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Koh Si Chang

3.0 /5

Thailand

40 out of 53 Places to visit in Thailand

Weather:

Best Time: December - March Read More

Ideal duration: 1-2 Days

Nearest Airport: U-Tapao Rayong Pattaya International Airport Check Flights

"The sleepy fishing village"

Koh Si Chang Tourism

Ko Si Chang is a district of Chonburi Province, Thailand. It consists of the island of Ko Si Chang and its adjoining islands. It is in the Gulf of Thailand, 12 kilometres off the shore of Si Racha District. Being a fishing village, the beach has a relaxed atmosphere and a slow-paced lifestyle. The place is filled with multiple attractions such as the footprints of Buddha, the royal palace, boating, kayaking and more.

The area of Koh Si Chang island is only 17.3 km². The district consists of a single sub-district known as a tambon, Tha Thewawong. The district is completely covered by the township (thesaban tambon) Ko Si Chang. Tham Phang beach is on the West coast and is a sandy beach with few rocks and it is also the island’s biggest beach. It remains quiet, except on weekends and Thai public holidays. The island is mostly visited by local tourists. Other places of interest include Tham Saowapha caves where sometimes the visitors may find hermits meditating.

Places to Visit

In the interior of the island, between Tham Phang beach and the old town, is Wat Tham Yai Prik Buddhist temple and meditation centre. The stairway to the centre is a major attraction here for it boasts a very ornate design of a serpent flanking it as one moves upwards. From the top, you will have great views of Koh Si Chang island, the surrounding islands, and the Gulf of Thailand. On the top is a very large golden coloured image of the Buddha. The seated image shines over the small town and the sea.

History

The island was originally a minor district under the Mueang Samut Prakan District of Samut Prakan Province. On 1 January 1943, it was reassigned to the Si Racha District of Chonburi Province. On 4 July, 1994 the minor district was upgraded to a full district. Many local attractions are present throughout the city such as Buddha's Footprint and Lookout, King Rama IV Summer Palace and Gardens, San Jao Phaw Khao Yai, and Wat Tham Yai Prik.