The Retreat Koh Chang rests within a landscape shaped by extraordinary nature and layered history. Protected as part of Mu Ko Chang National Park, the island is one of Thailand’s most biodiverse—rainforest peaks, mangroves, coral bays, and wildlife that still flourishes. Its natural richness remains intact thanks to low deforestation and generations of island stewardship.
Culturally, Koh Chang—“Elephant Island”—has long been a crossroads. Once home to fishing communities and later a frontier during the French–Thai conflict, it also formed part of ancient trade routes through Trat Province. Today, its temples, villages, and traditions offer a gentle window into its enduring past.
Koh Chang’s landscape was once part of the Chantaburi mountain range, connected to the Sunda Shelf before rising seas transformed it into an island roughly 10,000 years ago. Because it was originally mainland rainforest, Koh Chang now carries an unusually intact ecological character: steep mountains, dense primary forest, and a diversity of tropical flora rarely found in such a concentrated area. Its ecosystem remains both wild and delicately balanced, a natural refuge shaped by time and geology.
A species valued for its sour leaves and tangy fruit, used to season curries and soups or prepared as pickles. Its sharp acidity makes it a distinctive ingredient in eastern Thai cuisine.
A clumping palm with sharp spines along the trunk and leaf bases. Sap may be irritant. Noted for its extremely hard, salt-resistant wood, long used in coastal building and heavy-duty construction.
Fresh latex from the Varnish Tree is highly irritant, though it dries to a black, stable resin. This natural varnish has long been used in Thai craftsmanship, particularly in lacquerware and gilded decorative arts.
Koh Chang’s character is shaped by its diverse communities—fishing families, orchard growers, local artisans, and long-standing Thai households who care for the land and sea. The island’s heritage is also intertwined with the indigenous Chong people, early inhabitants of the Cardamom region and keepers of ancient trade routes. Their traditions, craftsmanship, and ecological insight lend the island its quiet depth and enduring cultural richness.
Koh Chang holds a long and layered history. Once part of an ancient maritime route, the island acted as a gateway to Siam and a passageway for the Chong people transporting spices from the Cardamom Mountains to the coast. Centuries later, it became a strategic frontier during the French–Thai conflict. These historical threads, combined with its long-standing fishing communities and local traditions, create a cultural landscape as rich as its natural one.
Discover Koh Chang one experience at a time. The Retreat Koh Chang offers a tranquil base with thoughtful activities both at the resort and around the island. Explore, unwind, or simply enjoy a relaxed escape.
Koh Chang has pleasant tropical weather all year round, however, it is best to visit during November to February when the ocean is most pristine.
Koh Chang sits in the far east of the Gulf of Thailand, around 180 miles from Bangkok. The island is easily reached with a short flight to Trat Airport, followed by a 30-minute ferry ride. Alternatively, guests can travel by car, with the journey from Bangkok taking around five hours.
Koh Chang forms part of a protected national park, home to one of Thailand’s most intact lowland forests. Its quiet beaches, clear waters, and lush, undisturbed mountains attract both adventurers and leisurely travelers. Activities include scenic hikes, cultural and temple visits, and watersports such as snorkeling and diving.
