วันอาทิตย์ที่ 17 มกราคม พ.ศ. 2553

Festivals


The Ko Chang Naval Battle Day (งานวันวีรกรรมทหารเรือไทยในยุทธนาวีที่เกาะช้าง) is organised in late January at the Ko Chang Naval Battle Monument (Anuson Yutthanawi) at Laem Ngop. The event is to commemorate the bravery of the Royal Thai Navy’s action against the French on January 17-21, 1941. Merit-making and tribute rites are performed and there is exhibition by the Royal Thai Navy.


Trat Independence Day (งานวันตราดรำลึก), on March 23-27, marks the day the province returned to Thai sovereignty after the French occupation. The celebrations are held at the provincial town hall.

trat sights

Wat Buppharam (วัดบุปผาราม) or Wat Plai Khlong (วัดปลายคลอง) It is the province’s oldest temple built around the reign of King Prasat Thong (1648 A.D.). Lately, a temple museum was established and the temple’s landscape has been well tidied, so it has become a local religious centre.


Wat Yotha Nimit (วัดโยธานิมิตร), also known as Wat Bot (วัดโบสถ์), is the only royal temple in Trat. The temple was once used as a place to hold the oath of allegiance ceremony. There is an old ordination hall of Ayutthayan art serving as a Wihan called Wihan Yotha Nimit for storing many antiques.

City Pillar Shrine (ศาลเจ้าพ่อหลักเมือง) It is different from other city pillar shrines because of its form as a Chinese pavilion. Every year on the sixth night of the waxing moon period of the sixth lunar month, there is a celebration called, Phli Mueang Day (วันงานพลีเมือง) or known among the Chinese as Xia Gong Sae Yit (วันเซี่ยกงแซยิด) which means the birthday of the City Pillar God.


Wat Phai Lom (วัดไผ่ล้อม) It used to be a resident of Trat’s Father of Education–Than Chaokhun Phra Wimonmethachan Worayannurak. The temple also houses a Buddhist garden for public meditation and Chedi museum of three much revered monks of Trat.


Residang Kampot (โบราณสถานจวนเรสิดัง กัมปอร์ต) a former residence now used as the Office of Probation, Department of Corrections, still in its original architectural style.


Laem Sok (แหลมศอก) was used as the residence of Kromluang Chomphonkhetudomsak, the father of Thai Royal Navel Army. Fishermen villages are found nrae the area.


Wat Khiri Wihan (วัดคีรีวิหาร) The temple features fine architecture with a blend of modern art. Principal buildings inside the temple’s precincts include a large Phra Ubosot or ordination hall, Phra Chedi, reception pavilion for HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, monk’s residence, preaching hall, and Chinese pavilion enshrining Phra Phuttha Udom Sombun, Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, and Phra Sangkatchai.


Laem Klat (แหลมกลัด): A white sandy beach sticking out into the sea with not too deep water ideal for swimming.


Wat Saphan Hin (วัดสะพานหิน) Although it is unknown when the temple was built, it is assumed to be more than a hundred years old. There is an old Buddhist ordination hall in the water, approximately 1 km. from the temple.

Hat Sai Ngam (หาดทรายงาม) an approximately 200-metre long white sandy beach running parallel to a grove of pine trees.

Hat Sai Ngoen (หาดทรายเงิน) a not-so-wide beach with a pine forest more ideal for relaxing or fishing than swimming.

Hat Muk Kaeo and Hat Sai Kaeo (หาดมุกแก้ว และหาดทรายแก้ว) have a peaceful atmosphere for recreation. Hat Muk Kaeo is a white sandy beach, which lies along from Hat Sai Ngoen to Hat Sai Kaeo, with the shade of pine and coconut trees all along the beach.


Ratchakarun Thai Red Cross Association’s Khao Lan Center (ศูนย์ราชการุณย์ สภากาชาดไทย เขาล้าน) Her Majesty the Queen ordered to establish to help Cambodian refugees. However, the center was closed in 1986 since all the refugees returned to their homeland.


Hat Banchuen (หาดบานชื่น), formerly called Hat Maro (หาดมะโร) This beach has delicate sand grain and clear sea water where it is possible to swim.


Thailand’s Narrowest Area (ส่วนที่แคบที่สุดในประเทศไทย) located at Mu 2 Ban Khot Sai, Tambon Hat Lek, on the Trat– Khlong Yai route between Km. 81–82. The area is only 450 metres wide.


Ban Hat Lek Border Market (ตลาดชายแดนบ้านหาดเล็ก) is a village on the Thai-Cambodian border. When fighting in Cambodia was over in 1986, it used to serve as an intermediate marketplace for grain trading between farmers in Cambodia and traders in Ko Kong.


Namtok Salatdai (น้ำตกสลัดได) is situated 7 kilometres from Km. 25 of Highway No. 3157 (Saen Tung-Bo Rai).


Namtok Khlong Kaeo National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติน้ำตกคลองแก้ว) has an area of approximately 65,525 rai (104,840 square kilometres). Interesting places is Namtok Khlong Kaeo.


Ban Nam Chiao (บ้านน้ำเชี่ยว) It is noted for Ngop Nam Chiao, a native hat to ward off the sun. The hat is woven with local palm leafs from plants grown in mangrove area. It is still widely used today as it is light and comfortable.

Ko Chang Naval Battle Memorial (อนุสรณ์สถานยุทธนาวีเกาะช้าง) at Laem Ngop, commemorates the Franco-Thai naval engagement on January 17-21, 1941. There are also the Statue of Prince Chumphon, father of the Thai navy, and a warship-shaped museum displaying old equipment and armament of the fleet with exhibits on the Ko Chang naval battle.

Ko Pui (เกาะปุย) an islet not too far from the shore that makes an ideal attraction for relaxation in shady surroundings. It is conveniently accessible in all seasons and home to coconut groves, herbs and Dinso Phong (white clay body-powder) mentioned at the time of King Rama V’s visit to Trat.


Ao Tan Khu (อ่าวตาลคู่) is a bay with fine sandy beach popular with local people during holidays.

Mu Ko Chang (หมู่เกาะช้าง) located in the middle of the sea and, thus, having an averagely pleasant climate ideal for vacation. Ko Chang is influenced by monsoons from both the northeast and southwest winds, which bar boat access to the island during May–October.


Mu Ko Chang National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติหมู่เกาะช้าง), with an area of 650 square kilometres, covers more than 52 islands. The most famous is Ko Chang. In addition, there are other islands with remaining wonderful nature.


Ko Chang (เกาะช้าง) previously an unsettled island, is now important as a harbour for ships to escape from the monsoon, and dietary or fresh water resources. Ko Chang is the second largest island of the country. The topography contains high mountains and complex stone cliffs.

Ko Chang Naval Battle Site (บริเวณยุทธนาวีเกาะช้าง) The Trat waters near Ao Salak Phet and Ao Salak Khok also added another page in the Thai history of fighting for the country’s sovereignty. 17 January has become a memorial day for the heroic fighting, of which a service is held annually at Ko Chang Naval Battle Memorial in Amphoe Laem Ngop.


Ko Ngam was the first point of confrontation in the Franco–Siamese War in which the French army sent aircraft on a reconnaissance and bombing of the island, whereas Ko Wai is the point where French patrol aircraft crashed after being fired by HTMS Songkhla and HTMS Chon Buri.


Ko Mai Si is a small private island where there is beautiful nature, sandy beaches and clear water –home to diversified marine life and ideal for diving. Various plant species grow wild on the island, which used to be a confrontation site between the Lamotte Piquet and HTMS Thon Buri that was in commission at Ko Lim.


Ao Khlong Son (อ่าวคลองสน): A bay in the northernmost west of the island where Ban Khlong Son Community is located, with a beautiful coral reef.


Namtok Khlong Nonsi (น้ำตกคลองนนทรี): A small waterfall to the northeast of the island accessible by a 3-km. pathway from Ban Dan Mai or about 4 km. from the national park’s headquarters.


Namtok Than Mayom (น้ำตกธารมะยม) a medium 4-tiered waterfall located some 500 metres through a garden behind the national park’s headquarters, with the 3rd tier being the most beautiful.


Namtok Khlong Phlu (น้ำตกคลองพลู): A large and most breathtaking waterfall on Ko Chang with water cascading down 3 tiers of the cliff to a basin, with an entrance located 3 km. from Ao Khlong Phrao.


Hat Sai Yao (หาดทรายยาว) located near Ao Salak Phet to the south of the island with a long stretch of sandy beach.


Monkey Training Centre (โรงเรียนฝึกลิง) located at Hat Sai Khao, the centre provides training as well as shows of monkey’s abilities, especially in collecting coconuts.


Ban Salak Phet (บ้านสลักเพชร) a large and the oldest community on Ko Chang located in the southern part. The villagers’ main occupation is coastal fishery in an advantageous area sheltered from winds and storms by islands and mountains. There is an old temple in front of the village known as Wat Salak Phet.


Namtok Khiri Phet (น้ำตกคีรีเพชร) a single-storeyed waterfall located 3 km. from Ban Salak Phet Community through a rubber plantation.


Namtok Khlong Nueng (น้ำตกคลองหนึ่ง) a small waterfall near Namtok Khiri Phet – Ban Rong Than, located some 2 km. deeper inside the island from the Salak Phet Community with another 480-metre walk. The waterfall cascades down from a narrow gorge for 120 metres.


Bang Bao Fishery Village (หมู่บ้านประมงบางเบ้า) a village of houses on stilts built into the sea with bridges connecting them together. Most of the villagers are descendants of the Salak Phet villagers. The area is an ideal berthing area for fishing boats, with mountains and islands providing a good shelter from wind and storms in the monsoon season.


Ban Rong Than (บ้านโรงถ่าน) a small community located near Salak Phet in the southern part of the island. It is a scenic viewpoint where the mist-covered peak of Khao Salak Phet in the north and Ko Maphrao Nai and mountains near Laem Yai in the east are visible.


Ao Bai Lan (อ่าวใบลาน) located next to Hat Kai Bae.


Hat Kai Bae (หาดไก่แบ้) a sloping and long stretch of beach connecting with Hat Khlong Phrao.


Ko Chang Noi and Laem Chang Noi (เกาะช้างน้อยและแหลมช้างน้อย) located in the north of Ko Chang and housing coral reefs between Laem Chang Noi and Ko Chang Noi.


Ko Man Nok–Ko Man Nai (เกาะมันนอก–เกาะมันใน) small islands opposite Hat Kai Bae with surrounding beaches at low tides and golden seaweeds in the nearby shallows.


Ko Khlum (เกาะคลุ้ม) an island ideal for fishing with a peculiar scenery of rocky areas.


Ko Lao Ya (เกาะเหลายา) a group of islands located to the south of Ko Chang comprising Ko Lao Ya Nai, Ko Lao Ya Klang and Ko Lao Ya Nok.


Ko Wai (เกาะหวาย) The bay to the north of the island houses coral reefs in a perfect condition whereas the western area of Ao Yai provides home to mostly hard corals and scaly giant clams.


Ko Phrao Nok or Ko Sai Khao (เกาะพร้าวนอก หรือ เกาะทรายขาว) located to the south facing Ao Salak Phet. The island has white sandy beaches and shady coconut grove.


Ko Ngam (เกาะง่าม) a twin island connected by a large sand bar located to the southeast of Ko Chang, with an inlet surrounded by the hilly topography where the sea is calm and scenic.


Ko Kut (เกาะกูด) Thailand’s easternmost island in Trat waters, the province’s second largest island next to Ko Chang and the country’s fourth largest island. The topography is generally still in its natural condition, with mountains and ridges forming the headwater of many streams from which originate various waterfalls. The most renowned waterfall on Ko Kut is Namtok Wang Chao.


Ko Mak (เกาะหมาก) The topography is mostly coastal plain with a thicket of coconut groves and rubber plantations. Scenic bays and sandy beaches embracing crystal clear water are all around the island such as Ao Ta Nit, Ao Prong, Ao Phat and Ao Daeng


Ko Kradat (เกาะกระดาษ) It has a flat paper-like topography with Alocasia plants–‘Kradat’ in Thai–growing wild in abundance. The island has a long and white sandy beach with beautiful coral reefs.


Mu Ko Rayang (หมู่เกาะระยั้ง) a group of islands comprising Ko Rayang Nai and Ko Rayang Nok. Ko Rayang Nok is peaceful with white sandy beaches and crystal clear water.


Mu Ko Kra (หมู่เกาะกระ) a group of islets to the west of Ko Mak, a swallow bird’s nest concession area and a diving spot with beautiful corals.


Mu Ko Rang (หมู่เกาะรัง) a group of islets located approximately 6 km. to the west of Ko Mak. There is not sufficient plains area for human habitation on Ko Rang, which is surrounded by islands of various sizes.

khlong yai my home

Khlong Yai (Thai: คลองใหญ่) is a district (Amphoe) of Trat Province, eastern Thailand. A border crossing into Cambodia is located at Hat Lek, known as the Cham Yeam crossing in Koh Kong Province of Cambodia. The nearest Cambodian city is Koh Kong.
history

In the past the area was a part of Patchanta Khiri Khet province (now Koh Kong). Unlike the other parts of Koh Kong, this area became part of Siam (Thailand) by the French-Siamese contract in the reign of King Chulalongkorn, in which Siam had to cede the areas east of the Mekong river and provinces of western Cambodia like Battambang, Siam Nakhon and Sisophon.

It was created as a minor district in 1912 and officially upgraded to a full district in 1959.

sights

The Thai Red Cross Association's Khao Lan Center (ศูนย์สภากาชาดไทยเขาล้าน) is set on Trat-Klong Yai Road, Tambon Mai Rut, in the same area as the former Cambodian refugees camp. The camp was closed in 1986 when the refugees moved back to Cambodia. The center was established on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty the Queen Sirikit in 1992, commemorative to Queen Sirikit royal mercy to set the camp for Cambodian who suffered from their Civil War. Buildings in the area are the Ratchakarun Hall (ศาลาราชการุณย์) and the museum in which the exhibition featuring the history, lifestyle and household items of Cambodian refugees.


ko kood or ko kut

Koh Kood Island, Trat, Thailand - The island is rather flat compared to Ko Chang with the highest mountain on the island, Khao Phaenth, measuring 315 metres. It has a good number of wonderful beaches with crystal clear water (Ta Pho Beach, Khlong Chao Beach, Thakian Beach, Phrao Beach etc.). Inland, the island is very wild with a lot of coconut and rubber tree plantations located in the plains.Most of the island inhabitants live off of the cultivation of coconut, rubber production or fishing. But meanwhile the expanding tourism industry gives more and more work to the less than 2,000 residents.
The best time for a visit to Koh Kood is between beginning of November and the end of February. At this time it is relatively cool, dry and mostly sunny. But until the end of May, when it is hotter than the cool season, a visit is still convenient. Even during monsoon season, Koh Kood is worth visiting for it doesnt rain every day and all day long. Activities on Koh Kood - Besides lazing on the beach, snorkeling at the beautiful coral reefs or just watching stars at night; visitors can also visit nearby islands for snorkeling and other activities.

history

Originally the area of the district was part of the subdistrict (tambon) Ko Chang, Laem Ngop district. In 1952 the subdistrict Ko Mak was established covering the whole island, at that time subdivided into 4 villages (muban). In 1980 three villages of Ko Mak were split off to create the subdistrict Ko Kut. On April 1 1990 the government upgraded tambon Ko Kut together withtambon Ko Mak to a minor district (King Amphoe).

Following a decision of the Thai government on May 15 2007, all of the 81 minor districts were to be upgraded to full districts.With the publishing in the Royal Gazette on August 24 the upgrade became official.

As local government entities the two Tambon administrative organizations (TAO) were created in 2003 and 2004 respectively. The Tambon Council Ko Kut was upgraded to a TAO in 2003,and for Ko Mak in 2004.

geography

It is a major island ringed by sleepy seaside villages and coconut plantation. It is about one hour from the mainland by speedboat.

Kut Island has limited infrastructure and hence is not as popular like nearby Ko Chang. Several small resorts on the islands cater to mostly Thai tourists who prefer a quiet and family-friendly atmosphere. The island has great beaches and is a great spot to get away from the "farang crowd".

Ko Kut
This island is the farthest island from the coast of Trat. Its size ranks it as the fourth largest island in Thailand or the second largest island next to Ko Chang in Trat. The island, which is 25 kilometers long and 12 kilometers wide covers an area of approximately 105 square kilometers or 65,625 rai. Its natural features include mountains and plains where many streams originate and become waterfalls. One famous waterfall is Nam Tok Khlong Chao, which flows throughout the year and is an ideal place for swimming as it is comprised of 3 tiers; of which the upper two tiers are running streams and the lower one is a large pond. In 1911, King Rama VI paid a royal visit to this waterfall and named it ’Nam Tok Anam Kok’ to commemorate Ong Chiang Su. In addition; there are beaches with crystal-clear seas which are popular among visitors such as Taphao Beach, Khlong Chao Beach, Khlong Hin Beach, Phrao Beach, etc. Accommodations with a private atmosphere is available for visitors at the inner sea of Ko Kut, and the other two islands, Ko Rat and Ko Mai Si, opposite to Ko Kut.

Package tours including accommodation (on Ko Kut, Ko Lao Ya and Ko Ngam) as well as return fares are usually offered. Those wishing to charter a boat can contact the Laem Ngop landing or make advance inquiries at the Ko Chang Centre Point at Tel: (039) 538055, 538059).

Getting to Ko Kut

There are boats from Ko Chang to Ko Kut three times a week (Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday). Please ask for the departure times of the ferries from Laem-Ngop Pier to Ko Kut at the pier.

Infrastructure on Ko Kut

The island is rather flat compared to Ko Chang with the highest mountain on the island, Khao Phaenth, measuring 315 metres. It has a good number of wonderful beaches with crystal clear water (Ta Pho Beach, Khlong Chao Beach, Thakian Beach, Phrao Beach etc.). Inland, the island is very wild with a lot of coconut and rubber tree plantations located in the plains.

Population on Ko Kut

Most of the island inhabitants live off of the cultivation of coconut, rubber production or fishing. But meanwhile the expanding tourism industry gives more and more work to the less than 2,000 residents.

The best time to go to Ko Kut

The best time for a visit to Ko Kut is between beginning of November and the end of February. At this time it is relatively cool, dry and mostly sunny. But until the end of May, when it is hotter than the cool season, a visit is still convenient. Even during monsoon season, Ko Kut is worth visiting for it doesnt rain every day and all day long.

Activities on Ko Kut

Besides lazing on the beach, snorkeling at the beautiful coral reefs or just watching stars at night; visitors can also visit nearby islands for snorkeling and other activities.

Some of the more expensive Resorts on Ko Kut offer Banana-, Donut-boat-trips and water-skiing. In addition visitors can do drop line fishing at the beaches and bays or rent a boat over night (about 3000 Baht) in order to try night time fishing.

Sights on Ko Kut

The village Aow Salad (Baan Aow Salad) in the Salad Bay (Aow Salad) is located in the northeast part of the island. It is the biggest fishing village on Ko Kut fresh seafood can be bought every day.

The marvelous waterfall Nam Tok Khlong Chao or Than Sanuk Waterfall, which was visited by King Rama VI in 1911, is one of the most beautiful spots to be found on Ko Kut. It consists of 3 tiers: the upper two are running streams and the lower one is a large pond - an ideal place for swimming.

Ko Wai, this small paradise is situated approximately 6 kilometers south of the southernmost end of Ko Chang The island is about 3 kilometers long, in the widest point 1.5 kilometers and has some very beautiful sandy beaches.

Ko Wai is reached daily by a boat starting at 3.00 pm from the Laem-Ngop-Pier. The travel time is 2.5 hours and costs 130 Baht.

Koh Kood is the last Island in the Trat Sea Waters. Covering 105 square kilometers, it is the second biggest island of the province of Trat, after Koh Chang.Due to past political problems in Cambodia, it was unaccessible for many years but it is now popular with those who seek an untouched paradise. What draws visitors, mostly locals, to come to this island is its completely pristine nature, both inland and underwater. Koh Kood, Andaman of Eastern SeaSmall mountains and ridged plains have given rise to many inland brooks, streams and waterfalls. Klong Chao Waterfall in particular is particularly spectacular. With three tiers, it brims with glittering water all year round, superb for soaking and swimming. It was once visited by King Mongkut (King Rama VI) and was given the royal name ‘Anamkok Waterfall’ in commemoration to Ong Chiang Lue, a Vietnamese king taking refuge in the Kingdom of Thailand during the reign of King Rama I in the late 18th century.

The original inhabitants were Thais and Cambodians who fled to the Thai territory when the French took over the city of Padjantakiri in 1904. The oldest community is Klong Mad Village whose residents still make a living out of planting rubber trees, coconut trees and basic fisheries. But the biggest community here is Ao Yai Village, a harbor where many fishing boats seek refuge during rough weather.

Bays dot the perimeter of the island with accommodation on Ao Prao, Ao Tapao, Ao Yai Kerd, Ao Klong Chao, Ao Klong Ta Din, Ao Klong Yai Kee, Ao Klong Hin, Ao Klong Hin, and Ao Ngam Kho. The resorts and hotels on the beaches listed above also offer tours. There is no commercial accommodation on Ao Prao, but it’s possible to camp on the beach or to take shelter at a nearby temple.Before heading out you may want to pack a few essentials such as imperishable instant foods, sunhat, sandals, sun block, insect repellent lotion and balm, seasickness pills and a basic first aid kit. And don’t forget to bring enough money – there are no banks on the island.

Koh Kut, Ko Kood, Trat, Thailand
What draws visitors, mostly locals, to come to this island is its completely pristine nature, both inland and underwater. Small mountains and ridged plains have given rise to many inland brooks, streams and waterfalls. Klong Chao Waterfall in particular is particularly spectacular. With three tiers, it brims with glittering water all year round, superb for soaking and swimming. It was once visited by King Mongkut (King Rama VI) and was given the royal name ‘Anamkok Waterfall’ in commemoration to Ong Chiang Lue, a Vietnamese king taking refuge in the Kingdom of Thailand during the reign of King Rama I in the late 18th century.

Koh Kood Island , Trat, Thailand
The original inhabitants were Thais and Cambodians who fled to the Thai territory when the French took over the city of Padjantakiri in 1904. The oldest community is Klong Mad Village whose residents still make a living out of planting rubber trees, coconut trees and basic fisheries. But the biggest community here is Ao Yai Village, a harbor where many fishing boats seek refuge during rough weather.


Ko chang

o Chang (Thai: เกาะช้าง), also Koh Chang is the second largest island of Thailand (largest island in the Ko Chang Marine Park archipelago), located on the Thai east coast 310 km away from Bangkok near the border to Cambodia in the Gulf of Thailand. The name means Elephant Island. Ko Chang was named for the elephant shape of its headland, although elephants are not indigenous to the island. At present, there are 8 villages in total. It is a mountainous island and Khao Salak Phet is the highest peak of all at 744 metres. Visitors are also met with several waterfalls, splendid reefs and rainforests. The island has an area of approximately 217 square kilometers. Ko Chang was previously an unsettled island but it is now important as a harbour for ships to escape from the monsoon, and dietary or fresh water resources, especially at Ao Salak Phet or Ao Salat which is well known to pirates, Hai Lam Chinese and Vietnamese.

The island is part of the Mu Ko Chang Marine National Park. During World War II, when Thailand was occupied by the Japanese, Ko Chang was the scene of a naval battle between the reluctantRoyal Thai Navy and a Vichy France squadron, in which the Thais were decisively beaten.

Until the mid-1980s the infrastructure on the island was undeveloped, but tourism has increased significantly since then. Around the year 2000, malaria was eradicated, the area became anational park (and began charging entry fees). The island now receives 655,000 visitors annually, about two thirds of them Thai. Ko Chang is one of the few places with virgin forest, but the mad rush to cash in on tourism has had a heavy toll on its virgin forests. Land prices have skyrocketed, there are also beautiful if not high end resorts now popping up all over the island.

The island is about 30 km long and almost 14 km wide, totaling 217 km². The national marine park covers of 650 km² of which 70 % is offshore. The interior of the island is mountainous, covered by tropical rain forest. The highest elevation measuring 743m is Khao Salak Phet. There are plenty of sandy beaches on the island, dotted with hotels and resorts.

The west coast settlements of Hat Sai Khao, Hat Kai Mook and Hat Ta Nam attract most of the tourists. The village of Laem Bang Bao on the south coast is also a favored destination. There is a single road linking the west coast. The remaining roads on the west coast have a highgradient, while the topography of the east coast prohibits roads. Most buildings are wooden stilt houses. The island is mostly reached by a ferry departing from Laem Ngop near Trat.

History

Prior to World War II, Ko Chang was little known by anyone. During this period, the few families there made a living growing coconuts and fruit on the mainland. In January 1941, during the Japanese occupation, the Thai Navy fought the French in a battle in the waters to the south-east of Ko Chang. It was the French who were the victors after the Thai naval ship was sunk.

Nothing else happened to Ko Chang until the first backpacker foreigners started arriving on the back of local fishing boats in the mid-1970s. In 1982, Ko Chang along with surrounding area became part of the protected Mu Chang Marine. Only very recently, in less than ten years, Ko Chang has turned itself in to a major tourist destination in Thailand, both for foreigners and local Thais.

This sudden tourism boom however, has been thwart with controversy concerning land encroachment etcetera.

transportation

  1. air
  2. Ko Chang has no airport. The nearest airport is in Amphoe Muang Trat on the mainland. Koh Chang Air Taxi however, does offer scenic seaplane service.
  3. Roads

    There are only two main roads on Ko Chang, one on the east coast and one on the west coast. Both roads start at Ao Sapparot in the north near the ferry piers. The two main roads run the entirety of the coastlines. There are also shorter roads which branch out to Ploytalay Resort and Keereephet, Klong Neung and Klong Phu Waterfalls.

    Ferry Boat

    At Laem Ngob in Trat Town opposite Ko Chang there are 3 piers offering ferry service to Ko Chang.

    • Located at Ao Thammachat, the ferries depart daily at Ao Sapraros pier.
    • Located at Center Point Pier, ferries are hourly to Dan Kao Pier.
    • Laem Ngob Pier has less frequent ferries.

    Motorbike

    These can be either hired or taxied out. The island is full of both motorbike rental places and motorbike-taxi drivers.

    Songthaew (public passenger pick-up vehicle)

    These run up and down the two main roads and can either be used as public transport or privately hired.

    Long-tail Boat

    Tourists enjoy hiring long-tail boats to take them to nearby islands.

    Ko Chang has three seasons, they are:

    • Cool season (Nov-Feb)
    • Hot season (March-May)
    • Rainy season ( June-Oct

    Due to its location and being an island, Ko Chang does get more than its fair share of rain, 4,000 mm. per year.

    Sights

    In 1982 the island together with 51 more surrounding small islands was protected as the Mu Ko Chang Marine National Park. About 85% of the island is part of the national park, mostly the rain forest in the interior of the island. Nearby coral reefs are also contained within the National Park. Notable animals in the park include the stump-tailed Macaque, the small Indian Civet, the Javan Mongoose, and 61 resident bird species. The Koh Chang Wart Frog (Limnonectes kohchangae) was originally thought to be an endemic species, but has now been found on the mainland as well.

    For any accommodation at [Koh Chang].

    Klong Plu (น้ำตกคลองพลู) - the most popular, and the only one on the west side of the island. Namtok Khlong Phlu is a large and most breathtaking waterfall on Ko Chang with water cascading down 3 tiers of the cliff to a basin, with an entrance located 3 km. from Ao Khlong Phrao.

    • Klong Nonsi - on the east side of the island
    • Klong Nueng - said to be the most breathtaking
    • Khiri Petch - medium sized, about 3 kilometers from Salak Petch village
    • Kongoi - 5 waterfalls near Bangbao
    • The Thanmayom - near Thanmayom pier

    Ban Salak Phet (บ้านสลักเพชร) the largest and oldest community on Ko Chang located in the southern part. The villagers’ main occupation is coastal fishery in an advantageous area sheltered from winds and storms by islands and mountains. There is an old temple in front of the village known as Wat Salak Phet built in the reign of King Rama V on his royal visit to the island. Ao Salak Phet is the largest bay on the island.

    Bang Bao Fishery Village at Bang Bao Beach(หมู่บ้านประมงบางเบ้า) a village of houses on stilts built into the sea with bridges connecting them together. The villagers still live a simple way of life earning their living from coastal fishery. In the vicinity there is an abundance of cuttlefish and corals.

    Ao Bai Lan (อ่าวใบลาน) located next to Hat Kai Bae and accessible by a pathway across the mountain has a scenic view of mountains along the way.

    Hat Kai Bae (หาดไก่แบ้) a sloping and long stretch of beach connecting with Hat Khlong Phrao, suitable for swimming.

    Hat Khlong Phrao- Laem Chaiyachet (หาดคลองพร้าว-แหลมไชยเชษฐ์) a long stretch of sloping beach connecting with Hat Kai Bae where swimming is possible. The northernmost end of Ao Khlong Phrao connects with Laem Chaiyachet with a scenic rocky cape but swimming is not possible. Laem Chaichet nestling between White Sand and Klong Prao beaches is a popular place to see the sunset and admire Klong Prao’s natural surroundings. Activities to do here include: snorkeling, kayaking and fishing.

    White Sand Beach is one of the island’s longest beaches that attracts a lot of visitors. At the back or the beach are orchards of coconut trees and forests.

    Activities

    Hiking

    Hiking on Ko Chang is popular due to the natural pristine surroundings including waterfalls, especially the routes Klong Son to Kai Bae and Kai Bae to Bang Bao.

    Mountain Biking

    Mountain bikes are available to rent at Hat Sai Khao and Hat Kaibae.

    Elephant trekking at Ban Kwan.

    Elephant Trekking

    Elephant Trekking is possible at the Ban Kwan Chang Elephant Camp at Klong Son, it is supported by the Asian Elephant Foundation to provide a natural environment for elephants and their mahouts.

    Canoeing

    Canoeing through the mangrove forests is most popular.

    Diving & Snorkeling

    The area may not have the best diving site in Thailand but it is still worth it. There are quite a lot of courses around of various different skills. For e.g.: Hin Kuak Maa, Hin Luk Bath, Hin Rap South, Hin Run Tek, Ship Wreck.

    Spa

    Ko Chang has plenty of spas comprising of various forms of massage, aromatherapy, herbal scrub, and reflexology. Spa service is found at many of the top resorts and hotels.

    Local Culture

    Thai Buddhism is a large part of the people’s lives on Ko Chang and so there are few temples scattered around the island.


    Lifestyle

    Many of the island’s villagers still, until this day, adhere to the traditional Siamese way of life. Visitors are able to soak up the ambience of traditional rural coastal life at a variety of locations.

    Baan Bang Bao or Bang Bao Fishery Village is unique in that every dwelling was built in the sea. There are small bridges connecting each one. Some of the abodes have been transformed into guesthouses and seafood restaurants.

    Baan Khlong Son or Khlong Son Village has rubber plantations, orchards and traditional fishery. For tourists there are fishing tours, squid fishing or snorkeling to view schools of fishes on Koh Mapring and Koh Chang Noi nearby.

    Baan Dan Kao or Dan Kao Village has indigenous folk of Koh Chang Noi who rear the fish in floating baskets especially “Yamsawat Fish” or Blue Spotted Sea Bass which are popular among the locals who prefer to eat live fish.

    Baan Dan Mai(Dan Mai Village) and Baan Khlong Non Si (Khlong Non Si Village) have orchards, coconut plantations and traditional fishery. The lychee trees grown here are the traditional breed called “Silaman 200 years”. This breed of lychee tree has the large size and it is believed to be found on Koh Chang Noi only. Baan Salak Petch or Salak Petch villagers mainly work about coastal fishery. Most houses were built in the sea like those in Bang Bao Village but it is a bigger community. Every house is connected with the wood bridge. Baan Rong Than or Rong Than Village is an area which used to be the sites, owned by most villagers, for charcoal making from mangrove wood.

    Baan Jek Bae or Jek Bae villagers work about traditional fishery, rubber plantation and coconut plantation.

    Events & Festivals

    The Koh Chang Yutthanavi Day

    The Ko Chang Yutthanavi Day is organized in late January at the Ko Chang Yutthanavi Memorial on Laem Ngop. The event commemorates the Royal Thai Navy’s fight against the French on January 17, 1941. There is an exhibition by the Royal Thai Navy and merit-making and tribute rites are performed

    Koh Chang Island consists of the following villages:

    1. Salakpetch
    2. Salakkork
    3. Jekbare
    4. Baan Danmai
    5. Klong Son
    6. Klong Praw
    7. Klong Nonsri

วันศุกร์ที่ 15 มกราคม พ.ศ. 2553

trat prominent

If you ask me what first thing that I think with trat . I will answer beaches . Trat has many beaches there . I think it beautiful more than beaches at cha - am . The second is island,
trat has 52 island . The most famous is ko chang .
General Information
Trat is Thailand's eastern-most province, located about 315 kilometers from Bangkok. This small province borders on Cambodia with the Khao Banthat mountain range forming a natural demarcation. With 52 large and small offshore islands, long white sandy beaches and unspoiled coral reefs, Trat offers delightful scenery and a tranquil hideout for nature-lovers. The province also serves as a major fruit-growing and fishing area.

The city of Trat is a starting point for Ko Chang island group or forays into outlying gem and Cambodian markets. Those enthralled by shopping will be delighted as Trat has more markets for its size than almost any other town in Thailand due to Cambodian coastal trade.

Like Chanthaburi, Trat is a very important ruby-mining province, with the most famous gem market located in Bo Rai District, some 50 kilometers north of the Cambodian border.

With an area of 2,819 square kilometers, the province is administratively divided into the districts of Meuang, Khao Saming, Laem Ngop, Khlong Yai and Bo Rai, and the sub-districts of Ko Chang and Ko Kut.

The weather in and around Trat is very comfortable with warm temperatures throughout the year. The region is influenced by the northeastern and southwestern winds, which sometimes limit sea transport to a group of islands particularly from May to October when the southwest monsoon blows. During this period the western coast can be wet and stormy and occasionally unsafe for ferries and smaller boats to lift anchor. However, visitors can still visit the islands via the normally more popular routes, most of which are to the northeast of Ko Chang, anyway.