Introducing Koh Chang
Thailand's Hidden Secret
Koh Chang has always been a
favourite get-away for Thai people. Lush and mountainous, this quiet
island, full of natural treasures is a jewel just waiting to be
discovered.
Only 360 kilometres from Bangkok, Koh Chang is an
island paradise with pristine forests and rich marine life. The largest of
47 islands off the coast of Trat province, its seeming inaccessibility
means that the island has been largely overlooked by visitors, making it a
true island get- away. However, an excellent road from Bangkok and a short flight
from Bangkok to Trat airport, have meant that the destination is now starting to
get the attention that it deserves.
Mountainous Koh Chang has an undisturbed interior of
dense tropical rain forest, home to many species including macaque
monkeys, barking deer and wild pig. Trekkers can also expect to see more
than 70 species of bird.
Koh Chang and the islands in this chain were awarded Marine
National Park status in 1982 to ensure that this pristine environment is
preserved.
Whilst exploring the jungle is a
possibility, the less energetic who simply want to relax on the beach
won't be disappointed! The whole of the western side of the island has
white sand beaches, which stretch as far as the eye can see.
Charmingly Simple
Largely untouched, Koh Chang is an unsophisticated
island which remains unaffected by the modern world. The original
inhabitants of Koh Chang (Khon Kard) still live traditionally, surviving
mainly from an income of fishing, supplemented by growing fruit and
rubber. There are still fishing communities on the island where rain or
shine the fisherman take the boats out. At night you can see the lights on
the horizon from the fishing boats catching squid.
Chao Po Koh Chang
(the Godfather of Koh Chang)
This Chinese style shrine in the north of the island,
with two huge elephants guarding the entrance, has been a saviour to the
Khon Kard for generations. Throughout the history of the island, when the fishermen found
themselves facing a strong monsoon or a poor harvest, they would seek
guidance from the Chao Po Koh Chang. Island folklore records amazing
stories of answered prayers when people have asked for help at the
shrine.
Local History and Traditions
An important part of the island's
history took place at the Naval Battle Ground (Boriwaen Yutthanavee). It
was here that the French and Thai navy clashed during the height of the
French colonization of Indochina. This culminated in a battle on 17th
January 1921, when the Royal Thai Navy's ship, "Thonburi" was sunk.
A museum has been built on Laem Ngnob Beach, on the
mainland, with an exhibition of Koh Chang's naval history on display. On top of the building is a
statue of Krom Luang Chumpon Khet Udomsak, a key figure in the battle,
with his face turned to look at Koh Chang. Every year, the people of
Trat province hold memorial services from the 17th to 21st of January,
floating garlands in the sea, to honour those who perished. The actual
battle was near Ao Salak Petch and the wreck is now a popular dive
site.
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For travellers to Thailand.
