A Travel Price Comparison for Thailand Koh Lanta vs. Koh Pha Ngan for Nightlife, Beaches, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Koh Lanta or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Koh Lanta and Koh Pha Ngan 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.

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is a beautiful, off-the-beaten-path, and tranquil island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and nightlife.

Koh Pha Ngan

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

Koh Lanta and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan. Although Koh Lanta 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 museums, nightlife, and shopping, while Koh Lanta attracts visitors for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and impressive beauty. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Koh Lanta 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. Koh Lanta is famous for it's long and sandy beaches, its idyllic paradise atmosphere, and its beautiful national park.

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

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

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Koh Pha Ngan offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Lanta. Nature and tranquil beauty are what this island is all about, so you won't find much in the form of museums or temples.

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

Koh Lanta is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Koh Lanta makes for a great culinary experience. There are local markets that pop up in different places each day of the week. You may even get to sample deep-fried cicadas or dried fish. If you're looking for a more mainstream flavor, there are also curries and seafood dishes that are often locally caught.

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 Koh Lanta or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Koh Lanta is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Koh Lanta has a few options to choose from. This is one of the most chill islands in Thailand, so you won't find the hardcore party scene of some of the more backpacker heavy islands. That doesn't mean you won't find live music or places to hang out any night of the week.

Is Koh Lanta or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Lanta is well known for its resorts. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Koh Lanta. Most of the hotels and resorts are small, family-owned businesses that have a local and welcoming atmosphere.

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 Koh Lanta or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Lanta is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its diving and snorkeling.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Koh Lanta. There are snorkeling and diving trips that leave from the island daily. It's also possible to snorkel off some of the beaches around the island without organizing a group trip.

Koh Pha Ngan has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Is Koh Lanta or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Both Koh Lanta and Koh Pha Ngan are considered to be amazing beach destinations.

Koh Lanta is considered to be a world-class beach destination. For a quiet and tranquil beach holiday, this is your spot. You can enjoy long walks along sandy beaches on the north side of the island, and on the south side you'll find dramatic beauty. The most well known beach is Long Beach, which is also the longest on the island.

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.

Is Koh Lanta or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Both Koh Lanta and Koh Pha Ngan are destinations which offer superb hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Lanta. You'll find hiking trails in Koh Lanta National Park, which is at the southern tip of the island. You'll wander through the jungle, see wildlife, and take in breathtaking views.

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 Koh Lanta or Koh Pha Ngan?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with a few options for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal 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.

Shopping in Koh Lanta can be found for those interested. The island doesn't have the huge tourist crowds of many places in Thailand, so you'll find few shops in the towns. If you need to buy clothes or other items, it's better to go to the mainland.

Is Koh Lanta or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Koh Lanta is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Koh Lanta is a very family-friendly place to visit. This is among the best island's in Thailand for kids. The waters are calm and the nightlife scene is relaxed. There are hotels that have kiddy pools and some even have kid's clubs. There are also kid-friendly menus at many of the restaurants.

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 Koh Lanta or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Koh Lanta 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, Koh Lanta has plenty to offer. The laid back vibe offers a bit of romance for couples. The beaches are beautiful and the island isn't as built up as many islands are in Thailand. And while you'll find places to go in the evening near the backpacker areas, most of the island has a chill and relaxed atmosphere.

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

Koh Pha Ngan is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Koh Lanta 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 backpackers visit Koh Lanta. You'll find backpackers on almost every island in Thailand, but this one is a bit more chill than most. It's not as touristy as most of the country's southern islands, but there are still enough amenities to make it comfortable.

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

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with a few options for its public transit. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Koh Lanta. There really isn't any public transit on the island. Most visitors hire taxis or rent motorbikes to get around.

Is Koh Lanta or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Koh Lanta is a island with minimal 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.

Koh Lanta is not a very walkable island. While there are some parts of the island that can be explored on foot, most people get around by motorbike.

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

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

How long in Koh Lanta or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Koh Lanta or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Koh Pha Ngan has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Koh Lanta. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Koh Lanta, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

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

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

In Koh Lanta, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this beautiful island 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.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the party island of Koh Pha Ngan. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Lanta or Koh Pha Ngan?

Koh Lanta is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the high energy destination of Koh Pha Ngan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This party island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Lanta or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Koh Lanta, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this off-the-beaten-path 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 beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find nightlife and food around the funky party island of Koh Pha Ngan. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this party island makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this party island has to offer.

A week in Koh Lanta or Koh Pha Ngan?

Koh Lanta 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.

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Eco Tours in Thailand, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Thailand.

When comparing the travel costs between Koh Lanta and Koh Pha Ngan, we can see that Koh Lanta is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Lanta or Koh Pha Ngan?

Koh Pha Ngan has a larger population, and is about 95% larger than the population of Koh Lanta. When comparing the sizes of Koh Lanta 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.

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

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

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

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

The rainy season in Koh Lanta is June to September. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Pha Ngan. It's quite rainy in Koh Lanta. In July, Koh Lanta usually receives more rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Koh Lanta gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

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

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Lanta during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Lanta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Pha Ngan year-round.

December to March is the dry season in Koh Pha Ngan. October and November is the rainy season in Koh Pha Ngan. Koh Pha Ngan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Lanta. Koh Lanta usually gets more rain in October than Koh Pha Ngan. Koh Lanta gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Koh Lanta is a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Lanta averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Lanta and Koh Pha Ngan. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Lanta year-round. Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

January to April in Koh Lanta is the dry season. December to March in Koh Pha Ngan is the dry season. In January, Koh Lanta usually receives around the same amount of rain as Koh Pha Ngan. Koh Lanta gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

In the winter, Koh Lanta is a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Lanta in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 22°C (72°F).

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

The spring brings many poeple to Koh Lanta as well as Koh Pha Ngan. Koh Lanta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Pha Ngan throughout the year.

Also, January to April in Koh Lanta is the dry season. June to September in Koh Lanta is the rainy season. Koh Lanta receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Lanta usually gets more rain in April than Koh Pha Ngan. Koh Lanta gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

In April, Koh Lanta is generally a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Koh Lanta average around 29°C (85°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Lanta