Introduction to Koh Chang, Trat, Thailand

Koh Chang is the 2nd largest Thai island, named Elephant Island because it is said to resemble the profile of an elephant. Koh Chang is situated some 330 km East of Bangkok in the province of Trat and is some 40 kilometres long and 16 kilometres wide.

It has only recently been discovered by non-Thais as ferry, road and now air access has made the island increasingly accessible (regular flights are now available from Bangkok to Trat). A favourite of the Thais who appreciate the mixture of stunning unspoilt terrain, relaxed friendly locals and excellent seafood; these factors combined make Koh Chang a gem waiting to be discovered for travellers of all types.

The island comprises of 70% rainforest, rugged high peaks and steep cliffs set off by gently shelving white sand beaches, colourful coral reefs and dramatic clear blue waters. The ecological value of Koh Chang has been recognised by being included in the Marine National Park which includes 52 other surrounding islands covering just over 650 square kilometres. The regulations manage the development of the island and ensure a balance between the tourism dollars and the natural ecology of Koh Chang. The majority of development takes place on the western and to a much lesser extent to the eastern coastline leaving the inner hinterland as nature intended.

Coastline
Secluded coves, romantic long stretches of beach, unspoilt fishing villages and dazzling cliff views describe the island coastline. A wide range of interests can be catered for, should you wish to relax soak up the sun, take strolls along the powdery sand, partake of a mouth watering fresh seafood thai meal watch the sun set or for the more energetic there is scuba diving, snorkelling, fishing and visiting some of the smaller island neighbours or bars, dancing and shows. (Water based activities are limited to those which will not damage the fragile coral ecosystem – both hard and soft corals are abundant) Each area has a strong identify. I have outlined some of my favourite below.

Fishing villages

BangBao Village
Community of fishing houses built on poles jutting out into the bay. This has been a sanctuary for fishing craft seeking shelter from storms for centuries. Now a resort the bay still holds it’s original charm but visitors can now benefit from fine seafood restaurants and accommodation of character. 
Salak Phet or Raung Than Village
The largest fishing village on Koh Chang visitors can see first hand the original craft of Thai fishing. Located in the South of the island many fishing and boat trips to neighbouring islands including Laem Ngob are available.
Salak Kok Village
The village is near Salak Phet community. Though possesses no beach, its location on a lagoon is offers excellent shelter for fishing boats during the tropical storms. The community attracts visitors with its unspoilt traditional fishing village life and its temple.

Beaches
Ao Klong Son
Located in the North of the island the white sandy beach is lined with pine trees and benefits from wonderful vibrant coral reefs.
Had Sai Khao (White Sand Beach)
A long and safe swimming beach some 2 kilometres long this popular beach is backed with coconut trees and forest. Backed by steep hillsides the view both across the bay facing the sea and from the sea to the hillsides are remarkable. This is the liveliest area in Koh Chang with bars and late night dancing for those with the energy!
Had Klong Phrao - Laem Chaichet
Linked with Kai Bae beach, the beach is shady with coconut trees. Quiet and peaceful. Ideal for personal rest and relaxation. The Long Beach is suitable for beach activities and sports. North most of the beach is located Laem Chai Chet.
Had Kaibae
Adjacent to Klong Prao Beach it offers the best sunset view and many outdoor mainly water based activities and safe swimming.

Inland
The inland forest is largely inaccessible and covered with virgin rainforest. It is blessed with a wide and varied population of animals including, parrots, sunbirds, hornbills and trogons, Koh Chang’s well-known population of wild boar and beautiful butterflies. Tours into the rainforest are available for those needing a little more adventure and for those who would just like a taster. Koh Chang is best known for it’s waterfalls and has been honored by visits by the Royal Thai Family throughout the ages. 

Than Mayom Waterfall
This is a beautiful three storey cascading waterfall visited by King Rama VI and King Rama VII.
Klong Phu Waterfall
About 20 metres high. A pool beneath the falls is a fun spot for a refreshing swim. There are is accommodation and camping nearby.
Klong Nonthri Waterfall
This small waterfall for the more adventurous – a small 3-4 kilometre trek will be required to get to the falls.
Kiripetch Waterfall
Difficult to reach and the higher levels of the waterfalls are reached only after traversing a rather dangerous path from where you have a owe inspiring view over Salak Phet Bay.
Klong Nueng Waterfall
The 120-meter-high waterfall is ideal for rest and relaxation. It is small but high. All waterfalls will require some trekking between 500 to 4 kilometres please check before travelling.

Come to Koh Chang and see why this island has been so popular to the Thais and the Thai Royal Family for so long. You will not be disappointed.

Koh Chang’s Attractions
Koh Chang has always been a favourite get-away for Thai people. Lush and mountainous, this quiet island, full of natural treasures is a jewel just waiting to be discovered.

Only 300 kilometres from Bangkok, Koh Chang is an island paradise with pristine forests and rich marine life. The largest of 47 islands off the coast of Trat province, its seeming inaccessibility means that the island has been largely overlooked by visitors, making TAT TRAVEL LICENSE No. 11/4190 rue island get-away. However, an excellent road from Bangkok and a new flight to Trat airport, have meant that the destination is now starting to get the attention that it deserves.

Mountainous Koh Chang has an undisturbed interior of dense tropical rain forest, home to many species including macaque monkeys, barking deer and wild pig. Trekkers can also expect to see more than 70 species of bird. Koh Chang and the islands in this chain were awarded Marine National Park status in 1982 to ensure that this pristine environment is preserved.

Whilst exploring the jungle is a possibility, the less energetic who simply want to relax on the beach won’t be disappointed! The whole of the western side of the island has white sand beaches, which stretch as far as the eye can see.

Whilst exploring the jungle is a possibility, the less energetic who simply want to relax on the beach won’t be disappointed! The whole of the western side of the island has white sand beaches, which stretch as far as the eye can see.

Charmingly Simple

Largely untouched, Koh Chang is an unsophisticated island which remains unaffected by the modern world. The original inhabitants of Koh Chang (Khon Kard) still live traditionally, surviving mainly from an income of fishing, supplemented by growing fruit and rubber. There are still fishing communities on the island where rain or shine the fisherman take the boats out. At night you can see the lights on the horizon from the fishing boats catching squid.

ChaD Po Koh Chang (the Godfather of Koh Chang)

This Chinese style shrine in the north of the island, with two huge elephants guarding the entrance, has been a saviour to the Khon Kard for generations. Throughout the history of the island, when the fishermen found themselves facing a strong monsoon or a poor harvest, they would seek guidance from the Chao Po Koh Chang. Island folklore records amazing stories of answered prayers when people have asked for help at the shrine.

Local History and Traditions

An important part of the island’s history took place at the Naval Battle Ground (Boriwaen Yutthanavee). It was here that the French and Thai navy clashed during the height of the French colonization of Indochina. This culminated in a battle on 17th January 1921, when the Royal Thai Navy’s ship,"Thonburi" was sunk.

A museum has been built on Laem Ngnob Beach, on the mainland, with an exhibition of Koh Chang’s naval history on display. On top of the building is a statue of Krom Luang Chumpon Khet Udomsak, a key figure in the battle, with his face turned to look at Koh Chang. Every year, the people of Trat province hold memorial services from the 17th to 21 st of January, floating garlands in the sea, to honour those who perished. The actual battle was near Ao Salak Petch and the wreck is now a popular dive site.

Locations

Klong Son , Whitesands , Klong Prao , Kai Bae , Lonely Beach , Bailan Bay , Salakphet