Khao Ra
At 627 m, the highest point on Koh Phangan, with a sweeping summit panorama over the island and the Gulf.
- Category
- Mountains & Hiking
- Entrance fee
- Free to hike; a small charge (~100 THB) has historically been collected at a private gate near the summit - confirm locally, as of 2026
- Hours
- Daylight only (start early; no lighting on the trail)
- Best time
- Cooler, drier months and early morning for clear views and less heat; skip in heavy rain (slippery)
- Time needed
- 2-3 hours round trip
- Difficulty
- Moderate - steep, rooty jungle trail; a guide is recommended as the path can be hard to follow near the top
About Khao Ra
Khao Ra is the roof of Koh Phangan and the payoff is the best view on the island, a sweeping panorama over the jungle, the coastline and the Gulf. On a clear day it's genuinely worth the climb.
The catch is the trail. It's a steep, rooty jungle path and it gets overgrown near the top, where it's easy to lose the way. Plenty of people hire a local guide for exactly this reason, and I'd second that if you're not confident route-finding.
Go early, both for the cooler air and the clearer views, and skip it entirely after heavy rain when the whole thing turns slippery.
Highlights
- The highest point on Koh Phangan
- Sweeping summit panorama over the island and the Gulf
- Steep, wild jungle trail for a proper hike
- Best experienced on a clear morning
Tips
- Start early for cooler air and clearer views
- Consider a local guide since the path is hard to follow near the top
- Skip it after heavy rain when the trail is slippery
- Carry cash for the small gate charge near the summit
How to get there
Trailhead is inland near the Madeua Wan / botanical-garden area, ~20 min drive north of Thong Sala by scooter or taxi, then hike on foot