Trat Airport is a small but essential regional airport located in Trat Province, Thailand. Serving as the primary gateway for travelers heading to Koh Chang and nearby islands, it provides both domestic flights and convenient access to the southeastern region of Thailand. While it is not as large as major international airports, Trat Airport plays a vital role in supporting tourism and local transport in the area. Its close proximity to the famous tourist destinations of Koh Chang, Koh Kood, and Koh Mak makes it an ideal starting point for those looking to explore Thailand's eastern coastline.
Proximity to Koh Chang:
Trat Airport is the closest airport to Koh Chang, Thailand’s second-largest island. From the airport, visitors can easily transfer to the mainland pier (about a 30-minute drive) to catch a ferry to Koh Chang. The airport's location makes it the ideal hub for travelers seeking a quick and convenient route to the island and surrounding areas.
Koh Mak and Koh Kood Access:
In addition to Koh Chang, Trat Airport also serves as a gateway to Koh Mak and Koh Kood, two beautiful islands in the Gulf of Thailand. Travelers can take boat transfers from Trat to reach these less touristy and more serene islands, offering opportunities for relaxation, snorkeling, and exploring untouched beaches.
Trat Town and Surroundings:
For those with a bit more time, Trat Town itself offers several attractions, such as the Trat Heritage Museum, where visitors can learn about the province's history, or Klong Son Bay, known for its peaceful scenery. You can also explore the nearby Mu Ko Chang National Park, famous for its marine biodiversity, hiking trails, and waterfall trekking opportunities.
Trat Airport, also known as Trat International Airport (although it primarily handles domestic flights), opened in 2003 and has been gradually improving its facilities and services to accommodate the increasing number of tourists visiting Koh Chang and the surrounding islands. The airport was established to support the growing tourism industry in Trat Province, especially as Koh Chang became a popular destination for both international and domestic travelers.
The airport’s role extends beyond just transportation; it connects visitors to one of Thailand's most beautiful and serene regions, where nature, culture, and history blend harmoniously. As travelers make their way from Trat to Koh Chang or other nearby islands, they become immersed in the province’s rich heritage of fishing, agriculture, and coastal traditions, giving them a taste of local life in eastern Thailand.
Best Times to Visit:
The best time to visit Trat and the surrounding islands is during the cool season, which runs from November to February. During this period, the weather is pleasant, with lower humidity and little rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. March to May can be quite hot, while the rainy season from June to October sees higher chances of showers and potential disruptions in travel.
How to Get There:
Trat Airport is located approximately 25 kilometers (15 miles) from Trat Town and around 30-40 minutes from the Laem Ngop Pier, where ferries depart for Koh Chang. Flights to Trat Airport are available from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport, with airlines like Bangkok Airways offering regular services. After arriving at Trat Airport, visitors can take a taxi or minibus to the ferry terminal for onward travel to the islands.
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