Koh Chang Marine National park
In the country's easternmost province of Trat, the Koh Chang Marine National Park comprises 52 islands scattered along the coastline close to the Kampuchean border. Established in 1982, it covers just overs 650 sq. km. and is one of Thailand's least visited national parks. Koh Chang is the second largest island in Thailand, with a footprint covering 240 sq. km.
Blanketed in almost impenetrable virgin rainforest, the hilly interior rises to a peak at Khao Jion Prasat, which climbs to reach 744m as it dominates the centre of the island. Although wildlife is sparse, there are wild boars, hornbills, parrots and sunbirds, all of which can be seen in the forest.
Most of the island's inhabitants still make their living from fishing. Tourism has just started to make its mark, and nowadays many of the once-familier small resorts of bungalows and bamboo huts are being replaced, or joined by, high-end hotels, resorts and spas.
The islands amenities mainly focus around the perimeter, particularly the larger beaches which are all easily accessed by road. Getting around the island is simple as there are plenty of pickup trucks and taxi, as well minibuses travelling to and from Trat airport. There are also tourist amenities and accommodation on the island of Koh Mak.
Diving around Koh Chang
The diving here still has an exciting exploratory feel to it. As it's spread over a large area, the sites are uncrowded Mu Koh Chang Marine National Park has a large selection of healthy fringing reefs, pinnacles and walls, as well as several very enjoyable snorkelling sites. In general, visibility averages around 10m, although it can be in excess of 20m, especially at the sites further south. Marine life is also more prolific in these areas. There plenty of giant clams. The waters also attract many large pelagics, rays and - quite regularly - whale sharks.
how to go koh chang
By bus: Air-conditioned buses leave daily from Bangkok's Eastern Bus Terminal. The journey to Trat town takes around five hours. On arrival in Trat Town passengers transfer to the pier as Laem Ngop. For further information contact Bangkok Eastern Bus Terminal, Tel +66 (0)2 391 4900
By air: Bangkok Airways fly to Trat airport on a daily basis, where taxis can be arranged for the transfer to the island. For further information contact Bangkok Airways, Tel: +66 (0)2 265 5678 or booking online
for further information on Koh Chang, contact Tourism Authority of Thailand, Tel +66 (0)38 427 662.
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