Things to do in Ko Chang: 10 Best Tourist Attractions
Ko Chang (“Elephant Island”), home to gorgeous white sand beaches, colourful coral reefs, and lush tropical jungles – is one of the biggest islands in the Gulf of Thailand. Ko Chang, or “Elephant Island” is so-named due to the unique shape of the island as seen from above. Elephants are not native to the island, but there are several elephant parks in Ko Chang that you can visit! There are many things to do in Koh Chang – check the Top 10 Tourist Attractions out below!
1. Feed the elephants at Ban Chang Thai
A decision to visit captive elephants in Thailand should not be made lightly – it is common knowledge that elephants used for tourist entertainment often have poor quality of life. This sad truth makes it almost impossible to find a true “elephant sanctuary” that does not offer elephant rides, chain elephants up, or use them to pose with tourists for photos. However, if you are keen to see Asian elephants up close (and minimize the damage of the tourist trade on the lives of elephants), you can simply pay to visit and feed the elephants in one of the parks. Ban Chang Thai is one of the “better” elephants parks in Ko Chang, and you can pay around 100 baht to feed the elephants bananas and see them up close. In general, doing your research will help you to enjoy your time with the elephants without causing additional harm.
2. Enjoy the sunset from Mu Ko Chang National Park
If stunning natural beauty is what you’re after, then look no further than Mu Ko Chang National Park. This slice of paradise is one of the best tourist attractions that Ko Chang has to offer, and the sunsets are to die for. Take in beautiful panoramic views out over the ocean, glimpses of the neighbouring islands, and lovely vistas of mountains and the jungle. Definitely worth a visit at sunset!
3. visit Klong Plu Waterfall
Take a (scenic) hike up to Klong Plu waterfall and enjoy swimming in the pools surrounded by the jungle. There are fish in the water which may nibble at your toes, so be warned! Dress in hiking gear, bring plenty of drinking water, and enjoy a refreshing dip at the end with a great view of the waterfall.
4. Go snorkelling in ko chang!
One of the best things to do when visiting a tropical island is to get up close and personal with the marine life on a snorkelling trip or a scuba diving trip! With warm ocean water, great clarity and visibility, and plenty of beautiful, colourful fish and corals to see, this is definitely high up on the list of best tourist attractions in Koh Chang. Hire some gear from a local snorkelling & scuba rentals, and get ready for a fantastic underwater experience!
5. Party the night away on Lonely Beach, Ko Chang
When it comes to nightlife, Lonely Beach is the place to be in Ko Chang. Hot sun, cold beer, colourful cocktails, and great music await you on a visit to this lively part of the island! The area surrounding the beach is notorious for rowdy party-going crowds, which is heaven for some and a nightmare for others, so consider yourself informed. Lonely Beach has some great cheap bungalow accommodation, cheap drinks, and a good time guaranteed every night!
6. Soak up the sun on Khlong Prao Beach
Ko Chang boasts several beautiful beaches, most of them idyllic stretches of soft, white sand lined by coconut palms. One of the best has to be Khlong Prao Beach – not so crowded, plenty of space to stretch out and lounge around in the sun, great swimming spots, and many restaurants nearby for drinks and snacks. Visit Pilot Bar for a fresh seafood BBQ, or Yen Sabay beach restaurant for a mix of Thai, Western, and BBQ cuisine.
7. Learn about Thai culture and religion at the Wat Salak Phet Temple
This gorgeous, brightly coloured temple makes for a delightful visit on any stay in Ko Chang. Experience the tranquillity and beauty of this little temple whilst soaking up some Thai culture and learning about Buddhism. There is a beautiful mural depicting the “Thai story”, as well as a museum dedicated to the history of the village. After visiting the temple, you can take a walk along the board-walk that goes off into the mangrove forests, to be rewarded with gorgeous ocean views.
8. Go on an INFORMATIVE BICYCLING TOUR OF THE ISLAND
Slow Life Cycling Koh Chang offers the unique experience of exploring the island by bike! Join a group of other keen cyclists lead by a friendly and entertaining guide, and learn about Ko Chang by cycling around and listening to anecdotes and fun facts. You should be moderately fit to join, although you don’t need to be super-fit as the pace is slow and enjoyable!
9. Take a Thai cuisine cooking class!
There is no better place to learn how to cook Thai cuisine than on a beautiful Thai island! Book some lessons at one of the great Thai cuisine cooking schools in Ko Chang (Napalai Thai Cuisine School and Blue Lagoon Cooking School come highly recommended) and learn whole new ways to tantalize your taste-buds.
10. Snorkel, swim, and sunbathe on Ko Rang Beach
Experience a bit of tropical Thai paradise on Ko Rang beach! This beach is famous for its excellent snorkelling sites, as well as beautiful stretches of sand for just lying in the sun and blissing out. Come prepared to stay the whole day!
Related:
Thailand places to visit
Photo by DaKamu187
