Nestled 68km southeast of Chanthaburi, the provincial capital of Trat offers a refreshing escape from Thailand’s bustling tourist hotspots. With its laid-back charm and authentic Thai character, this hidden gem serves as the perfect pitstop for travelers heading to Ko Chang, Cambodia’s border, or exploring Thailand’s lesser-known islands.
While many visitors treat Trat as a gateway to other destinations, those who linger discover a town brimming with old-world character. Wooden shophouses, winding alleys, and a vibrant covered market create an atmosphere that feels delightfully untouched by mass tourism.
Related Destinations
For those who choose to explore Trat, pleasant surprises await. The historic Khlong Trat neighborhood invites leisurely strolls among traditional shophouses and atmospheric alleyways. Cycling enthusiasts can venture to nearby attractions including:
- The serene mangrove forests near Dan Khao
- Wat Buppharam, a stunning 17th-century temple
- A peaceful nearby lake perfect for a picnic
Local businesses like Cool Corner restaurant provide excellent route advice for these biking adventures.
Trat’s Famous Yellow Oil: A Travel Essential
No visit to Trat is complete without discovering its famous yaa luang (yellow oil), an all-natural remedy created by local resident Mae Ang Ki. This versatile herbal mixture has become a staple in Thai medicine cabinets for good reason – it provides relief from:
- Travel sickness and sinus congestion (when inhaled)
- Mosquito and sandfly bites (when applied topically)
- Stomach cramps and minor wounds
Made with traditional ingredients like camphor and aloe vera, the authentic version (recognizable by its tree logo indicating royal appointment) can be found at Trat market and local shops for about ฿70. It’s particularly valuable for those continuing to Thailand’s islands, where sandflies can be troublesome.
Crossing to Cambodia via Hat Lek
As an important transit point to Cambodia, Trat offers convenient access to the Hat Lek-Koh Kong border crossing 91km southeast of town. For the smoothest experience:
- Obtain a Cambodian e-visa beforehand when possible
- Use public minibuses from Trat station for maximum flexibility
- Be cautious of package deals that might involve hidden costs
After crossing the bridge spanning the Dong Tong River, transportation options to Koh Kong town include taxis, with onward connections to Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville taking approximately 4-5 hours. Travelers arriving later in the day may find it convenient to overnight in Koh Kong before continuing their journey.
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