Breakaway Destination Guides (International)

The province is close to Chanta Buri and Cambodia in the North and adjacent to the Gulf of Thailand in the South. The east is separated from Cambodia by Buntud Mount Range eastwards from the middle of the province. Weru River separates the west Trat from Chanthaburi.

1. Mueang Trat

2. Khlong Yai

3. Khao Saming

4. Bo Rai

5. Laem Ngop

6. Ko Kut (sub-district)

7. Ko Chang (sub-district)

TRAT is the Kingdom's eastern most province. It is famous as the source of some of the world's finest rubies and-sapphires and is emerging as one of the newest international beach resorts with many unspoilt and fascinating islands. Located some 253 kilometres from Pattaya, the province is renowned for its abundance of tropical fruit and plenty of interesting Places to visit, including many historical attractions.

At Laem Hgob, 17 kilometres from Trat, is the pier where regular ferries are available for visitors to travel to the beautiful islands of th Koh Chang National Park and others located nearby. Many preserved food items, including shrimp paste and fish sauce, together with native wide-brim hats; are also for sale at Laem Ngob.

Koh Chang Natkrral Park, consisting of 52 islands, has Koh Chang [also referred to as Elephant Island] as Thailand's second largest island after Phuket, and the most important tourist attraction of the park.

Koh Chang contains many delighful beaches on its western coast, such as the famed White Sand Beach, Aow Praw Beach and Kai Bare Beach. The island has two large waterfalls known as Mayom and Mekhala.

Koh Chang Natkrral Park, consisting of 52 islands, has Koh Chang [also referred to as Elephant Island] as Thailand's second largest island after Phuket, and the most important tourist attraction of the park. Koh Chang contains many delighful beaches on its western coast, such as the famed White Sand Beach, Aow Praw Beach and Kai Bare Beach. The island has two large waterfalls known as Mayom and Mekhala.

Other most attractive islands are Koh Loa Ya Koh Wai, Koh Chang Noi, Koh Mai Sie Yai, Koh Rang and Koh Ngam.

Koh Loa Ya, one ofthe most popular islands of the Koh Chang group, can be approached by ferry from Salak Bay. Koh Loa Ya has clean white sand, clear as crystal waters and its spectacular coral and sea fish. Bungalows are available on the island. Koh Loa Ya is surrounded by charming islands such as Kok Nai, Koh Mai Sie, Koh Ngam and Koh Khum.

The Koh Rang Group, a bird nest concession, is noted for its rock formations, coral and sea fish.

Koh Wai is one of the most appealing islands in the Group and contains tranquil beaches, tropical flora and fauna, and is well known for its fabulous coral strands. Koh Wai is a good location for fishermen.

Koh Kud, about one hour's drive from Laem Ngob, is the site of the Than Sanuk Waterfall. Than Sanuk, which means "stream of fun", was named by King Rama IV in 1911.

Koh Kradat, about a two hour drive from Laem Ngob, is blessed with delightful scenery, spectacular views, and is ideal for relaxation and swimming.

Koh Pul is anothei peaceful island for relaxation. Boats to the island are available from both Laem Ngob and Laem Auan.

Koh Mak, some four hours drive from Laem Ngob, is another charming fishing village.

Ban Chuen Beach, about 58 kilometres from town before Klong Yai, has a white sandy beach and clear waters.

The Koh Salat Dai Waterfall, 32 kilometres from town on the Chinakanon (Saen Tung-Bo Rai) Road, is surrounded by woods and is another good place for relaxation.

Wat Buppharam or Wat Plai Klong, some two kilometres from town, descends from the late Ayutthaya period. The temple is noted for its relies of the Buddha, Buddha images.

Its Praying Hall with wooden Vihara, Bell Tower and small typical Monk's Kuthi (quarters).

Wat Muang Kao Saen Tum sited in Tambon Praint about 28 km from the Khad Saming District is famous for its dark brown stones weighing from 10 to 100 kilograms in various shapes and sizes. The stones produce deep resonant sounds when tapped.

The Gem Markets at Bo Rai and Khao Saming are the region's major mining centres. Bo Rai is the site of the world-famous "Tub Tim Slam" or King Ruby.

Markets: The Hua Tung Market is busy between 7 & 10am. and Mong Yo Market from 1 to 3pm. Other markets such as Nong Bon Interesection, Baan Sai Yai, Baan Nonsi and Ban Ta Ngarn are open all day and offer competitive prices.

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