Amphoe Mueang Trat 1 - located on Phatthanakan Plai Khlong Road, Mu 3 Ban Plai Khlong, Tambon Wang Krachae. It is the province s oldest temple built around the reign of King Prasat Thong (1648 A.D.) in the Ayutthaya Period. It has undergone restoration and reconstruction since the reign of King Rama V of the Rattanakosin Period. Lately, a temple museum was established and the temple s landscape has been well tidied, so it has become a local religious centre. Spots of interest within the temple include: Museum a collection of precious objects of antiquity, especially the Lord Buddha s relic, as well as golden Buddha images coated with silver, Buddha images in various attitudes, Chinese and European ceramic wares, ceremonial kettledrum, etc. These objects indicate cultural exchanges among the Eastern ports and overseas ports in the Southeast Asian region as far as the West. Open daily during 8.00 a.m. 5.00 p.m. Murals the walls of the Phra Ubosot ordination hall and Wihan Phra Phutthasaiyat the Reclining Buddha Hall were painted by local craftsmen in the Rattanakosin Period, with a blend of Chinese arts and literature. It can be assumed that this temple might have been patronised by Chinese traders who immigrated to Trat since the Ayutthaya Period from Ayutthaya, Bangkok, Vietnam, Malaysia and Singapore. Other interesting buildings in the temple include Mu Kuti Lek Song Thai a complex of small Thai-style monk s cells or Kuti which were built in accordance with the Buddhist discipline requiring each to be large enough to accommodate a single monk, one will be built for the person to be ordained and put in a procession to the temple on the day of the ordination; Ho Suat Mon or praying hall a wooden hall built on octagonal wooden posts and roofed with glazed tiles and a projecting roof, with a carved and gilded gable depicting an angel in adoration and traditional panelled wall or Fa Prakon ; Chedi a square laterite and mortar Chedi with 12 redented corners; Wihan Fa Kradan a brick and mortar image hall built on a curved Chinese junk-like base of the late Ayutthaya Period with a single roof and plank wall, etc. For more information, please call Tel. 0 3951 2636. How to get there: from the provincial town, follow Highway No. 3 (Sukhumwit Road) and turn left opposite the Trat Hospital for approximately 2 km. 2 - Wat Yotha Nimit ( ), also known as Wat Bot ( ), is situated on Thetsaban 4 Road at the junction near the City Pillar Shrine. It is the only royal temple in Trat, which was built in the reign of King Taksin the Great when he was gathering his troops in order to liberate the country from Burma s control. The construction was finished in the reign of King Rama III. The temple was once used as a place to hold the oath of allegiance ceremony by government officials since the reign of King Taksin until King Rama V, when the place to hold the ceremony was changed to Wat Phai Lom. There is an old ordination hall of Ayutthayan art, containing murals which depict the Vessantara Jataka. At present, it serves as a Wihan called Wihan Yotha Nimit for storing many antiques such as palm-leaved books, scriptures for sermons and the Lord Buddha s footprint. This Wihan was last renovated in 1975. They repaired the roof, columns, doors, windows and outer wall but their old forms still remained.
3 - City Pillar Shrine ( ) is on Lak Mueang Road near Wat Yotha Nimit. It is different from other city pillar shrines because of its form as a Chinese pavilion. When King Taksin came to gather troops here, he ordered to build this city pillar which was believed by the Chinese to protect the city from enemies and to bring peace to the people. Therefore, the city pillar was a symbol to maintain a good relationship between the Thais and Chinese. Every year on the sixth night of the waxing moon period of the sixth lunar month, there is a celebration called, Phli Mueang Day ( ) or known among the Chinese as Xia Gong Sae Yit ( ) which means the birthday of the City Pillar God. There are many activities such as Thai alms-giving and Chinese Pung Tao Ma annual fair during a month before and after Chinese New Year. It is said when France colonized Trat, French soldiers saw people in Trat going to pay homage to the city pillar everyday, so they wanted to pull the pillar down but could not. Although they used an elephant to pull it, it moved just a little. Then the Trat people helped together to renovate and maintain the pillar. 4 - Wat Phai Lom ( ) located on Lak Mueang Road and has played an important role in the province s education. It used to be a resident of Trat s Father of Education Than Chaokhun Phra Wimonmethachan Worayannurak. The temple also houses a Buddhist garden for public meditation and Chedi museum of three much revered monks of Trat. Its devout monks as well as novices have helped to enhance faith among the villagers and made the temple an always reliable place for them. 5 - Residang Kampot ( ) a former residence now used as the Office of Probation, Department of Corrections, still in its original architectural style. Open during working hours on weekdays. 6 - Laem Sok (แ ) was used as the residence of Kromluang Chomphonkhetudomsak, the father of Thai Royal Navel Army. Fishermen villages are found nrae the area. It has a fantastic view of the sunset; moreover, the fisherman villages such as Laem Hin Village and Ao Cho Village are interesting places to visit. 7 - Wat Khiri Wihan ( ) formerly known as Wat Tha Luean ( ) or Wat Phukhao Yuan ( ) an old temple of over 110 years old located at Ban Tha Luean on a mountain overlooking forested hills and sea. Having undergone restoration to look like a brand new temple, it also houses a small teak forest, which lends a shady and serene atmosphere. The temple features fine architecture with a blend of modern art. Principal buildings inside the temple s precincts include a large Phra Ubosot or ordination hall, Phra Chedi, reception pavilion for HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, monk s residence, preaching hall, and Chinese pavilion enshrining Phra Phuttha Udom Sombun, Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, and Phra Sangkatchai. How to get there: take Highway 318, the Trat Khlong Yai Ban Hat Lek route, for some 20 km. 8 - Laem Klat (แ ): A white sandy beach sticking out into the sea with not too deep water ideal for swimming. Its serene atmosphere is relaxing. A panoramic view of Laem Sok, Ko Mai Si, Ko Kradat and Ko Mak is available from here. How to get there, take Highway No. 318 and turn right to Ban Laem Klat.
9 - Wat Saphan Hin ( ) is located at Km 31-32 on the Trat Khlong Yai Road (Highway 318), along the way to Khlong Yai. Turn off the main road to get to the temple s entrance. Although it is unknown when the temple was built, it is assumed to be more than a hundred years old. There is an old Buddhist ordination hall in the water, approximately 1 km. from the temple. The main transportation route is paralleled with a rock line, which links both sides of the canal. Amphoe Khlong Yai 10 - Hat Sai Ngam ( ) an approximately 200-metre long white sandy beach running parallel to a grove of pine trees. To get there, take the same route as Laem Klat at Km. 37 and walk across a wooden bridge of some 15 metres long to the beach. 11 - Hat Sai Ngoen ( ) a not-so-wide beach with a pine forest more ideal for relaxing or fishing than swimming. Hat Muk Kaeo is accessible from here. How to get there: Hat Sai Ngoen is at around Km. 41 next to Hat Sai Ngam. 12 - Hat Muk Kaeo and Hat Sai Kaeo ( แ แ แ ) have a peaceful atmosphere for recreation. Hat Muk Kaeo is a white sandy beach, which lies along from Hat Sai Ngoen to Hat Sai Kaeo, with the shade of pine and coconut trees all along the beach. Visitors can also admire the beautiful sunset here 13 - R c k T Red C ss Ass c s L Ce e ), formerly called the Thai Red Cross Association s Khao Lan Center, is on the Trat Khlong Yai Road, at Km 48 on the roadside of Highway 318. Her Majesty the Queen ordered to establish the Thai Red Cross Association s Khao Lan Center to help Cambodian refugees. However, the center was closed in 1986 since all the refugees returned to their homeland. In 1992, the Thai Red Cross built the Ratchakarun Hall and the museum to glorify Her Majesty the Queen, President of the Thai Red Cross Association on the occasion of her 60th Birthday Anniversary. The museum is open at 8.30 a.m. 4.00 p.m. and contains an exhibition concerning H.M. Queen Sirikit s duties and models of Cambodian refugees in many movements, doing their routine activities such as cooking and embroidery. There is also a garden of auspicious trees from 76 provinces, herbal garden, Buddha image in the Sukhothai style in a gesture of subduing Mara, which was built following the command of the Queen for healing Cambodian refugees painful minds after they escaped from war. It is also a holy place for people in Trat and from other provinces. Behind the museum, there are some peaceful beaches. Accommodation is available for tourists. For further information, please call Tel. 0 3952 1621, 0 3952 1624, 0 3952 1838, or Fax. 0 3952 1621, or www.redcross.or.th/khaolan, or E-mail: khaolan@tr.ksc.co.th. 14 - Hat Mai Rut ( ) otherwise known as Hat Samran (ห ร ญ) turn right off Highway No. 31 between Km. 57 58 toward Ban Mai Rut for 5 km. to end at the concrete bridge. The entrance to the beach is in front of the Community Pavilion or Sala Prachakhom. Walk on another 200 metres to the beach where there is a single bungalow for rent. 15 - Hat Banchuen ( ), formerly called Hat Maro ( ), is located before Amphoe Khlong Yai on Highway 318, between Km 59 and 60. When getting to the junction, turn right and go on for about 3 km. This beach has delicate sand grain and clear sea water where it is possible to swim. Bangalows for rent are available near the beach.
16 - T d s N wes A e แ ) located at Mu 2 Ban Khot Sai, Tambon Hat Lek, on the Trat Khlong Yai route between Km. 81 82. The area is only 450 metres wide. 17 - Ban Hat Lek Border Market ( แ ) a village on the Thai-Cambodian border located at Ban Hat Lek, Tambon Hat Lek, at the very end of Highway No. 31. When fighting in Cambodia was over in 1986, it used to serve as an intermediate marketplace for grain trading between farmers in Cambodia and traders in Ko Kong. The market on the Hat Lek side is open in the morning during 7.00 8.30 a.m., selling also inexpensive commodities from Cambodia such as electrical equipment, spectacles, perfume, etc. A taxi to Ko Kong is available from the Cambodian side opposite Ban Hat Lek at an agreed fare. How to get there: an hourly van from Trat to Hat Lek is available daily at Bt 100, taking approximately 1½ hours, whereas a taxi trip across the bridge to Ko Kong from the Cambodian side takes about 45 minutes. Note: Foreigners crossing the border to Cambodia will have to present their passports and visas at Ban Hat Lek border checkpoint, Tel. 0 3958 8084 or at the Cambodian Embassy in Bangkok, Tel. 0 2253 7967, 0 2254 6630. Amphoe Khao Saming 18 - Wat Mueang Kao Saen Tum ( แ ) and Boran Sathan Khao Tomo ( ร ) are situated at Mu 7, Ban Irem, Tambon Pranit, approximately 38 km. from the district office of Amphoe Khao Saming. This temple is surrounded by nature, suitable to be a recreational place to relax or to practise meditation. In the south, you can visit Boran Sathan Khao Tomo which was built before the Buddha s era. It is believed that there is a treasure stored in a hundred thousand jars (Saen Tum) under the ground of this historical site. That is why it is also called Wat Saen Tum. Boran Sathan Khao Tomo is a mound covered with trees and there are dark-brown stone poles in various shapes of angled forms, with a length of 30 150 cm., diameter length of 15-20 cm. and weight of 10-100 kg. The way they lay stones over and over is similar to the way the ancient people built a place of worship. Some stones give a bell-like sound when they are knocked. To get there, from Saen Tung Intersection, take Highway 3157, Saen Tung Bo Rai to Km. 18.5 and turn left at the junction. Go on to Ban Ta Phlai on Highway 3158 about 2.5 km. Turn left and drive along the route Ban Na Makham and Ban Irem for about 9 km. Amphoe BoRai Bo Rai used to be the source of Siam ruby or red ruby. Today a few gem markets can be seen. The markets are open in the early morning until 10 a.m. 19 - Namtok Salatdai ( ) is situated 7km from Km. 25 of Highway No. 3157 (Saen Tung-Bo Rai). The area rich with natural environment is proper for taking a real rest. 20 - Namtok Khlong Kaeo National Park ( แ แ ) has an area of approximately 65,525 rai (104,840 square kilometres). Interesting places to visit are as follows: Namtok Khlong Kaeo, a 7-leveled waterfall where visitors can see the beautiful sight of Bo Rai, especially on the 4th level. Most travellers visit only the 4 lower tiers of the waterfalls because it
takes almost all day to climb up to every level. Besides, visitors should also visit Namtok Salat Dai, Namtok Khlong Chai and Pha Lan Hin. Accommodation: No shelter is available at the park, but tourists can bring their own tents. For more information, please contact the Namtok Khlong Kaeo National Park, Mu 2, Tambon Bo Phloi, Amphoe Bo Rai, Trat 23140. To get there, from Bangkok, take Sukhumvit Road, Highway 3, to Saen Tung Market, Amphoe Khao Saming. Turn left and go along Highway 3157, on the route Saen Tung Bo Rai for about 33 km. Turn left and pass the Border Patrol Police Company 116 for another 8 km. to get to Namtok Khlong Kaeo. Amphoe Laem Ngop Laem Ngop lies 17km from the inner city of Trat along Highway No. 3184. Tourist can get ferry service to many islands such as Ko Chang, Ko Mak, Ko Kham, Ko Wai and Ko Kut. Souvenirs shops and restaurants are available near Laem Ngop Pier. 21 - Ban Nam Chiao ( ) is about 8km from town on the Trat-Laem Ngop route. It is noted for Ngop Nam Chiao, a native hat to ward off the sun. The hat is woven with local palm leafs from plants grown in mangrove area. It is still widely used today as it is light and comfortable. In addition to the traditional shape, it has been adapted into other more fashionable shapes as souvenir. 22 - Ko Chang Naval Battle Memorial ( ) at Laem Ngop, commemorates the Franco-Thai naval engagement on January 17-21, 1941. There are also the Statue of Prince Chumphon, father of the Thai navy, and a warship-shaped museum displaying old equipment and armament of the fleet with exhibits on the Ko Chang naval battle. 23 - Ko Pui ( ) an islet not too far from the shore that makes an ideal attraction for relaxation in shady surroundings. It is conveniently accessible in all seasons and home to coconut groves, herbs and Dinso Phong (white clay body-powder) mentioned at the time of King Rama V s visit to Trat. Beaches on Ko Pui are slimy sands not suitable for swimming but ideal for relaxation in a serene atmosphere. How to get there, charter a boat from Laem Ngop or drive to board a boat at Laem Uan by taking the Trat Laem Ngop route for 15 km., turn right at the PTT gas station into a laterite road for some 5 km. and turn right at the direction sign for 500 metres to Laem Uan. A car park service and rental boat to Ko Pui which is 10 minutes away is available. A return trip by a chartered boat between Laem Uan Ko Pui costs Bt 400 500. 24 - Ao Tan Khu ( ) is a bay with fine sandy beach popular with local people during holidays. It is 12km from Laem Ngop or 4km off Highway No. 3156 (Laem Ngop-Ban Saen Tung). Bungalows and restaurants are available. King Amphoe Ko Chang 25 - Mu Ko Chang ( ) located in the middle of the sea and, thus, having an averagely pleasant climate ideal for vacation. Ko Chang is influenced by monsoons from both the northeast and southwest winds, which bar boat access to the island during May October. November May is the most convenient period to travel to Ko Chang and its surrounding islands.
26 - Mu Ko Chang National Park ( แ ), with an area of 650 square kilometres, covers more than 52 islands from the territory of Amphoe Laem Ngop, Amphoe Mueang to Amphoe Khlong Yai. The most famous is Ko Chang. In addition, there are other islands with remaining wonderful nature such as Ko Khlum, Ko Lao Ya Nai, Ko Ngam, Ko Mai Si Yai, Ko Wai, Ko Rang, etc. The park office is in the east of Ko Chang, near Khlong Than Mayom, with a large harbour in its front. There are also 3 National Park Protection Units at Ao Khlong Son, Namtok Khlong Phlu s entrance and Ban Salak Phet, all of which are on Ko Chang. 27 - Ko Chang ( ) previously an unsettled island, is now important as a harbour for ships to escape from the monsoon, and dietary or fresh water resources, especially at Ao Salak Phet or Ao Salat which is well known to pirates, Hai Lam Chinese and Vietnamese. At present, there are 8 villages on the island. Ko Chang is the second largest island of the country after Phuket, with an area of approximately 429 square kilometres. The topography contains high mountains and complex stone cliffs. The highest mount is Khao Salak Phet which is 744 metres high, rich in fertile evergreen forest which is the main water source. Therefore, there are many waterfalls, beaches and splendid reefs in the west of the island. Places of Interest in Ko Chang 28 - Ko Chang Naval Battle Site ( ) located in the southern part of Ko Chang. The Trat waters near Ao Salak Phet and Ao Salak Khok also added another page in the Thai history of fighting for the country s sovereignty. On 17 January 1941, the Royal Thai Navy managed to evict the invaders although we lost a certain number of squadrons and soldiers. 17 January has become a memorial day for the heroic fighting, of which a service is held annually at Ko Chang Naval Battle Memorial in Amphoe Laem Ngop. 29 - Ko Ngam was the first point of confrontation in the Franco Siamese War in which the French army sent aircraft on a reconnaissance and bombing of the island, whereas Ko Wai is the point where French patrol aircraft crashed after being fired by HTMS Songkhla and HTMS Chon Buri. A squadron of 7 French warships led by the Lamotte Piquet Cruiser, 2 sloops and 4 gunboats invaded in 3 divisions. The Lamotte Piquet alone made Division 1 blocking the south of Ko Wai and Ko Bai Tang. Division 2 comprising 1 sloop and 1 gunboat blocked the channel between Ko Khlum and Ko Wai whereas Division 3 comprising 1 sloop and 3 gunboats blocked the channel between Ko Khlum and Laem Bang Bao. 30 - Ko Mai Si is a small private island located not far from Ko Kut where there is beautiful nature, sandy beaches and clear water home to diversified marine life and ideal for diving. Various plant species grow wild on the island, which used to be a confrontation site between the Lamotte Piquet and HTMS Thon Buri that was in commission at Ko Lim. In assisting HTMS Songkhla and HTMS Chon Buri which were heavily fired and eventually sank near Ao Salak Phet and Ao Salak Khok, the HTMS Thon Buri was also hardly attacked, ran aground and sank near Laem Ngop.
Semi-homestay accommodation is available for a group visit of 15 30 persons. A 3-day/2-night package sells at Bt 4,500-5,000, 2-day/1-night at Bt 4,000-4,500. For more details, please contact Tel. 0 2750 6873, 0 9980 5757. 31 - Ao Khlong Son ( ): A bay in the northernmost west of the island where Ban Khlong Son Community is located, with a beautiful coral reef. Accommodation is available. 32 - Namtok Khlong Nonsi ( ): A small waterfall to the northeast of the island accessible by a 3-km. pathway from Ban Dan Mai or about 4 km. from the national park s headquarters. 33 - Namtok Than Mayom ( ) a medium 4-tiered waterfall located some 500 metres through a garden behind the national park s headquarters, with the 3rd tier being the most beautiful. King Rama V, King Rama VII and Queen Rambhai Barni used to visit this waterfall as evident from the royal initials on the rock. 34 - Namtok Khlong Phlu ( ): A large and most breathtaking waterfall on Ko Chang with water cascading down 3 tiers of the cliff to a basin, with an entrance located 3 km. from Ao Khlong Phrao plus another 20-minute walk. 35 - Hat Sai Yao ( ) located near Ao Salak Phet to the south of the island with a long stretch of sandy beach where swimming is available. Trekking to the naval battle site, as well as a trip to admire nearby islands such as Ko Lao Ya, Ao Salak Phet, Ko Wai, etc. is provided. Accommodation is available. 36 - Monkey Training Centre ( ) located at Mu 4 Hat Sai Khao, Tambon Ko Chang, the centre provides training as well as shows of monkey s abilities, especially in collecting coconuts. There are 3 shows daily at 10.00 a.m., 02.00 p.m. and 04.00 p.m. Admission is Bt 200. For more details, please call Tel. 0 1982 8661, 0 6531 3398. 37 - Ban Salak Phet ( ) a large and the oldest community on Ko Chang located in the southern part. The villagers main occupation is coastal fishery in an advantageous area sheltered from winds and storms by islands and mountains. There is an old temple in front of the village known as Wat Salak Phet built in the reign of King Rama V on his royal visit to the island. Ao Salak Phet is the largest bay on the island. 38 - Namtok Khiri Phet ( ) a single-storeyed waterfall located 3 km. from Ban Salak Phet Community through a rubber plantation. 39 - Namtok Khlong Nueng ( ) a small waterfall near Namtok Khiri Phet Ban Rong Than, located some 2 km. deeper inside the island from the Salak Phet Community with another 480-metre walk. The waterfall cascades down from a narrow gorge for 120 metres. Swimming is available.
40 - Bang Bao Fishery Village ( ) a village of houses on stilts built into the sea with bridges connecting them together. Most of the villagers are descendants of the Salak Phet villagers, living a simple way of life and earning their living from coastal fishery, with abundant soft cuttlefish and corals. There is a pier, fish dock, and manufacturing of shrimp paste, fish sauce, dried shrimp and salted fish. The area is an ideal berthing area for fishing boats, with mountains and islands providing a good shelter from wind and storms in the monsoon season. 41 - Ban Rong Than ( ) a small community located near Salak Phet in the southern part of the island. It is a scenic viewpoint where the mist-covered peak of Khao Salak Phet in the north and Ko Maphrao Nai and mountains near Laem Yai in the east are visible. A panoramic view of the whole area of Ao Salak Phet is also available from Samnak Song Atulaphon Banphot on the hill. 42 - Ao Bai Lan ( ) located next to Hat Kai Bae and accessible by a pathway across the mountain which takes about 1 hour, with a scenic view of mountains along the way. Ao Bai Lan has a long stretch of serene beach ideal for swimming and relaxing. 43 - Hat Kai Bae ( แ ) a sloping and long stretch of beach connecting with Hat Khlong Phrao where swimming is available. There are several bungalows for rent at economy prices, some with mountain bikes available. 44 - Hat Khlong Phrao- Laem Chaiyachet ( -แ ) a long stretch of sloping beach connecting with Hat Kai Bae where swimming is available. There are several bungalows for rent with standard rooms and necessary facilities. The northernmost end of Ao Khlong Phrao connects with Laem Chaiyachet with a scenic rocky cape but swimming is not available. Accommodation, the national park offers accommodation as follows: Khlong Son Office 9 rooms for 2 6 persons at Bt 800 2,500. For more information, Tel. 0 3955 5086 or contact National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Bangkok, Tel. 0 2562 0760-2, www.dnp.go.th. Transportation on the island: from the pier, there is a Song Thaeo minibus to Hat Sai Khao, Hat Khlong Phrao, Hat Kai Bae at Bt 30. A chartered fare has to be agreed for a journey to other beaches. 45 - Ko Chang Noi and Laem Chang Noi ( แ แ ) located in the north of Ko Chang and housing coral reefs between Laem Chang Noi and Ko Chang Noi. 46 - Ko Man Nok Ko Man Nai ( ) small islands opposite Hat Kai Bae with surrounding beaches at low tides and golden seaweeds in the nearby shallows. 47 - Ko Khlum ( ) an island ideal for fishing with a peculiar scenery of rocky areas. 48 - Ko Lao Ya ( ) a group of islands located to the south of Ko Chang comprising Ko Lao Ya Nai, Ko Lao Ya Klang and Ko Lao Ya Nok, approximately 2 3 hours from
Laem Ngop. There are long beaches, clear sea water and beautiful corals, with accommodation available. 49 - Ko Wai ( ) located to the south of Ko Chang near Ko Lao Ya, approximately 2.30 hours from Laem Ngop. It has scenic beaches, as well as large and complete coral reefs ideal for fishing. The bay to the north of the island houses coral reefs in a perfect condition whereas the western area of Ao Yai provides home to mostly hard corals and scaly giant clams. Accommodation is available. How to get there: there are boats leaving Laem Ngop Pier or Memorial Pier ( ร ร ) to Ko Wai at 03.00 and 05.00 p.m., and on the return trip leaving Ko Wai Pakarang Pier at 8.00 a.m. The journey takes some 3 hours and the fare is Bt 250 each. For more information, Ko Wai Pakarang Resort Tel. 08 1945 4383, 08 1983 2098. 50 - Ko Phrao Nok or Ko Sai Khao ( ) located to the south facing Ao Salak Phet, approximately 2 hours from Laem Ngop Pier. The island has white sandy beaches and shady coconut grove. Accommodation is available. 51 - Ko Ngam ( ) a twin island connected by a large sand bar located to the southeast of Ko Chang, with an inlet surrounded by the hilly topography where the sea is calm and scenic. To get there: a journey from Laem Ngop takes about 2 hours. Accommodation is available. King Amphoe Ko Kut ( ) 52 - Ko Kut ( ) Thailand s easternmost island in Trat waters, the province s second largest island next to Ko Chang and the country s fourth largest island. Located 80 km. from Trat, it covers a total area of 105 sq. km. or approximately 65,625 rai, measuring 25 km. long and 12 km. wide. The topography is generally still in its natural condition, with mountains and ridges forming the headwater of many streams from which originate various waterfalls. The most renowned waterfall on Ko Kut is Namtok Wang Chao, a 3-tiered waterfall with water all year round running in a stream from the upper tier and cascading down in a large fall into the lower tier ideal for swimming. King Rama VI visited this waterfall in 1911 and named it Namtok Anam Kok in memory of Ong Chiang Sue, an Annamese king who took refuge in the area in the reign of King Rama I. On the western part of the island, the attractions range from Ao Ta Tin, Hat Khlong Yai Ki, Laem Hin Dam, Hat Khlong Chao, Hat Ngam Kho, Laem Bang Bao, Hat Ao Phrao, as far as Laem Thian. Interesting attractions on the eastern part include Ao Sapparot, Laem Sala, Ao Yai Koet, Ao Khlong Hin, Ao Chak which are all sandy beaches with crystal clear water and serene atmosphere amid a shady coconut grove. The island as well as the nearby Ko Raet and Ko Mai are also home to an intact mangrove forest, beautiful coral reefs and schools of colourful fish. The native people of Ko Kut are mostly Thai and Khmer immigrants from Ko Kong since the time of French occupation of Patchantakhirikhet in 1904. Ban Khlong Mat is the oldest village on the
island whose residents continue to earn their living from agriculture such as rubber plantation, coconut groves and some fruit orchards, as well as coastal fishery. Accommodation is available. How to get there: there is no regular passenger ferry to Ko Kut but a private-operated boat by Ko Kut Seatrans Co., Ltd. is available. Tel. 0 3959 7646, 08 1444 9259. The fare for a round-trip is Bt 900 each. The journey takes approximately 2½ hours and is available from Laem Ngop Pier (the Lighthouse Pier) on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 09.00 a.m. and arriving in Ko Kut at 11.30 a.m. On the return trip, the boat leaves Ko Kut on Fridays at 12.30 p.m. and Sundays at 11.00 a.m. 53 - Ko Mak ( ) a large island located in between Ko Chang and Ko Kut, approximately 38 km. from the mainland. It covers a total area of approximately 9,000 rai with the shape of a 4-pointed star. The topography is mostly coastal plain with a thicket of coconut groves and rubber plantations. Scenic bays and sandy beaches embracing crystal clear water are all around the island such as Ao Ta Nit, Ao Prong, Ao Phat and Ao Daeng. Around the shore and the nearby islands, there are beautiful coral reefs. October May is the ideal period for Visiting. Accommodation is available on the island. How to get there: a passenger ferry to Ko Mak leaves the Prince of Chumphon Pier at 03.00 p.m. to arrive at Ao Nit Pier at 07.00 p.m. On the return trip, the boat leaves Ao Nit at 08.00 a.m. and arrives at Laem Ngop Pier at 11.30 a.m. The fare is Bt 300 each. For more information, Tel. 0 3953 8122, 08 9605 7807. A ferry operated by Ko Kut Seatrans Co., Ltd. leaves Laem Ngop Pier (the Lighthouse Pier) to Ko Mak at 09.00 a.m. and arrives at Ao Nit at 10.30 a.m. On the return trip, the boat from Ko Kut takes 1 hour to arrive at Ao Nit and leaves for Laem Ngop Pier. The fare is Bt 550 each. For further details, please call Tel. 0 3959 7646, 08 1444 9259. An airconditioned passenger boat operated by Ko Mak Express Co., Ltd. leaves the Prince of Chumphon Pier on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 09.00 a.m. and arrives in Ko Mak at 10.30 a.m. (berthing at Ko Mak Resort). On the return trip, the boat leaves at 1.30 p.m. and arrives at the Prince of Chumphon Pier at 03.00 p.m. The fare is Bt 400 each. For further information, please call Tel. 0 3959 7296, 08 4166 2419. 54 - Ko Kradat ( ) located to the northeast of Ko Mak and covering a total area of approximately 1,200 rai. It has a flat paper-like topography with Alocasia plants Kradat in Thai growing wild in abundance. Ko Kradat is Thailand s single island with a land title deed issued since the reign of King Rama V when countries in Southeast Asia were being colonised and there were attempts to occupy some areas in Thai territory including Ko Kradat. The island has a long and white sandy beach with beautiful coral reefs. Ko Kradat has been designated among the Unseen Thailand attractions. October May is an appropriate period for Visiting. Accommodation is available. How to get there: there is no regular passenger boat to Ko Kradat. Visitors will have to purchase a package tour offered by Ko Kradat Resort. For more information, Tel. 08 1432 8027, 08 1823 5471, 08 9099 7917. It is approximately 2 3 hours from Laem Ngop. 55 - Ko Kham ( ) a small island near Ko Mak located approximately 3 hours from Laem Ngop. What attract visitors to Ko Kham are its scenic natural surroundings, shady and
serene atmosphere, sandy beach and crystal clear water. There are corals on the east of the island which is ideal for diving. Accommodation is available. How to get there: there is a regular boat from Laem Ngop Pier to Ko Kham leaving at 03.00 p.m. and arriving in Ko Kham at 06.00 p.m. On the return trip, the boat leaves Ko Kham at 8.00 a.m. and arrives at Laem Ngop Pier at 11.00 a.m. The fare is Bt 300 each. For further information, Tel. 08 1303 1229, 08 1916 6536. 56 - Mu Ko Rayang ( ) a group of islands comprising Ko Rayang Nai and Ko Rayang Nok. Ko Rayang Nok is peaceful with white sandy beaches and crystal clear water. Accommodation is available on Ko Rayang Nok. 57 - Mu Ko Kra ( ) a group of islets to the west of Ko Mak, a swallow bird s nest concession area and a diving spot with beautiful corals. 58 - Mu Ko Rang ( ) a group of islets located approximately 6 km. to the west of Ko Mak. There is not sufficient plains area for human habitation on Ko Rang, which is surrounded by islands of various sizes such as Ko Rang Yai, Ko Rang Lek, Ko Kra, Ko Thian, Ko Thong Luang, Ko Yak, Ko Sam Phi Nong, Ko Mapring, Ko Tun, Ko Kampan, etc. Diving to admire the beautiful corals among schools of fish is available. How to get there: there is no regular boat to Mu Ko Rang and Mu Ko Kra. Visitors will have to charter a boat from Laem Ngop at Bt 5,000 8,000/day depending on the size of the boat. Others 59 - Ko Chang Yutthanawi Memorial The Ko Chang Yutthanawi Memorial, at Laem Ngop, commemorates the Franco-Thai naval engagement on January 17, 1941. Other attractions at the memorial include the Statue of Prince Chumphon, father of the Thai navy, and a warship-shaped museum displaying old equipment and armaments of the fleet with exhibits on the Ko Chang naval battle. 60 - Ban Salak Khok Community The small settlement of Ban Salak Khok is a great place to visit by itself and for good food and relaxed atmosphere - well worth the outing from the west coast. However, the key thing to do here is to paddle, row, boat among the mangroves. This you can do on the cheap or get the full set with food and drinks served out in the mangroves. If you have not seen mangroves close up before or understood the mangrove/mud flat tidal ecology, this is your chance to learn something. The main restaurant her serves real Thai food, not modified for the ketchup crowd. And local raw materials. It is an interesting community out here, houses on stilts, connected with board walks. Directions: South West coast of Koh Chang, in a bay dense with mangroves and sourrounded by green hills
Getting to the Islands There are piers in Amphoe Laem Ngop where boats are available to travel to Ko Chang and various islands, as follows: Laem Ngop Pier, passenger boats adapted from fishing boats travelling to Ban Dan Kao of Ko Chang. The fare is Bt 50 and the trip takes about 45 minutes. The boat leaves every hour from 08.00 a.m. 05.00 p.m. A return trip from Ko Chang is available during 07.00 a.m. 04.00 p.m. A boat trip to Ko Mak leaves the Laem Ngop Pier at 03.00 p.m. and arrives in Ao Nit around 06.00 p.m. On the return trip, the boat leaves Ao Nit at 08.00 a.m. and arrives in Laem Ngop at 11.30 a.m. The fare is Bt 300. A boat trip to Ko Wai leaves at 03.00 p.m. and arrives at 05.30 p.m. The fare is Bt 250. For more information, please call Tel. 0 3953 8122. There are also reservation agents from various resorts near the pier. Tourists may charter a boat (adapted from small fishing boats to accommodate about 10 passengers) to Ko Chang or other islands at approximately Bt 2,000 3,500 per day or contact Saeng Chan Restaurant at 99/3 Mu 1 Laem Ngop Beach, Amphoe Laem Ngop, Trat Province, Tel. 0 3959 7198, 0 3959 7299. Ko Chang International Co., Ltd. Pier, a ferry to Ko Chang leaves Ao Thammachat during 07.00 a.m. 07.00 p.m. On the return trip, it leaves Ao Sapparot every half an hour during 08.00 a.m. 07.00 p.m., taking about 45 minutes. The return fare is Bt 150 for tourist and Bt 150 for car with driver. For more information, please call Tel. 0 3952 8288 9, 0 3959 7143. A van to Pattaya at Bt 400, Ko Samet Pier at Bt 250 and Khao San Road at Bt 220 is available at the pier. Centrepoint Pier, a ferry to Ko Chang leaving Laem Ngop during 06.00 a.m. 06.00 p.m. On the return trip, it leaves Dan Kao Cabana Pier during 06.00 a.m. 07.00 p.m. The return fare for tourists and drivers is Bt 140 each and free of charge for 4-wheeled vehicles. The journey takes 45 minutes. Please call Tel. 0 3953 8196 for further details. A boat for rent is also available daily at several fishery piers in Amphoe Khlong Yai to nearby islands such as Ko Kut, Ko Kradat and Ko Mak.