A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ubud vs. Koh Pha Ngan for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Ubud 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 Ubud 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.

Ubud

Ubud is a popular, famous, and cultural town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Ubud is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Ubud travel costs.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a high energy, funky, and beautiful party island. With stunning beauty, Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Koh Pha Ngan travel costs.

Ubud and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan than Ubud, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Pha Ngan is better known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Ubud is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, shopping, and small town charm. Ubud is well known for its cultural and religious sites, dramatic rice paddies, and local handicrafts. Koh Pha Ngan is well known for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is famous for the Full Moon Parties.

How is Ubud 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 Ubud. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

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

Many visitors head to Ubud specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The town is filled with temples and cultural sights such as the Ubud Monkey Forest, Goa Gajah (the Elephant Cave), the Ubud Royal Palace, and the Blanco Renaissance Museum.

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 Ubud or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ubud is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Ubud has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. You'll find some of the best restaurants on Bali in this town. There is everything from family-owned eateries to award winning restaurants. Dishes range from vegan to meat-filled and you'll find both local favorites and western cuisine.

Koh Pha Ngan has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Ubud or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Ubud is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Ubud has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is mostly focused on cultural activities and live music. Many people head here to escape the party scene that is so popular elsewhere on the island.

Is Ubud or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Ubud is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Ubud is a perfect choice. You'll find beautiful luxury resorts with impressive pools and dramatic landscapes.

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.

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

Koh Pha Ngan is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Ubud 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.

Ubud is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ubud or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Ubud 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.

Ubud is not a beach destination.

Is Ubud or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Ubud and Koh Pha Ngan, and they are high quality.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Ubud. There are many stunning walks and hikes just outside of town. There are stunning views from Campuhan Ridge Walk, which is best enjoyed at sunrise or sunset. Jalan Subak Sok Wayah Walk will take you through the rice paddies and Kajeng Rice Field Walk is close to town but tucked away from the crowds. One of the biggest draws of the area is the Tegallalang Rice Terraces Walk.

Many visitors go to Koh Pha Ngan for the hiking trails. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Ubud or Koh Pha Ngan?

Ubud is well known for shopping. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Ubud is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to the Ubud shopping street for boutiques, markets, and local items. The town has grown into a shopper's paradise with many Balinese handicrafts around.

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.

Is Ubud or Koh Pha Ngan More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors from all around. The island is more than just Full Moon Parties. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as stunning beaches and eclectic yoga retreats.

Ubud is a gorgeous place to visit. It's a stunning setting, which makes it appealing to tourists, but to truly enjoy the beauty you'll want to get a bit outside of town.

Is Ubud or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Ubud 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 Ubud. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the jungles and rice paddies. There are also many great restaurants that are family-friend. Ubud is a bit cooler than the beach towns of Bali, so kids will enjoy an escape from the hotter temperatures.

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 Ubud or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Ubud is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Ubud has plenty to offer. Honeymooners flock to this small town for its stunning scenery and beautiful temples. There are luxury hotels, spas, massages, and poolside escapes that will make for the perfect honeymoon. You'll also find world class restaurants and breathtaking hikes in the area.

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 Ubud or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Koh Pha Ngan is a very popular party island to visit for backpackers. 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.

Ubud is very popular with the backpacker crowd. If you need a break from the party scene on Bali, then you'll enjoy the reprieve of this small town. There are still plenty of backpackers and hostels, but the town itself offers a more relaxed setting.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Ubud and Koh Pha Ngan.

Public transit is generally limited in Ubud. Many people hire a vehicle or driver to explore the area. There are also tourist shuttles around with Perama Shuttle being one of the most established.

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 Ubud or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

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

Ubud is very walkable. The town is generally walkable and easy to explore on foot, but you'll need other transportation if you want to get outside of town.

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 Ubud Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Ubud or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Ubud or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Ubud than Koh Pha Ngan because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Ubud, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

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

Couples should spend more time in Ubud than Koh Pha Ngan. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Ubud 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 Ubud 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 Ubud or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Ubud, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this breathtaking town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the destination of Koh Pha Ngan. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Ubud or Koh Pha Ngan?

Ubud is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Koh Pha Ngan is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Ubud or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Ubud, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this breathtaking destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the food. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the party-oriented destination of Koh Pha Ngan. This party island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Ubud or Koh Pha Ngan?

Ubud is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The high energy party island of Koh Pha Ngan offers scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Indonesia, The Best Budget Tours to Indonesia, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ubud and Koh Pha Ngan, we can see that Ubud 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 Ubud would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Ubud 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 Ubud Expensive? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ubud or Koh Pha Ngan?

Ubud has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Koh Pha Ngan. When comparing the sizes of Ubud and Koh Pha Ngan, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.