San Chao Pho Koh Chang
Tucked away on Koh Chang, San Chao Pho Koh Chang is a traditional Chinese shrine that reflects the deep-rooted cultural and religious influences that have shaped this island community over generations. It stands as an important place of worship for local residents while also welcoming curious travellers seeking to look beyond the beaches and explore a quieter, more contemplative side of island life. Visitors can expect an intimate and atmospheric setting typical of Chinese Taoist shrines, with incense smoke drifting through colourful decorations, ornate altars, and offerings arranged by devoted worshippers. The shrine carries a calm, meditative energy that contrasts with the busier tourist areas of the island, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in local faith traditions and community culture. Its consistently strong visitor rating suggests it leaves a positive impression on those who make the effort to seek it out. As no official opening hours are listed, it is advisable to visit during daylight hours and ideally earlier in the day when activity at the shrine tends to be more lively. Visitors should dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees as a sign of consideration for the religious nature of the site. There is no website available, so planning ahead through local accommodation or tourism offices is recommended for the most current information.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After San Chao Pho Koh Chang, round out your day in Koh Chang with contrasting stops nearby.
Also Popular in Koh Chang

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Ko Mak
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Mu Ko Chang National Park
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San Chao Pho Koh Chang: Frequently Asked Questions
Is San Chao Pho Koh Chang worth visiting?
San Chao Pho Koh Chang holds a 4.5★ rating from 273 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Koh Chang.
When is the best time to visit San Chao Pho Koh Chang?
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 San Chao Pho Koh Chang located?
San Chao Pho Koh Chang is at 47RG+79W, Ko Chang, Ko Chang District, Trat 23170, 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 San Chao Pho Koh Chang
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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

Wat Khlong Son
A peaceful Buddhist temple in Koh Chang's oldest village, offering a glimpse into local spiritual life.

St.Sergius of Radonezh Orthodox Church
A Russian Orthodox church on Koh Chang, offering a rare spiritual landmark in a tropical island setting.
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 San Chao Pho Koh Chang
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