Information: The Chinese Temple exists today because of the faith of one woman - Mrs Malawan. Years before in 1990, when Koh Pha-Ngan was still largely without electricity, Mrs Malawan came to Sangthom Temple on Koh Pha-Ngan from Bangkok for the ceremony of presenting the robes to the priests (Todkathin). During one night, sleeping outside with friends, Mrs Malawan dreamt about the Chinese Buddha, Jaomae Kuanim. The Buddha told her to build a firelight for the people.

With intent to fulfill the requests of the Buddha, Mrs Malawan returned to Bangkok to raise the funds necessary to build the Temple. Building was completed in 1992, and continues today.

Now the Chinese Temple is a place where many people come to try one's luck or trust in luck. There are three main festivals during the year which are special for the Chinese Buddha: January, May and August. Every year during these periods, people come to the Temple to show their faith and ask for blessing.

Information: Wat Kow Tahm is not actually a true Temple as there are only a couple of monks and a nun in residence. Still, there is chanting and meditation every morning and evening, and visitors are welcome to share the experience.

After touring the facilities, take a hike to the top of the mountain, where you can watch a particularly magnificent sunset. There is something quite relaxing when you watch the sun go down, the chanting of the monks all the while acting as a serene counterpoint. On a clear day you can see all the way to Koh Samui.

Longer stays are possible. The temple is a Buddhist Meditation Center in the Theravadin tradition, where you can participate in 10 day meditation retreats. The retreats taught at the center help one develop Vipassana or Insight into Reality.

Information: Apart from beaches, sand and sea, Ko Phangan also has cultural attractions as Wat Maduea Wan, located at Moo 3, where the replica of the Lord Buddha’s Footprint is enshrined on the hilltop Mondop. To reach the temple, take a songthaew from for a total distance of approximately 3 kilometers for a fare of 20 baht / trip / person.

Information: This Wat may not be large, but it makes up for that with beauty. Chedi Wat Nai is a little Pagoda, located a little off the main road to Thong Nai from the Pan Tai pier, on a small paved road. Look for it just before the coconut factory. It's in the middle of the plantation, but don't worry, the owners are very warm and friendly farmers.

Information: This is a very popular temple with Thais and foreigners (Farang) alike, because it is also the home of an herbal sauna. Here you can experience the healing benefits of Eastern Sauna, where herbs like lemongrass are steamed over a wood fire, adding to overall health and wellness.

The herbal sauna is an excellent tonic for those who feel the effects of jet lag, or a little too much partying. It is also good for anyone on a 'health' vacation-the sauna can help improve the tone of the skin, among other properties.

The sauna is open 7 days a week from 2.00 pm - 7.00 pm

Information: Wat Phu Khao Noi is the oldest temple on Koh Phangan and is situated on top of a hill just outside Thongsala near the hospital. It has some very interesting ancient buildings and Chedis, as well as amazing views over the island and beyond. The head monk there also speaks a bit of English; it's worth noting that the monks are only really around in the morning, though you can still visit until late in the afternoon.

Information: This Wat is the most popular temple in Koh Phangan for the local Buddhists, and is where the important ceremonies take place.

Consult your hotel for a list of upcoming events-changes are there is something going on at the temple during your stay.

On Buddhist holidays and general celebration days, the temple is the site of big festivals. This is a good time to sample Thai food and do a little shopping, as there are plenty of stalls selling just about anything you can think of. Besides food, the stalls will sell you a selection of clothes, tools, Thai handicraft, decorations, animals-just check your country's laws concerning bringing in animals from foreign locations before you buy-otherwise that new pet may be destroyed before you leave Thailand.