Trat
City · Thailand

Trat

Trat, Trat, Thailand

Trat, Thailand's easternmost province bordering Cambodia, serves as the primary gateway to the stunning Koh Chang archipelago. While many travellers…

#beach destination#island hopping#coastal town#Thai cuisine#scuba diving
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Highlights

Things to do in Trat

What travellers talk about most.

Tours

Ban Nam Chiao Riverside Walk

Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the river in Ban Nam Chiao and discover local culture and cuisine.

Trat Museum Visit

Learn about the history of Trat at the Trat Museum, hosting a wide range of historical artifacts and exhibits.

Laem Ngop Lighthouse Exploration

Visit the historic Laem Ngop Lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the sea and surrounding islands.

Bang Bao Fishing Village Tour

Explore the charming Bang Bao Fishing Village with its stilt houses and seafood restaurants.

Shopping

Trat Night Market

A bustling night market offering a variety of local foods, souvenirs, and handmade crafts.

Trat Floating Market Excursion

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Trat Floating Market and sample delicious local foods.

Outdoor

Explore Koh Chang National Park

Discover the diverse wildlife and breathtaking views of Koh Chang National Park with guided treks through the jungle and relaxing beach time.

Koh Mak Snorkeling Adventure

Experience the vibrant underwater life of Koh Mak with a snorkeling tour around its pristine coral reefs.

Ao Tan Khu Beach Relaxation

Unwind at Ao Tan Khu Beach, famous for its relaxed vibe and stunning sunsets.

Mu Ko Chang National Park Hike

Hike through some of the most scenic trails in Mu Ko Chang National Park and enjoy the untouched nature.

See it for yourself

Location videos

Reels and longer watches.

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Traveller clips picked out for this place.

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Good to know

Practical info

Weather, costs and getting around.

Trat, Trat, Thailand Open in Google Maps
When to go

Scored from each month’s typical high and its usual conditions.

GoodMixedAvoid
Best monthsNov – Feb
Worth avoidingMay – Oct
September · rainHigh 31°C Low 24°C
Avoid

Trat, located in eastern Thailand, experiences a tropical monsoon climate. The weather is generally warm and humid throughout the year. The hottest months are April and May, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). The rainy season typically lasts from May to October, characterized by heavy rainfall and high humidity, which can sometimes lead to flooding. The dry season, from November to April, offers more pleasant conditions with less humidity and cooler temperatures, especially from December to February, making it the most popular time for tourists to visit.

All 12 monthshighs, lows and conditions
Jan
sun
31°21°
Feb
sun
32°22°
Mar
hot
33°23°
Apr
hot
34°25°
May
rain
33°25°
Jun
rain
32°25°
Jul
rain
32°25°
Aug
rain
32°25°
Sep
rain
31°24°
Oct
rain
31°24°
Nov
cloud
31°23°
Dec
sun
31°22°
Currency
฿ | THB | Thai Baht
Population
10,571 (2015)
Density
4,228 / km²
Local time
Languages
Thai mainly · English
Budget / day
฿1000 - ฿5000
Also known as
ตราด, จังหวัดตราด, ประเทศไทย

Know before you go

Local guide

A deeper read on Trat.

What people love

Trat offers a wonderfully authentic and peaceful Thai experience, free from the overwhelming crowds of major tourist hubs. It serves as the perfect, convenient gateway for island-hopping to the stunning Koh Chang archipelago. The town itself boasts a charming historic district, beautiful temples, and a relaxed riverside atmosphere. Food lovers will be delighted by the exceptional and affordable local cuisine, particularly the fresh seafood and vibrant night market offerings. Additionally, the locals are known for their genuine hospitality, making it a welcoming stop for travellers seeking to immerse themselves in traditional provincial life.

What to know

The primary drawback of Trat is its limited attractions; most visitors find a day or two is plenty before moving on. The nightlife is very quiet, which may disappoint those looking for evening entertainment. English is not as widely spoken as in major tourist areas, which can occasionally make communication challenging. Public transport options within the town and to surrounding mainland sights are somewhat limited, often requiring the use of songthaews or renting a scooter. Finally, the region experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season from May to October.

Trat, a province in eastern Thailand, has a rich history, though detailed historical records are somewhat limited. Here is an overview of Trat's history, significant events, historical figures, and landmarks:

Historical Background

  • Early History: Trat's history is believed to date back several centuries. It has always been a region of strategic importance due to its location near the Gulf of Thailand and proximity to Cambodia. Historically, it has been a trading hub due to its coastal location.

  • Ayutthaya Period: During the Ayutthaya Kingdom (1350-1767), Trat was a part of the Siamese kingdom. The area was important for maritime trade routes and had interactions with various foreign merchants.

  • Rattanakosin Period: In the late 19th century, during the reign of King Rama V (Chulalongkorn), Trat was involved in territorial disputes. The Franco-Siamese War in 1893 and subsequent treaties led to Trat initially being ceded to France but later returned to Siam in exchange for parts of Laos.

Significant Events

  • Franco-Siamese Treaty of 1904: This treaty was crucial in determining the borders between French Indochina and Siam. Trat was originally ceded to France but was later returned in 1907 in exchange for Siem Reap and Battambang, which became part of Cambodia.

  • World War II: During World War II, Trat was affected by the broader conflicts in the region, including Japanese occupation and subsequent Allied operations.

Historical Figures

There are no specific historical figures exclusively associated with Trat that have gained wide recognition. Most historical narratives focus on the broader Siamese kingdom and its leaders.

Important Landmarks

  • Wat Buppharam: This ancient temple, over 500 years old, is one of the most significant religious sites in Trat. It houses several old artifacts and a revered Buddha image.

  • Trat Museum: The museum provides insights into the region's history, culture, and its role in Thailand's development.

  • Koh Chang: Although not a historical landmark, Koh Chang is a part of Trat Province and is one of its most famous tourist destinations. The island is known for its beautiful beaches and national park.

  • Laem Ngop Lighthouse: Located near the ferry terminal to Koh Chang, this lighthouse is a notable landmark and provides a scenic view of the coast and nearby islands.

Cultural Aspects

Trat is known for its vibrant culture and traditions, many of which are influenced by its proximity to Cambodia. The province is famous for its fruit orchards, particularly its durians and rambutans.

Modern Era

Today, Trat remains an important gateway to the islands in the Gulf of Thailand, particularly Koh Chang. It serves as a border province with significant trade and cultural exchange with Cambodia. The economy of Trat relies heavily on agriculture, fishing, and tourism.

Overall, Trat's history is characterized by its strategic maritime importance and its role in the territorial dynamics of Southeast Asia.