The Best Way to Travel from Bangkok to Koh Chang Island

Traveling from Bangkok to Koh Chang Island is a popular adventure for many tourists. Located in the beautiful Trat Province of Thailand, Koh Chang offers a unique blend of stunning beaches, rich marine life, and cultural experiences. Whether you're looking for a quick trip or an extended stay, there are several ways to get there, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Quickest Route: Ferry and Song Tauw

The quickest way to get from Bangkok to Koh Chang is by a combination of taxi, ferry, and song tauw (Thai flatback 4x4 pick-ups). This method allows for the fastest transit time, but it requires a bit more planning and effort.

Steps: Taxi from your accommodation in Bangkok to the Trat Jetty (about 2 hours drive) Ferry from Trat to Koh Chang (about 2 hours ride) Song tauw to your hotel (20-30 minutes)

Pro Tips:

Check ferry schedules to avoid delays Ensure your hotel can provide a song tauw service or arrange ahead of time Consider using a taxi directly to Trat if you're short on time

Day Trip: Utilizing Multiple Forms of Transport

For those who prefer a leisurely journey with easier navigation and fewer worries, a day trip involving several modes of transport is a great option. This method involves being in no hurry and enjoying the scenic route.

Steps: Taxi from Bangkok to MRT Huay Kwang MRT Huay Kwang to Sukhumvit Station BTS Skytrain from Sukhumvit to Ekkamai BTS Bus from Ekkamai to Trat (around 7 hours) Ferry from Trat to Koh Chang Arrive at your hotel by song tauw

Cost and Tips:

Total cost for 2 people: approx. 1000 baht Arrive at your hotel by 7 PM from a Bangkok departure time of 8 AM Use public transportation as much as possible to save money

Options for Frequent Visitors

For those who frequently travel to Koh Chang, flying into Trat and using a van or bus to your destination is a common and convenient choice. Hotels often offer transportation services to and from the Trat airport.

Steps: Take the airport link train to Suwannaphum Airport Arrange a taxi or bus to Trat (about a 4-6 hour journey) To and from the ferry: book in advance for a smooth ride

Additional Tips:

Book accommodation and transportation in advance Explore Koh Chang’s various tourist sides: RHS for touristy activities, and the end of the island for quieter beaches Check the weather and sea conditions before your trip

Alternative: Fast Boat and Minibus

For those who prefer a faster and potentially more convenient route, it is possible to fly from Bangkok to Trat and take a minibus or fast boat to Koh Chang. While the fast boat is quicker, it is also more expensive.

Steps: Fly from Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang Airport to Trat Take a minibus or fast boat to Koh Chang Hire a song tauw or arrange hotel transportation to your destination

Cost and Tips:

Fast boat: about twice the price of a regular ferry Minibus: around 950 baht for 6.5 hours transit Book in advance to guarantee your seat Check departure times and make alternative plans if necessary

Conclusion

No matter which route you choose, the journey to Koh Chang is sure to be an exciting adventure. Each method has its unique appeal, and the best one for you will depend on your preferences, budget, and travel style. Remember to plan ahead, check your options, and have fun exploring this beautiful island in Thailand.