Koh Chang, Thailand: A Journey to the Tranquility of Elephant Island

Imagine soft sand under your toes, the gentle rustle of jungle leaves, and turquoise water stretching towards the horizon. That's the magic of Koh Chang, one of the best Thailand's island paradises. Often referred to as "Elephant Island," Koh Chang offers tranquility, adventure, and breathtaking natural beauty. From relaxing on secluded beaches to exploring lush jungles and cascading waterfalls, Koh Chang caters to every kind of traveler seeking an unforgettable escape.

Written by Tieu Bao (Local Expert) Updated on 17-05-2024

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Where is the "Elephant" Island Koh Chang?

Koh Chang is located in the eastern part of the Gulf of Thailand and is part of the province of Trat. The distance between Bangkok and the island's pier is about 350 kilometers, and the bus journey takes more than six hours. You can also reach the southwest of Cambodia from this island by boat, which is quite convenient.

Koh Chang is the third largest island in Thailand, after Phuket and Koh Samui. With an area of over 200 square kilometers and surrounded by refreshing blue waters, this island has an incredibly diverse ecosystem. It is mainly covered with beautiful forests, providing a relaxing ecological environment for those looking to closely connect with nature.

In addition to its virgin forests, the beauty of this island also lies in its white sand beaches, natural waterfalls, and imposing mountains. These features allow for a variety of activities such as hiking, diving, and exploring deep forests.

Can you guess why Koh Chang is also called Elephant Island? Besides the natural elephant sanctuaries on the island, the name comes from the unique shape of the island. And yes, on the map it adorably resembles an elephant! The name "Koh Chang" also means "Elephant Island" in Thai, where "Koh" means island and "Chang" elephant. 

While Koh Chang may be less internationally recognized than Phuket or Koh Samui, its status as Thailand's third-largest island and slightly less developed infrastructure lend it a unique, laid-back charm. Here, visitors can revel in the Gulf of Thailand's stunning turquoise waters and explore a wider variety of activities, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for a memorable Thai vacation.

How to get to Koh Chang?

Several options are available to you for visiting this beautiful island:

• Flight to Trat, then transfer to Koh Chang:

The flight from Bangkok to Trat is the fastest way to reach Koh Chang. Once at Trat Airport, a minibus can take you to Koh Chang. This service generally includes the minibus ride to the ferry and the ferry ticket to the island. 

• Bus or minibus to Laem Ngop, then ferry:

You can also opt for a bus from the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) in Bangkok to Laem Ngop. The cost of the trip is about 250 bahts (6-7 dollars). This bus takes you near the pier where ferries depart for Koh Chang. After a journey of 5 to 6 hours, you will take a ferry to the island. The cost of the ferry is often included in the price of the bus or minibus ticket if you opt for a combined ticket. You can use 12goasia to buy tickets.

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• Getting around the island

The songthaews is an excellent way to get around on the spot, offering an immersive experience in Thai culture. However, always ask for the price before boarding. Other transportation options include taxis or renting bicycles, scooters, and more to travel directly to your destination.

Activities and attractions: What to do in Koh Chang?

The most beautiful beaches

Koh Chang is home to four magnificent beaches on its west side, perfect for a relaxing getaway after days of intensive work:

• White Sand Beach: As its name suggests, this beach offers beautiful white sand. It is the most popular beach among tourists, surrounded by high-end resorts and offering many entertainment options.
• Klong Prao Beach: Less crowded than White Sand Beach, Klong Prao Beach is the longest on the island, ideal for long walks. It is dotted with large resorts and is an excellent place for morning or sunset strolls.

• Kai Bae Beach: Located to the south, Kai Bae Beach has white sand at one end and local bungalows at the other. It retains a natural and appealing charm because it is less commercialized. Here is perfect for those seeking a balance between relaxation and nightlife
• Lonely Beach: This beach was once an ideal haven for backpackers, and you can still find a variety of budget accommodations in the form of huts or guesthouses. It retains a casual atmosphere and attracts travelers seeking a more rustic experience.

Diving to see the HTMS Chang wreck

One of the most exciting activities in Koh Chang in recent years is diving to explore the wreck of the HTMS Chang. Known as the longest wreck in Thailand, it measures up to 117 meters long and lies about 30 meters deep underwater. It was also known as USS Lincoln County and was used in the maritime activities of the Royal Thai Navy.

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After 50 years of activity, it was intentionally sunk in 2012 to create an artificial coral reef. Over the past 12 years, the wreck has transformed into a vast coral reef, hosting various marine creatures such as octopuses, groupers, batfish, and many other fascinating species. However, this diving site is recommended only for advanced and experienced divers due to its depth and potentially strong currents. If you have the skills and experience necessary, do not hesitate to seize the opportunity to explore this exceptional diving site.

Visit to the fishing village of Bang Bao

The village of Bang Bao is located in Bang Bao Bay, south of Koh Chang Island. This area is not too overrun by tourists, so you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere to immerse yourself in local life.

The inhabitants once lived off fishing, hence the name of the fishing village of Bang Bao. Today, fishing activities have decreased, giving way to many Thai souvenir shops. Tourists come here mainly to visit the floating market or explore the nearby old lighthouses for photography. You can also experience fishing by settling on colorful boats.

Admiration of Klong Plu Waterfall

Another serene destination on this island is Klong Plu Waterfall. Located on the west side of the island, you can easily access it by informing your driver of your intention to visit. If you travel by private vehicle, you will have to pay about 20 bahts for parking, then 200 bahts per adult and 100 bahts per child for the entrance ticket. It is advisable to check the prices and weather again if you plan to visit. After passing the main entrance, you will have to walk about 600 meters to reach the waterfall.

Forest walk with elephants

Elephants are frequently found in the sparsely populated part of the island, where there are conservation areas for various precious animal species. You can go there to observe and enjoy the landscape with these gentle creatures. If you want to take an elephant ride through the jungle, it may involve a small fee. The elephants in this region are generally well-trained, so don't worry!

Beyond the beaches and the forests

Koh Chang offers a variety of activities for every interest. Learn the art of Muay Thai boxing at a local gym or camp, and immerse yourself in Thai culture with a cooking class. For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, yoga retreats are also available on the island.

What is the best time to go to Koh Chang?

In general, the climate in Koh Chang is quite pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 25 to 28 degrees Celsius throughout the year, accompanied by 7 to 9 hours of sunshine per day. These conditions are ideal for outdoor activities.

From May to October, rainfall is more frequent, and temperatures tend to drop. If you visit the island during this period, it is advisable to bring an umbrella and a raincoat. The best time to visit the island is from November to April, when the weather is sunny and dry, which is perfect for activities such as diving.

What are the local specialties not to be missed?

• Thai Squid - Pla Muk Tod: Rings or tentacles of squid coated in a light batter, fried for a golden crispy texture, accompanied by a spicy sweet or sour sauce.

• Giant Mantis Shrimp Fried with Garlic: Giant mantis shrimp fried with minced garlic and oyster sauce for a perfect umami flavor and crunchiness, often served with rice or fresh vegetables.
• Thai Crab Cakes: Crispy croquettes with a tender heart of crab meat mixed with onions and garlic, served with plum sauce for a delightful contrast.

• Thai Noodle Soup: A variety of Thai noodles with various toppings such as egg, beef balls, duck, pork, or chicken, available in the bustling streets of the island.

What are the nearby destinations to explore from Koh Chang?

If you have already thoroughly explored Koh Chang, you might consider visiting the places we recommend below.

• Koh Mak

Koh Mak is a small island located about 45 minutes by boat south of Koh Chang. It has been ranked among the 10 most beautiful islands in the world by The Guardian magazine. However, the island is not too overrun by tourists and remains very peaceful. You can engage in activities such as kayaking, hiking, and relaxing on the beach.

• Koh Kood - Koh Kut

Further south of Koh Mak, Koh Kood is a larger island but similar to a smaller and quieter version of Koh Chang. Koh Kood is renowned for having the most beautiful and tranquil beaches in Thailand. On this island, you can explore the jungle and discover giant trees, such as the Great Tree Chai and the Makkayuk Tree, over 500 years old and of spiritual significance to the Thai people.

• Cambodia

From Koh Chang, you can also take a boat to the southwest of Cambodia. It takes about 2 hours from Koh Chang's pier to reach the mainland of Cambodia. You can visit the famous island of Koh Rong, known for its beautiful beaches, including First Beach, Kaoh Kong Beach, Kos Kong Krav Third Beach, and Fourth Beach. At night, on this island, turn your gaze towards the shore and witness a wonderful spectacle: the luminescent plankton that illuminates the waters. It is truly a dazzling sight to observe under the cover of darkness.

Our final words

Koh Chang is a breathtaking destination, blessed with a diverse ecosystem. From its picturesque beaches to its dense forests, sanctuaries for rare animal species, enchanting waterfalls, and fascinating marine life, every aspect of this island will amaze you.

So, why wait? Plan your adventure to Koh Chang today and embark on a journey filled with unforgettable experiences. If you need more details about tourist circuits in Thailand or any assistance, do not hesitate to contact us now. We are here to help you fully enjoy your trip.

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