Koh Kham Noi: Thailand's Creepy Ghost Island

Koh Kham Noi is a small island in the eastern Thai Gulf, off the coast of Chonburi. Although uninhabited today, the island has a spooky legacy.

War history

American soldiers had a base on Koh Kham Noi during the Second World War as the deep waters were ideal for accommodating large warships. The deadly mosquito-spread disease of malaria was rife at that time, killing a substantial number of soldiers. Their bodies were buried on the island.

Koh Kham Noi’s landscapes have many tales from times gone by

Malaria burial ground

Ghostly legends

Due to the large number of dead bodies buried on Koh Kham Island (many of who died prematurely from diseases) and the strong Thai beliefs in ghosts and spirits, many people believe that unearthly souls roam around the island today. Local urban legends recount stories of visitors seeing ghosts of people from different ethnic groups and religions. There have also been reports of unnatural and painful sounds, like moaning, groaning, and tortured wailing, breaking the silence. A lot of local people feel uneasy on the island during the daytimes, and it’s certainly not a place where many would choose to spend the night!

Tourism today on Koh Kham Noi

Few people make a stop at Koh Kham Noi, with many travellers opting to spend their time on the mainland in Pattaya, or visiting larger and more well-known islands such as Koh Larn. Nobody lives on Koh Kham Noi, though it is accessible at some times of the year, with ferries stopping here en route to other islands and private boat charters available for greater convenience. The island, along with its larger sister of Koh Kham Yai, is managed by the Thai Royal Navy. The military help to protect the local nature and close the island at certain periods to allow sea turtles to breed in peace, and for the corals and other aquatic life to thrive.

Today’s visitors largely come to enjoy the excellent snorkelling and fishing opportunities. You can also visit the large cemeteries, though remember to dress modestly and act respectfully. There are no accommodations on Koh Kham Noi, but daring souls sometimes pitch their own tent to spend the night on what is often referred to locally as Ghost Island.

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