Koh Chang Marine National Park is new
and virtually unknown to the outside world. Few people know of its
secret wonders. Some even boldly call it “the last paradise islands
in South-East Asia”. A paradise it is, Koh Chang Marine National
Park has been a heaven to the locals who need to replenish their
mind and energy, to recharge.
Koh Chang is the largest of the
52-island Marine National Park, all of which are untouched by
modernization with their natural resources kept intact. Thus, qualifying
the park as a dream escape, a true hideaway, far from the bustling
city-life. But in fact, Koh Chang is only 330 kilometers east of Bangkok
or approximately 4 hours by road plus another 30 to 45 minutes by boat
or ferry.
It is surprising even to the Thais that
Koh Chang is actually the second largest island in the whole of
Thailand, behind Phuket. Despite its size and close proximity to the
capital, Koh Chang is least known, undeveloped, untouched, forgotten,
and left idle for decades. No doubt, all these are a blessing in
disguise.
Koh Chang Marine National Park is a
secret retreat yet to be explored. Nearly 75% of the Marine Park is
protected by law, under the jurisdiction of the Forestry Department of
Thailand. This explains how it remains a virtual virgin wonderland
shielded from devastating and vigorous developments. Hence, the lack of
infrastructure and population.There are few thoughts of modernization.
The locals as well as their regular
patrons are pleased the way it is. So, slow and gentle, tranquil and
romantic, Koh Chang Marine National Park continues at its own pace, and
still, a paradise for those who appreciate nature at its basics more
than the sophisticated luxury of modernity.
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