Things To Do
in Trat
Trat is a province in eastern Thailand known for its beautiful islands and unspoiled beaches. The main town, also called Trat, serves as a gateway to popular destinations such as Koh Chang and Koh Kood. Visitors can enjoy activities like snorkeling, diving, and hiking in the lush jungles.
Trat also has a vibrant local culture, with markets selling fresh seafood and traditional handicrafts.
- "Sawasdee" - Hello
- "Khop khun" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a boat trip to the beautiful islands of Koh Chang and Koh Mak. Enjoy the serene waters and powdery beaches as you soak up the sun.
After lunch on one of the islands, explore hidden beaches and indulge in water activities like snorkeling or kayaking. Don’t forget to capture the stunning scenery.
Return to Trat and enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at a local restaurant. End your day with a leisurely stroll through the night market.
Spend your morning lounging on the pristine beaches of Koh Chang. Take in the fresh sea breeze and the sounds of the waves.
Enjoy a massage or spa treatment to rejuvenate. Have a delicious seafood lunch at a beach restaurant.
Watch the sunset over the ocean, then head to a beach bar for cocktails. Enjoy live music while savoring local dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and islands, such as Koh Chang and Koh Kood, offering stunning scenery and relaxation opportunities.
- Rich cultural heritage with local markets, temples, and festivals showcasing Thai traditions.
- Less commercialized compared to other tourist destinations in Thailand, providing a more authentic experience.
- Excellent seafood and Thai cuisine available at local restaurants and beachside eateries.
- Variety of outdoor activities, including snorkeling, diving, hiking, and exploring national parks.
- Limited infrastructure and public transportation options may make travel within the area challenging.
- Fewer international amenities and services compared to larger cities like Bangkok or Phuket.
- Some areas may be subject to seasonal monsoon rains, affecting travel plans during certain months.
- Healthcare facilities may not be as advanced or readily available as in major urban centers.
- Potential for overcrowding during peak tourist seasons, impacting the serene atmosphere.
Best Activities in Trat
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning islands in the Koh Chang Archipelago, including Koh Mak and Koh Kood, perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxation.
Hike through the lush jungle trails in Koh Chang National Park, where you can see exotic wildlife and beautiful waterfalls.
Kayak through the mangroves and clear waters around Trat, offering a unique perspective of the natural beauty and wildlife.
Discover the rich underwater life at various snorkeling and diving spots around Trat, including the coral reefs near Koh Rang.
Join a fishing tour to experience local fishing techniques and catch fresh seafood in the abundant waters around Trat.
Explore historic temples like Wat Buppharam, known for its unique architecture and serene environment.
Cycle through the tranquil countryside of Trat to enjoy the picturesque scenery and local villages.
Relax on the stunning beaches of Koh Chang, such as White Sand Beach and Klong Prao Beach, ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
Experience trekking options available in the hilly areas, with guided tours to explore waterfalls and breathtaking viewpoints.
Visit local fishing villages or ethnic minority communities to learn about their cultures and lifestyles.
Tours
Uncover the best of Trat with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Trat
Visit one of these nice places.
An idyllic island known for its stunning sunsets and crystal-clear waters, offering breathtaking views and great photo opportunities along its pristine beaches.
One of Thailand's largest islands, featuring lush rainforests and high viewpoints such as the Pha Khao Noi viewpoint that offer spectacular vistas of the surrounding sea and islands.
A bustling area where you can capture photographs of local life, boats, and beautiful ocean views, especially during sunrise and sunset.
A serene island known for its untouched nature and beautiful beaches, providing numerous spots for stunning landscape photography and tranquil settings.
A traditional fishing village that offers unique opportunities to photograph local lifestyles, mangroves, and picturesque views of the waterways.
A national park featuring beautiful waterfalls and lush greenery, perfect for nature photography and capturing stunning landscapes.
A small, picturesque island known for its beautiful beaches and scenic viewpoints, ideal for capturing tropical paradise photos.
A vibrant spot filled with local food and crafts, perfect for street photography and capturing the essence of Thai culture.
Food in Trat
Trat Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant fish curry steamed in banana leaves, a must-try dish. Best enjoyed at local seafood restaurants like Rim Klong Seafood Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A Thai version of Hainanese chicken rice, served with a flavorful dipping sauce. Look for it at street food stalls or Hua Hin Soi 7 Restaurant.
A spicy papaya salad that can be found at street food vendors across Trat, try it at the Trat Night Market for an authentic experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Trat better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of local dishes, seafood, grilled meats, and refreshing beverages.
For an authentic seafood experience, head to this market and sample the fresh catch of the day, prepared in various local styles.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting Trat, it's important to familiarize yourself with local customs and traditions. This includes understanding appropriate dress codes, especially when visiting temples or rural villages, where modest attire is often expected.
In Thai culture, greetings are important. Use the traditional 'wai' gesture, which involves pressing your palms together and bowing slightly, to show respect. Always greet locals with a smile and a polite 'sawasdee' (hello).
Thais generally prefer personal space, so it's important to maintain a respectful distance, especially in public settings. Avoid overly physical interactions, such as touching someone on the head, as the head is considered sacred in Thai culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Trat with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Trat
Ensure a smooth experience
In Trat, Thailand, tipping is not a common practice, but it is becoming increasingly accepted in tourist areas. While service charges are usually included in restaurant bills, leaving small change or rounding up the bill is appreciated by service staff.
Payment methods in Trat include cash, which is widely accepted, and digital payment systems that are gaining popularity. Credit and debit cards are accepted at most restaurants and hotels, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Trat.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the cool and dry season, ideal for visiting Trat. Temperatures are pleasant and range between 20-30°C. It's perfect for exploring the beaches, islands, and local attractions without the humidity or intense heat.
This period is the hot season, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. While it can be uncomfortable due to heat, it is still a good time for beach activities. However, do be prepared for occasional rain as the season progresses towards May.
This is the monsoon season in Trat. Expect heavy rainfall and higher humidity levels. It may not be the best time for outdoor activities, but the landscape becomes lush and beautiful. Travel during this season can be more challenging due to weather conditions.
Trat at Night
Hiking in Trat
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast wildlife sanctuary featuring beautiful hiking trails through lush jungles and mountainous terrain, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife.
This national park encompasses scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity. Ideal for nature lovers and adventurers.
While primarily known for its islands, there are hiking opportunities on Koh Chang with spectacular views, tropical forests, and wildlife.
A popular hiking spot leading to a beautiful waterfall, where hikers can enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pools.
Famed for its challenging hikes that lead to stunning vistas and sacred sites; an adventurous trek best done early in the morning.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Trat through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Trat by plane.
Located in Bangkok, approximately 300 kilometers from Trat, Suvarnabhumi is the main international airport serving Thailand.
Also located in Bangkok, about 320 kilometers from Trat, this airport mainly serves low-cost carriers and domestic flights.
Located in Phuket, around 800 kilometers from Trat, this airport serves numerous international and domestic flights.
Approximately 750 kilometers from Trat, this airport serves the northern region of Thailand with both domestic and international flights.
Located in Hat Yai, about 800 kilometers from Trat, this airport serves southern Thailand with international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Thailand, making up the majority of the population in Trat.
A significant ethnic minority in Thailand, especially in urban areas, with roots tracing back to migrations over centuries.
An ethnic group living in the border areas of Thailand and Cambodia, with cultural influences from both countries.
People of Laotian descent, often found in the northeastern regions, including connections to Trat.
An ethnic group with historical roots in mainland Southeast Asia, found in various provinces including Trat.
Includes various smaller groups, such as the Malay, who may reside in specific areas ofTrat.
The Soul of Trat
Discover the essence of Trat through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Trat, with local teams and enthusiastic fans participating in various leagues and tournaments.
Muay Thai, or Thai boxing, is a traditional martial art that is widely practiced in Trat, often reflecting the local culture and heritage.
Volleyball is favored, especially in schools and communities, where both beach and indoor versions of the game are played.
Sepak Takraw is a unique sport similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball. It is popular in Trat as a recreational activity.
Basketball has been gaining popularity in Trat, with many young people playing in local courts and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Trat.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood is prevalent, vegetarian options are available at many eateries, and the Trat Night Market offers an array of vegetable-based dishes.
Several restaurants are accommodating to vegan preferences upon request, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like grilled seafood, fresh fruit, and sticky rice, widely available and naturally gluten-free.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Trat with these cultural adventures.