This island’s status on the world’s tourist barometer has risen a few degrees in recent years because of its stunning natural beauty, and the fact that its once-rickety infrastructure has been solidified. More than 70 percent of the mountains island is still covered in untouched rainforest, and there are many secluded beaches, complete with that vital tropical isle trinity or white sand, palm trees, and warm blue water, where you can really get away from it all and leave your trouble on the mainland.

Koh Chang is a part of Trat province of Thailand . Trat is situated at the eastern border of Thailand , 315 Kilometers from Bangkok . Koh Chang National Park , consisting of 52 islands, has Koh Chang (also referred to as Elephant Island ) as Thailand 's second largest island after Puket, and the most important tourist attraction of the park. Wealthy with greenery, wildlife, and marine creatures, its most scenic beaches are located along its western flank. Moving from north to south, the beaches are generally more secluded, less crowded and pricey, with the aforementioned Diamond Sand towards the northern tip, and Hat Khlong Phrao and Hat Kai Bae, in the middle. Further south is a lively backpacker's enclave at Lonely Beach , or Hat Tha Nam , where you can stay in a tree house.

Other than swimming and sunbathing, the island offers inland adventures such as rainforest trekking. Or you can ride a lumbering elephant into the primeval jungle, populated with wild boars, Javan mongoose, barking deer, and more than 60 different species of birds.

Many of the bungalow operation s around Hat sai Khao and Hat Kai Bae have kayaks, boogie boards and mountain bikes for rent. Booking a ay trup, or an overnighter, to nearby islands is another attractive option.

While King Rama V was on the throne, Thai government inevitably made a treaty with France granting the area of current Trat Province to the western country in order that France would withdraw its force from Chanta Buri Province . Later, on March 23, 1906, the King had to grant areas, namely Pratabong, Siem Reap and Sri Sophon to France in exchange with Trat, islands and towns on the right bank of Mekong River. Thus, Trat residents regard March 23 as the “Independence Day” every year.

They also built up King Rama V Monument at the City hall to commemorate the King's attempt to keep Trat with Thailand . On January 17, 1941 , during Indochina War, French Squadron transgressed Thailand 's territorial waters. Thai Flotilla came to protect the land. Thus, the war which was later known as “Koh Chang Naval Battle” began. Thai Troop won and managed to drive out French Squadron.

However, Thai side lost three warships, namely Songkhla, Chon Buri and Thon Buri as well as some naval officers. Therefore, on the date of every year, Thai Naval Army holds the annual merit-making day to dedicate to those who sacrificed their lives in their effort to protect the country. Therefore, on the date of every year, Thai Naval Army holds the annual merit-making day to dedicate to those who sacrificed their lives in their effort to protect the country.