Discover the Beauty of Southern Thailand

In this series, expert writers and editors answer travel questions and provide tips and hacks to help you plan a hassle-free journey. Marco Ferrarese, a Penang-based travel expert, addresses where to visit in Thailand.

Question: Where should I visit in southern Thailand?

Marco Ferrarese: The stunning destinations of Phuket, Krabi, and the Phi Phi Islands attract hordes of tourists for a reason: they are simply breathtaking. However, what most travelers leave unexplored in southern Thailand is even more remarkable—think astounding nature, warm hospitality, fiery food, and a unique blend of Thai, Muslim, and Chinese cultures that continues to intrigue even seasoned visitors.

Five Must-Visit Locations

Here are five places in different outlying provinces that can be easily explored using local transportation or, even better, on your own rented wheels.

Hat Yai and Songkhla: Monumental Buddhas and Thai-Chinese Delights

Hat Yai offers more than just its bustling street markets surrounding the train station. North of town, explore a monumental reclining Buddha and a panoramic cable car with views of the sprawling city from Hat Yai Municipal Park. On weekends, the Khlong Hae floating market, with its longtail boats filled with food and vegetables, is a must-visit for photographers.

Be sure to check out the unique Phra Maha Chedi Tripob Trimongkol, also known as the Stainless Steel Temple. At sunset, this magnificent steel pagoda illuminates with an ethereal light show. Just 15 km east of Hat Yai, the charming beach town of Songkhla is nestled between the sea and the picturesque Songkhla Lake, the largest natural body of water in Thailand.

Phattalung and Thale Noi: Majestic Caves and Migrating Birds

Located just 82 km north of Hat Yai, Phattalung is a hidden gem. Visit Khuha Sawan, a stunning limestone cave temple adorned with statues of Buddhas and hermit monks. Just 30 km west lies Wat Tham Sumano, a mountain temple with multiple caves and access to Khao Bantat Wildlife Sanctuary. Notably, Khao-Pu Khao-Ya National Park offers stunning trails and the magical Matcha Cave.

Thale Noi, situated inland, is one of Thailand’s largest freshwater waterfowl reserves. It boasts over 280 species of migratory birds, especially vibrant during the summer months when the landscape is adorned with floating water lilies and lotus flowers. Experience an unforgettable longtail boat trip to witness the rich flora and the unique fishing techniques of local fishermen.

Trang and Satun: Gorgeous Islands Near Malaysia

About 50 km west of Phattalung is Trang, often overlooked but offers a charming old town filled with coffee houses serving a delightful mix of Thai and Chinese cuisine. The annual Vegetarian Festival in October is a vibrant event you won’t want to miss. Also, Trang is the gateway to stunning islands like Ko Muk, Ko Kradan, and others, boasting crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches.

Just over an hour further south, Satun offers an inviting blend of Thai and Malay flavors right on the border with Malaysia. Not to be missed, Satun is the starting point for idyllic islands such as Ko Adang and Ko Lipe, as well as the scenic Tarutao National Park.

Betong: An Up-and-Coming Ecotourism Hot Spot

Once merely a stop for holidaying Malaysians, Betong is now noted for its growing ecotourism focus in the southern province of Yala. This location, surrounded by nature, offers striking attractions like the 61m-long Skywalk Ayerweng, which should be visited at sunrise for an unforgettable view of the clouds below. Nature enthusiasts can also explore the Piyamit Tunnels, a historical site from the Malayan Emergency conflict, located near the Thai-Malaysian border.

Nakhon Si Thammarat: A Blend of Cultures and Natural Beauty

One of southern Thailand’s culturally rich cities, Nakhon Si Thammarat features a mixed heritage of Hindu, Thai, and Muslim influences. Discover the city’s history at the National Museum or the ancient Old City Walls. For nature lovers, rent a scooter and head into the hills surrounding Kiriwong village to see stunning waterfalls and natural parks that offer scenic beauty and tranquility.