Koh Panyi Floating Village Phuket
Explore Koh Panyi, a vibrant Muslim fishing village built entirely on stilts over the water in Phang Nga Bay. Witness unique architecture and a floati...
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer tour groups
Koh Panyi Floating Village Phuket
Best Time
Fewer tour groups
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Koh Panyi, a vibrant Muslim fishing village built entirely on stilts over the water in Phang Nga Bay. Witness unique architecture and a floating football pitch.
"A truly unique floating village experience with incredible seafood and a fascinating way of life!"
Drone Photography Allowed?
Check local regulations before flying drones; some visitors have captured stunning aerial views. :camerawithflash:
Halal Food Galore
Enjoy delicious Halal cuisine, as the entire village adheres to Islamic dietary laws. :knifeforkplate:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Floating Football Pitch
Center of the village
A surprisingly well-maintained football field built entirely on the water. A testament to the community's ingenuity!

The Grand Mosque
Heart of the village
An ornate and impressive mosque, a central spiritual and architectural landmark of this unique Muslim community.

Local Market Stalls
Along the main boardwalk
Browse local handicrafts, souvenirs, and fresh seafood. A vibrant glimpse into the village's commerce.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Koh Panyi
Respecting Local Culture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Drone Photography Allowed?
Check local regulations before flying drones; some visitors have captured stunning aerial views. :camerawithflash:
Halal Food Galore
Enjoy delicious Halal cuisine, as the entire village adheres to Islamic dietary laws. :knifeforkplate:
Travelling with a drone sure has its advantages - Koh Panyee floating village, Thailand
Beautiful island village is unreal 😍 Near Phuket, it's Koh Panyee!
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when exploring the village, especially near the mosque. :womanintunic:
Cash is King
While some places have ATMs, carrying cash is recommended for smaller purchases. :moneywithwings:
Island tours help in Phuket
Tips
from all over the internet
Drone Photography Allowed?
Check local regulations before flying drones; some visitors have captured stunning aerial views. :camerawithflash:
Halal Food Galore
Enjoy delicious Halal cuisine, as the entire village adheres to Islamic dietary laws. :knifeforkplate:
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when exploring the village, especially near the mosque. :womanintunic:
Cash is King
While some places have ATMs, carrying cash is recommended for smaller purchases. :moneywithwings:
Stilts, Not Floating
The village is built on stilts and piers, not truly floating on the water. :housewithgarden:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by Koh Panyi's unique floating architecture and the iconic football pitch. The fresh seafood and the distinct Muslim culture are frequently highlighted as positive aspects. However, some find the village overly touristy with repetitive souvenir shops, and a few express a sense of melancholy about the living conditions.
"This is the iconic floating village that is famous in Phuket, Thailand. The living conditions have improved a lot with modern facilities and stable electricity. One can really get a feel and experience how folks here live. A good experience."
C Neon
"We got to go inside the schools and hospital to learn more about the culture"
Abdulaziz Hasan
"A very beautiful village"
Kamal Raj
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Koh Panyi is located in Phang Nga province, about 50km from Krabi and a longer drive from Phuket. Most visitors arrive via organized boat tours from Phuket or Khao Lak. These tours often include stops at other islands. You can also hire a private taxi or minivan to take you to the pier in Phang Nga, from where you'll take a short longtail boat ride to the village.
Koh Panyi is actually located in Phang Nga province, not Krabi, though it's sometimes mistakenly associated with Krabi due to proximity.
Many travelers opt for organized island hopping tours from Phuket, which often include Koh Panyi. This is convenient as it bundles transportation and often lunch.
You can drive to the pier in Phang Nga province, but you'll need to take a boat to reach the village itself. Parking is available at the pier.
The journey from Phuket to Koh Panyi can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours depending on your mode of transport and whether it's part of a tour with multiple stops.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There isn't typically an entrance fee to walk around Koh Panyi itself. However, if you arrive via a boat tour, the cost of the tour will cover your access. If you arrange private transport, you'll pay for the boat transfer to the village.
Koh Panyi is a residential village, so it's accessible during daylight hours. Most tourist tours visit between 10 AM and 4 PM.
No, the floating football pitch is part of the village and can be viewed freely. It's a community space.
If you're joining a tour, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. For independent travel, you just need to arrange boat transport.
Yes, you can arrange private boat transport from nearby piers in Phang Nga province to visit Koh Panyi independently.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the unique stilted houses, visit the impressive mosque, see the famous floating football pitch, and browse the local market for souvenirs and seafood. You can also enjoy lunch at one of the many seafood restaurants.
Some visitors describe it as touristy, with many shops selling similar items. However, the unique architecture and way of life are still considered worthwhile by many.
Koh Panyi is famous for its fresh seafood. Since it's a Muslim village, all food served is Halal. You'll find a variety of Thai dishes, especially those featuring local catches.
Swimming directly around the village might not be ideal due to boat traffic and the village's infrastructure. Most visitors come for the cultural experience and food.
Yes, the village is generally safe for visitors. The main pathways are well-maintained, and the community is accustomed to tourists.
📸 📸 Photography
The floating football pitch, the mosque, the colorful market stalls, and panoramic views of the village from the water are all excellent photo opportunities. Drone shots offer a unique perspective.
Be respectful when photographing residents. While general photography is fine, avoid intrusive shots of people without their permission.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, making for more pleasant photography. Golden hour can be particularly beautiful.
Some visitors have successfully used drones, but it's always wise to check current regulations and be mindful of privacy.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the village's expanse and the football pitch. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the mosque or market.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage your children to observe the daily life of the villagers and ask respectful questions. It's a great opportunity to teach them about different cultures and ways of living. While the village is safe, keep a close eye on younger children near the water's edge and on the boardwalks.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on experiencing the village's unique atmosphere and sights rather than extensive souvenir shopping. Enjoying a meal at a local restaurant is part of the experience, but compare prices if possible. The floating football pitch and the mosque are free to admire and photograph, offering great value.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ingenuity of a Floating Village
One of the most iconic features is the floating football pitch, a vibrant symbol of the village's spirit and ingenuity. It's a place where children and adults alike can enjoy their passion for the sport, despite the unconventional foundation. The village's existence is a continuous negotiation with the sea, demonstrating a deep understanding of marine life and sustainable practices.
Visitors often remark on the unique atmosphere of Koh Panyi. While it is a popular tourist destination, it retains its authenticity as a working fishing village. The community is predominantly Muslim, which influences its culture, cuisine, and daily life, offering a distinct cultural experience compared to other parts of Phuket.
Navigating Koh Panyi: Practicalities and Etiquette
Getting around the village is straightforward; you'll be walking along wooden boardwalks and piers. Be mindful of uneven surfaces and the occasional slippery spot. Many visitors choose to have lunch at one of the seafood restaurants lining the main path. These restaurants offer fresh, Halal-certified dishes, a highlight for many travelers.
While some find the village to be quite tourist-oriented with numerous souvenir shops, the unique architecture and the floating football pitch are consistently praised. It’s a place that offers a different perspective on island life in Thailand, showcasing resilience and community spirit.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit