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The 13 Best Things To Do in Trang
Choosing Thailand for your next vacation means you can be spoiled for choice on where to go. While you can never go wrong with the usual spots like Bangkok and Phuket, we think that Trang is an underrated destination.
Things to do in Trang include visiting points of interest, trying out local cuisine, and learning about the region’s history. The relatively low tourist traffic that Trang receives means that visitors can expect to experience a truly local lifestyle.
It’s that laid-back vibe that makes it shine, in our opinion. Visiting Trang is always a joy since we never feel the pressure to chase down tourist traps along with other travelers; everything just comes for us to experience naturally.
But don’t take just my word for it – read on below as we go through the absolute must-tries we’ve discovered in this hidden gem of Thailand!
Things To Do Inside Trang City

Even just the city of Trang alone is already a treasure trove of adventure in the southern end of Thailand. It’s likely that you’ll be starting your journey in Trang in the city, so these are the places not to be missed.
1. Pay homage at the religious sites
Thailand is home to around 40,000 temples and shrines, and Trang has its own fair share of places of worship. These religious sites each have their own storied backgrounds for you to discover.
We always believe that paying homage is a great way to get in touch with the local culture. Why not try visiting some of our favorite places of worship in Trang?
Local tip: Entrance is free in the temples. Be sure to wear appropriate attire when visiting them! |
Wat Tantayapirom Phra Aram Luang

Affectionately nicknamed the “ice cream temple” by travelers, this is perhaps the most iconic wat in Trang! This nickname is derived from the impressive white pagoda, which looks quite similar to scoops of vanilla ice cream.
Did you know that the temple is well over 200 years old? Even after all the years, it’s still an elegant sight, having been well-maintained to preserve the aura of peace and calm for everyone to enjoy.
Besides the great white pagoda, other beautiful details of Wat Tantayapirom Phra Aram Luang include intricate gold leaf decor and guardian animal statues.
While here, please make sure to wear polite clothing to respect temple customs! At the very least, be sure that your shoulders are covered up – a sarong will help if you find that you don’t have time for an outfit change before visiting the temple.
Wat Tantayapirom Phra Aram Luang
Address: Wat Tantaya Phirom, Bang Rak, Mueang Trang District, Trang
Operating Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
Wat Kaphang Surin

Another distinct Buddhist religious site in Trang is Wat Kaphang Surin. While just as peaceful as Wat Tantayapirom Phra Aram Luang, this temple can be described as having more striking visual qualities.
On the outside, rich colors are sure to catch your eye, especially the bright red pagoda roof and brilliant gold detailing. It looks majestic enough as is in pictures, but seeing it in person is an experience all on its own!
The real attraction, however, lies inside the temple. The golden Buddha inside is surrounded by beautiful wall to wall Buddhist artwork that stretches from the floor all the way up to the ceiling – truly awe-inspiring.
Wat Kaphang Surin
Address: HJCF+MW8, Tambon Thap Thiang, Mueang Trang District, Trang
Operating Hours: Always open
Trang Church

While the majority of Thailand believes in Buddhism, other faiths have their own following as well. Those who attend Sunday mass in Trang Church, for example, follow Protestant Christianity.
This church is worth the visit to add some variety to your itinerary. Although you’ll be seeing a lot of temples in your journey around Trang and the rest of Thailand, churches are a far less common sight.
More than that, the Trang Church also holds significance as an example of Christianity in Thailand. The old church was built in 1915, and designated as a National Ancient Monument in 2002.
Right next to the old church is the modern church used for services on Sundays. Seeing these two structures side by side showcases the enduring Christian legacy that you won’t find very often in the country.
Note: Sunday masses are conducted in Thai. |
Trang Church
Address: 24 Petchkasem Rd, Tambon Na Ta Luang, Mueang Trang District, Trang
Operating Hours: Sunday, 7 AM–12 PM
Kew Ong Ear

To add even more diversity to your stops in Trang, why not visit this Chinese-style shrine?
This religious site is one of the many ways that Chinese influence manifests itself throughout Trang. The uniquely shaped pagodas and roofs immediately stand out from the more traditional Buddhist architecture.
Although most temples in Trang don’t have entrance fees, Kew Ong Ear does. Rest assured that your contribution goes towards the upkeep of the shrine, making sure that others in the future can appreciate it as well.
Kew Ong Ear
Address: HH6X+5J5 Bang Rak, Mueang Trang District, Trang, Thailand
Operating Hours: Always open
2. See Trang’s icons and landmarks
Of course, temples and shrines aren’t the only points of interest that Trang has. The city’s vibrant culture is reflected in the landmarks that you absolutely must see during your stay!
The Dugong Circle

Trang has a close connection to the neighboring Andaman Sea, which is known for its population of dugongs. It’s no surprise that the people of Trang have a strong affection for the sea mammal, which shows in all sorts of works dedicated to them!
Right at the heart of the city is this peculiar roundabout, known to the public as the Dugong Circle or Roundabout. This structure is a multilayered fountain adorned with sculptures of the iconic dugong as well as other animals and figures.
If you look closely, you’ll notice that the fountain is actually quite multicultural. While the base and top layers are decorated with Thai elements, the middle tiers lean toward the European style, featuring horses, mermaids, and other icons.
On our travels, we’ve discovered that you’re quite likely to pass by the Dugong Circle quite often since it sits along a major road in town. Depending on the time of day, it takes on a different vibe – especially at night!
Tip: Make sure to visit the fountain as it lights up at night, taking on a whole new look than in the morning! |
The Dugong Circle
Address: HH6X+5J5 Bang Rak, Mueang Trang District, Trang, Thailand
Operating Hours: Always open
Trang Clock Tower

Just a few blocks away is another city icon: the Trang Clock Tower. This building has commonly been used as a symbol to represent the city of Trang, so much so that it appears on some local officials’ uniforms!
During city celebrations such as Lunar New Year and Loy Krathong, the Clock Tower takes on a new light (literally), as the city adorns it with all sorts of bright lights to match the festive mood.
The energy in celebrating with people around the city’s icon was simply unforgettable for us!
Local Tip: Just like the Dugong Circle, the Trang Clock Tower sits right in the middle of a roundabout. However, it’s on an island right at the intersection of two major city roads, so getting right up next to it won’t always be possible. Your best chance to get up close and personal with the Clock Tower is during a festival, as the roundabout is locked down to give people space to gather around it. |
Trang Clock Tower
Address: Time Square Visadekul Alley, Thap Thiang, Mueang Trang District, Trang
Operating Hours: Always open
The First Rubber Tree in Thailand

Thailand ranks as the world’s top exporter of rubber, with a sizable gap ahead of other exporters around the world. As it happens, this all started right here in Trang!
Although unassuming at first glance, this tree is symbolic of the beginning of Thailand’s rubber industry. This makes this stop not only a place of significance for Trang, but for the country as a whole.
Phraya Ratsadanupradit Mahitsaraphakdi, the governor of Trang right before the 1900s, introduced rubber saplings into the region during his term. Soon, other regions of Thailand adopted the plant into their industries, and the rest, as they say, is history.
The tree is located in Kantang district, the old town. There’s much more to explore in this part of town, so we’ll circle back here later on for other stops you need to have in your Trang schedule!
The First Rubber Tree in Thailand
Address: CG5F+R4 Kantang, Kantang District, Trang
Operating Hours: Always open
3. Get in touch with nature at a park
Trang isn’t a very busy place; you won’t need to worry about the big city hustle and bustle of somewhere like Bangkok. Still, it’s always a great idea to visit one of Trang’s many parks to have a quiet moment for yourself during your journey.
From experience, we’ve discovered that you’re bound to gravitate towards one of Trang’s parks either as part of your itinerary or just spontaneously to fill downtime. Either way, it’s always been time well spent for us in these green spaces.
Phraya Ratsadanu Pradit Mahitsara Phakdi Monument and Park

Speaking of the man who introduced rubber to Thailand, there’s a park dedicated to his memory. Many people leave offerings at his monument here, and stopping by to pay your respects is also a great thing to do while in Trang.
This park is a common fixture in the lives of Trang residents, being a place that people come to for various activities such as exercise and relaxation. It’s always alive with people going about their business, even into the evening.
Phraya Ratsadanu Pradit Mahitsara Phakdi Park is just down the road from the Trang Clock tower, and is wrapped around by major roads. Even with all the traffic that goes around it, it’s still an oasis for the people of Trang.
Phraya Ratsadanu Pradit Mahitsara Phakdi Park
Address: Radtsada Park Phatthalung Rd, Thap Thiang, Mueang Trang District, Trang
Operating Hours: Always open
Princess Mothers 95 Park

Princess Mothers 95 Park is also dedicated to an important figure in Thailand’s history – Princess Srinagarindra, also known as the Princess Mother. She was a well-loved member of the Royal Family, owing to her great compassion for others.
The “95” in the name is in reference to the year the Princess Mother passed away, 1995. She was just months away from turning 95 that year.
Its layout is quite unique in that most of the park grounds are on an island in the middle of a lake — another oasis for you to experience nature while in town. You’re free to relax, exercise, picnic, and overall just enjoy yourself here.
Don’t miss the memorial on the east end of the park, too. Just like with the Governor’s Park, paying your respects at the image of the seated Buddha is a great idea.
Local Tip: You can feed the fish in the lake – look for the ladies selling food pellets! |
Princess Mothers 95 Park
Address: HHCX+G6 Na Ta Luang, Mueang Trang District, Trang, Thailand
Operating Hours: 6 AM – 8 PM
Kapangsurin Park

A bit larger than the other parks in Trang, Kapangsurin Park is a hub for all sorts of outdoor activities. This is another go-to for locals looking to get active, and an equally excellent choice for travelers looking to take in the serene atmosphere.
The park is built around a lake, and following the path around it is great for either casual strolls or brisk jogs. There are also various side paths you can explore if you’re in the mode for exploration, too.
Benches and other accommodations are very common so picking the perfect spot to sit down for a picnic is a breeze. Food vendors also like roving the park, so refreshments won’t be a problem, either.
Kapangsurin Park also serves as a venue for a lot of public occasions, at times using the floating pavilions on the lake. If you’re in town for the celebration of Loy Krathong, you can count on festivities happening at this park for everyone to enjoy.
Local Tip: It helps to be a bit cautious here since motor vehicles are allowed on the premises. |
Kapangsurin Park
Address: HJGF+HQ Trang, Mueang Trang District, Trang
Operating Hours: 6 AM – 6 PM
4. Feel the rush at the night markets
When the sun goes down in Trang, it’s the night markets’ time to shine! Whether you’re looking for a great place to dine in for dinner or somewhere to snag some great shopping deals, you’re bound to find something at Trang’s night markets.
Cinta Garden

Trang’s best known night market is Cinta Garden, open every day from 5 PM till 11 PM. It’s quite the melting pot of cuisine, shopping, and entertainment, and will definitely have something for every kind of traveler.
You’ll be happy to know that even after you’ve visited Cinta Garden several nights in a row, there’s still more to explore and keep coming back for. There’s always another restaurant, another bar, and another boutique waiting for you here!
Cinta Garden is also quite popular with the younger generation in Trang. Many local teens and young adults have Cinta as their go-to for nightlife and shopping, understandably so since everything is quite affordable.
Local Tip: Food and drinks will usually cost you somewhere in the 50 to 100 baht range, so bring enough cash! |
Cinta Garden
Address: HJ49+PG Trang, Mueang Trang District, Trang
Operating Hours: 5 PM – 11 PM
Train Station Market

Another lively hub for the night crowd, the Train Station Market is, as the name implies, parked right in front of the city’s train station. If you’re coming in from a night train or staying around the area, this is the most convenient night market to access.
One thing to note is that people who have tried Trang’s night markets consistently say that the prices are much friendlier than those you’d encounter in the more popular tourist cities. Definitely a positive.
Although this market is just as diverse, it’s only open during Fridays and the weekend. Try to be mindful of how you spend your time since you might not have the chance to revisit the market, depending on how long your stay in Trang is.
Local Tip: Even if the market opens at 5 PM, things really kick into full swing around 7 PM. If you want to explore it quietly, remember to come early! |
Train Station Market
Address: 25 90 Nang Yuan, Tambon Thap Thiang, Mueang Trang District, Trang
Operating Hours: 5 PM – 10 PM, Fri – Sun
Center Point Market

For those who truly want the local experience, Center Point Market is your best bet. Its name comes from the fact it’s quite literally near the center of the city – the Dugong Circle is just a short walk away, in fact!
You’ll find that this spot is where Trang locals dine out for dinner, and it’s easy to see why. The prices are very fair, and the choice is just as varied as anywhere else.
It’s also quite safe, as the local Tourist Police Station is just nearby. It’s a good spot to keep in mind if ever you need assistance for anything while in town.
Note: Center Point is the least “tourist-y” of the night markets, as the locals describe it. |
Center Point Market
Address: Center Point Market, Ruenrom Road, Tambon Thap Thiang, Mueang Trang District, Trang
Operating Hours: 3 PM – 10 PM, Daily
5. Take a ride on a frog head tuk-tuk

Tuk-tuks are synonymous with Thailand. The zippy little three-wheelers are the everyday form of public transportation for residents and tourists alike, but there’s a bit of a retro twist to it down in Trang.
You’ll notice as you hail for a tuk-tuk in town that some models look quite peculiar. These are the frog head tuktuks, named so after their decidedly frog-like front end!
These are actually the original tuktuk models that were imported all the way from Japan back in the 50s, so any frog heads you see on the streets of Trang are authentic vintages.
Unfortunately, just like with anything from before the 2000s, these models are actually a bit of an endangered species now. It’s becoming quite unsustainable financially for drivers to keep them on the road because of the scarcity of parts used to maintain them.
As a result, a ride in a frog head tuk-tuk may be a bit of a limited-time offer. Please take part in Thai and Trang history by catching a frog head while you can!
6. Wake up and enjoy a Trang-style breakfast

If there’s one thing that Trang cares about other than the sea and rubber trees, it has to be breakfast. When in Trang, you need to try eating breakfast like the locals do at least once during your stay – then you’ll see why this city loves eating so much!
People in Trang wake up quite early compared to most, and this habit can be traced back to the professions of their predecessors. People like rubber tappers and teahouse owners had to be up well before the sun had risen, and this habit carries on today.
With that many workers getting up at that time, the restaurants of Trang evolved by turning into food halls where one can enjoy dishes like shredded pork and dim sum quickly and conveniently.
— From Raekha The Explorer
The dishes you can have for a hearty Trang-style breakfast reflect the Chinese heritage of its citizens, having descended from Chinese immigrants and now being incorporated into Thai culture.
On our trips to Trang, it’s always been a joy to wake up to a new day. Not just because there’s new sights to see each day, but also because there’s some delicious food to be had to kick off a great day of traveling.
The best place to get a Trang breakfast is wherever the locals say their favorite spot is. Try asking at your accommodation where the best place for breakfast is!
Things to Do in Trang Old Town (Kantang)

Trang City is already quite the peaceful town, but the Old Town, Kantang, is just a bit more slow-paced. Still, that’s not to say there’s nothing for you here – quite the contrary, actually!
7. Say “hello” to the Kantang History Museum’s Golden Dugong

A lot of Kantang cares for the Trang’s heritage, and the Kantang History Museum is a great show of that. Travelers of all ages can appreciate the exhibits inside the museum, detailing the history of the region.
Exhibits include preserved examples of personal effects at various points of the city’s history, as well as other memorabilia from its past leaders. There’s also the Golden Dugong on display outside – quite the majestic tribute to the elegant sea mammals.
The museum also has a lighthouse or watchtower that you can go up, as long as you ask permission from the staff first. Do take the chance to go up when you get it, since there’s a great view of Kantang and beyond waiting up there.
And for the cherry on top: admission is free! You can safely add this to your itinerary knowing that everyone coming along with you will appreciate it and it won’t cost a single baht.
Local Tip: Be careful when it rains! The museum is built on the coast, so the pavement can be slippery when wet. |
Kantang History Museum
Address: Histeria Learning Center Kantang, Kantang District, Trang
Operating Hours: 8 AM – 5 PM, Daily
8. Travel backwards in time at Phraya Ratsadanu Pradit Mahisorn Phakdi Museum

We’ve talked about Phraya Ratsadanupradit and his significance to Trang and Thailand as a whole earlier, but we take it a step further here – this museum was his residence during his time, preserved in his honor.
Here, you can view the very same furniture and other personal belongings he used during his term and residence in Trang. Just knowing that these belonged to the man responsible for Thailand’s dominance in the rubber trade is quite the blast from the past.
Not many tourists actually visit this antique home, presumably because they aren’t aware of the significance it holds. So it’s a good thing that you’re aware of the man who once owned this home – you’ll know exactly why this is something to see while in Trang.
Phraya Ratsadanu Pradit Mahisorn Phakdi Museum
Address: 1 Kaipitak Rd, Kantang, Kantang District, Trang
Operating Hours: 8 AM – 4 PM; Closed on Mondays
9. Trace the history of the Kantang Rail Museum

Another historical building to add to Kantang’s impressive list of heritage structures. The Kantang Railway Station was built in 1913 and still stands to this day, actively being preserved by the country’s Fine Arts Department.
It’s worth coming down here even just to look around and take in the sights for a while. It also helps that it’s not too far from the other museums we’ve covered so far.
Just thinking about the fact that this station has been serving the people of Trang for over a century is quite impressive. Perhaps more impressive is the fact that it’s still active to this very day!
If you’re traveling out of Trang via train, you might end up departing from this very station. It’s certainly the scenic route out of Trang but we found it to be quite enjoyable the one time we tried it.
Right next door is the famous Love Station cafe, a coffee shop designed after the architecture of the railway station – the perfect place to stop over for refreshments.
Kantang Rail Museum
Address: CG67+7V Kantang, Kantang District, Trang
Operating Hours: 8 AM – 5 PM, Daily
10. Eat some freshly caught seafood

It’s no surprise that Trang’s close connection to the sea extends to its cuisine. All throughout the region, you’ll find lots of restaurants that specialize in seafood that’s always guaranteed to be fresh.
There’s no one way to go about experiencing Trang seafood – the best way to do it is to go out there and explore your options for yourself! You really can’t go wrong with any of the local offerings.
Sample some of the skewered fish off the grill at the night market, try out the soft shell crab at the place by the beach. Your new Thai seafood favorite is just out there in one of Trang’s many seafood restaurants.
Things to Do Outside Trang City
With everything in town covered, it’s finally time to venture out into open waters and experience the attractions outside Trang City! The natural beauty of south Thailand is just a short ride away from town, waiting for you to dive into it.
11. Explore the caves and coves

Hidden behind secret entrances and high tides in the outskirts of Trang are some of the most beautiful waters that nature has to offer. Many make the journey just to experience these places even just for a little while.
Perhaps the most well known of these spots is Tham Morakot, or the Emerald Cave. The name takes after the beautiful turquoise water, which glistens like its namesake gem in the sunlight. It’s quite a sight to behold.
Another well-known spot is Tham Le Khaokob – in other words, the cave of the dragon’s belly. The stalagmite and stalactites are seriously awe-inspiring, especially because accessing the cave requires a boat trip through an underground river!
While taking in the beauty of these natural wonders, please do follow whatever guidelines your travel guide has for the tour of these locations. These are put in place both for your safety as well as for the enjoyment of future travelers.
Other than that, be sure to take note that some locations are only accessible during the low tide! Pay close attention to make sure you don’t get stranded because of the high tide coming in.
Attraction | Location | Directions |
---|---|---|
Tham Morakot (Emerald Cave) | On the west coast of Ko Muk Island | Catch a longtail boat at Khuan Tung Ku Pier |
Tham Le Khaokob | Khao Kop, Huai Yot District, Trang | 30-minute drive from Trang City via Route 4 and Route 403 |
12. Soak up some sun at the beaches

Of course, as a seaside province, Trang has its own beaches to be proud of as well. These beaches are great hubs to dine on seafood, bask in the sun, and enjoy the waves.
The most tourist-oriented of the beaches is Pak Meng. Even if it’s quite busy with people visiting to enjoy the ocean and vendors selling food and other beach supplies, it’s still a relaxing place that can also be fun when you’re in the mood for it.
Looking for a more picturesque beach to sunbathe at? The waters at Rajamangala Beach are pristine, and shines a gorgeous shade of aquamarine, and provides the perfect view for a quiet day of relaxation.
For the swimmers, Yao Beach will be just right for you. The water level is just right for most people to enjoy swimming and wading around in the sea to cool off. This beach is something of an in-between of the previous two beaches in terms of visitors, too.
In short, Trang’s coast will provide you with the perfect beach no matter what you’re looking for.
Beaches in Trang | Address | Directions |
---|---|---|
Pak Meng | Moo 4, Tambon Mai Fat | 40-minute drive from Trang City via Route 4046 |
Rajamangala | G8H5+75M Radmongkol Mai Fat, Amphoe Sikao, Chang Wat Trang | 42-minute drive from Trang City via Route 4046 |
Yao Beach | 897V+F8 Ko Libong, Kantang District, Trang | 53-minute drive from Trang City via Route 4008 |
13. Hop between the islands

The coast of Trang is a great access point to a handful of islands, each with their own reasons for visiting. Needless to say, they’re all beautiful locations that have their own draws depending on what you’re looking for in an island experience.
Koh Ngai and Koh Kradan are picture perfect tropical getaways. The resorts on these islands are on the luxury end in terms of cost, but many find it to still be good value since they get the most out of enjoying the islands’ views and atmosphere.
Koh Sukorn and Koh Libong, on the other hand, are more quiet places compared to the other islands. The main draw for these two isn’t looks or luxury; it’s the peace and quiet that comes from having fewer visitors than the other islands..
Lastly, Koh Muk is a peaceful fishing village island that offers a more affordable experience than Koh Ngai and Koh Kradan. This is definitely the choice for those looking for the local lifestyle.
Islands on Trang’s Coast | Address | Directions |
---|---|---|
Koh Ngai | Ko Lanta Yai, Kantang District, Trang | Take a ferry from either Khuan Tung Ku Pier or Hat Yao Pier |
Koh Kradan | Ko Libong, Trang | |
Koh Sukorn | Ko Sukon, Trang | |
Koh Libong | Ko Libong, Kantang District, Trang | |
Koh Muk | Ko Libong, Kantang District, Trang |
Between the city, the coast, and the islands, there truly is something for everyone. Culture, cuisine, and nature all come together in Trang to provide a truly unforgettable experience.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re a seasoned traveler who’s done the whole Thailand circuit or a new tourist stepping foot into our country for the first time – Trang will always have an adventure waiting for you!