Mu Ko Chang National Park,Thailand
Mu Ko Chang National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติหมู่เกาะช้าง) is one of Thailand’s largest marine national parks, protecting a chain of islands and surrounding coral-fringed waters in the eastern Gulf of Thailand. The park conserves important coastal and marine ecosystems — coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangroves and tropical rainforest — and supports diverse marine and terrestrial wildlife. It is both an ecological stronghold for regional biodiversity and a major ecotourism destination that supports local fishing communities and sustainable tourism efforts.
Places to visit
- White Sand Beach (popular long sandy beach with beachfront facilities)
- Klong Plu Waterfall (inland waterfall with swimming pools)
- Lonely Beach (backpacker and nightlife area)
- Bang Bao Fishing Village (stilted village and pier with seafood and sunset views)
- Kai Bae and Klong Prao Beaches (family-friendly, calm waters)
- Diving and snorkeling sites around Koh Rang, Koh Wai and offshore reefs
- Viewpoints and jungle trekking trails
Unique Aspects
- Healthy coral reefs and diverse reef fish communities
- Tropical evergreen rainforest with freshwater waterfalls
- Granite rock formations and cliff viewpoints
- Mangrove-lined inlets and seagrass flats
- Night-time plankton displays (bioluminescence can sometimes be seen)
Things to do
- Snorkeling and scuba diving to explore coral gardens and small pinnacles
- Boat island-hopping trips around the Mu Ko Chang archipelago
- Kayaking and paddleboarding in sheltered bays
- Trekking to Klong Plu and other jungle trails with wildlife spotting
- Swimming and beach relaxation at multiple beaches
- Fishing trips and sunset cruises from Bang Bao pier
- Photography, birdwatching and low-impact wildlife viewing
Best Time to Visit
November to April — dry season with calmer seas, lower rainfall and best visibility for snorkeling and diving.
Weather Conditions
Tropical monsoon climate: hot and humid year-round. Typical daytime temperatures range from 25–33°C. Rainy/monsoon season runs roughly May to October with heavier rains and possible rough seas; storms are most frequent around September–October.
Entry Fees & Permits
Park fees are set by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation and may change. Typical guidance: expect a separate park-entry fee for foreigners and a lower rate for Thai nationals, plus additional boat- or diving-site fees. Park offices normally operate during daylight hours; main visitor facilities are available on Koh Chang island. Always check the official national park website or local park office for current fees and opening times before travel.
Accessibility
Nearest airport: Trat (TDX) — short flights from Bangkok (Bangkok Airways) or road transfer to Trat town. Common route: travel to Laem Ngop / Ao Thammachat piers (near Trat) then take a ferry or speedboat to Koh Chang (regular ferries ~30–45 minutes; speedboats faster). From Trat or Bangkok there are also buses, minivans and private transfers to the piers. Once on Koh Chang, local transport includes songthaews (shared trucks), taxis, motorbike rental and tuk-tuks to reach beaches and park trails.
Recommended Duration
3–5 days to enjoy beaches, a diving/snorkeling day trip and inland waterfalls; shorter day trips are possible from Trat or other nearby islands.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Lightweight, breathable clothing; swimwear; reef-safe sunscreen; water shoes or sandals for rocky shorelines; hiking shoes for trails; mosquito repellent; a lightweight rain jacket in the wet season; snorkel set if you prefer not to rent.
Local Food & Souvenirs
Fresh seafood (grilled fish, prawns, squid), Thai curries and local seafood hotpots; tropical fruit and street-food snacks. Souvenirs include locally made handicrafts, woven goods, shell or wood crafts and artisanal sauces or condiments from Trat province. Avoid buying coral or shells taken from protected areas.