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The Koh Chang Islands
National Park covers the Chang island and other smaller isles within Trat
territorial waters. All these lovely places have an abundant and thriving
coral reef and underwater marine environment.
Koh Chang the largest among the 52 islands of Trat. Covering an area
of 429 sq. kilometers, it features fine beaches, coral reefs, and plentiful
marine life. It is also rich in natural resources, teeming with hills,
forests, waterfalls and streams, the latter being an important source of
freshwater. Dotting the island are many fruit orchards.
Most of the scenic beaches and bays are located on the western side,
extending from the north to the south. They include Ao Khlong Son , Hat Sai
Khao , Hat Khlong Phrao and Hat Kai Bae . A road cuts through the western
shore almost all the way to Hat Kai Bae. From here, a nature trail through
Ao Bai Lan and Ao Kruat meanders through wet forestland to Ban Bang Bao , a
fishing community located at the foot of the hill in the south.
To the east are Ao Sapparot , where a ferry landing is situated, and Ao
Salak Khok . Along the eastern shoreline is a road that cuts through to Ao
Salak Phet , a community and a boat pier in the south of the island.
However, care should be exercised while driving for the roads on Koh Chang
are unpaved, with steep hills in some sections. The best places for viewing
coral reefs are at Ao Khlong Son , near Koh Chang Noi , and around the
islands to the south of Koh Chang.
On Koh Chang itself are several accessible waterfalls. The Khlong Phlu
waterfall is located 3 kms. from Ao Khlong Phrao and a further 20 minutes
walk from the parking lot. The Khlong Nonsi waterfall is a 4-km. walk from
the park headquarter, while the Khiriphet and Khlong Nung waterfalls are
about 3 kms. from Ban Salakphet.
Koh Chang National Park Occupying an area of 650 sq.kilometers,
the park comprises 47 islets located from Amphur Laem Ngob, Amphur Muang to
Maphur Klong Yai. Natural wonders on each isle await visitors to appreciate.
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