Page last updated at 10:16 GMT, Monday, 25 August 2008 11:16 UK

In pictures: Full Moon Party

Revellers on the beach for sunrise at Koh Phan Ngan's Full Moon Party

Koh Pha Ngan's Full Moon Party began in the mid-1980s, with just a few dozen travellers.

A man breaths fire at the Full Moon Party

The event expanded quickly through word-of-mouth and now attracts up to an estimated 25,000 party-goers every month.

Party-goers dance Full Moon Party

As giant sound systems pump out music, the thronged sunset beach near Haad Rin town erupts in a frenzy of dancing.

A Thai reveller dances to rave music after sunrise

The free event has become a must-see on the itineraries of many travellers to South East Asia.

Beach cleaning begins as revellers continue to dance at sunrise

The all-night rave continues until sunrise and beyond. Many revellers are still in the party spirit, even as the beach cleaners start work.

A tourist sleeps on the beach during sunrise after the Full Moon Party

Despite the odd report of robbery and rape, the most unpleasant experience for most revellers is likely to be a hangover.




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