Famed for its gemstone trading and mining, Trat is one of Thailand’s eastern provinces that borders with the Gulf of Thailand to the south and Cambodia to the east. The Cardamom mountain range separates the province from Cambodia, and the province is home to several islands, most notably Koh Chang, Thailand’s largest.
Mainly visited by travelers on their way to either Cambodia or the islands, Trat town features very few tourist attractions itself. But the province is home to some interesting temples, with highlights including the ancient Wat Buppharam and the beautiful Wat Khiri Wihan.
The Koh Chang Naval Battle Memorial is one of the large island’s most interesting attractions, but many people come here simply to relax on one of the many sandy beaches and sample the tasty local cuisine. Koh Chang is part of the Mu Koh Chang National Park which covers over 52 islands in total.
Koh Mai Si is a small island that is home to a diversity of species, and the waterfall Namtok Klong Nonsi is well worth a visit. Other highlights of a visit to Trat include shopping for locally mined rubies and visiting Koh Kut, Thailand’s easternmost island.
A number of guesthouses and hotels can be found in the town of Trat and scattered throughout the province, with home stay options available elsewhere. The province is served by buses and trains and is easily accessed from both Thailand and Cambodia.