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Mu Ko Chang National Park
consisting of 52 isles, Ko Chang
is the most important and biggest island (second only to Phuket).
It is a peaceful and tranquil seaside destination. Most
magnificent beaches are on the island's western coast such as Hat
Khlong Son, Hat Sai Khao, Hat Khlong Phrao, Hat Kai
Bae, and Hat
Bang Bao. There is a big waterfall called Than Mayom , which is only 500 meters from the national park
office.
Other interesting islands are Ko Chang Noi, Ko Mai Si Yai, Ko Rang, Ko
Ngam, and Ko Khum.
Ko Lao Ya is in Ko Chang Group off Ao Salak Phet, It
has white sand beach, very clean and clear water, some beautiful
coral and fish. There are also bungalows on Ko Lao Ya.
Ko Wai Resplendent with tranquil beaches tropical flora and
fantastic corals. It is one of the most beautiful islands in Ko
Chang Group. Bungalows are available.
Ko Mak an island with a village, is located about 4 hrs. by
boat from Laem Ngop.
Ko
Kradat is samll isle about 2 hours by boat from Laem
Ngop. It
is blessed with delightful and beautiful sceneries, ideal for
relaxation and swimming.
Ko Kut is a huge island second to Ko Chang, about 4 hours
by boat from Laem Ngop or Amphoe Khlong Yai. With mountainous
topography, Ko Kut offers scenic views of coconut groves,
para rubber plantations, beautiful beaches, and also Khlong CHao
or Than Sanuk Waterfall where King Rama VI paid a visit in
1911.
How to get to Laem Ngop and Koh Chang
From Bangkok,
take a 5-hour trip from the Eastern Bus Terminal to Trat continue
by a minibus to Laem Ngop, some 17 kilometers from the provincial
city. The minibus fare is Baht 10 each. A tourist center,
restaurants, and guesthouses at Baht 100-300 per night can be
found at Laem Ngop. From the pier at Laem Ngop, there is a daily
boat service to Ko Chang where Mu Ko Chang National Park's office
is located. The boat leaves Laem Ngop at 13.00 hours and arrives
Ko Chang 45 minutes later. The fare is Baht 30 each. Visitors can
also take a boat trip to various places on Ko Chang or other
islands of the group.
Boats for hire
are also available from Laem Ngop to any islands of the gorup. The
cost ranges between Baht 1,500-3,000 a day depending on the
distance. The high season falls on December-March while
between May to October, monsoons pose a threat to boat trips.
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