5 waterfalls in Koh Phangan - a break from all the partying

Koh Phangan, Thailand's fifth largest island, is known for its crazy full moon and black moon parties, which attract thousands of travelers from around the world. However, a little-known secret is that Koh Phangan is also home to some of the best waterfalls in all of Thailand.

1. Phaeng Waterfall

The Phang Falls, perhaps the largest waterfall on the island, is located right in the center of the island. It is part of Tansadei National Park and consists of 2 separate waterfalls: Phang Noi (small waterfall) and Phang Yai (large waterfall).

You will see Phaeng Noi only 50 meters from the park entrance. Also, take a steep 250-meter hike to reach Phaeng Yai, but it is worth it. The whole area is full of natural beauty, lush green vegetation and many wild animals.

At the base of the waterfall there is a large pool where you can refresh yourself after the hike and admire the beautiful sights. If you want to have the best experience, you can continue hiking up until you reach the beautiful Dom Sila observation deck.

Keep walking and you will find yourself on top of Kao Ra, the highest mountain elevation on the island. About 630 meters above sea level it provides spectacular views of the entire island and even the neighboring island of Koh Tao.

2. Wang Sai Waterfall

Van Say Falls is located northwest of the island near Mae Head Beach. It is quite easy to get here. It is only a 15-minute walk from the south beach with signs to guide your way.

The waterfall is cascading and resembles an avalanche of boulders. It is a stream of water that descends down several levels. Some of these levels contain pools of water where you can cool down and swim, the largest of which is at the very bottom.

What sets Van Sy apart from other waterfalls is the dazzling blue color of the water in some of the cascades, due to the deposition of limestone under the clear water.

The entire area is devoid of man-made structures or any human development, with the exception of a couple of blue tubes that are used to provide irrigation. This contributes to an outstanding natural beauty that you should not miss.

3. Than Sadet Waterfall

The Thang Sadet Falls were first visited by the Thai royal family in 1988. A stone inscription left there by King Rama V is still there today. It is rumored that he visited the same place more than 10 times during his reign, and it is no coincidence that Than Sadet is one of the most picturesque waterfalls in all of Thailand.

The current king of Pumipona has also visited this site. The water collected from here is used in some sacred royal ceremonies. The waterfall consists of huge granite boulders and several freshwater pools where one can bathe. It is a cascading fall, similar to Van Sai, about 3 kilometers long.

You should spend at least half a day at Thaan Sadet, start at the top and walk the whole length of it, choosing your favorite place to swim. Accessibility has greatly improved recently, and the easiest way to get there is from the fantastic Haad Than Sadet beach.

4. Sramanora Waterfall

If you've been to Thailand a couple of times, the name Sramonara will probably be quite familiar to you. That's because you've probably heard about the legendary parties that take place here. The all-night techno festivals were perfect, just before and after the famous full moon party at Haad Rinh.

Of course you can visit Sramonara Falls during the day, but unlike most other waterfalls, you can also visit the waterfalls at night. The crystal clear water glistening under the moonlight is truly breathtaking and romantic.

The 500-meter walk from the parking lot to the waterfall goes through the jungle, and is beautiful in itself. There are 2 pools: a large one on your right and a smaller, more secluded one that you can find by crossing the river and climbing the hill.

There is even a restaurant here, and it has a beautiful view of the valley. To get to Sramanora, go north from Baan Thai along a small road opposite the Yam Kitchen.

5. Paradise Waterfall

If someone asked me to describe heaven's downfalls in one word, I would say: "fun." Paradise falls, or Nam Tok Phaeng, is the place to be with your child. The entrance is through the restaurant, which overlooks the large pool directly.

Near the pool there are ropes hanging from the treetops. They turn the place into a real jungle. Grab the rope and swing like Tarzan before climbing as high as you can and finally landing in the cool water.

When you get tired of monkeying around, take a 40-minute hike to the main waterfall, which is a spectacular sight in itself.

There is also an impressive cascade with a swimming hole attached to it. To get to Paradise Falls, go to Chaloklum Village and turn right immediately after Kika Splace Restaurant.

What should we remember?

• The best time to visit any of the waterfalls on the island is July-October, monsoon season. Watch the weather forecasts and try to visit the waterfalls after a heavy rain. Most of them dry out at other times, or the water flow is greatly reduced.
• Always carry drinking water with you, as most waterfalls are in dense jungle, and it can be quite hot.
• Be very careful where you step; trails and rocks near waterfalls can become slippery from the moisture, and they most often have dangerously sharp edges.
• Wear the right shoes. Hiking in flip-flops is a bad idea.
• Don't forget to bring a towel and dry clothes.
• Smoking and drinking alcohol is prohibited at most waterfalls, so make sure you are allowed to do so.
• If you see a stream of water flowing fast, don't try to cross it. It is probably stronger than you think.

If you're staying in Koh Phangan, whether it's for crazy parties or beautiful beaches, be sure to visit one of these pristine waterfalls - some of the best the country has to offer.