Ko Sichang is a district (Amphoe) in Chonburi Province, Thailand, on the Gulf of Thailand, 12 km from the coast of the SI Racha District.
About Koh Sichang
Koh Si Chang is a small scenic island in the Gulf of Thailand. With its relaxed vibe and slow pace of life, the island is an oasis of calm close to the hustle and bustle of Pattaya and Bangkok. Attractions include clear water beaches, beautiful sunsets, and outdoor activities such as snorkeling, biking, and kayaking. The restaurants on the island always have a constant supply of fresh seafood, such as crab, squid, and shrimp. Koh Si Chang’s only town on the northeastern tip of the island is lined with narrow streets and tiny colorful houses. Since private cars are not allowed on the island, traffic is very light.
Do and See on Koh si chang:
Although it is a small island, Koh Si Chiang offers an array of historical sites, temples, beaches, and natural beauty. Distances are small and almost no traffic, making exploring the island a relaxing affair.
Beaches:
Koh Si Chang is home to several beaches with generally clear water. A sandy beach with some rocks, Tham Phang Beach on the west coast is the largest beach on the island. Sun loungers shaded by umbrellas and kayaks are available for rent. Several restaurants serve simple Thai dishes and drinks. The beach is generally quiet except on weekends and Thai public holidays. Around the island, there are several smaller, quieter beaches with little or no facilities.
Wat Tham Yai Prik & Yellow Buddha
In the island’s interior, between Tham Phang Beach and the old town, is the Buddhist temple and meditation center Wat Tham Yai Prik. A staircase flanked by the mythological Naga snake leads to the ornate temple building. Views of Koh Si Chang Island, surrounding islands, and the Gulf of Thailand. A little further up the hill stands a giant golden Buddha statue. The seated image dominates the small town and the sea.
Chinese Temple
Just North of the city and the Tha Lang Pier, where the ferry docks, is a Chinese temple known as Chao Pho Khao Yai Shrine or “Shrine of the Spirit Father of the Great Mountain.” The shrine dedicated to the spirit is located in one of the many caves.
Buddha Footprint
Near the Chinese Temple, further up the hill, is a replica of a Buddha footprint in a sala, a Thai-style open pavilion. Next to it, on a rock, is a small golden pagoda. Thai people come here to pay homage to the Buddha’s footprint. Although the rather steep climb of more than 500 steps requires some effort, the views of the old town, the harbor, and the Gulf of Thailand are magnificent. The stairway to the hall starts behind the Chao Pho Khao Yai Shrine.
King Chulalongkorn’s Summer Palace
About halfway down the east coast of Koh Si Chang is the Judhadhut Palace, built by King Chulalongkorn in the 1890s as a summer residence for the royal family. The palace was deserted when the French briefly occupied the island in 1893. The main building of the Vimanmek Mansion, built entirely of teak, was dismantled and rebuilt at the Dusit Palace in Bangkok.
Wat Atsadang Nimit
It is also part of the Wat Atsadang Nimit palace complex, a Buddhist temple located on the hill south of the palace. The temple combines European and Thai architectural styles—a building with Gothic arched windows with stained glass inlays. The court is open daily, and entry is free.
Climate:
Ko Sichang has a tropical savanna climate (Köppen climate classification Aw). High temperatures remain relatively high year-round, ranging from 29.6°C (85.3°F) in December to 32.9°C (91.2°F) in April. The monsoon season lasts from May to October with heavy rains.
