Trat Travel Guide
Discover the culturally important attractions, natural wonders, food scene, and more with our ultimate travel guide for Trat, Thailand.
- Introduction to Trat
- List of Places to Visit in Trat
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Trat
- Best Things to Do in Trat: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Trat
- Food and Drink Scene of Trat
- Where to Stay in Trat: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Trat: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Trat
- Best Time to Visit Trat
- Do’s and Don’ts of Trat
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Trat: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Trat
- Where to Go Next from Trat: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Trat
Trat is a small province situated in Eastern Thailand, bordering the Gulf of Thailand and the country of Cambodia. Unlike the bustling cities of Bangkok and Pattaya, Trat offers a slower pace of life, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking peace and tranquility. With its rich culture, natural beauty, and diverse cuisine, Trat has something to offer for every type of traveler.
List of Places to Visit in Trat
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Trat has a rich history, and there are many museums and historical sites that are worth visiting. The Chao Por Koh Kong Shrine is one of the most important shrines in Trat, built to honor the guardian spirit of the town. The Shrine is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings, making it a must-visit for architecture lovers. Another must-visit historical site is the Wat Buppharam, which houses a large statue of Buddha in a seated position.
Natural Attractions of Trat: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Trat is also home to some magnificent natural wonders and is famous for its unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waterfalls, and lush green rainforests. One of the most popular natural attractions in Trat is the Koh Kood Island, which is known for its pristine beaches and untouched beauty. Another popular natural attraction is the Khao Sok National Park, which offers visitors a chance to explore ancient rainforests, go hiking, and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Trat
Trat is a great destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts, with many trails that offer stunning views of the countryside. One of the most popular hiking trails is the Khao Rai Ya National Park, which offers visitors a chance to explore the pristine rainforest and go on a trek up the mountain. Another popular biking trail is the Ban Tha Krachap Bike Trail, which offers a challenging ride through the scenic countryside.
Best Things to Do in Trat: Activities and Tours
Apart from its natural and historical attractions, Trat also has a wide range of activities and tours available for visitors. Scuba diving and snorkeling are popular activities in Trat, with many diving schools offering lessons and tours to some of the best dive sites in the country. Visitors can also go on island-hopping tours, where they can explore some of the most beautiful islands in the Gulf of Thailand.
Week-Long Itinerary for Trat
For those looking to spend a week in Trat, here is a sample itinerary:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Visit Koh Mak Island |
| Day 2 | Explore Khao Sok National Park |
| Day 3 | Visit Koh Chang Island |
| Day 4 | Go on a snorkeling tour |
| Day 5 | Visit Chao Por Koh Kong Shrine |
| Day 6 | Go on a biking trip to Ban Tha Krachap |
| Day 7 | Relax at the beach |
Food and Drink Scene of Trat
Must-Try Dishes
Trat is known for its unique cuisine, which is characterized by its spicy flavors and fresh seafood dishes. One must-try dish is the Gaeng Som, a spicy and sour curry made with fish and mixed vegetables. Another popular dish is the Khao Yam, a rice salad made with fresh herbs, vegetables, and seafood.
Local Beverages
Trat is also home to some unique local beverages that are worth trying out. The Khao Mak juice is a refreshing beverage made with the juice from the Khao Mak fruit, which is similar to lychee. Another popular beverage is the Nam Manao, a refreshing drink made with lime and sugar.
Where to Stay in Trat: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Trat offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Visitors can choose from luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, and charming guesthouses. Some popular options include the AANA Resort & Spa, the Saffron on the Sea Resort, and the Banpu Resort & Spa.
What to Buy in Trat: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Trat has many local products that are worth bringing home as souvenirs. Visitors can buy the Pla Ra, a fermented fish paste, which is a staple ingredient in many Thai dishes. The province is also known for its handmade pottery, which is made using traditional techniques and is available in various shapes and sizes.
Local Culture and Customs of Trat
Trat has a rich culture and heritage, and visitors are expected to be respectful of local customs and traditions. The people of Trat are known for their friendliness and hospitality, and visitors should reciprocate these gestures. The people of Trat also place great importance on family, and visitors are encouraged to respect family values and traditions.
Best Time to Visit Trat
The best time to visit Trat is between December and February, which is the dry season. This time of year offers visitors pleasant weather and is perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the natural wonders of the province.
Do’s and Don’ts of Trat
Do:
- Dress appropriately when visiting temples and shrines
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions
- Try the local cuisine and beverages
Don’t:
- Disrespect the monarchy or religion
- Take photographs without permission
- Litter or pollute the environment
Safety and Health
Safety in Trat
Trat is a safe destination for travelers, with very low crime rates. However, visitors should always exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially when traveling at night. It is also advisable to keep valuables in a secure place and to avoid carrying large sums of cash.
Health in Trat
Trat is a relatively healthy destination, with few major health risks. Visitors are advised to take standard precautions, such as drinking bottled water and using insect repellent to avoid mosquito-borne diseases.
Getting to Trat: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Trat
The nearest airport to Trat is the Trat Airport, which is served by regular domestic flights from Bangkok and other major cities in Thailand.
Bus Stations Near Trat
Trat is also well-connected by bus to other major cities in Thailand. The Trat Bus Terminal is located in the town center and offers regular services to Bangkok, Pattaya, and other destinations.
Other Options
Visitors can also reach Trat by taking a ferry from Koh Chang or Koh Kood Island, which are popular tourist destinations in the Gulf of Thailand.
How to Get Around in Trat
Trat is a small province, and most of the attractions are located in the town center. Visitors can easily explore the town on foot or by renting a bicycle or motorbike. Taxis and tuk-tuks are also available for hire for longer distances.
Where to Go Next from Trat: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Trat is located close to several popular tourist destinations in Thailand. Visitors can explore the nearby town of Chanthaburi, which is known for its gemstone market and beautiful sunflower fields. Koh Chang and Koh Kood Islands are also popular destinations for visitors looking to extend their stay in the region.
Conclusion
Trat is a charming and laid-back province that offers visitors a chance to explore some of Thailand’s most beautiful natural wonders and experience its rich culture and cuisine. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can plan the perfect itinerary and make the most of their trip to Trat.
