Koh Mak Temple
Tucked away on Koh Mak, one of the more serene and less-developed islands in the Trat province, this Buddhist temple serves as a meaningful point of cultural connection for travellers looking beyond the beach. The temple reflects the everyday religious life of the local island community rather than functioning as a major tourist landmark, making it a genuine and unhurried place to visit for those with an interest in Thai Buddhism and traditional island culture. Visitors can expect a calm, modest atmosphere typical of rural Thai temples, with traditional architectural details, Buddha statues, and the kind of quiet that is increasingly rare in busier destinations across the Gulf of Thailand. The surrounding area reflects Koh Mak's unhurried character, and the temple sits within a landscape that feels genuinely off the beaten path. As with all Thai Buddhist temples, visitors should dress respectfully before entering, covering shoulders and knees. Opening hours are not confirmed in advance, so it is advisable to visit during daytime hours when the temple is most likely to be active. There is no website or booking required for a visit. Given Koh Mak's small size, the temple is best reached by bicycle or motorbike, both of which are widely available for hire on the island.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Koh Mak Temple, round out your day in Koh Chang with contrasting stops nearby.
Also Popular in Koh Chang

Koh Chang
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Koh Kood
Koh Kood (Ko Kut) is Thailand's fourth-largest island and arguably its most unspoiled — empty white beaches like Klong Chao and Ao Noi, water clear enough to shame the Andaman, waterfall swims in the jungle interior, and mangrove canals made for kayaking.

Ko Mak
A quiet Thai island escape with clear waters, long beaches, and a laid-back atmosphere near Koh Chang.

Mu Ko Chang National Park
A protected marine and jungle park spanning Koh Chang and surrounding islands, open daily.
Koh Mak Temple: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Koh Mak Temple worth visiting?
Koh Mak Temple holds a 4.4★ rating from 58 Google reviews — a strong rating for temples & culture in Koh Chang.
When is the best time to visit Koh Mak Temple?
The best months to visit Koh Chang are November – March, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: June – September (rough seas, many closures).
Where is Koh Mak Temple located?
Koh Mak Temple is at RF4P+V22, Ko Mak, Ko Kut District, Trat 23000, Thailand, in Koh Chang. Getting around Koh Chang: Shared songthaews along the west-coast road; Motorbike rental (฿200–300/day — the hills between beaches are steep, ride carefully).
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – March
Avoid: June – September (rough seas, many closures)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
24°C – 32°C(75°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January
Getting there
No airport on the island. From Bangkok, take a bus or minivan to Trat (5–6 hrs) or fly Bangkok Airways to Trat (TDX, ~1 hr), then the car ferry from Ao Thammachat pier (~30–45 min). Combined bus-and-ferry tickets are sold from Ekkamai.
Getting around
- •Shared songthaews along the west-coast road
- •Motorbike rental (฿200–300/day — the hills between beaches are steep, ride carefully)
- •Taxis and hotel transfers from the ferry pier
- •Longtail and speedboat trips from Bang Bao pier for island hopping
Where to stay near Koh Mak Temple
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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Nearby Places

Koh Mak Museum
A small community museum on Koh Mak island celebrating the history and culture of this quiet Gulf Coast island.

Somchai's Love Garden
A quirky cultural garden retreat on Ko Mak island, blending spirituality and nature in a peaceful setting.

Love Temple
A serene cultural landmark on Ko Mak island, offering a peaceful glimpse into Thai Buddhist tradition.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand

Wat Phra Kaew
Bangkok's most sacred temple sits within the Grand Palace complex, home to the revered Emerald Buddha.

Doi Suthep Temple
A sacred mountaintop Buddhist temple from 1383, offering a golden chedi and sweeping views over Chiang Mai.

The Grand Palace
A breathtaking 18th-century royal palace complex showcasing centuries of Thai history, gold-adorned architecture, and sacred temples.

The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A towering all-wood monument in Pattaya, hand-carved without nails and still under construction after decades.
Where to stay near Koh Mak Temple
Find hotels in Koh Chang on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Agoda
Asia-focused selection
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – March
Avoid: June – September (rough seas, many closures)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
24°C – 32°C(75°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January
Getting there
No airport on the island. From Bangkok, take a bus or minivan to Trat (5–6 hrs) or fly Bangkok Airways to Trat (TDX, ~1 hr), then the car ferry from Ao Thammachat pier (~30–45 min). Combined bus-and-ferry tickets are sold from Ekkamai.
Getting around
- •Shared songthaews along the west-coast road
- •Motorbike rental (฿200–300/day — the hills between beaches are steep, ride carefully)
- •Taxis and hotel transfers from the ferry pier
- •Longtail and speedboat trips from Bang Bao pier for island hopping