The Dugong Circle

In the heart of the bustling city of Trang lies one of its most recognizable and charming landmarks—the Dugong Circle. This unique roundabout features a sculpture of an adorable baby dugong, which has become the unofficial mascot of this region of Thailand.

Dugong Circle. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The site is a striking example of how an urban environment can reflect a region's natural heritage. Dugongs, often called "sea maids" or "mermaids," are rare marine mammals that inhabit the coastal waters of the Andaman Sea. For the city, the Dugong Circle has become an important symbol, highlighting the local people's connection to the unique marine ecosystem and their commitment to conserving rare animal species.

Thanks to its location and original design, this attraction invariably catches the eye of tourists and their cameras. It is an iconic spot that helps you instantly feel the friendly and slightly whimsical atmosphere of this southern Thai province.

The Dugong Circle is an open public space accessible to all residents and visitors. For up-to-date information on city events or festivals that may take place in the area, you can refer to the official municipality resources.

Below are the main contact details for navigation and general information about the area.

The first thing to do at the Dugong Circle is, of course, to have a mini photo shoot. The dugong sculpture is very photogenic, and the bright design of the roundabout makes it the perfect backdrop for tourist photos in the "I was in Trang" style.

This spot is often a mandatory stop during a trip on a traditional tuk-tuk. You can ask your driver to pause so you can get a closer look at the details of the monument and appreciate the skill of the local artists. A walk in this part of the city also allows you to see interesting examples of street art, which are often dedicated to the region's diverse wildlife.

A visit to the circle can be combined with an exploration of local culture: lively streets with colonial architecture and cozy coffee shops are located nearby. For many tourists, this site serves as a reminder that nearby, in Hat Chao Mai National Park, you can see live dugongs in their natural habitat, adding a special ecological meaning to the visit.

Finding the Dugong Circle is easy, as it is located in the very heart of Trang. If you are staying in the city center, you can reach the roundabout on foot from the municipal market or the railway station in just a few minutes by walking along Ratchadamnoen or Rama VI streets.

For those who prefer transport, the famous local "frog-face" tuk-tuk is the perfect option. A trip from Trang Airport or the main bus station will take about 10–20 minutes. Drivers know this spot well, as it is a major landmark for all city routes.

If you are traveling independently by rental car or motorbike, use GPS coordinates for navigation. The roads in the city center are well-paved, and the roundabout itself is clearly visible from a distance thanks to its unique sculpture.

The sculptural composition at the Dugong Circle is inextricably linked to the ecological heritage of Trang Province. Dugongs, or sea cows, inhabit the local waters of the Andaman Sea, especially off the coast of Koh Libong, and have become the official symbol of the region, embodying its natural wealth and purity.

Historically, these rare mammals, known in Thailand as Phayoon, have been under strict protection. The creation of this roundabout in the city center was intended not only to decorate a transport hub but also to remind residents and tourists of the importance of preserving the unique marine fauna that has lived alongside humans in this region for centuries.

While the monument itself is a modern element of the urban landscape, it fits harmoniously into the historic atmosphere of Trang, which is famous for its Sino-Portuguese architecture. Today, the Dugong Circle serves as an important tool for promoting local identity, turning ordinary urban infrastructure into a significant cultural site.

A visit to the Dugong Circle usually takes about 15–30 minutes. This is plenty of time to examine the sculpture, take some great photos, and observe the lively city traffic in the heart of the province.

Most travelers visit this site as part of a city sightseeing tour or while walking to the local markets. If you plan to stop by nearby cafes or explore the street art on adjacent streets, it is worth setting aside about an hour for your walk.

As the Dugong Circle is part of the city's road infrastructure, it is available for viewing 24 hours a day. You can visit this place at any convenient time, whether it's early morning for quiet photos without excess traffic, or in the evening when the city is shrouded in twilight and the lights come on.

There are no specific visiting restrictions; however, to stay informed about potential temporary road closures during city festivals, it is recommended to check the news on the official Trang Municipality website.

Its central location makes the Dugong Circle an excellent starting point for further exploration of local culture and gastronomy. A stroll through the surrounding area will allow you to see both traditional temples and modern art objects that make a holiday in Trang truly fulfilling.