
In history, Thailand’s Ko Panyi Village began at the end of the 18th century following a law that limited land ownership solely to people of Thai national origins, which encouraged nomadic Malay fishermen to start a settlement built on stilts, taking advantage of the calm and rich bay waters.
The town is occupied by around 1,600 people from 360 families forever living on the island. Surprisingly, Ko Panyi only has a little more than 200 houses. The majority of its residents are Thai Muslims who fish for a living.
The magnificence of this one of a kind village, situated in the Phang Nga Cove of Thailand is the way its is built completely on braces over the water, making it a famous vacation destination to guests. A small limestone island is where the village is located.
Ko Panyi is situated in the Phang Nga Region, around 20 kilometers upper east of Phuket. Around 200 years ago, a group of Malay fishermen decided to settle in the area and established the village. They built their homes on stilts in order to make use of the water as a means of subsistence because there was not enough land for traditional farming.
Ko Panyi is now a thriving village with a vibrant community. The houses, schools, and, surprisingly, a mosque are based on braces, connected by a network of wooden walkways. The village has a population of around 360 families, and the main occupation of the residents is still fishing.
In addition to its unique architecture, Ko Panyi is known for its floating football pitch. The village youth built a football field on a floating platform, which has gained international attention. The story of the village’s football team, which successfully competed against teams from other regions, was featured in a Thai film called “The Miracle of Koh Panyee.”
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Tourists visiting Ko Panyi can explore the village, interact with the locals, and enjoy delicious seafood at the floating restaurants. There are also small souvenir shops where visitors can buy handmade crafts and local products. Boat tours from Phuket or Phang Nga often include a stop at Ko Panyi as part of the itinerary.
While there are no particular insider facts related with Ko Panyi, there are a couple of intriguing viewpoints worth focusing on:
Floating Football Field: One of the village’s most remarkable features is its floating football field. Despite the lack of open land, the villagers managed to construct a floating football pitch that has become quite famous. It even gained international attention and was featured in a Coca-Cola commercial during the FIFA World Cup in 2014.
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Muslim Community: Ko Panyi is predominantly inhabited by a Muslim community, which distinguishes it from many other Thai villages. The villagers are primarily fishermen and their families. The village has its own mosque, providing a place of worship for the residents.
Seafood Cuisine: Given its coastal location, Ko Panyi is renowned for its delicious seafood cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of fresh seafood dishes prepared by the local restaurants in the village. It’s a great opportunity to savor the flavors of the sea in a unique setting.
Tourism: Over the years, Ko Panyi has become a popular tourist destination due to its scenic beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the narrow walkways, visit the local market, and engage with the friendly locals. Many tours and boat trips are organized from nearby towns, such as Phuket and Krabi, allowing tourists to experience the village’s charm.
While Ko Panyi does not have any mysterious or hidden secrets, its rich cultural background, floating football field, and culinary delights make it an intriguing and worthwhile destination to explore in Thailand.
The houses, shops, restaurants, and even the mosque are all built on stilts, forming a unique and picturesque sight.
Visitors are drawn to the village not only to witness its extraordinary architecture but also to experience its vibrant atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. The villagers have embraced tourism and have set up various facilities to cater to visitors, including souvenir shops, seafood restaurants, and boat tours.
Ko Panyi serves as a reminder of the harmonious coexistence between humans and nature, as the village has managed to thrive in a challenging environment.
It is truly a special and captivating destination for travelers seeking an authentic and memorable experience in Thailand.
Ko Panyi offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the fishing community and provides a unique cultural experience for visitors to Thailand.