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

Should you visit Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Dewa Sanzan and Koh Pha Ngan can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dewa Sanzan

Dewa Sanzan is a remote, traditional, and religious religious site. It's also known for hiking and museums.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a party-oriented, high energy, and funky party island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and nightlife.

Dewa Sanzan and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan. Although Dewa Sanzan 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 food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Dewa Sanzan attracts visitors for its museums & sights. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Dewa Sanzan and is popular for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. It is also well known for the Full Moon Parties. Dewa Sanzan is famous for its traditional religion, three sacred mountains, and the Shukubo Pilgrim Lodges.

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

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

Dewa Sanzan is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Dewa Sanzan is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. This is a sacred religious site that is at the heart of the Shugendo folk religion. The religion combines Buddhist and Shinto traditions and there are several temples in the area including the most sacred sights at Yudono-san, Haguro-san, and Gas-san, as well as the Churenji and Dainichibo Temples.

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 Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Pha Ngan is very good for its restaurants. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

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.

Dewa Sanzan may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. In your guesthouse you'll be given "Shojin cuisine", which is the traditional cuisine that has been handed down through the generations. It is strictly vegetarian and is heavily influenced by whatever vegetable is currently in season in the area. Traditionally, the cuisine focused on sustenance and not taste, but for the purposes of hospitality, the dishes are more flavorful than is typical in the traditional cuisine.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Koh Pha Ngan is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Dewa Sanzan. This is a religious site that is remote and focused on mountain worship and devotion. Nightlife is non-existent in the area.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Pha Ngan is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Dewa Sanzan 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.

Dewa Sanzan is not a resort destination.

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

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

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Dewa Sanzan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Dewa Sanzan is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Koh Pha Ngan is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Dewa Sanzan is not a beach destination.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

You'll find very good hiking in both Dewa Sanzan and Koh Pha Ngan.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Dewa Sanzan. Experienced hikers can climb Mt. Gassan and Mt. Yudono in one day and do Mt. Haguro separately. For Mt. Gassan, you'll want to take the bus to the 8th station and climb from there.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan?

Koh Pha Ngan is a decent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its shopping areas.

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.

Dewa Sanzan has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. This is a sacred sight that is devoted to worship and a simple life. As such, shopping in not available in the area with the exception of a couple of convenience stores.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Koh Pha Ngan is a decent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Koh Pha Ngan is not always a place people visit with their families. 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.

Dewa Sanzan is not such a family-friendly religious site. The remote location make this a challenging place to access. It's a religious destination and its sacred and historic past is often lost to children. Out of respect for the strict religion, this site is best visited as an adult.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Both Dewa Sanzan and Koh Pha Ngan are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Dewa Sanzan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who want to do something that's a bit different from mainstream Japan will appreciate a visit to this religious site.

Koh Pha Ngan is a good religious site for couples to visit. 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 Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Pha Ngan is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Dewa Sanzan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Koh Pha Ngan is extremely popular 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dewa Sanzan. This is an off-the-beaten-path destination for backpackers, and it can be difficult to reach by public transit. Once you're there, if you want a traditional experience, you can stay at a Shukubo Pilgrim Lodge.

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

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Dewa Sanzan and Koh Pha Ngan.

Public transit is mostly limited in Dewa Sanzan. There is public transit from Tsuruoka Station to Mt. Haguro and the accommodation in the area. There are also buses to the top of Mt. Haguro, Mt. Yudono, and Mt. Gassan 8th Station.

Public transit is generally 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 Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Koh Pha Ngan is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

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.

Dewa Sanzan is generally not very walkable. Everything is very spread out so walking can be challenging. Experienced hikers will enjoy hiking to each of the three shrines.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan or Dewa Sanzan?

How long in Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Dewa Sanzan, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Dewa Sanzan, many people enjoy the museums that this remote religious site 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 nightlife and food when visiting the funky party island of Koh Pha Ngan. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan?

Dewa Sanzan is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the party-oriented destination of Koh Pha Ngan. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This party island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan?

You'll find museums around the sacred destination of Dewa Sanzan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the funky party island of Koh Pha Ngan. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan?

Dewa Sanzan is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Koh Pha Ngan. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Japan, The Best 10-Day 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 Dewa Sanzan and Koh Pha Ngan, we can see that Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan Expensive? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Expensive?.

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

Dewa Sanzan 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 Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Dewa Sanzan during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Dewa Sanzan because of the hiking. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Pha Ngan year-round.

In July, Dewa Sanzan is generally around the same temperature as Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Dewa Sanzan average around 23°C (74°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Koh Pha Ngan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Dewa Sanzan. Dewa Sanzan usually gets more rain in July than Koh Pha Ngan. Dewa Sanzan gets 191 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Dewa Sanzan and Koh Pha Ngan. The hiking trails are the main draw to Dewa Sanzan this time of year. Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Dewa Sanzan is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dewa Sanzan averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Koh Pha Ngan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Dewa Sanzan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Dewa Sanzan usually receives less rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Dewa Sanzan gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to March in Koh Pha Ngan is the dry season. Also, October and November is the rainy season in Koh Pha Ngan.

Should I visit Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Dewa Sanzan as well as Koh Pha Ngan. Many travelers come to Dewa Sanzan for the museums and the cuisine. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Pha Ngan throughout the year.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Dewa Sanzan. In the winter, Dewa Sanzan is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dewa Sanzan in January average around -1°C (30°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 22°C (72°F).

Dewa Sanzan receives a lot of rain in the winter. Dewa Sanzan usually gets more rain in January than Koh Pha Ngan. Dewa Sanzan gets 206 mm (8.1 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Koh Pha Ngan is the dry season.

Should I visit Dewa Sanzan or Koh Pha Ngan in the Spring?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Dewa Sanzan are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Pha Ngan because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In April, Dewa Sanzan is generally much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Dewa Sanzan average around 9°C (47°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

In April, Dewa Sanzan usually receives more rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Dewa Sanzan gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Dewa Sanzan