Koh Panyi seems to defy gravity, with homes and walkways built on stilts over the Andaman Sea. The village is home to over 350 families descended from Indonesian seafarers. The village’s first houses were constructed at the end of the 18th century, and over the years the settlement has expanded; it now also includes structures built on dry land, including its mosque.
Boat tours of the region often stop here for lunch at one of the town’s restaurants.
In addition to a floating market, the town also offers souvenir shops.
Keep an eye out for the village’s floating football pitch—surely one of the only ones in existence.
The village is home to a largely Muslim population; please be respectful of their beliefs by covering your shoulders and knees during your visit.
Wheelchair access is limited.
Koh Panyi is located in Phang Nga Bay, between the Thai mainland and Phuket. Most visitors stop here as part of a boat tour of the islands, which leave from Phuket and Krabi. You can also reach the village by bus; the trip from Krabi takes about 1.5 hours.
Koh Panyi is open to the public all year round. As with the surrounding areas, the town has warm weather all year, with average temperatures of around 80°F (27°C). The best time to visit is during the dry season, between November and March. September and October are the wettest months, and bad weather may affect tour times and ferry schedules.
The best-known sight in Phang Nga Bay is Khao Phing Kan, aka James Bond Island. The island became famous after it was featured in the Bond movie The Man with the Golden Gun, which starred Roger Moore as 007. Today, the island’s sheer limestone cliffs jutting out of emerald green water make a perfect backdrop for a memorable photo.