Sunday, September 29, 2013

Ko Chang Hidden Gem

By Millard Souther


The location of Ko Chang is the eastern part of Thailand. It is close to the Cambodian border. Phuket and Ko Samui are the only islands larger than Ko Chang. It is covered with trees and has a number of mountains as well. The beaches range from sandy to rocky, so pick your resort accordingly.

The island Ko Chang is shaped like an elephant, so it is where it gets its name. Ko is the Thai name for island and Chang is the Thai name for elephant. There are a number of elephants on the island, but they have been introduced by humans.

A drive around the island will most likely yield a variety of animals. They could range for monkeys, deer, elephant, mongoose, and a variety of birds. The island offers a much to see and wildlife is just a small part of the sights to see.

Ko Chang is famous for its waterfalls, tropical forests and free-flowing coral reefs and sea animal life. Along with hotels, resorts, golden beaches and rocky beaches, there are nine tiny hamlets on the island, usually found on the west side. This side of the island is quiet and is a nice drive to get away from the resorts and traveler.

Visitors arrive at the island by ferries from, a small port town just southwest of Trat on the Thai mainland. It is a beautiful ferry ride that last about 20 minutes and you can have a snack or just enjoy the view. After arriving on the island, visitors can travel by taxi or by renting motorbikes. Boarding and departing the ferry is quick and easy.

The waterfalls are an attraction you do not what to miss, on the island. Klong Plu is the most well known of the falls and offers an opportunity to chill, with a pleasant pond for swimming. The most suitable time to go is morning, because it's customarily cooler. It is about a twenty minute walk to the falls. This gives you an opportunity to take-in the animal life and fauna on the way. If you're feeling actually intrepid you can climb the rocks and leap straight into the pool, not suggested though, it was fun.

Some of the things to do and see on Ko Chang include. Cycle tours which are the best way to get some exercise while studying about the local culture. Ship tours to local islands are offered by long-tail boats or speed boats. Elephant treks by arrangement with travel agents found on the island. Underwater diving allows you to explore the totally clear waters round the island, with tons of exotic fishes.

If you take the road around the island, just be aware it is a dead end. It is a beautiful drive and well worth the effort. I would use a great deal of caution because of the steep inclines and bad drivers.

I would be sure to book a room early, because it can get very busy at certain times on Ko Chang. The beauty of the island is one of a kind and I would go back in a heart beat. If you can try and book a resort on the ocean with a nice sandy beach for swimming.




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