Understand

Ko Sichang, a small island nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, serves as an anchorage for numerous barges that transport their cargo up the Chao Phraya river to Bangkok. While the beaches may not rival those of nearby islands like Ko Samet, there are still plenty of sights to explore on Ko Si Chang. Venture to the remains of a former royal palace, once a summer retreat for King Chulalongkorn, and witness the history left behind. Additionally, the island is home to various religious sites, offering a glimpse into the local culture. Remember to show respect for the traditions and customs by dressing modestly when visiting temples and shrines. Ensure you remove your shoes and cover your shoulders as you enter these sacred places. It is also considered polite to refrain from topless or nude sunbathing or swimming.

Get in

There are multiple ways to reach the stunning island of Ko Si Chang from Bangkok. Whether you prefer an exhilarating bus ride or a scenic boat journey, you'll find options to suit your travel style. If you opt for a bus journey, you can catch a government bus from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) or Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekamai). Buses depart everyday, on the hour, making it convenient for travelers. The journey to Sri Racha, where you can catch a boat to Ko Si Chang, takes approximately 2 hours. When purchasing your ticket at Mo Chit, head to window 54. The fare for a one-way trip is 92/88 baht from Mo Chit/Ekamai, and there are no discounts for return fares. For a more direct route, minibuses from Ekamai to Sriracha run hourly. Although the fare is slightly higher at 130 baht, the shorter travel time makes it a popular choice for travelers seeking convenience. For an unforgettable experience, consider taking a boat to Ko Si Chang from Sri Racha. Upon arrival in Sri Racha, hop on a tuk-tuk for a mere 50 baht to reach the pier. The boats to Ko Si Chang depart hourly (or every two hours in low season) from the pier on Ko Loy. The ferry ride lasts about 40 minutes, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking views of the surroundings. The fare for the ferry ride is 50 baht per person each way. To ensure you have all the necessary information about Ko Si Chang, visit the information counter at the pier. They offer brochures with valuable insights about five important locations on the island, in both Thai and English. Please note that during low season, the information counter may not be open, so it's advisable to plan ahead. When it's time to leave the island, be cautious as the ferry may depart from a different pier than your arrival. To avoid any confusion, ask a local motorbike taxi driver for guidance when you're close to the piers. Their knowledge of the area will ensure a smooth departure, leaving you with unforgettable memories of your time on Ko Si Chang.

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