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Temples & Culture
Koh Chang

Wat Ao Salad

4.7(87 reviews)

Wat Ao Salad is a traditional Buddhist temple located on Koh Kut, one of Thailand's quieter and less commercialised islands in the eastern Gulf of Thailand. The temple serves as an active place of worship for the local community and offers visitors a genuine and unhurried encounter with Thai Buddhist culture, away from the crowds that gather at more prominent temples on the mainland or larger islands. The grounds provide a calm and contemplative atmosphere, making it a worthwhile stop for travellers seeking to understand the spiritual and cultural fabric of island life in this part of Thailand. Visitors can expect modest religious structures, traditional decorative elements, and the kind of peaceful setting that reflects the slower pace of Koh Kut itself. The temple is open every day of the week from 08:00 to 17:00, making it easy to incorporate into a day of island exploration. As with all active Buddhist temples in Thailand, visitors should dress respectfully by covering their shoulders and knees before entering. Given its location on Koh Kut rather than the more commonly referenced Koh Chang, travellers should confirm transport options in advance, as the island has limited connections. The temple maintains a Facebook page for any updated information on events or closures.

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Experience hints

Visitor favorite

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Wat Ao Salad: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Wat Ao Salad worth visiting?

Wat Ao Salad holds a 4.7★ rating from 87 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Koh Chang.

What are the opening hours of Wat Ao Salad?

Wat Ao Salad is typically open 08:00-17:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.

When is the best time to visit Wat Ao Salad?

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 Wat Ao Salad located?

Wat Ao Salad is at 72 วัดอ่าวสลัด Tambon Ko Kut, 23000, 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).

Location Info

72 วัดอ่าวสลัด Tambon Ko Kut, 23000+66 98 443 6182www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066798617027&mibextid=ZbWKwL
Opening Hours
Monday08:00-17:00
Tuesday08:00-17:00
Wednesday08:00-17:00
Thursday08:00-17:00
Friday08:00-17:00
Saturday08:00-17:00
Sunday08:00-17:00

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

Moderate

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 Wat Ao Salad

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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.

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