- NOV - APR32°22°
Dry season, best visibility
- MAY - OCT33°25°
Rainy season, humid

Ko Sichang
Ko Sichang (Koh Si Chang), a small, rocky island in the Gulf of Thailand just 12 kilometers off the coast of Si Racha in Chonburi Province, is a remarkably un-touristy gem just a 90-minute journey from Bangkok, an island of royal history, Chinese cave shrines, unusual tuk-tuk-style 'skylab' taxis, and a slow-paced fishing village atmosphere that feels a world away from mainland Thailand. For centuries, Ko Sichang was considered the maritime gateway of the Kingdom of Thailand, where large ships from Europe, India, and China would anchor to transfer cargo into barges bound for Bangkok and Ayutthaya, a historical role still visible today in the enormous cargo vessels anchored offshore. The island's most storied landmark is the Phra Chudadhuj Palace (Sichang Palace), built in 1892 by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) as a royal summer retreat; although briefly occupied by French forces during the Franco-Siamese Crisis of 1893 and subsequently abandoned, the restored palace gardens and iconic wooden Atsadang Bridge create a hauntingly beautiful historical site. The Chao Pho Khao Yai Chinese Shrine, built into cave chambers on a hill above the pier, draws thousands of Chinese pilgrims during New Year celebrations. With no private cars allowed on the island, skylab taxis and foot travel give Ko Sichang a charmingly unhurried character unlike any other Thai island.
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Hotels in Ko Sichang
Quick facts about Ko Sichang
Local weather
℉℃Time zone
GMT +07:00
No time difference
Official languages
Thai

FAQs about Ko Sichang
What is the best time to visit Ko Sichang?
What is the best time to visit Ko Sichang?
The best time is November to April (dry season), when Gulf of Thailand weather is calm, sea visibility is clear for snorkeling, and outdoor activities are most enjoyable. December to March offers the clearest skies and most comfortable temperatures (25–32°C). The island can be visited year-round given its proximity to Bangkok, but the May–October rainy season brings rougher seas and reduced snorkeling visibility.
How do I get to Ko Sichang?
How do I get to Ko Sichang?
Ferries depart hourly from Si Racha Pier, accessible from Bangkok by bus from Ekkamai Station (~1.5 hours) or by car via Motorway 7 (~90 minutes). The ferry to Ko Sichang takes approximately 45 minutes and costs 50 THB per person one way. Ferries generally run 06:00–19:00 from Si Racha and 07:00–20:00 from Ko Sichang. From Pattaya, Si Racha is about 30 km north by highway.
How do I get around Ko Sichang?
How do I get around Ko Sichang?
Private cars are not permitted on Ko Sichang. The island is served by 'skylabs', unique three-wheeled taxis invented by locals, hired for around 250 THB for a 3–4 hour island tour, making them the most efficient way to visit multiple sites. The island is small enough (17.3 km²) to walk between some sites, though hilly terrain can be tiring in the heat. Scooter rentals are available from some guesthouses.
What are the best areas to stay in Ko Sichang?
What are the best areas to stay in Ko Sichang?
Most accommodation is concentrated near Tha Lang Pier, the main village on the island's northeast coast. Budget bungalows start from 500 THB/night; mid-range boutique resorts like De' Anchor (3,000–4,000 THB/night) offer more comfort. Hello SiChang Bungalow is a popular budget option under 1,000 THB/night with good views. The Novotel on the mainland at Si Racha also operates a boat service for guests who prefer upscale accommodation with day-trip access.