Trat is Thailand's easternmost province, located approximately 315 kilometers from Bangkok. This small province borders Cambodia, with the Khao Banthat Mountains forming a natural boundary between the two countries. Featuring 52 islands, large and small, boasting long stretches of white sand beaches and pristine coral reefs, Trat offers enchanting scenery and numerous tranquil retreats for beach and nature lovers. The province is also a significant region for fruit production, fishing, and gemstone mining.

The city of Trat is the ideal starting point for excursions to the popular Koh Chang island group, as well as for visits to the gemstone markets and the markets along the Cambodian border. Like Chanthaburi, Trat is also a significant ruby ​​mining province. The most famous gemstone market is located in the Bo Rai district, about 50 kilometers north of the Cambodian border. Shopping enthusiasts will be in their element here: Trat, considering its size, offers more markets than almost any other city in Thailand – thanks to its thriving trade with Cambodia and the coastal region.

Visit the famous islands of Trat, where you can enjoy island hopping, swimming at the beach, snorkeling, and other water sports. Pay your respects to the statue of Prince Chumphon, the father of the Thai Navy, at the Naval Memorial on Ko Chang, and stroll through Trat Town to discover historical and religious sites.

How do you get from A to B in Trat?

The markets, the city center, and the old town are so close together that Trat can easily be explored on foot. Motorcycle taxis and small songthaews, which serve as regular taxis, can be found at the bus station and the daily market.

Those wishing to rent a bicycle can find them in the Old City at guesthouses such as Pop, Basar, Tattoo, Sangjun, and Ban Jaidee. A basic bicycle costs approximately 50 baht. Motorcycles can be rented at the Thip hair salon, the Tattoo guesthouse, and other locations in the Old City for around 200 baht per day.

How do I get to Trat?

The city of Trat lies approximately 290 km east of Bangkok and 90 km west of the Cambodian border. The Had Lek/Koh Kong border crossing is particularly convenient for travelers wishing to reach the coast or islands of both countries. Buses and minibuses run regularly eastward to the border and westward to Chanthaburi and Bangkok. The city also serves as a transit point for the islands of Koh Chang, Koh Mak, and Koh Kut.

Air

Trat's tiny airport lies 30 kilometers west of the city and is served by only a few daily Bangkok Airways flights to Suvarnabhumi Airport. We've never used this airport; locals told us that minibus tickets to Trat cost a whopping 500 baht per person. Private taxis are also available.

bus

The provincial bus station is located on Route 3 in the northern part of the city, less than two kilometers north of the old town. Motorcycle taxis and songthaews charge between 30 and 100 baht for a ride to/from any accommodation in the city.

Book popular routes online with 12Go Asia: Bangkok to Trat, Pattaya to Trat