A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zhengzhou vs. Koh Pha Ngan for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Zhengzhou 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 Zhengzhou and Koh Pha Ngan can help you decide which place is right for you.

Where Should I go: Zhengzhou or Koh Pha Ngan?

Zhengzhou

Along the Yellow River, a city from the future and the past resides. Ancient pagodas, futuristic domes, verdant gardens - Zhengzhou is a myriad of many worlds in one urban area. The provincial capital of the Henan Province, Zhengzhou is the encapsulation of a perfect city from its delicate balance of the natural and urban spheres. It was born during the Sui Dynasty, and its actual location was in the modern-day Chenggao. Moreover, Zhengzhou works as the political, economic, technological, and educational center of the province. The city is also one of the eight great ancient capitals of China, with a collection of architecture and art originating during iconic dynasties. These relics of the old world include the Shaolin Monastery, Henan Museum, the Pagoda Forest, the Gaocheng Astronomical Observatory, the Songyue Pagoda, the Emperors of Yan and Huang, and the scenic views of the Yellow River. With over nine million inhabitants, Zhengzhou continues to grow at a thriving rate. It also should be noted that in June 2012, Greater Zhengzhou was named one of the thirteen emerging megacities in China according to the Economist Intelligent Unit. Known internationally for its amazing culmination of culture and history, Zhengzhou is the ideal city for travelers and inhabitants alike.

Koh Pha Ngan

Ko Phangan (or Pha Ngan) is best known for its full moon parties, attracting backpackers and budget travelers the world over for all-night parties on the beach. The clear, blue water, beautiful beaches, and tropical atmosphere bring the tourists to the island, and the low prices, diverse activities, and abundant amenities keep them here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Shanghai, The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.


Which place is cheaper, Koh Pha Ngan or Zhengzhou?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Zhengzhou Prices
    China Prices
    Koh Pha Ngan Prices
    Thailand Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Zhengzhou $65
    Koh Pha Ngan $61

The average daily cost (per person) in Zhengzhou is $65, while the average daily cost in Koh Pha Ngan is $61. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Zhengzhou and Koh Pha Ngan in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zhengzhou $21
    Koh Pha Ngan $27
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zhengzhou $42
    Koh Pha Ngan $54
Compare Hotels in Zhengzhou and Koh Pha Ngan

Looking for a hotel in Zhengzhou or Koh Pha Ngan? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Zhengzhou


Hotels in Koh Pha Ngan


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Koh Pha Ngan Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zhengzhou $14
    Koh Pha Ngan $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zhengzhou

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zhengzhou:

  • One-Way Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Kaifeng: $70
  • One-Way Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Luoyang: $80
  • Private Transfer from Zhengzhou to Luoyang Longmen Grottoes : $95
  • Private Transfer to Shaolin Temple or Dengfeng from Zhengzhou Train station: $132
  • Private transfer to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou: $108
  • Zhengzhou Airport Transfer( Hotel to Airport): $59
  • Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport Chauffeur Transfer, Zhengzhou Airport Transfer: $27
  • Zhengzhou airport or Train Staion Transfer Service: $150
  • Private Guided Tour/Transfer to Shaolin Temple: $98
  • [Airport Transfer] Zhengzhou Xinjiang International Airport Zhengzhou City Transfer There is a reputation for high service! : $27

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Koh Pha Ngan

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Koh Pha Ngan are as follows:


  • Scooter Rental
    $9.42
  • Ferry Ride
    $16
  • Gas for Scooter
    $3.45

Is it cheaper to fly into Zhengzhou or Koh Pha Ngan?

Prices for flights to both Koh Pha Ngan and Zhengzhou change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Zhengzhou $36
    Koh Pha Ngan $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zhengzhou

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zhengzhou.

  • Zhengzhou Erqi Square and Night Markets Private Tour including Dinner: $145

Typical Food Prices in Koh Pha Ngan

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Koh Pha Ngan:


  • Noodle Lunch (for One)
    $1.26
  • Sit Down Dinner (for Two)
    $12
  • Smoothies (for Two)
    $1.26
  • Ice Cream
    $0.63
  • Juice
    $1.88
  • 3 Spring Rolls
    $0.94
  • 2 Pancakes
    $1.88

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zhengzhou $5.03
    Koh Pha Ngan $19

Tours and Activities in Zhengzhou

Here are a few actual costs in Zhengzhou for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Kaifeng city highlights tour with delicious lunch from Zhengzhou: $120
  • Shaolin Temple One Day Tour: $125
  • Private Independent Tour to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou: $126
  • All inclusive Anyang Yin Xu ruins and Character Museum day tour from Zhengzhou: $140
  • Private Independent Tour to Guoliangcun from Zhengzhou: $158
  • Private Independent Tour to Yuntai Mountain from Zhengzhou: $169
  • Zhengzhou Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes: $175
  • Zhengzhou private day tour to Shaolin Temple with Kungfu show: $180
  • Independent Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou: $188
  • Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou with Flexiable Departure Time: $198
  • Datong:HangingTemple&Grotto Private Car with Entrance ticket: $199
  • Zhengzhou:Kaifeng Private Day Tour Featuring MUST-SEE Attractions: $209

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zhengzhou $4.04
    Koh Pha Ngan $11

Typical Alcohol Prices in Koh Pha Ngan

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Koh Pha Ngan are as follows:


  • Drinks at Irish Pub (for Two)
    $8.16


When comparing the travel costs between Zhengzhou and Koh Pha Ngan, we can see that Zhengzhou 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 Zhengzhou Expensive? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Zhengzhou or Koh Pha Ngan?

Zhengzhou has a larger population, and is about 170 times larger than the population of Koh Pha Ngan. When comparing the sizes of Zhengzhou 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 Zhengzhou or Koh Pha Ngan?

Zhengzhou 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 Zhengzhou or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

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

Zhengzhou is a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan in the summer. The daily temperature in Zhengzhou averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, 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 Zhengzhou. In July, Zhengzhou usually receives around the same amount of rain as Koh Pha Ngan. Zhengzhou gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zhengzhou 28°C (83°F) 
    Koh Pha Ngan 24°C (76°F)

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

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Zhengzhou during the autumn are popular places to visit. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Pha Ngan year-round.

In the autumn, Zhengzhou is cooler than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zhengzhou in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 24°C (75°F).

Koh Pha Ngan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Zhengzhou usually gets less rain in October than Koh Pha Ngan. Zhengzhou gets 46 mm (1.8 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.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Zhengzhou 16°C (61°F) 
    Koh Pha Ngan 24°C (75°F)

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

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Zhengzhou. In January, Zhengzhou is generally much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Zhengzhou average around 1°C (34°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In January, Zhengzhou usually receives less rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Zhengzhou gets 15 mm (0.6 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.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Zhengzhou 1°C (34°F) 
    Koh Pha Ngan 22°C (72°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Zhengzhou as well as Koh Pha Ngan. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Pha Ngan throughout the year.

Zhengzhou is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan in the spring. The daily temperature in Zhengzhou averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Zhengzhou usually gets less rain in April than Koh Pha Ngan. Zhengzhou gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zhengzhou 16°C (61°F) 
    Koh Pha Ngan 24°C (76°F)

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Zhengzhou

Zhengzhou Koh Pha Ngan
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (34°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 11 mm (0.4 in)
Mar 9°C (48°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 23°C (74°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 24°C (76°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
May 22°C (71°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
Jun 27°C (80°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 25°C (77°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Jul 28°C (83°F) 137 mm (5.4 in) 24°C (76°F) 143 mm (5.6 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 121 mm (4.8 in) 24°C (76°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 25°C (76°F) 196 mm (7.7 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 24°C (75°F) 240 mm (9.5 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 25 mm (1 in) 23°C (74°F) 335 mm (13.2 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)