Koh Sichang is another intriguing destination worth exploring, offering a peaceful atmosphere, fresh air, stunning attractions, historical significance, and convenient proximity to Bangkok.
The distance from Bangkok to Charoen Port is approximately 100 kilometers, with a driving time of around 1.5 hours.
Drive from Bangkok via the motorway to Si Racha district. Take Sukhumvit Road, turn right onto Chaiyam Chomphon Road, then turn left onto Sura Sak Road. Continue straight until you reach the "Shrine" in Si Racha.
Free parking, spacious parking lot
A tuk-tuk service is available inside the parking lot for those who have parked their cars and wish to travel to "Tha Charoen".
Directions to Charoen Int Pier
The fare for a tuk-tuk ride is only 50 baht.
"We have arrived at Charoen Port."
**Fishing boats at the pier**
Passenger boat ticket price 50 baht/person/trip
I arrived just in time for the 10 am boat.
The boat has two decks.
Seat with life jacket
Interior of the ship
The boat is air-conditioned, and the air conditioning is very strong, making it cold.
This image confirms that it is indeed cold. ^_^
The passenger boat takes approximately 45 minutes to complete its journey.
We have arrived at Ko Sichang.
Ko Sichang is a large island that is a district of Chonburi, located approximately 12 kilometers from the coast of Si Racha.
For first-time visitors like myself, let's head to the map first.
Port area
**Dock area**
Transportation on the island
- Songthaew
- Skylab car
- Motorcycle rental
Songthaews offer island tours or visits to various points on the island.
- Suitable for groups of 7-15 people.
- Unlimited time at each stop.
Skylab car 250 baht
The itinerary includes key landmarks on the island: Khao Yai Shrine - Khao Khad Gap - Buddha's Footprint - Tham Phang Beach - Phra Chulachomklao Fort.
For tourists who have booked accommodation, there is a pick-up service from the pier.
Motorcycle rental
Motorcycle Rental Rates
- 1 hour: 80 baht
- 1 day: 250 baht
- Overnight: 300 baht
Of course, like me, I choose a motorcycle.
- The advantage is that you can go anywhere you want, and you can take pictures for as long as you want.
- The disadvantage is that it's hot, haha.
The Zoomer X comes with a full tank of fuel.
**Ride the motorcycle from the pier along the road.**
A 7-ELEVEN convenience store is located near the pier.
The sides are lined with shops selling hats, sunglasses, and various souvenirs.
Tourist Boat Pier, Koh Sichang
Grandfather He Mountain Shrine
Grandfather He Mountain Shrine is a sacred place that is highly revered by both locals and tourists. The shrine is a large building in the style of a Chinese temple, while the statue of Grandfather He Mountain is located inside a cave on the mountain.
Guanyin Temple next to Khao Yai Shrine
The Shrine of the Great Mountain Father is located in a cave at the top of a mountain. To reach it, one must climb a considerable number of stairs.
For those who are unable to walk, the shrine provides a tram service to take them to the top.
Atmosphere above
Topside Atmosphere
View of Koh Sichang Island from Khao Yai Shrine
**A view of Koh Sichang Island from the Khao Yai Shrine, overlooking the lighthouse and the harbor.**
Ko Sichang Pier
Cargo ships and passenger ships are visible at sea.
Khao Yai Cave of the Lord of the Mountain
**The Khao Yai Shrine has staff available to guide visitors on how to perform the rituals.**
Inside
Directions to pay respects to King Rama V and Prince Abhakara Kiartivongse
Note: This translation assumes the original text is in Thai. If the original text is in a different language, please provide the correct language so I can translate it accurately.
The Shrine of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) and Prince Abhakara Kiartivongse, Prince of Chumphon
Leaving the Khao Yai Shrine and heading towards the Buddha's Footprint.
The Footprint of the Buddha
Located on the northern peak of the island, it is in the same location as the Khao Yai Shrine, but higher up on the mountaintop. The mountaintop is the location of the Footprint of the Buddha, which was brought from India.
In front, there are shops selling incense, candles, and flowers.
Front area
Path to the Buddha's Footprint Shrine
Place of the Buddha's Footprint
The summit of the mountain, where the footprint of the Buddha is enshrined, offers panoramic views of Koh Sichang.
The Footprint of the Buddha
Footprint of the Buddha
A large freshwater pool is visible.
Descent from the Buddha's Footprint
Departing from the Royal Footprint, head towards the Isariyaporn Channel (Khao Khad Channel).
Isariyaporn Channel (Khao Khad Channel)
It is characterized by a gap in the mountain, forming a high cliff covered with grassland. The atmosphere is quiet, with strong winds blowing from behind the island. It is a beautiful sunset viewing point.
A staircase leads up past two pavilions and continues to the summit of the mountain.
This area also houses the pavilion of King Rama V, offering panoramic views of the island, cliffs, and sea. The king used it as an observatory.
The Royal Pavilion and the Astronomical Stone
Located at the peak of Khao Wang, it was built in the year 110 of the Rattanakosin Era (1891). The Astronomical Stone, or the throne of King Chulalongkorn, was used as an observatory for the king to observe the stars, the sunset, and the waves crashing against the rocks. The view from the top of Khao Wang is truly magnificent.
*** Royal Park (Wana) Ashtadangawan ***
Vachiravudh Bridge
Vachiravudh Bridge
A white bridge extends to the cape, serving as a walkway to enjoy the sea view at Khao Khad Cape.
**Khao Khad Area**
Cape Vachiravuth
A scenic cape on Koh Sichang, featuring a long bridge extending towards the tip. This popular fishing spot among tourists boasts numerous rock formations, providing a habitat for diverse fish species.
Departing from Khao Khaad, heading towards Phra Chuthathut Rajabhat University.
Chuthathuj Rachathan Palace
King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) ordered the construction of this palace as a summer residence for himself and his family.
**Front entrance area**
The Chuthathuj Rachathan Palace
Atsadang Road
The Asdang Bridge
Located within the grounds of the Phra Tamnak Palace, the Asdang Bridge served as a royal landing for King Rama V. It is a popular tourist destination.
The white wooden Ashtadang Bridge extends into the sea.
Tha Wang Beach is not suitable for swimming, but it offers stunning views of the sea.
The Throne Hall of Mantaturadcharoen
The construction of the various throne halls and palaces was halted during the R.S. 112 crisis. The Mantaturadcharoen Throne Hall, a three-story teakwood and gold-plated structure, was dismantled and rebuilt in Dusit Palace under the name Wimanmek Palace.
Seaside Atmosphere
The Seaside Wooden House
Built during the reign of King Rama V, this house was designated as a royal retreat. Today, it has been transformed into a café and snack bar, offering a relaxing space to enjoy coffee, snacks, and the scenic ocean view.
Vatanavada Palace
King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) graciously ordered the construction of Vatanavada Palace in 1889 as a convalescent home for both Thai and foreign nationals. It later served as a residence for members of the royal family.
Ponds and Pools in the Chuthathut Palace
Due to the lack of freshwater sources on Koh Sichang, it is necessary to construct reservoirs to collect rainwater for use.
Surroundings
Departing from Phra Chulachomklao Fort, heading towards Laem Ngop - Tha Ya Yai Tim.
Yai Tim Pier
Located on the southern tip of Koh Sichang, Yai Tim Pier was once a crucial port for transporting stones quarried from the island's mountains. However, the blasting of these mountains has now ceased.
Evidence of Rock Blasting at Tha Yai Tim Pier
Cape Snake - Tha Ya Tim
Ploy is in the middle of the sea.
Snake Cape - Tha Ya Yai Tim
The southernmost point accessible by car on the island.
Exit Laem Ngop - Tha Yang Tim and return the same way. The descent here will be rocky.
Turn left at the fork before the waste disposal plant.
Taking photos along the way
Visit the remains of the fishing boat.
I enjoy the atmosphere here. It's not crowded, the wind is strong, and the view is beautiful.
Moroc Home Resort Koh Sichang (Moroc Home)
A classic-modern style accommodation, unique in its own way, offering stunning views, a lush atmosphere, and vibrant building colors.
Moroc Home Resort: Private Villas
Note: I have translated the phrase "ที่พักเป็นหลัง" to "Private Villas" to better reflect the meaning in English.
The accommodation's large building is a vibrant pink.
Amenities include free Wi-Fi in all rooms, 24-hour security, television, and air conditioning.
Head towards Tham Chakraphong Cave.
Tham Chakrabong
A large golden Buddha statue is enshrined here, visible from afar. It is popularly known as the "Golden Buddha." Currently, the Golden Buddha is located within the "Tham Chakrabong Monastery." The cave was discovered by "His Royal Highness Prince Chakrabongse Bhuvanath."
Beneath the Buddha statue, there is a deep cave approximately 30 meters long. Long tree roots extend from the ceiling of the cave down to the ground.
**The descent into Tham Chakrapong Cave, with a novice guide providing historical commentary.**
Inside the Chakraphong Cave
Reclining Buddha and Buddha Subduing Mara
This sentence describes two iconic postures of Buddha statues: the Reclining Buddha and the Buddha Subduing Mara.
- Reclining Buddha: This posture depicts the Buddha lying on his right side with his head resting on his right hand. It symbolizes the Buddha's entry into Parinirvana, the state of ultimate liberation from suffering and the cycle of rebirth.
- Buddha Subduing Mara: This posture shows the Buddha seated in meditation with his right hand raised in the "earth-touching" gesture. It represents the Buddha's victory over the demon Mara, who tempted him with worldly desires and distractions during his meditation under the Bodhi tree.
Luang Pho To Tham Chakraphong
King Rama V visited and bestowed the name.
Departing from Tham Chakrabong, we head towards Flower Blue Coffee & Bistro.
Flower Blue Coffee & Bistro
A charming modern-style coffee shop with a relaxed atmosphere.
Storefront atmosphere
Store Atmosphere
OUTDOOR Zone
Shop atmosphere
Aromatic and delicious iced cappuccino for only 60 baht.
The interior design is simple and uncluttered.
Departing from Flower Blue Coffee & Bistro, head towards Laem Chakpong.
The road to Laem Chakpong is a well-paved concrete road. I headed towards Laem Chakpong first, leaving the path down to Tham Phang Beach on my left.
Stop for a photo
Jakraphong Cape
This cape is located in the middle of Koh Sichang Island on the west side, next to Tham Phang Beach. It is a cape that juts out into the sea and has a cliff-like appearance, embracing Astatang Bay. There is a pavilion built in the shape of a tent with tiled roofing.
A promontory jutting into the sea
Vast grassland
The seashore is characterized by large rocky outcrops.
This area is popular for fishing due to the abundance of fish.
Departing from Laem Chakpong, head towards Tham Phang Beach.
Park your motorcycle in this area.
Restaurant, restrooms, and showers available.
Beach access path
The restaurant provides catering services.
Canvas bed and umbrella
Restaurant
Rental lifebuoy
**Rowboats are available for rent.**
Soft sand underfoot
The right side of the beach has a lot of rocks.
A short walk uphill leads to a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the entire beach.
Top view of the beach
The sun is starting to set.
**Ride a motorbike from Tham Phang Beach to the pier, Ko Sichang**
Ferry schedule stuck at Tham Phang Beach
Return the rented motorbike at the Koh Sichang pier.
Purchase a return ferry ticket for 50 baht per person per trip.
**Return trip on an open boat, choose to sit on the 2nd floor**
Deck 2 of our ship
This is a plastic chair.
The boat has departed and the journey will take approximately 45 minutes.
Farewell, Koh Sichang
Expense Summary
- Roundtrip fuel cost from Bangkok to Si Racha: 500 baht (diesel)
- Roundtrip motorway toll: 120 baht
- Tuk-tuk fare from the shrine to Tha Charoen: 50 baht
- Roundtrip boat fare: 100 baht
- Motorcycle rental: 250 baht
- Lunch + drinks: no more than 300 baht
- Coffee: 60 baht
- Total: 1,380 baht
Personally, I love the atmosphere of "Ko Si Chang". You can ride a motorbike around the island and see various beautiful and peaceful corners. The people on the island are also very friendly. As I was traveling alone, I sometimes asked for directions and received very friendly responses. They explained everything in detail. Thank you, "Ko Si Chang".
Thank you all for watching.
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Apisit Poom Sukpakdee
Friday, October 4, 2024 3:21 PM