When you think of Trat, the islands such as Koh Chang, Koh Mak, and Kood probably come to mind. Right? Well, there’s more to this coastal province than just the islands. It’s filled with a beguiling history, diverse culture, delicious seafood, and genuinely amazing people. If you’re eager to discover the unseen side of Trat, this mini-guide of unique experiences might just be what you’re looking for.

Cultural heritage of Klong Yai

If you want to see the remotest part of Trat, you have to start with the furthest point. That would be Klong Yai, a sleepy town that borders Cambodia.

Interest fact: Klong Yai (and much of Trat) lies on the same latitude as Prachuap Khiri Khan but on the opposite side of the Gulf of Thailand. In the past, this area was actually called Patchan Khiri Khet, as a way to rhyme with Prachuap Khiri Khan.

Klong Yai is steeped with history and diverse cultural heritages. Due to the French colonization back in the early 1900s, many families and relatives were displaced and separated from each other. Up until the late 1980s, over 100,000 Cambodians were displaced in Klong Yai, away from their families across the border.

Because of this, you will see a lot of diversity in this town. Apart from French and Cambodian influence, one can also notice Chinese and Vietnamese influence.

Smiles and happiness at Chao Mae Thab Thim

One of the main highlights at Klong Yai is the Chinese Shrine of Chao Mae Thab Thim. The temple is revered and respected by all. It is where locals and people from neighboring areas come to practice their faith. They all use it as a place for community events and activities.

During our visit, the locals showed us some of their heritage through performances, music, dance, art, and of course food. The locals really have a way of integrating you in their traditions and way of life. We were completely engrossed. The friendly smiles and laughter captivated our hearts.

During the Chinese New Year, the temple hosts a massive festival. We already felt this particular day was a sight to see. I could only wonder how it would be like during auspicious times.

Explore Ban Mai Rut fishing village

The next stop in Klong Yai is the fishing community of Ban Mai Rut. It is a wonderful place to witness the daily life of the villagers and fishermen. There are two main things to do here – enjoy a delicious array of seafood and take a night boat ride along the Mai Rut river.

Seafood-wise, there are some species that I have never tried in my life. We went to Baan Kamnan Homestay for dinner, where some of us had mantis shrimps for the first time. I had heard about them for a long time and finally had a chance to give it a try. They were…interesting. I think I would it would be better if grilled, BBQ, or stir-fried with spices.

We also had mud crabs (popular dish), shrimps, and fish.

If you happen to eat at this restaurant, you can also ask the owner to arrange a night boat tour.

You don’t see much since it is so dark but it is worth it. It’s so tranquil out there in the water under the clear starry sky.

You will see fireflies and bio-luminescent plankton. Unfortunately, I couldn’t capture any of it properly with my camera.

History at Trat City Museum

Day 2 in Trat should start with a visit to the Trat Museum. It is an extremely well-maintained (air-conditioned) museum that showcases the heritage, history, and culture of Trat. Some of the information even dates back to the prehistoric era. That is quite impressive.

The Trat Museum has displays, wax sculptures, authentic historic pieces, a variety of exhibits, and chronological information of Trat that will really make you understand more about the province.

Mangrove Boat ride in Ban Tha Ranae

I have seen plenty of mangrove forests in Thailand. The one in Ban Tha Ranae is definitely one of the more unique ones. What makes it unique? Firstly, its history as it was once critically affected by mining. Secondly, the forest continues to have a different look as you go deeper inside. The villagers here are also known to strive hard to conserve the forest and run an eco-friendly way of life.

After learning the local stories, go on a boating trip along the river to Lan Taboon, where beautifully intertwined mangrove trees’ roots are revealed at low tide.

The boat ride took us deep into the forest where the tide was extremely low. Our boat captain had to maneuver with skill and knowledge so that we did not get stuck in the thick muddy water.

We then got off the boat and onto a walkway above mangroves and thick intertwined roots. For me, this was the highlight of the trip. I absolutely love mangrove walkways.

The path led us further in until we came to a clearing and a dead end. It was a perfect panoramic spot for photos and soaking in all the nature.

Interesting story: you know how sometimes the best things happen that aren’t captured on camera? That’s exactly what happened here. While on our way back, one of the boats got stuck in the shallow muddy water. For about 5 or 10 minutes the captain tried his best to steer the boat out. I think there were too many people sitting in it. That’s when two of my friends got out and started pushing the boat. The rest of the people leaned forward. Finally, it was out! We call clapped and cheered.

Gondola ride through the mangroves of Koh Chang

This one is optional only if you make your way to Koh Chang (island) from mainland Trat. The tour we were on took us here but if you’re following this mini guide on your own, you can choose to skip this activity. However, if you do go to Koh Chang, do not miss it!

Located on the east side of Koh Chang is another fishing village known as the Salakkok community. Similar to Ban Mai Rut, here you’ll see the traditional local life here. Excellent seafood can be found here as well.

The highlight activity of this place is the Gondola tour that takes you through along the mangroves and out into an inlet or bay.

Related read: eastern side of Koh Chang

The skills of these Gondola masters was truly amazing. To simultaneously row with both arms did not seem easy. In fact my friend gave it a try and after just 2 minutes he was exhausted.

It’s a great activity for friends or couples even. I just wish I had a bottle of wine or some beers while we were out there.

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Having seen these places, I am pretty sure there is a lot more to the unseen side of Trat. There always is. It’s impossible to see everything. You would have to live here for years to really experience the life, culture, and history of the province.

Where to stay

I do know however, there are tons of options.

It really depends on what you want to see and do. This could be an entirely separate post even. However, since we only stayed at the Barntalaepu resort in Klong Yai district, I can’t give much advice on where to stay. This one was nice as the rooms were clean and located next to the beach.

Most of the accommodations in Trat are 3-stars. According to hotels.com, there aren’t any 5-stars and only one 4-star hotel called Centara Chaan Talay Resort and Villas Trat.

If you want the full unseen side of Trat experience, there are plenty of homestays as well. Baan Kamnan Homestay is one of them. Pop Riverside Homestay is another.

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Disclaimer: This is part of a 3-day trip to Trat – Koh Chang – Chanthaburi and has been sponsored by SiamRise Travel and Dasta Thailand. SiamRise is a community-based travel company that specializes in cultural tours & responsible travel. Dasta, short for Designated Areas for
Sustainable Tourism Administration is a governmental organization established to oversee sustainable tourism operation.

This trip is part of an effort to revitalize tourism in the area and to promote new tour offerings.