Unknown island near Bangkok - Koh Sichang เกาะสีชัง - great weekend destination

Not to be confused with the much larger and more popular island of ‘Koh Chang’ in Trat province, Koh Si Chang เกาะสีชัง is a little island close to Bangkok that exists mostly unknown to travelers.

This piece of paradise in the Gulf of Thailand only has one beach, which is quite small, and the mountainous terrain makes this an interesting island to explore.

Unlike nearby islands, Koh Si Chang is not a party destination and doesn’t even have any bars in town. With little tourist infrastructure to attract people, the island stays relatively quiet, especially on weekdays. However, despite the laid-back atmosphere, there is plenty to do to keep visitors busy.

Koh Si Chang is primarily a fishing island, and the town is filled with people who make their living from the sea.

Due to the fact that, for the time being, so few foreign travellers visit the island, the majority of residents don’t work in the tourism industry.

As with any Thai island, the main draw on Koh Si Chang is the beach. Haad Tham Phang is the only real beach on the island, and though it’s very small it has everything that you need. Despite its small size, the beach doesn’t feel crowded because there are so few people. The crystal clear water is a stunning blue/green, and at low tide, you can walk out far from shore in water that’s shallow enough to stand. There is a kayak rental kiosk on the beach, and a small shop operated by the Tam Pang Beach Resort.

If you’re interested in learning about Buddhist culture, Koh Si Chang is a great place to do it. In town is the giant Yellow Buddha, also known as Tham Chakrabongse. There are beautiful views from Buddha’s lookout, in addition to the many smaller Buddha statues and even a cave that’s open for exploration. Additionally, well worth the trek out of town and up a mountain is the only copy of Buddha’s footprint in Thailand. (It’s a replica that was brought from India to Thailand by the Royal Prince in 1891.)

The island is the home of a Chinese temple, also known as Saan Chao Pho Khao Yai, which is the Shrine of the Father Spirit of the Great Hill. In more recent history, Koh Si Chang was the prime vacation destination of the fifth king of Thailand, and the Chudhadhuj Palace is open to explore.

With it being a place that is off the tourist track and not a party destination it’s still full of the charm of Thai culture and living on this island. It’s easy to get to and easy to explore by motorcycle. The temples and food are worth a visit for anyone that has time and wants a great place to relax for a day or two. Enjoy the video!

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