Thailand

Trang, a jewel on the west coast of the Andaman Sea in southern Thailand, is proud of its rich culinary culture. But this provincial capital is also a gateway to natural wonders. The surrounding islands reveal idyllic landscapes that call for adventure, both on land and at sea. Get ready; Trang will enchant your five senses!

History

In southern Thailand, cities like Trang flourished due to tin trading. It was in this context that thousands of Chinese migrants flocked to the area in the 18th and 19th centuries to participate in this thriving activity. However, Trang took a new turn starting in 1899 with the arrival of Thailand's first rubber tree, brought from Malaysia by Governor Phraya Ratsadanupradit. Fishing and the rubber industry have since been the pillars of the local economy. Meanwhile, tourism has slowly developed around the Trang Islands.

Some say that the name Trang comes from the Sri-Trang flower. For others, it is derived from a Malay word meaning "dawn," as boats often arrived in the region before sunrise.

Discovering Trang

Trang is a small provincial capital, charming and discreet at the same time. Apart from markets and major thoroughfares like Rama VI Street, lined with hotels and shophouses, it's rather quiet. Chinese roots are evident in the architecture and the local cuisine. Indeed, food is one of Trang's riches. Here, you can eat Thai, Chinese, Malay, and more. International specialties are also well represented. There are plenty of diverse and varied dining options. For breakfast, you can have salapao and dim sum in a traditional café, while in the evening, the aroma of spicy curry and roasted chicken will lure you to street food stalls. Trang's cuisine delights the taste buds, but its natural beauty remains by far the region's best attraction.

Explore the Trang Islands

While the coast offers beautiful spaces to stroll and relax, it is especially by heading to the Trang Islands that you will discover postcard-worthy scenery. Unlike Ko Lanta, Ko Phi Phi, or Phuket, which are overrun by tourists, these preserved islands allow you to breathe in a peaceful setting. Pristine beaches, sparkling waters, and lush vegetation invite relaxation.

On Ko Ngai Island, which is among the most developed in the archipelago, diving is the main activity. You will be dazzled by the corals and marine life around its shores. As for Ko Kradan, its limestone karsts emerging from the sea will surprise you. Ko Muk is accessible to budget travelers and offers a wide range of adventurous activities; visit the Emerald Cave, which is 85 meters long. Finally, for off-the-beaten-path exploration, Ko Sukorn offers a rural getaway. With your bike, you can get lost in rubber fields, rice paddies, and watermelon plantations, all while feeling the sea breeze caress your face.

Several islands are located within the territory of Hat Chao Mai National Park, where you will find even more wonders, such as the very rare dugongs and black-necked storks.

When to go?

Trang can be visited year-round, but if you want to fully enjoy the sun and gentle sea breeze, plan your visit between December and May. These months are characterized by mild weather with less rain, making them ideal for exploring the city or relaxing at the beach. Outside of this period, the region experiences a lot of humidity due to the monsoon, which can spoil outdoor activities. Temperatures are high all year round, ranging between 25 and 35 °C.

How to get there?

Located 7 kilometers south of the city, Trang Airport operates daily flights to Bangkok. Buses also serve the region to and from the capital, as well as other destinations like Phuket, Krabi, Koh Lanta, Satun, and Hat Yai. The railway linking Bangkok to Trang extends to Malaysia and Singapore.

Getting around?

In Trang, you can get around on foot, by bike, or by motorbike to explore the city and its surroundings independently. For longer journeys, you can take a tuk-tuk, a taxi, or rent a car. To reach the islands of the Trang archipelago, the crossing can be done by ferry or by participating in organized excursions.

What to do in Trang?

• Explore the local culinary richness.
• Visit the shophouses on Rama VI Street.
• Dive at Ko Ngai
• Bike around Ko Sukorn Island.
• Discover the biodiversity of Hat Chao Mai National Park, etc.