Trat

ตราด

An easternmost coastal town serving as the gateway to Cambodia and stunning archipelago destinations like Koh Chang and Koh Kood. Known for its charming old town with French colonial architecture and fresh seafood markets.

Things to do

• Koh Chang Island Exploration — Thailand's second-largest island features pristine beaches, waterfalls, and jungle trekking accessible by ferry from Trat pier.
• Koh Kood National Park — A remote and less-crowded archipelago destination known for emerald waters, coral reefs, and secluded bungalow resorts reachable by speedboat.
• Trat Old Town Walking Tour — Stroll through restored French colonial shophouses, Chinese temples, and narrow sois in the historic town center featuring early 20th-century architecture.
• Khlong Yai Market — A bustling border market near the Cambodian frontier selling fresh produce, textiles, and local goods with authentic trader culture.
• Bottlenose Dolphin Spotting Tours — Boat excursions from Laem Ngop pier offer chances to see Indo-Pacific dolphins in their natural habitat during early morning trips.
• Wat Bupharam Temple Visit — An important local Buddhist temple featuring intricate murals and serving as a spiritual center where monks welcome respectful visitors.

Food to try

• Gaeng Som (Sour Curry with Fish) — A tangy yellow curry made with turmeric, shrimp paste, and fresh fish or shrimp, representing Trat's coastal culinary identity.
• Grilled Blue Crabs (Poo Tod Tod) — Fresh blue crabs from local waters seasoned simply with garlic and chili, grilled until the shell chars, served at seafood markets and stalls.
• Mango Sticky Rice with Fresh Trat Mango — Sweet sticky rice paired with locally-grown Nam Doc Mai or Nam Hom mango varieties that peak during spring harvest season.
• Sai Oua (Northern-Style Sausage) — Spiced pork sausage filled with herbs and chili, reflecting northern Thai influence in Trat's food culture and available at morning markets.
• Fresh Squid Grilled with Tamarind Dip — Whole squid char-grilled simply and served with a tart tamarind and lime dipping sauce, showcasing Trat's fresh seafood tradition.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Temple Protocols — Remove shoes before entering temple grounds, dress modestly, and never touch or point at Buddha images; monks are highly revered in daily life.
• Border Town Practicalities — Trat sits near the Cambodia border, so carry your passport; permits for Koh Chang are checked upon entry and the area has military checkpoints.
• Market Etiquette and Bargaining — In local markets, respectful haggling is expected for non-food items but prices are fixed in restaurants; vendors appreciate polite Thai greetings like 'sawasdee krap'.
• Seafood Freshness Culture — Locals prioritize eating seafood the day it's caught; ask vendors which items arrived that morning and visit markets early for the best selection and prices.