A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Khao Lak vs. Koyasan for Couples, Families, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Khao Lak or Koyasan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Khao Lak and Koyasan can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a serene, laid back, and relaxed area. The famous beauty of Khao Lak is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Khao Lak travel costs.

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.

Khao Lak and Koyasan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Koyasan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Khao Lak. Although Khao Lak and Koyasan are popular destinations, Khao Lak has more sights and attractions for tourists. Khao Lak is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Koyasan attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Khao Lak is famous for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. It is also well known for Khao Sok National Park. Koyasan is famous for its temple complex, spiritual history, and being the birthplace of Shingon Buddhism in Japan.

How is Khao Lak different from Koyasan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Khao Lak or Koyasan?

Koyasan is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Koyasan. 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).

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Khao Lak. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

Is the Food Better in Khao Lak or Koyasan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Khao Lak and Koyasan can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

Khao Lak offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's a range of southern Thai classics that include seafood, curries, grilled meats, and even vegetarian options. You'll also find an abundance of western food restaurants that serve everything from pizza to burgers.

Koyasan has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Is Khao Lak or Koyasan Better for Nightlife?

Khao Lak is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Koyasan is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

Khao Lak has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it's a tranquil place, there are still some bars and clubs that have a laid back atmosphere and are fun places to hang out in the evening.

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 Khao Lak or Koyasan Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is a great destination for its resorts. However, Koyasan is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Khao Lak to choose from. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Koyasan is not a resort destination.

Is Khao Lak or Koyasan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Khao Lak is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Koyasan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Khao Lak. There are many great dive and snorkel spots in the area and you'll find no shortage of excursions and day trips, whether you're interested in scuba diving or snorkeling.

Koyasan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Koyasan Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Koyasan is not a beach destination.

Khao Lak offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The beaches are a highlight of any trip to Thailand. They offer a laid back and peaceful setting with white sand, turquoise water, and tropical marine life. Some of the best beaches include Bang Niang Beach - which is one of the most popular, Nang Thong Beach - which is one of the most beautiful, and Coconut Beach - which is one of the most idyllic.

Koyasan is not a beach destination.

Is Khao Lak or Koyasan Better for its Old Town?

Koyasan is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Khao Lak does not have a historic old town.

Koyasan is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The town center is filled with spiritual temples and many people prefer to do a temple stay for a night.

Khao Lak does not have a historic old town.

Is Khao Lak or Koyasan Better for Hiking?

Koyasan is a town with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Koyasan. 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.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Koyasan?

Khao Lak is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Khao Lak offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

Koyasan is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Khao Lak or Koyasan More Beautiful?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Khao Lak is one of the main draws. Stunning beaches, diverse marine life, and breathtaking natural landscapes make this a truly beautiful destination.

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

Is Khao Lak or Koyasan Better for Families?

Khao Lak is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Khao Lak is a very kid-friendly area. This series of islands is filled with outdoor adventures for the whole family. You can explore the undersea world with a mask or snorkel or get out on the water on a kayak. There are also turtle sanctuaries and beautiful beaches where you can pass the time.

Koyasan offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Khao Lak or Koyasan Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Khao Lak is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Koyasan is a great area if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Is Khao Lak or Koyasan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Khao Lak is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Koyasan is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Khao Lak is a great area to visit for backpackers. Like most of Thailand, the backpacker amenities are abundant. You'll find plenty of hostels, fun activities, and affordable entertainment throughout the region.

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 Khao Lak or Koyasan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Khao Lak and Koyasan.

You'll find some public transit in Khao Lak, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Transportation comes in the form of tuk tuks, Songthaew (pick up trucks), taxis, and public buses. There are also VIP buses and minivans as well.

While Koyasan offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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.

Is Khao Lak or Koyasan a more walkable city?

Koyasan is a great destination for its walkability. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

Khao Lak is generally not a very walkable area. While there are areas where you can walk, the region isn't particularly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Khao Lak Worth Visiting? and Is Koyasan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koyasan or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Koyasan?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Khao Lak or Koyasan to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Khao Lak than Koyasan because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 1-2 days is enough time in Koyasan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Khao Lak 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 Khao Lak.

One day in Khao Lak or Koyasan?

In Khao Lak, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This area offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Koyasan is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Khao Lak or Koyasan?

In Khao Lak, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Koyasan is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koyasan, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Koyasan?

Khao Lak is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Khao Lak has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koyasan is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Khao Lak or Koyasan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Khao Lak. In Khao Lak, you'll find shopping and nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Koyasan is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan, and The Best Historical Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Khao Lak and Koyasan, we can see that Khao Lak is more expensive. And not only is Koyasan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koyasan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koyasan 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 Khao Lak would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Khao Lak than you might in Koyasan.

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

When is the best time to visit Khao Lak or Koyasan?

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

Should I visit Khao Lak or Koyasan in the Summer?

Both Koyasan and Khao Lak are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Khao Lak throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Koyasan for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Khao Lak is around the same temperature as Koyasan. Typically, the summer temperatures in Khao Lak in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Koyasan averages at about 27°C (81°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Koyasan during summer. Khao Lak gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 183 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koyasan. It's quite rainy in Khao Lak. In July, Khao Lak usually receives more rain than Koyasan. Khao Lak gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Koyasan in the Autumn?

Both Koyasan and Khao Lak during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Khao Lak because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Koyasan in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Khao Lak is generally a little warmer than Koyasan. Daily temperatures in Khao Lak average around 27°C (81°F), and Koyasan fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Koyasan. Khao Lak gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 159 hours of full sun.

Koyasan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Khao Lak. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in October than Koyasan. Khao Lak gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Khao Lak. May to October is the rainy season in Khao Lak.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Koyasan in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Khao Lak and Koyasan. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Khao Lak year-round. Also, most visitors come to Koyasan for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Khao Lak is much warmer than Koyasan in the winter. The daily temperature in Khao Lak averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Koyasan fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In Khao Lak, it's very sunny this time of the year. Khao Lak usually receives more sunshine than Koyasan during winter. Khao Lak gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Koyasan receives 140 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Khao Lak usually receives around the same amount of rain as Koyasan. Khao Lak gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Khao Lak or Koyasan in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Khao Lak as well as Koyasan. Khao Lak attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Koyasan because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Khao Lak is much warmer than Koyasan. Typically, the spring temperatures in Khao Lak in April average around 29°C (83°F), and Koyasan averages at about 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Khao Lak this time of the year. In the spring, Khao Lak often gets more sunshine than Koyasan. Khao Lak gets 249 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koyasan receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koyasan. Khao Lak receives a lot of rain in the spring. Khao Lak usually gets more rain in April than Koyasan. Khao Lak gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Koyasan receives 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Khao Lak is the dry season. May to October in Khao Lak is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Koyasan and Khao Lak