautiful?

Koh Pha Ngan is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Koh Pha Ngan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The island is more than just Full Moon Parties. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as stunning beaches and eclectic yoga retreats.

Koyasan offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The town is quaint and filled with history and spirituality.

Is Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Koyasan is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Koyasan. It's filled with history, so its best to recognize your kid's limits when it comes to that sort of thing. If you're planning to do a temple stay, then consider how your child might handle the situation and make sure you reach out to let them know you have a child before reserving.

For families, Koh Pha Ngan is not always the best place to visit. Most people think of Full Moon Parties and backpacker crowds when they think of this island. There are actually some quieter areas on the eastern and northern sides of the island that are good for families. The activities are best suited for older kids and include hiking, windsurfing, yoga, and shopping.

Is Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Koyasan is well known for romance. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Koyasan frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. A temple stay in Koyasan is a truly unique experience that immerses you in the culture and lifestyle of the area. It's a truly one-of-a-kind experience for couples who like to do things outside of the box.

Koh Pha Ngan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy partying, yoga retreats, and outdoor exploration will find something for them on this island. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as nice beaches and, of course, the wild parties.

Is Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Pha Ngan is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Koh Pha Ngan. This island is synonymous with backpacker vibes and full moon parties. Head to the southern side of the island around Haad Rin and Ban Tai for the highest concentration of backpacker crowds. Like much of Thailand, there is frequent turnover in hostel ownership, so most reviews that you read online will be out of date. It's best to talk to people on the road to get the most up-to-date perspective.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koyasan. It's not your typical backpacker destination and most visitors prefer to experience a temple stay while in the area. If that's not your style, there is a hostel nearby.

Is Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Koyasan is very good for its public transit. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Koyasan, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. To get to town you'll take a cable car and then a bus (or taxi, but you can't walk). Once you're in town, almost everything is in the town center and doesn't require transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Pha Ngan. Your best bet for getting around the island without a private vehicle is Songthaew taxi, longtail boats, and rental mopeds.

Is Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Koyasan is well known for its walkability. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Koyasan is very walkable. Once you reach the town its relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

Koh Pha Ngan is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible, and even enjoyable, to walk from place to place around the island but allow yourself a lot of time and bring water because temperatures can be very warm.

For even more information, also check out Is Koyasan Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan or Koyasan?

How long in Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Koyasan because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Koyasan, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

Families should spend more time in Koyasan than Koh Pha Ngan. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Koyasan, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Koyasan than Koh Pha Ngan. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Koyasan that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Koyasan if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Koh Pha Ngan.

One day in Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan?

Koyasan is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

In Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This party island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan?

Koyasan is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan?

Koyasan is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Koh Pha Ngan is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Pha Ngan has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan?

Koyasan is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Pha Ngan. Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting Koh Pha Ngan. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan, The Best Historical Tours in Japan, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koyasan and Koh Pha Ngan, we can see that Koyasan is more expensive. And not only is Koh Pha Ngan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Pha Ngan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Pha Ngan and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Koyasan would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Koyasan than you might in Koh Pha Ngan.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Koyasan Expensive? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan?

Koyasan has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Pha Ngan experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Koyasan are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Koyasan for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Pha Ngan because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In July, Koyasan is generally a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Koyasan average around 27°C (81°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Pha Ngan. It's quite rainy in Koyasan. In July, Koyasan usually receives more rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Koyasan gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan in the Autumn?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Koyasan during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Koyasan in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Pha Ngan year-round.

Koyasan is cooler than Koh Pha Ngan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koyasan averages around 19°C (65°F) in October, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Koh Pha Ngan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koyasan. Koyasan usually gets less rain in October than Koh Pha Ngan. Koyasan gets 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Koh Pha Ngan. October and November is the rainy season in Koh Pha Ngan.

Should I visit Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Koyasan and Koh Pha Ngan. Most visitors come to Koyasan for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the winter, Koyasan is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koyasan in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 22°C (72°F).

In January, Koyasan usually receives less rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Koyasan gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to March in Koh Pha Ngan is the dry season.

Should I visit Koyasan or Koh Pha Ngan in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Koyasan as well as Koh Pha Ngan. The spring months attract visitors to Koyasan because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Pha Ngan throughout the year.

In April, Koyasan is generally much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Koyasan average around 15°C (59°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Koyasan receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koyasan usually gets more rain in April than Koh Pha Ngan. Koyasan gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Koyasan