Trat fruit paradise 2011

THE eastern provinces of Chanthaburi, Rayong and Trat, are reputed to be the finest producers of such exotic tropical fruits as durian, pomelo, zalacca, mangosteen and rambutan.

With a ready supply of freshly-picked fruits from the nearby orchards throughout the summer months from April to July, the annual Fruit Festivals are the perfect place to savour the very best of a great variety of fresh Thai fruits, as well as locally processed fruit.

Khao Saming district (Amphoe Khao Saming) in Trat province is home to nine fruit orchards that grow top quality fruits and other agricultural produce for export. Visit any orchards participating in the 2011 Trat Amazing Fruit Paradise Festival, April to July.

Each offers a fruit buffet and organizes an orchard tour twice a day during the following times:
10.30 — 12.00 in the morning
14.00 — 15.30 in the afternoon

Also take advantage of the opportunities to shop for fruit and local village community products promoted under the OTOP (One Tambon One Product) label.

Other Attractions and Activities
Visit a processed durian factory and also stop by a warehouse to see how fruits and agricultural products for export are stored.

Trat province is also known for its gemstones. See how miners sift for gemstones.
Cost: 100 baht per person
Advanced reservations required

Please contact the Ticketing Office at Oriental Garden (ask for Suan Sawan Tawan Awk) for reservations at least 48 hours before arriving.
Tel: +66 (0) 82 205 6427, (0) 3953 7300
E-mail: ctfruit@hotmail.com

Arrangements for lunch can also be made in advance. Items on the menu include a home-cooked meal featuring Thai folk cuisine, seafood, and other delicious local fare. Visitors have the option of enjoying lunch in the natural setting of the orchards or at Oriental Garden.

Cost: 80—170 Baht per person

Contact information:
Tourism Authority of Thailand, Trat Office
Tel: +66 (0) 3959 7259-60
Fax: +66 (0) 3959 7255
E-mail: tattrat@tat.or.th