Koh Chang is Thailand’s second-largest island and one of the country’s most popular destinations for travelers seeking beaches, jungle landscapes, waterfalls, and a more relaxed atmosphere than many of Thailand’s busier islands. Located in Trat Province near the Cambodian border, Koh Chang is easily accessible from Bangkok by road, ferry, or a combination of air and sea transport.
This guide explains all transportation options from Bangkok to Koh Chang, including travel times, costs, ferry information, and practical tips for first-time visitors.
Bangkok to Koh Chang: Route Overview
Traveling from Bangkok to Koh Chang typically involves two stages:
- Bangkok to the mainland ferry pier in Trat Province
- Ferry crossing to Koh Chang
After arriving on the island, local songthaews (shared taxis) and private transfers are available to reach hotels and resorts.
| Transport Option | Travel Time | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Minivan + Ferry | 6–8 hours | THB 800–900 |
| Public Bus + Ferry | 6–9 hours | THB 400–650 |
| Flight + Transfer + Ferry | 3–5 hours | THB 2,500–5,000+ |
Option 1: Direct Minivan and Ferry Transfer
For most first-time visitors, a direct minivan and ferry package is the simplest way to reach Koh Chang.
These services typically include:
- Transportation from Bangkok to the ferry pier
- Ferry ticket to Koh Chang
- Shared transfer to major hotel areas on the island
Most departures leave Bangkok between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, arriving on Koh Chang during the afternoon.
Advantages
- Single booking for the entire journey
- No need to arrange separate ferry tickets
- Convenient hotel drop-off service
- Suitable for solo travelers and first-time visitors
Travel Details
| Item | Details |
| Departure Time | Usually 7:00–8:00 AM |
| Travel Time | 6–8 hours |
| Cost | THB 800–900 |
| Best For | Convenience and simplicity |
Option 2: Public Bus and Ferry
Travelers seeking a more economical option can take a public bus from Bangkok to Trat Province or directly to the ferry pier.
Buses depart from:
- Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai)
- Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit)
Depending on the service selected, buses may stop in Trat Town before continuing to the ferry terminals.
Travel Details
| Item | Details |
| Travel Time | 5–7 hours by bus |
| Bus Fare | THB 300–500 |
| Ferry Fare | THB 80–150 |
| Total Cost | Approximately THB 400–650 |
Advantages
- Lowest transportation cost
- Frequent departures from Bangkok
- Comfortable coaches available
Considerations
- Requires purchasing ferry tickets separately in some cases
- Additional transfers may be necessary
- Longer overall journey time
This option is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who are comfortable managing connections independently.
Option 3: Flight to Trat and Ferry Transfer
Flying is the fastest way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Chang.
Daily flights operate between Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport and Trat Airport, with a flight time of approximately one hour.
After arriving in Trat, travelers continue by road transfer to the ferry pier before crossing to Koh Chang.
Travel Details
| Item | Details |
| Flight Time | About 1 hour |
| Airport Transfer | Approximately 30 minutes |
| Ferry Crossing | 25–35 minutes |
| Total Journey | 3–5 hours |
| Cost | THB 2,500–5,000+ |
Advantages
- Fastest transport option
- Ideal for short vacations
- Comfortable and convenient
Considerations
- Significantly more expensive than road transport
- Flight schedules are limited compared with buses and minivans
Ferry Information
All travelers heading to Koh Chang must complete a ferry crossing from the mainland.
Main Ferry Piers
Ao Thammachat Pier
- Most popular departure point
- Shortest crossing time
- Frequent departures throughout the day
Center Point Pier
- Alternative departure point
- Slightly longer crossing
- Suitable for travelers arriving from Trat Town
Ferry Schedule
| Item | Details |
| First Departure | Around 6:30 AM |
| Last Departure | Around 7:00 PM |
| Frequency | Approximately every 30–45 minutes |
| Crossing Time | 25–35 minutes |
| Ticket Price | THB 80–150 per person |
Schedules may vary slightly depending on weather and seasonal demand.
Transportation on Koh Chang
Upon arrival, travelers will find local songthaews waiting at the ferry terminals.
These shared pickup trucks operate as the island’s primary public transportation system.
Typical Fares
| Destination Area | Approximate Fare |
| White Sand Beach | THB 50–100 |
| Klong Prao Beach | THB 80–120 |
| Kai Bae Beach | THB 100–150 |
| Lonely Beach | THB 120–150 |
Private taxis are also available but cost more than shared transportation.
Recommended Option for First-Time Visitors
For most visitors traveling from Bangkok to Koh Chang for the first time, the direct minivan and ferry transfer offers the best balance of convenience, cost, and simplicity.
Budget travelers may prefer the public bus and ferry combination, while those with limited time often find flying to Trat worthwhile despite the higher cost.
Final Tips for Traveling from Bangkok to Koh Chang
- Book transportation in advance during holidays and peak season.
- Leave Bangkok early to avoid traffic delays.
- Try to arrive at the ferry pier before the final sailing of the day.
- Carry cash for local transportation on the island.
- Allow extra travel time during the rainy season.
- Confirm hotel locations before arranging island transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to get from Bangkok to Koh Chang?
Most travelers should expect a journey of approximately 6–8 hours by road and ferry. Flying can reduce total travel time to around 3–5 hours.
2. What is the cheapest way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Chang?
The public bus and ferry combination is generally the most affordable option, costing approximately THB 400–650.
3. Is there a direct train from Bangkok to Koh Chang?
No. There is currently no train service connecting Bangkok directly to Koh Chang.
4. Can I fly directly to Koh Chang?
No. Flights operate to Trat Airport on the mainland. Travelers must continue by road transfer and ferry.
5. How much is the ferry to Koh Chang?
Passenger ferry tickets typically cost between THB 80 and THB 150 per person.
6. How often do ferries operate?
Most ferries depart every 30 to 45 minutes during daytime operating hours.
7. Which ferry pier is best?
Ao Thammachat Pier is generally considered the most convenient due to its frequent departures and shorter crossing time.
8. Are ferries available year-round?
Yes. Ferry services operate throughout the year, although schedules may be adjusted during severe weather conditions.
9. How do I get from the ferry terminal to my hotel?
Songthaews and private taxis are available at the arrival pier and serve most tourist areas on the island.
10. Should I book transportation in advance?
Advance booking is recommended during weekends, public holidays, and the high season from November to April.
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:
