Understand

Ko Chang, located near the vibrant city of Ranong in the charming southwest region of Thailand, is a small island oasis waiting to be discovered. Nestled off the captivating Northern Andaman Coast, this hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat unlike any other. While Ko Chang may not boast the pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters of its more renowned counterparts like Phuket and Ko Samui, it possesses a unique allure that sets it apart. Its idyllic dark sandy beaches, teeming with diverse birdlife, and intriguing rock formations create a mesmerizing backdrop. Tranquil resorts, though modest in nature, provide a haven for couples and those seeking solace in the midst of natural splendor. For those who appreciate the charm of a serene and extraordinary destination, Ko Chang is the ideal choice, far removed from the hustle and bustle of more developed tourist spots.

Get in

Ko Chang, a beautiful island in Thailand, can be reached by boat from Ranong's Island Pier. This exciting adventure starts with a thrilling ride on a long-tail taxi-boat, departing daily at 9:00, 11:00, and 14:00 during the high season. As the boatmen ask you which establishment you'd like to be dropped off at, the anticipation builds up. The longtail boat gracefully glides up to the beach, right in front of your chosen destination. Don't forget to get your ticket for only 200 Baht to experience this amazing journey. When it's time to return to Ranong, the same boats usually depart at around 8:00 and 13:00. However, the exact time will depend on where on the island you are being collected. To catch the boat back, you need to pile your luggage on the beach and excitedly wave at it until it acknowledges your presence. For those seeking a faster option, there's also a speedboat service that takes you to a small pier on the opposite side of the island, near the village. Although it might cost a bit more at 450 Baht, this thrilling ride is available year-round. From the pier, you can embark on a one-hour walk across the island, making the journey even more adventurous and memorable. If you want to explore beyond Ko Chang, buses regularly depart from Ranong's bus station to Bangkok, Hat Yai, Chumphon, Phuket (via Khao Lak), and Surat Thani. For a convenient transfer between the bus station and the pier, hop on a songthaew for 50 Baht. If you prefer a shared taxi, it's usually available for 70 Baht, offering you a comfortable ride. For those who prefer to soar through the sky, Nok Air provides flights from Bangkok's Don Muang Airport to Ko Chang twice daily. Prepare for an exhilarating aerial experience!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Pad Thai: Pad Thai is a signature Thai dish consisting of stir-fried rice noodles with a uniquely balanced blend of sweet, sour, salty, and tangy flavors. It typically includes shrimp or chicken (though can be prepared with tofu for a vegetarian version), scrambled eggs, bean sprouts, and is garnished with crushed peanuts, lime wedges, and fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions. The dish is served with a side of som tam (green papaya salad) and mango sticky rice for a complete meal.

Tom Yum Goong: This spicy and aromatic soup is a beloved Thai classic that features a fragrant broth made from stock, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, galangal, lime juice, fish sauce, and chili paste. It's packed with succulent prawns, mushrooms, tomatoes, and other vegetables, with optional additions like snakehead fish or even chicken. The dish is often garnished with fresh cilantro and a sprinkling of pepper.

Mango Sticky Rice: This iconic Thai dessert is a delightful combination of sweet, creamy mango and glutinous rice. The sticky rice is cooked in coconut milk and sugar until it achieves a chewy texture, then served alongside ripe, juicy mango slices. The dish is sometimes garnished with toasted coconut flakes or sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor. It's typically enjoyed during the mango season (May to September) as a sumptuous, refreshing treat.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing