Thailand's second largest island after Phuket and the largest island among the 52 islands of Trat - Koh Chang, "Elephant Island", is rich in natural resources, teeming with hills, forests, waterfalls and streams.  The Chang also features beautiful and fine beaches, coral reefs, as well as an abundance of marine life.

Most of the scenic beaches and bays are located on the western side, extending from the north to the south - include Ao Khlong Son, Hat Sai Khao (White Sand Beach), Hat Khlong Phrao and Hat Kai Bae.  And to the east are Ao Sapparot and Ao Salak Khok.  For the best views of coral reefs, visit Ao Khlong Son, near Koh Chang Noi, and around the islands to the south of Koh Chang.

Today, The Elephant Island remains among the more wonderful and relatively untouched islands in Thailand.  

Area: 429 sq. kms

Province: Trat

Country: Thailand

Time Zone: GMT/UTC +7

Telephone Area Code: 039

The Koh Chang Yutthanavi Day

Organized in late January at the Koh Chang Yutthanavi Memorial on Laem Ngop, the Koh Chang Yutthanavi Day is the event set to commemorate the bravery of the Royal Thai Navy's action against the French on January 17, 1941.  You can see the Merit-making and tribute rites as well as attending an exhibition by the Royal Thai Navy.

There are two seasons in the Southeast of Thailand.  A dry period runs from November to April and a wet season from May to October.  From November to March, it's the coolest.  There can be a heavy rain in the wet season, but sunny day are indeed common.  The busiest time for visitors to the region is December to April. 

During the rains, visitors are not allowed to the outer islands such as the islands south of Koh Chang as Koh Kut, Koh Mak, Koh Wai, and Koh Kham, but  a boat trip to Koh Chang can still be made and the boat will sail along the inner coast of Koh Chang because the island's long and large shape provides shelter from sea winds and waves, making it a perfect time to visit for whoever seeking for peace and tranquility.

There is a Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) office in Laem Ngop.  Phone: 039 597 255.  As well, you can obtain information on Koh Chang National Park from the National Parks offices in Laem Ngop, call 039 538 100, or from the office in Koh Chang.

This article is authored and copyrighted by
Royal Exclusive Travel