Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(park fee 200B; 8am-5pm)
A series of three falls along the stream of Khlong Mayom can be
reached via the park office near Tha Than Mayom. The view from the top is superb and
nearby there are inscribed stones bearing the initials of Rama V, Rama VI and Rama VII.
MANGROVE BAY
Ao Salak Kok
From a developers' perspective, this thick tangle of mangroves is an unprofitable waste-
land. But the local population of fisherfolk recognises that its beauty and profit are in its
environmental fertility. Mangroves are the ocean's nurseries, fostering the next genera-
tion of marine species, as well as resident birds and crustaceans, and this bay is now Ko
Chang's prime eco-tourism site.
Villagers, working in conjunction with Khun Pittaya, of Ban Kwan Chang elephant
camp, operate an award-winning program to preserve the environment and the traditional
way of life. They rent kayaks through the Salak Kok Kayak Station and run an affiliated
restaurant.
Ban Salak Phet
In the southeast pocket of the island is Ban Salak Phet, a surprisingly bustling community
of fisherfolk and merchants plus lots of bike-riding kids and yawning dogs. This is what
most of Ko Chang looked like less than a generation ago. Most visitors come for the sea-
food restaurants, or to cruise the lonely byways for a secluded beach.
Beyond the commercial heart of the village is
Ao Salak Phet
, a beautiful blue bay se-
renely guarded by humpbacked islands.
VILLAGE
Nam Tok Khiri Phet
This small waterfall, 2km from Ban Salak Phet, is a 15-minute walk from the road and
rewards you with a small, deep plunge pool. It's usually less crowded than many of the
larger falls and is easily reached if you're in the neighbourhood of Ao Salak Phet.
WATERFALL
