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Koh Chang National Park adventures

Koh Chang National Park Adventures

Koh Chang National Park protects diverse tropical rainforest and coastal ecosystems on and around Koh Chang Island, offering abundant opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, wildlife observation, and scenic beach exploration.

160,000 acres
Acres Protected
20 miles
Miles of Trails
Over 200,000
Annual Visitors
1982
Year Established

About Koh Chang National Park

 

Koh Chang National Park encompasses one of Thailand’s largest and most ecologically significant islands, Koh Chang, along with numerous smaller surrounding islets in the Gulf of Thailand. Spanning roughly 650 square kilometers, the park features steep mountains rising from the sea, dense evergreen and tropical rainforests, waterfalls, coral reefs, and sandy beaches. The island’s rugged terrain includes peaks such as Khao Salak Phet, which reaches approximately 744 meters in elevation, offering panoramic views of the surrounding ocean and forest canopy. The park’s waters are rich with marine biodiversity, supporting coral reefs that attract snorkelers and divers. Terrestrial wildlife includes species like macaques, wild boars, and if lucky, various bird species such as hornbills and kingfishers. Koh Chang’s warm, humid climate supports lush vegetation ranging from dense dipterocarp forests to mangrove areas along the coastlines. Established in 1982, the park protects ecosystems threatened by expanding tourism and development, while still accommodating visitors seeking nature-based activities. Popular recreation includes trekking through jungle trails to hidden waterfalls like Klong Plu and Than Mayom, kayaking and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and camping in designated zones. The park’s accessible trails vary from easy beach walks to moderate mountain scrambles. Visitors also enjoy the mix of cultural villages on the island, combining natural beauty with local heritage. Koh Chang National Park is a prized destination for travelers who want to experience tropical island wilderness just a few hours from Bangkok.

Highlights

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Klong Plu Waterfall – the park’s largest and most accessible waterfall

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Coral reefs around Koh Chang for snorkeling and diving

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Steep jungle trails leading to panoramic viewpoints like Khao Salak Phet

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Mangrove forests along the eastern coastline providing unique wildlife habitat

Notable Natural Features

Klong Plu Waterfall

A multi-tiered waterfall accessible by a well-marked 1.2 km trail through tropical forest, popular for swimming in natural pools.

Khao Salak Phet Viewpoint

The highest peak in the park offering panoramic views of the island’s mountains and coastline after a moderate hike.

Marine Coral Reefs

Fringing reefs surrounding Koh Chang support diverse marine life, making it a top snorkeling and diving destination.