Koh Chang is Thailand’s second-largest island and one of the country’s most accessible tropical destinations from Bangkok. For travelers who prefer to avoid domestic flights, the journey is straightforward: travel by bus or minivan from Bangkok to Trat Province, take a ferry to Koh Chang, and continue to your hotel by local songthaew taxi.
This guide explains the main transportation options, expected travel times, costs, ferry information, and practical tips to help you plan a smooth trip from Bangkok to Koh Chang.
Overview: Bangkok to Koh Chang
The overland route follows a simple three-step journey:
Bangkok → Trat Coast → Ferry to Koh Chang → Hotel Transfer
Most travelers choose one of the following options:
| Transportation Option | Travel Time | Estimated Cost (One Way) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Bus + Ferry | 6–9 hours | THB 400–650 | Budget travelers |
| Tourist Minivan + Ferry | 6–8 hours | THB 500–900 | Convenience |
| Premium Coach + Ferry Package | 6–7 hours | THB 900–1,100 | Comfort and hotel transfers |
| Flight to Trat + Ferry | 3–5 hours | THB 2,500+ | Fastest option |
Most bus and minivan services travel directly to the ferry piers on the Trat mainland. Depending on the operator, ferry tickets may be included in the fare.
Option 1: Public Bus and Ferry
This is the most affordable way to reach Koh Chang and remains popular among independent travelers.
Step 1: Travel from Bangkok to Trat or the Ferry Piers
The main departure points in Bangkok are:
Ekkamai Bus Terminal
- Located near Sukhumvit Road
- Easily accessible by BTS Skytrain
- Most convenient option for visitors staying in central Bangkok
Mo Chit Bus Terminal
- Located in northern Bangkok
- Suitable for travelers staying outside the city center
When purchasing tickets, look for services heading to:
- Trat Town
- Ao Thammachat Pier
- Centrepoint Pier
- Laem Ngop Area
Travel Time and Cost
| Route | Duration | Cost |
| Bangkok to Trat | 5–7 hours | THB 300–500 |
| Combined Bus + Ferry Ticket | 6–9 hours total | THB 400–650 |
Travel times vary depending on traffic conditions, departure time, and the final destination.
Step 2: Take the Ferry to Koh Chang
After arriving on the mainland, continue by ferry to Koh Chang.
Main Ferry Piers
Ao Thammachat Pier
- Most popular departure point
- More frequent departures
- Shorter crossing time
Centrepoint Pier
- Alternative route
- Slightly longer sailing time
- Used by some transportation operators
Ferry Schedule
| Detail | Information |
| Operating Hours | Approximately 06:00–19:00 |
| Departure Frequency | Every 30–60 minutes |
| Crossing Time | 30–45 minutes |
| Passenger Fare | THB 80–120 one way |
Ferry schedules may change slightly during adverse weather conditions.
Step 3: Transfer to Your Hotel
Ferries arrive at the northern end of Koh Chang’s west coast.
Outside the ferry terminal, shared songthaew taxis wait to transport passengers to major beach areas.
Typical Songthaew Fares
| Destination Area | Estimated Fare |
| White Sand Beach | THB 50–80 |
| Klong Prao Beach | THB 80–120 |
| Kai Bae Beach | THB 100–150 |
| Lonely Beach | THB 120–150 |
Prices may vary depending on passenger numbers and time of day.
Option 2: Combined Bus and Ferry Tickets
Travelers seeking a simpler experience often choose a combined transportation package.
These services typically include:
- Bus or minivan transportation from Bangkok
- Transfer to the ferry terminal
- Ferry ticket
- Hotel drop-off in selected areas of Koh Chang
Departure Locations
Common departure points include:
- Khao San Road area
- Central Bangkok meeting points
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
Typical Schedule
| Stage | Approximate Time |
| Depart Bangkok | 07:00–08:00 |
| Arrive Ferry Pier | 13:00–13:30 |
| Arrive Koh Chang | 14:00–15:00 |
| Hotel Drop-Off | 14:30–15:30 |
Cost
Combined tickets generally range from:
THB 500–900 per person
Premium coach services with hotel transfers may cost:
THB 900–1,100 per person
Although slightly more expensive than public transportation, these services eliminate transfer coordination and are often the easiest choice for first-time visitors.
Option 3: Fly to Trat and Continue by Ferry
Travelers with limited time can fly from Bangkok to Trat Airport.
The journey typically includes:
- Flight from Bangkok to Trat
- Transfer to the ferry pier
- Ferry crossing to Koh Chang
- Hotel transfer
Travel Time
Approximately:
3–5 hours total
Cost
Typically:
THB 2,500+ per person
Prices vary significantly depending on season and booking date.
Ferry Piers Comparison
| Feature | Ao Thammachat Pier | Centrepoint Pier |
| Crossing Time | Shorter | Longer |
| Departure Frequency | More frequent | Less frequent |
| Popularity | Highest | Moderate |
| Recommended For | Most travelers | Alternative departures |
For most visitors, Ao Thammachat Pier offers the fastest and most convenient crossing.
Practical Travel Tips
Leave Bangkok Early
Morning departures between 05:00 and 09:30 provide the best chance of reaching Koh Chang during daylight hours.
Allow Extra Time During Weekends
Traffic leaving Bangkok can significantly increase travel times on Fridays, weekends, and public holidays.
Choose Comfort Carefully
- Large coaches generally offer more space and luggage storage.
- Minivans can be faster but are often more crowded.
Stay Flexible During Rainy Season
Ferries operate year-round, but weather conditions between May and October can occasionally cause delays.
Rent a Scooter on the Island
Most travelers rent scooters after arriving on Koh Chang rather than transporting a motorcycle from Bangkok.
Mobile Signal
Mobile coverage is generally reliable throughout the journey but may weaken briefly during the ferry crossing.
Final Thoughts
For most travelers, a combined bus-and-ferry ticket provides the best balance of convenience, affordability, and simplicity. Budget-conscious visitors can save money by using public buses and local ferries, while travelers prioritizing speed may prefer flying to Trat.
Regardless of which option you choose, the journey from Bangkok to Koh Chang is relatively straightforward and can easily be completed in a single day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the cheapest way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Chang?
The cheapest option is usually a public bus combined with a local ferry, costing approximately THB 400–650.
2. How long does the journey take?
Most travelers should expect a total travel time of 6–9 hours depending on traffic, ferry connections, and final destination on the island.
3. Which Bangkok bus terminal is best for Koh Chang?
Ekkamai Bus Terminal is generally the most convenient for visitors staying in central Bangkok and Sukhumvit.
4. Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Advance booking is recommended during weekends, public holidays, and the high season between November and April.
5. Which ferry pier is better?
Ao Thammachat Pier is usually preferred due to more frequent departures and shorter crossing times.
6. How often do ferries operate?
Most ferries depart every 30–60 minutes between approximately 06:00 and 19:00.
7. Can I reach Koh Chang in one day from Bangkok?
Yes. Thousands of travelers complete the journey in a single day without needing an overnight stop.
8. Is flying to Trat worth it?
Flying is the fastest option and can save several hours, making it worthwhile for travelers with limited vacation time.
9. How much is transportation from the ferry terminal to my hotel?
Songthaew fares generally range from THB 50–150 depending on the beach area and distance traveled.
10. What is the best time of year to visit Koh Chang?
The dry season from November to April offers the most reliable weather, calmer seas, and easier transportation conditions.
For a Complete Travel Guide
For more detailed information on transportation options, booking tips, itinerary suggestions, and everything you need to know about planning your trip, visit our full guide:
