Key Takeaways
Overview
Trat is a scenic land known for its white sandy beaches and glistening blue sea. However, there is more to Trat than just its beautiful coastline. This three-day trip will take you on a journey to discover the hidden gems of Trat and experience the local way of life. From exploring the mangrove forests at Baan Tharanae to indulging in delicious local dishes and relaxing at a unique chicken coop spa, there is something for everyone in Trat.
Day 1
Miracle of Mangrove at Baan Tharanae
Start your first day in Trat by immersing yourself in nature at the Miracle of Mangrove at Baan Tharanae. This eco-tourist community is located on the estuary of the Trat River and is home to a verdant mangrove forest. The mangroves here are known for their abundant root system and untouched natural setting.
To explore the mangrove forest, hop on a boat and sail through the waters while learning about the community’s history and local way of life. During the boat tour, you will be guided by a local tour guide who will take you through the three sections of the mangrove forest. If you visit during low tide, you may even have the chance to see giant mangrove roots, which are usually submerged underwater.
After the boat tour, take a break and enjoy some delicious local dishes that can only be found in the Tharanae community. You can also learn about the region’s sea mistletoe, edible mangrove and aquatic animal conservation, and even try your hand at making traditional woven hats and crafts.
Sukhumvit Crab Noodles (Kuay Taew Poo Sukhumvit)
For lunch, head to Sukhumvit Crab Noodles, a famous noodle house that has been serving excellent noodles for over 40 years. Don’t be fooled by its size, as the main draw of this restaurant lies in the quality of its dishes. From fresh shellfish to boiled seafood, each dish is made using top-grade ingredients to ensure the best taste and texture.
Some recommended dishes include the salty and spicy fried rice topped with a seafood omelet, the fried rice with bird chilies topped with crab roe and crab meat, and the stir-fried rice with basil and mantis shrimp topped with crab roe. With prices starting at just 50 Baht per dish, you can enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
Grandma Sang’s Grilled Cuttlefish (Muek Yang Yai Sang)
After lunch, satisfy your snack cravings at Grandma Sang’s Grilled Cuttlefish. This hawker stall has been running for over 40 years and is known for serving some of the best grilled cuttlefish in Trat. The cuttlefish is grilled over a charcoal brazier, giving it a distinctive aroma and a chewy texture.
To reach the hawker stall, you may need to park your car outside on the main street and walk a short distance. A skewer of grilled cuttlefish costs just 15 Baht, making it the perfect snack to enjoy on the go. Be sure to arrive early, as the stall’s specialty tends to sell out quickly.
Aunt Na’s Grilled Banana (Kluay Ping Ba Na)
After enjoying some grilled cuttlefish, satisfy your sweet tooth at Aunt Na’s Grilled Banana, located just a few steps away. Aunt Na has been running this legendary snack shop for over 40 years, and her freshly grilled bananas are a must-try in Trat. The bananas are grilled over a charcoal brazier, giving them a fragrant aroma that pairs perfectly with the secret-recipe sauce made with coconut milk.
In addition to grilled bananas, Aunt Na also offers pickled salak, or snake fruit, when it is in season. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the fried Chinese pancake with seven different fillings. The shop is housed in a two-storeyed house, but it’s best to get your treats to go as there are no tables reserved for guests.
Baan Pu Resort – Trat
After a day of exploring and indulging in delicious food, it’s time to check in for a good rest at Baan Pu Resort – Trat. This resort has been open for over 30 years and offers a great dining experience through its equally-famous restaurant. The resort provides various facilities to ensure a comfortable stay, including a swimming pool.
There are eight room types available, suitable for couples and groups of friends. Prices start at 1,000 Baht per night, making it an affordable option for your stay in Trat. Check-in is available from 11.00 A.M. to 11.00 P.M., and check-out is by 2.00 P.M.
Rai Rang All-Night Market
In the evening, take a stroll around the Rai Rang All-Night Market to experience the local culture and enjoy some shopping. This market is one of the big fresh food markets near Mueng Trat Municipality and is known for its food hawkers and joyful vibe.
Aside from food, you can also find clothing, snacks, and more at the market. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and interact with the friendly locals. The market is open from 03.00 A.M. to 12.00 P.M. and then again from 3.00 P.M. to 9.00 P.M.
Day 2
Salak Petch Lighthouse
Start your second day in Trat by visiting Salak Petch Lighthouse, a prominent white lighthouse located at Salak Petch Bay. This lighthouse has been in operation for four years and serves as a landmark for fishing boats.
From the lighthouse, you can enjoy panoramic views of the sea and mountains. Take a leisurely stroll along the pathway surrounded by natural beauty and find one of the many stunning sunset viewpoints in Trat. If you’re interested in aquatic activities, you can also take fishing boats to nearby islands for diving.
Ban Rak Kala Community Enterprise
After visiting the lighthouse, stop by Ban Rak Kala Community Enterprise for some souvenir shopping and lunch. The villagers in this community enterprise are known for their cloth making skills, and they create beautiful décor and homewares from coconut shells.
Browse through their collection and support the local community by purchasing some unique souvenirs. The community enterprise is open from 8.00 A.M. to 6.00 P.M.
Salak Khok Community Tour Club
Continue your day by visiting Salak Khok Community Tour Club in a small fishing village surrounded by untouched nature. This community tour club was formed by the villagers to support ecotourism initiatives and promote their local fishing practices.
Here, you can participate in activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and riding a gondola-style boat. You can also learn about the region’s flora and observe the authentic way of life of local fishermen. The tour club is open from 8.00 A.M. to 4.00 P.M.
The Emerald Cove Koh Chang
After a half-day of sightseeing, head to The Emerald Cove Koh Chang for some relaxation by the sea. This hotel, located on Klong Prao Beach, offers complete amenities and marvelous views. The large swimming pool, which overlooks the sea, is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the sunset.
The hotel offers various room types suitable for different needs, with prices starting from 2,200 Baht per night. Check-in is available from 2.00 P.M. and check-out is at 12.00 P.M.
Kai Bae Viewpoint
Before the day ends, make sure to visit Kai Bae Viewpoint, which is not far from the hotel. This viewpoint offers stunning views of three islands: Koh Mun Nok, Koh Mun Nai, and Koh Yuak. It’s a popular spot for watching the sunset and enjoying the romantic atmosphere.
Be sure to bring your camera and capture the breathtaking views. The viewpoint is open from 8.00 A.M. onwards.
Day 3
Rimtalay Seafood and Resort
Start your last day in Trat with a delicious breakfast at Rimtalay Seafood and Resort. This local restaurant has been open for over 20 years and offers both indoor and outdoor seating options with a view of Koh Chang.
Enjoy a hearty breakfast while taking in the beautiful surroundings. The restaurant is located near the ferry pier to Koh Mak and Koh Wai, making it a convenient stop before heading back to mainland Trat.
Sompoch Orchard in Ban Tai Wang
After breakfast, head to Sompoch Orchard in Ban Tai Wang for some sweet treats and souvenirs. This fruit orchard covers 32 acres and is known for its salacca, or snake fruit. The orchard grows various seasonal fruits, but the highlight is the sumalee salacca, which is known for its sweetness and year-round availability.
You can taste the delicious salacca in syrup or purchase fresh salacca to take home. The orchard is open from 8.00 A.M. to 6.00 P.M.
Rim Kheuan Tom Yum Noodles
For lunch, head to Rim Kheuan Tom Yum Noodles, a noodle restaurant near a reservoir. This restaurant has been open for three years and offers a variety of noodle dishes made with fresh ingredients.
Try their seafood noodles or rice topped with seafood for a flavorful and satisfying meal. The restaurant is open from 6.00 A.M. to 3.00 P.M.
Chong Ban Chang Toon eco-museum
Before heading back to Bangkok, take some time to relax and unwind at the Chong Ban Chang Toon eco-museum. This community-based tourism center offers a unique chicken coop spa experience, where traditional chicken coop baskets are used for steam treatments.
Indulge in the soothing spa treatment using household herbs, such as lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves, and learn about the local culture and traditions. The eco-museum is open from 9.00 A.M. to 4.00 P.M.
That concludes your three-day trip to Trat. This itinerary allows you to explore the natural beauty of the region, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and experience the local way of life. Trat has so much to offer, and this trip will surely leave you with unforgettable memories.
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