Thrusting 54m into the heavens near Wat Pho, Ko Pha-Ngan's tallest Yang Na Yai (dipterocarpus alatus; ยางนา), said to be over 400 years old, is an astonishing sight in the heart of Ban Nok village. The aesthetically pleasing giant of nature is deemed by Ban Nok villagers to be sacred, which is why there are several small shrines near the foot of the tree and it is often garlanded with colourful ribbons.
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Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
Ang Thong Marine National Park
24.77 MILES
Known officially as Mu Ko Ang Thong Marine National Park, this series of jungle-covered islands – the inspiration for Alex Garland’s cult classic novel,…
16.71 MILES
Spilling down from the island's highest points, this is the first of two waterfalls – close to each other – that are lovely in full spate, pouring frigid…
4.36 MILES
This lovely beach of leaning coconut trees has the royal seal of approval, literally. Behind the collection of shacks that line the sands and azure waters…
28.84 MILES
With crystal-clear waters and superb snorkelling, pretty Ao Tanot on the east coast also affords excellent rock-jumping opportunities from the huge…
10.03 MILES
This concentration of narrow Chinese shophouses in Bo Phut has been transformed into cool boutique hotels, restaurants, cafes and bars. The accompanying…
5.98 MILES
This lovely, secluded cove has a stretch of soft sand overlooked by green hills and is a superb choice for a relaxing day of swimming and snorkelling…
24.92 MILES
This viewpoint might just be the most stunning vista in all of Thailand. From the top, visitors will have sweeping views of the jagged islands nearby as…
2.34 MILES
Nam Tok Phaeng is protected by a national park and is a pleasant reward after a short but rough hike. After the waterfall (dry out of season), it's a…
Nearby Ko Pha-Ngan attractions
0.24 MILES
This beautiful stone pagoda from the 19th century has carvings of monks, Garudas, demons, elephants, nagas and an intriguing man in a Chinese suit, as…
0.24 MILES
This small and traditional settlement has a very small one-hall temple at its heart next to the Chedi Wat Nai; there are no other standout sights, but the…
0.61 MILES
This quaint, dark, wooden mosque on stilts, resembling a Chinese house, is reportedly over 100 years old and was originally built using the waqf (trust…
0.84 MILES
With resident female monks, Wat Khao Tham, near Ban Tai, sits in shade among the trees high up on a hill. A bulletin board details meditation retreats at…
2.28 MILES
The terrific Domsila Viewpoint – offering a rocky perch with superb, panoramic views over the island – is a 15-minute, root-choked climb up from Nam Tok…
2.34 MILES
Nam Tok Phaeng is protected by a national park and is a pleasant reward after a short but rough hike. After the waterfall (dry out of season), it's a…
3.23 MILES
With several bungalow operations, Hat Yuan, near the southeastern tip of the island, is a remote and pretty choice. The trek from Hat Rin takes around two…
3.26 MILES
This lovely white-sand beach can only be reached on foot or by boat, lending it a gorgeous sense of seclusion. Most visitors arrive by boat, as the walk…