Hatsongkhla Yai

HatSongkhla Yai

Mural Painting, Wat Cha Thing Phra

Printed in Thailand by Promotional Material Production Division, Marketing Services Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand for free distribution. www.tourismthailand.org E/NOV 2019 The contents of this publication are subject to change without notice. By bus Several air-conditioned bus and VIP coaches depart from the Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (also known as Sai Tai Mai), located on Borom- maratchachonnani Road, to Songkhla daily. For more information, visit www.transport.co.th. By train There is no train station in Songkhla and the nearest train station is in Hat Yai. Trains to Hat Yai leave Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok daily. For more information, visit www. railway.co.th.

Seafood Festival By air There are no ights to Songkhla and the closest airports to Songkhla is Hat Yai International as well as playing games and shopping for local Airport. Thai Airways (www.thaiairways.ccom) products. and Thai Smile (www.thaismileair.com) departs for Hat Yai from Suvarnabhumi International Date: May or June Airport daily, and Air Asia (www.airasia.com), Location: Sa Bua near Hat Samila in Tambon Bo Nok Air (www.nokair.com), and Thai Lion Air Yang, Amphoe Mueang Songkhla, Songkhla (www.lionairthai.com) departs for Hat Yai from GPS: N07° 12.778´ E100° 35.333´ Don Mueang Airport daily. Contact Information: Tourism Authority of Thai- land (TAT), Hat Yai Oﬃce Tel. +66 7424 3747 Remark: Please contact the Tourism Authority of Restaurants and Accommodation Thailand (TAT), Hat Yai Oﬃce for more information For information on restaurants and accommo- and for the exact place and schedule of the festival. dation, please visit www.tourismthailand.org/songkhla or contact Transportation from Bangkok the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Hat Yai to Songkhla Oce at Tel. +66 7424 3747 By car Take Highway 4 passing Prachuap Khiri Khan Useful contact information in and switch to Highway 41 at Chumphon. Songkhla Continue on Highway 41 and change to Highway Tourism Authority of Thailand, Hat Yai Oce 4 in Phatthalung and proceed further to reach Tel. +66 7424 3747 Hat Yai. Continue the journey for around 30 Highway Police 1193 kilometres to reach Amphoe Mueang Songkhla, Tourist Police 1155 a total distance of around 980 kilometres.

Central Mosque, Songkhla Songkhla 43 CONTENTS

HAT YAI 10 Feel at Peace and Gain Spiritual Energy 11 More Than Just Incredible Nature 12 Hot Spots for Unique Photo Opportunities 14 Shop Till You Drop 15 Be a Part of Hat Yai’s Amazing Festivals 18 Transportation from Bangkok to Hat Yai 20 Restaurants and Accommodation 20 Useful contact information in Hat Yai 20 SONGKHLA 22 Places of Beautiful Intersection of Faiths and Arts 23 Discover the Rich Culture and History of Songkhla 27 Be Spellbound by Songkhla’s Scenic Attractions 34 Fun Options for a Unique Experience 40 Be a Part of Songkhla’s Amazing Festivals 42 Transportation from Bangkok to Songkhla 43 Restaurants and Accommodation 43 Useful contact information in Songkhla 43 Hat Yai Hat Yai Songkhla

Niphat Songkhro 1

Hatyai Hospital

Phetchakasem Road

Soi Kanchanawanit 17

Clock Tower Si Road

Saeng Rat Yindi Road Yindi Rat

P Wat Thawonwararam Sam Chai Road d

r a

o Sakhon Mongkhon Road Rat U-thit Road c

R h Suphasan Rangsan Road Rotfai Road ar t Suphasan Rangsan Road i ak an w R a o Kim Yong Market n a a d h Na Sathani Road c n a K Hat Yai Prachathipat Road

Ban Bangna Road Police Station Thammanun Withi Road Rat Yindi Road Yindi Rat Hat Yai Thammanun Withi Road Railway Station Wat Hat Yai Nai Phetchakasem Road

Manat Ruedi Road

Hat Yai Ni Sino-Portuguese Municipal Hat Yai District Ofﬁce Buildings Fresh Market ph

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U 1 S Ta p

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i a

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Hatyai Hospital

Phetchakasem Road

Soi Kanchanawanit 17

Clock Tower Si Road

Saeng Rat Yindi Road Yindi Rat

P Wat Thawonwararam Sam Chai Road d

r a

o Sakhon Mongkhon Road Rat U-thit Road c

R h Suphasan Rangsan Road Rotfai Road ar t Suphasan Rangsan Road i ak an w R a o Kim Yong Market n a a d h Na Sathani Road c n a K Hat Yai Prachathipat Road

Ban Bangna Road Police Station Thammanun Withi Road Rat Yindi Road Yindi Rat Hat Yai Thammanun Withi Road Railway Station Wat Hat Yai Nai Phetchakasem Road

Manat Ruedi Road

Hat Yai Ni Sino-Portuguese Municipal Hat Yai District Ofﬁce Buildings Fresh Market ph at K Soi Phon Phichai h U- 407 l o n t h g i t

U 1 S Ta p

o h

i a

P o

h Si Phuwanat Road

c h

a Greenway Market

s Si Phuwanat Road

408 Ko Maeo

408 Ranot Singhanakhon Ko Nu

Krasae Sin Bangkok Song Thale Park Wat Pha Kho 408 4222 Laem Son On 408 Hat Samila Khao Tang Kuan Khu Khut Waterfowl Park Sathing Phra SONGKHLA

Wat Matchimawat Saphan Hat Muang Ngam Worawihan Songkhla Tinsulanonda Khao Kao Seng 408 Hat Yai Southern City Pillar Shrine 407 Folklore Songkhla Old Town Museum 408 Singhanakhon 2004 Thale Sap SONGKHLA Khuan Niang 4053Songkhla 408 Bang Klam Floating Market Ko Yo 407 Rattaphum 406 407 Wat Khu Tao 4 4208 414 4309 406 Namtok Namtok Bang Klam 407 Boriphat Ton Plio Forest Park 408 4287 Hat Yai HAT YAI Namtok 4135 3017 Ton Nga Chang 43 Na Mom 43 Banpru Floating Market Chana Khlong Hae Khlong Hoi Khong Floating Market Hatyai Park 4 408 1019 43 Magic Eye 3D Museum 3011 Thepha 414 42 Na Thawi Wat Khao Rup Chang 4 42 407 42 Khao Le Khao Kho Hong Sadao 4135 Wat Thawonwararam Saba Yoi Kim Yong Market 4095 Wat Hat Yai Nai 407 4113 4085 Asian Cultural Village Sino-Portuguese Buildings 2085 and Dinosaur Park 4002 4022 Hat Yai Greenway Market 2029 Asean Night Bazaar

3042 4 4135 43 0 5 10 20km. SONGKHLA Khlong Daen Floating Market

408 Ko Maeo

408 Ranot Singhanakhon Ko Nu

Krasae Sin Bangkok Song Thale Park Wat Pha Kho 408 4222 Laem Son On 408 Hat Samila Khao Tang Kuan Khu Khut Waterfowl Park Sathing Phra SONGKHLA

3042 4 4135 43 0 5 10 20km. Phra Phuttha Mongkhon Maharat Hat Yai

10 Hat Yai One can feel, hear, see, and experience the Feel at Peace and Gain Spiritual bustling vibe of this busy commercial hub of Energy southern Thailand on the first minute they arrive in Hat Yai. Although Hat Yai is a part Wat Hat Yai Nai of Songkhla province, it is the largest city in It is almost impossible for anyone to stand southern Thailand and is Thailand’s fourth in front of the open-air Wihan (image hall) at largest city, and therefore it is big and special Wat Mahattamangkhalaram, which is also enough for it to deserve a mention on its own. known widely as Wat Hat Yai Nai, and not be in awe at one of the biggest reclining Buddha A gateway to Malaysia and Singapore and images in the world. Constructed over 40 years a popular travel destination amongst the ago and measuring 35 metres long, 15 metres holidaymakers from these two countries, Hat high, and 10 metres wide, the reclining Buddha Yai is a vibrant city with a mix of Southern Thai, is named Phra Phuttha Mahattamongkhon and Thai-Chinese, and Thai Muslim influences, and is the most revered Buddha image of Hat Yai. is filled with an eclectic mix of everything. From the outside of the Wihan, you can see the Strolling the streets in Hat Yai downtown and face of the Buddha image, but you need to get you will see the perfect combination of Thai and inside the Wihan to be able to get a full view Chinese culture embedded in the life of the city, of the whole Buddha image. Take the time to as a large part of the population in Hat Yai is a pay homage, absorb the energy, and receive Thai-Chinese community. The sweet fragrance the blessing from the reclining Buddha, before of burning incenses coming out from the taking the time to walk around the Buddha Chinese shrines and the Buddhist temples, the image to admire the skill of the local craftsmen mouth-watering mix of Chinese cuisines and who created this amazing work of art. Thai delicacies, and the local people speaking in Thai and Chinese, are just a few examples of Location: Tambon Khuan Lang, Amphoe Hat Yai, what you will encounter here. Songkhla GPS: N07° 00.223´ E100° 27.241´ Aside from the unique culture and traditions, Hat Yai is also a place that people come for a Wat Thawonwararam shopping and eating extravaganza, whether Entering the perimeter of Wat Thawonwa- it is at the famous Talat Kim Yong, the floating raram and one can smell the smoky scent of markets, or the night markets. Hat Yai not only the burned incense sticks and hear the sound has the hustle and bustle of a city, but is also of devotees praying in front of the Buddha filled with plenty of other attractions, serenity statues, as well as the sound of the Chinese of nature, and several interesting annual events. Buddhist monk teaching several novices. You are invited to come and discover what Located in a small alley in the middle of Hat makes Hat Yai a unique and fascinating place. Yai, Wat Thawonwararam is a Chinese Buddhist temple of the Vietnamese sect that is popular amongst locals and tourists. The building compound is spectacular inside and out, with several buildings and rooms connecting to one

Hat Yai 11 another. Make your way around the temple to Continue the journey up to the hilltop, where pray and place the burned incense sticks in the the standing Buddha and cable car station is huge incense burners that are placed in front of located. Hop on the cable car and enjoy the the extensive collection of Buddha images and beautiful scenery of lush forest down below, Chinese deities. A wonderful place of worship, before arriving at Thao Maha Phrom (the Wat Thawonwararam is a place where people Great Brahma) Shrine. Pay respect to the Lord can easily lose track of time, as they spend time Brahma or the Four-faced Buddha as well as the walking around to pray and be fascinated by other deities, before taking the cable car back. the large amounts of the beautiful statues that Take a moment to admire the spectacular 19.90- are spread in different rooms. metre-high standing Buddha called Phra Phuttha Mongkhon Maharat and pay homage Location: Tambon Hat Yai, Amphoe Hat Yai, to the Buddha image for luck and auspiciousness. Songkhla GPS: N07° 00.606´ E100° 28.378´ As the afternoon comes to a close, spend time enjoying the view of Hat Yai city and the More Than Just Incredible Nature mountains far away at the viewpoint located just a few steps away from the standing Buddha. Hat Yai Park and Khao Kho Hong This viewpoint is also a popular spot among the From the first moment one enters the gate locals, and seeing the sun slowly sinking down of the expansive Hat Yai Park, it is clear that behind the cityscape with your own eyes is anyone could easily spend several hours truly breathtaking. Finish the trip to Hat Yai Park exploring its many fascinating sights. The vast by exploring the wonders of astronomy and pond and shady park greet you as you make unlocking the secrets of the universe at the your way inside the park, and this is where you Hat Yai Observatory, which is located not far can join the local lovebirds pedaling the swan from the standing Buddha and the viewpoint. boat around the pond or enjoy a picnic in the shade while watching the locals cycling around Location: Tambon Kho Hong, Amphoe Hat Yai, the park. Make your way up Khao Kho Hong, Songkhla a hill that makes up most of the Hat Yai Park’s GPS: N07° 02.596´ E100° 30.229´ area, and stop mid-way before reaching the Operating Hours: Every day 6.00 a.m. – 8.00 p.m. peak to pay homage to the magnificent statue (Hat Yai Park’s operating hours) of Guan Yin (the Chinese Goddess of Mercy), as Monday – Thursday 9.00 a.m. – 4.30 p.m. (Cable well as several statues of other Chinese deities, car’s operating hours) including the Laughing Buddha (which is Friday - Sunday 9.00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m. (Cable car’s believed to bring good luck and abundance operating hours) in one’s life), Sanxing (the gods of prosperity, Every day 9.00 a.m. – 8.00 p.m. (Hat Yai Observatory ’s status, and longevity), and the Jade Emperor operating hours) (the supreme deity of the Chinese pantheon). Website: www.hatyaipark.com Contact Information: Tel. +66 7421 1898 Entrance Fee: 200 Baht (for the cable car ride) 20 Baht (for Hat Yai Observatory)

12 Hat Yai Namtok Ton Nga Chang of elephant’s tusks, leading to the waterfall Feel the excitement of yourself and those being named ‘Namtok Ton Nga Chang’ or the around you as you walk past the first tier of ‘Elephant’s Tusks Waterfall’. Spend time relaxing the waterfall, which are full of locals chilling and frolicking in the pool of water and take in out in the pool of water. Continue your journey the amazing beauty of nature while breathing passing the second tier that has a small bridge in oxygen-rich air and smelling the fresh spanning across the stream of water for one fragrance of the surrounding trees and plants. to walk over and snap a few photos, because Wake up the adventurous side of you and the main purpose of a visit to Namtok Ton Nga challenge yourself to go up to the third tier of Chang is the third tier. Hiking up the steep and Namtok Ton Nga Chang, because without the slippery incline of boulders and tree roots with strenuous walks and climbs, you will not be able the help of overhanging vines, the challenging to see the mesmerising creation of nature with climb is finally over and straight ahead is the your own eyes. third tier of the waterfall, which is what makes Location: Tambon Thung Tam Sao, Amphoe this seven-tiered waterfall one of the most Hat Yai, Songkhla beautiful waterfalls in southern Thailand. At GPS: N06° 56.610´ E100° 15.040´ the third tier, the waterfall separates into two Operating Hours: Every day 8.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. streams and plunge down to the pools of Entrance Fee: 200 Baht for adults and 100 Baht clear water. The two streams resemble a pair for children

Namtok Ton Nga Chang

Hat Yai 13 Sino-Portuguese Buildings

Hot Spots for Unique Photo have recently been painted bring life back to Opportunities these buildings as well as the surroundings. Sino-Portuguese Buildings Spend time marvelling at the beautiful design Walking along the Niphat Uthit 1 Road in the of the buildings, particularly the arch windows, middle of Hat Yai city centre and one’s eyes which are different for each building, before would be struck by the candy-coloured build- strolling along the road to spot some other ings that are built in Sino-Portuguese architec- ancient buildings that dotted the area. tural style. Standing on the opposite side of the Location: Tambon Hat Yai, Amphoe Hat Yai, road and you can feel the wealth and history Songkhla of the people living here in the past exuding GPS: N07° 00.209´ E100° 28.170´ from the beautiful ancient structures. Build by a Hokkien man from Malaysia, this cluster Magic Eye 3D Museum of 8 buildings is amongst the first group of Have you ever wanted to climb the bamboo buildings in Hat Yai that are built with concrete tree alongside a cute and fluffy panda, sit on a and are also some of the last ancient Sino-Portu- glowing crescent moon, or be on the cover of guese buildings left in Hat Yai today. Although the National Geographic magazine? You can the buildings are centuries old, the colours that do that and much more at the Magic Eye 3D

14 Hat Yai Museum. Bring out the kid in you and have and snacks like chocolate and dried fruits. Kim a blast creating crazy and cool poses while Yong Market is a heaven for nut lovers, as you taking photos with the brilliant paintings can find a wide array of nuts here, including that trick your eyes and the camera lens. The cashew nuts, pistachio nuts, macadamias, and amazing artworks use the ‘Trompe-l’oeil’ almonds. Browsing through the market, you can technique to create optical illusion that makes also enjoy buying a variety of fresh fruits; such painting appear three-dimensional. Even as, durian, and freshly made food, snacks, and better is that you can get up-close and personal desserts. A visit to Kim Yong Market early in the with moving King Kong, gigantic dinosaur, morning also allows you to find stalls lining the and attacking shark through the Augmented street selling fresh produces; such as, seafood, Reality (AR) technology. After downloading the vegetables, fruits, and flowers. app in your phone, just point the phone at the Location: Tambon Hat Yai, Amphoe Hat Yai, painting and take the video or photo of you Songkhla and the painting that magically comes to life. GPS: N07° 00.459´ E100° 28.199´ Finish off all the fun at the Museum by Operating Hours: Every day 6.00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m. watching a funny and entertaining live magic show.

Location: Tambon Kho Hong, Amphoe Hat Yai, Songkhla GPS: N07° 02.120´ E100° 30.118´ Operating Hours: Every day 9.00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m. Website: www.magiceyemuseum.com Contact Information: Tel. +66 7421 1444 Entrance Fee: 400 Baht for adults and 300 Baht for children

Shop Till You Drop Kim Yong Market The lively atmosphere of swarms of people having a great time bargaining with the shop- keepers at Kim Yong Market, the most famous market in Hat Yai, makes it more fun and exciting to walk around and explore the endless hordes of goodies on offer. You can find almost everything imaginable here, and in cheaper prices, ranging from clothes and accessories to toys, appliances, souvenirs, imported products from Malaysia and Singapore, dried seafood, Kim Yong Market

Hat Yai 15 Khlong Hae Floating Market Khlong Hae Floating Market entering the market, you are greeted with rows Established in 2008, the Khlong Hae Floating and rows of stalls offering a wide variety of local Market is the first floating market in the and international delicacies, ranging from Phat Southern region and today, it consists of both Thai (stir-fried noodles) to grilled squids, sushi, a traditional floating market in the canal and barbecued skewers, and Khaoniao Mamuang an ancient traditional market on land. Walking (mango with sticky rice). Walking towards the past the ancient traditional market on land that giant lake and you will see several boats selling features a variety of products ranging from tasty delicious options; such as, Somtam (papaya treats to clothing and souvenirs, you can see a salad), noodle soup, grilled chicken, and pork long row of long-tail boats docking along the satay. Enjoy tasting all the mouth-watering canal. The vendors, dressed up in traditional dishes at the low table that are placed around clothes, sit in the boat and offer a wide range the area by the lake, while watching the dance of delicious local delicacies, snacks, and or musical performance organised by the beverages. Each boat is labeled with the name market. Apart from indulging in the food, you and price of the mouth-watering items they can also enjoy various activities here, including are selling; such as, Tom Yam Kung (prawn in pedaling the pedal boat, throwing darts, taking spicy and sour soup), Phat Thai (stir-fried noo- photos at several photo zones, getting a tradi- dles), Beef Soup, grilled seafood, fresh coconut tional Thai massage, and enjoying shopping for juice, and ice cream. The vendors using a long local handicrafts and clothing. wooden stick with a basket on one end to pass Location: Tambon Ban Phru, Amphoe Hat Yai, the purchase to their customers and to take the Songkhla money makes the visit to Khlong Hae Floating GPS: N06° 55.478´ E100° 27.385´ Market an even more fun experience. Khlong Operating Hours: Every Saturday 5.00 p.m. – 9.00 Hae Floating Market is also an environmentally- p.m. friendly market where they try to use bamboo tubes, coconut shells, and clay pots instead of Greenway Market plastic glass, plastic bag, and foam boxes. Shopaholics will not be able to contain their Location: Tambon Khlong Hae, Amphoe Hat Yai, excitement while exploring all the stalls at Songkhla Greenway Market, a lifestyle market where local GPS: N07° 02.840´ E100° 28.451´ teenagers and young adults come to shop and Operating Hours: Friday – Sunday 4.00 p.m. – hangout. Greenway Market, which separates 9.00 p.m. into several zones, both indoor and outdoor, offers an extensive range of fashionable Banpru Floating Market products; such as, clothing, jewellery, cosmetics, When the cool breeze slowly replaces the handicrafts, and souvenirs. After spending scorching heat of the sun that is about to go hours on a shopping spree, head to the modern- down, Banpru Floating Market becomes lively looking 2-storey building which is ‘Greenway with people coming to satisfy their taste buds Food Station’ for dinner. The food court offers a while enjoying the relaxing atmosphere. Upon great selection of food, ranging from Thai food

Hat Yai 17 like sticky rice with fried chicken and Khanom Be a Part of Hat Yai’s Amazing Chin Namya Pu (rice vermicelli served with spicy Festivals crab curry), to international food like sushi and Hat Yai Chinese New Year Festival burger, as well as snacks and desserts. Hearing the thunderous sound of firecrackers Location: Tambon Hat Yai, Amphoe Hat Yai, going off across the city and seeing the pro- Songkhla cession of the dragon and the colourful lion GPS: N06° 59.824´ E100° 29.222´ dancing through the streets indicate that the Operating Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 5.00 p.m. – spectacular Hat Yai Chinese New Year Festival 10.00 p.m. has already begun. You are invited to join the local Thai-Chinese community in Hat Yai to Asean Night Bazaar participate in various activities. Start off with If you are looking for a place to be for a shop- praying to the Chinese deities for auspicious- ping therapy, Asean Night Bazaar might be just ness and good luck and then witnessing the where you want to go. The maze-like alleys at Miss Hat Yai Chinese beauty pageant. Enjoy Asean Night Bazaar are filled with vendors taking photos with the beautiful lanterns, selling a massive collection of products, ranging tasting delicious food from countless stalls, from clothing to shoes, accessories, cosmetics, watching the concerts and cultural perfor- toys, swimwear, mobile phone accessories, and mances, and eating the ‘Longevity Peach’, the souvenirs. You can find almost anything under steamed bun in the shape of the auspicious one roof, and after putting your bargaining skill fruit, for longevity and auspiciousness. to the test, you will surely not be empty-handed. Date: Chinese New Year (around January or Take a break from the shopping adventure and February) head to the second floor, which is filled with Location: Srinakorn Foundation School in Tam- stalls offering a great variety of delectable bon Hat Yai, Amphoe Hat Yai, Songkhla and halal items, including chicken biryani, GPS: N07° 00.211´ E100° 28.574´ Phat Thai (stir-fried noodles), Somtam (spicy Contact Information: Tourism Authority of Thai- papaya salad), and deep-fried chicken served land (TAT), Hat Yai Office Tel. +66 7424 3747 with sticky rice. Finish your meal and cool down Remark: Please contact the Tourism Authority of with a glass of fruit smoothie, in which you Thailand (TAT), Hat Yai Office for more informa- have a huge selection of fresh fruits to choose tion and for the exact schedule of the festival. from; such as, coconut, mango, pineapple, and dragon fruit. Hat Yai Midnight Songkran Festival The sound of people laughing while splashing Location: Tambon Hat Yai, Amphoe Hat Yai, others and being splashed with water filled Songkhla the air during the Hat Yai Midnight Songkran GPS: N06° 59.696´ E100° 29.072´ Festival. Songkran is the traditional Thai New Operating Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 6.00 p.m. – year and Hat Yai celebrates Thai New Year like 10.00 p.m. no other. Be prepared to get wet as the water- splashing session goes on from mid-day to

18 Hat Yai Hat Yai Midnight Songkran Festival midnight. Apart from the water-splashing land (TAT), Hat Yai Office Tel. +66 7424 3747 activity that is part of the Songkran celebra- Remark: Please contact the Tourism Authority of tion across the country, the Songkran Festival Thailand (TAT), Hat Yai Office for more informa- at Hat Yai also includes the parades, concerts, tion and for the exact place and schedule of the beauty pageant, and local customs; such as, festival. merit-making and the unique ‘Rap Thiam Da’ ritual. A tradition practised for generations International Balloon Festival at Hat Yai in southern Thailand but slowly fading away, The vibrant colours of the hot-air balloons ‘Rap Thiam Da’ is the ‘welcoming the guardian against Hat Yai’s blue sky in the morning, and deity’ ritual where the locals perform the ritual the illuminated multi-coloured balloons amid during the Songkran period to welcome the the dark sky at night are the beautiful contrast guardian deity so that they will be blessed with one can witness once a year here in Hat Yai. A happiness and abundance all year round. three-day fiesta featuring gigantic and colourful Date: April hot-air balloons of different forms, sizes, and Location: Hat Yai city centre in Tambon Hat Yai, shapes from different countries across the globe Amphoe Hat Yai, Songkhla soaring high above the sky, the International GPS: N07° 00.260´ E100° 28.244´ Balloon Festival at Hat Yai lives up to all the hype. Contact Information: Tourism Authority of Thai- Time your visit to Hat Yai to coincide with this

Hat Yai 19 fancy event for a real treat to the eyes. If just By air watching the spectacular hot-air balloons is not Thai Airways (www.thaiairways.com) and Thai enough, you can also take a hot air balloon ride Smile (www.thaismileair.com) departs for Hat to enjoy the magnificent view of Hat Yai from Yai from Suvarnabhumi International Airport up above. After coming down from the ride, daily, and Air Asia (www.airasia.com), Nok Air enjoy other activities the Festival has in store (www.nokair.com), and Thai Lion Air (www. for you, including concerts, games, food stalls, lionairthai.com) departs for Hat Yai from Don and performances. Mueang Airport daily. Date: May Location: Jiranakorn Stadium in Tambon Hat Yai, Restaurants and Accommodation Amphoe Hat Yai, Songkhla For information on restaurants and accommo- GPS: N07° 01.210´ E100° 28.314´ dation, please visit Contact Information: Tourism Authority of Thai- www.tourismthailand.org/hatyai or contact the land (TAT), Hat Yai Office Tel. +66 7424 3747 Tourism Authority of Thailand, Hat Yai Office at Remark: Please contact the Tourism Authority of Tel. +66 7424 3747 Thailand (TAT), Hat Yai Office for more information and for the exact schedule of the festival. Useful contact information in Hat Yai Transportation from Bangkok Tourism Authority of Thailand, Hat Yai Office to Hat Yai Tel. +66 7424 3747 By car Highway Police 1193 Take Highway 4 passing Prachuap Khiri Khan Tourist Police 1155 and switch to Highway 41 at Chumphon. Con- tinue on Highway 41 and change to Highway 4 in Phatthalung and proceed further to reach Hat Yai, a total distance of around 950 kilometres.

By bus Several air-conditioned bus and VIP coaches depart from the Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (also known as Sai Tai Mai), located on Borom- maratchachonnani Road, to Hat Yai daily. For more information, visit www.transport.co.th.

By train Trains to Hat Yai leave Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok daily. For more information, visit www.railway.co.th.

20 Hat Yai Hat Yai Cable Car at Hat Yai Park Songkhla Lake Songkhla

22 Songkhla When the hectic pace of everyday life makes Give yourself a chance to explore the charm and you long for a getaway to a place that makes special character of this laid-back city, and you you feel as though time has stood still, then will discover that Songkhla is truly a destination Songkhla might just be the destination for you. for a memorable holiday experience. Stretching between a natural lake on the west and the Gulf of Thailand on the east, Songkhla Places of Beautiful Intersection radiates charming atmosphere with peaceful of Faiths and Arts and beautiful nature, slow-paced way of life, Wat Matchimawat Worawihan fascinating history, and colourful culture. Entering the compound of Wat Matchimawat Located on the Thailand-Malaysia border, Song- Worawihan and the quiet and peaceful atmos- khla was an important trading port for Persian, phere makes one forget that this temple is Indian, and Arabian sea merchants, and today located right in the middle of the town. it is a melting pot of cultures where Southern Also known as Wat Klang, Wat Matchimawat Thais, Chinese, and Muslims have been living Worawihan is over 400 years old and showcases together harmoniously for centuries. While a fine blend of Thai and Chinese influences travelling around Songkhla, it is no surprise through the architecture of its many buildings to see Buddhist temples, Chinese shrines, and and statues that dotted the temple grounds. mosques scattered around the city, some of Anyone walking inside the traditional Thai- which are within walking distance, illustrating style Ubosot (ordination hall) will be in awe of the peaceful coexistence of diverse religions the exquisite and colourful murals that depict and culture. A visit to Songkhla Old Town takes the life of the Lord Buddha. Still in perfect you to discover the unique beauty of carefully- condition, the murals were painted during the preserved culture and history of Songkhla, reign of King Rama IV (over 150 years ago), and which can be seen through the traditional illustrates the artistic skills of the craftsmen Chinese buildings and Sino-European who intricately combined the Thai, Chinese, shophouses. and western styles of art onto the paintings. Apart from the richness in historical and cultural Other interesting buildings include the Wihan heritage, Songkhla is also blessed with wonder- (image hall), which is built in western style, and ful natural resources. Whether it is a trip to Hat a Sala Ruesi or an open-air pavilion that features Samila on the east or the Thale Sap Songkhla beautiful murals depicting the ‘Ruesi Dat Ton’ (Songkhla Lake) on the west, one would (traditional Thai yoga) postures. Complete the experience a true sense of relaxation and visit by exploring the fascinating collection tranquility, but if you go all the way up to Khao of antiques and archaeological finds that are Tang Kuan, you would be rewarded with the found in the nearby areas inside the Matchi- panoramic view of both. Let us not forget the mawat National Museum that is located within amazing selection of culinary delights Songkhla the complex. has to offer, from fresh and juicy seafood Location: Tambon Bo Yang, Amphoe Mueang dishes to southern-style spicy curries, and Songkhla, Songkhla Chinese-style delicacies. GPS: N07° 11.682´ E100° 35.534´

Songkhla 23 Wat Matchimawat Worawihan

Operating Hours: Wednesday – Sunday 9.00 a.m. the hall depicting the ways of life of people in – 4.00 p.m. (Matchimawat National Museum’s Songkhla in the past. The highlight of a visit operating hours, but the other parts of the temple to Wat Khu Tao is the two simple but unique grounds are open every day.) ancient waterfront pavilions, one is made with wooden pillars while the other is made with Wat Khu Tao concrete pillars. The one with wooden pillars is called ‘Sala Rian’ or the ‘Study Pavilion’ and was The tranquil natural surroundings of Wat Khu given an Honourable Mention UNESCO Asia- Tao creates an ideal ambience for people, Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conserva- particularly those who are into arts and archi- tion in 2011 to recognise the effort of the local tecture, to spend a peaceful time exploring the community in preserving the old Sala (pavilion). temple. Situated by the peaceful canal, Wat Khu Tao is an ancient temple believed to be over 250 Location: Tambon Tha Chang, Amphoe Bang Klam, years old and is known for its many outstanding Songkhla architectural features. The ancient Ubosot GPS: N07° 06.474´ E100° 27.984´ (ordination hall) showcases amazing arts, from the detailed design of stucco reliefs on the gable and the windows to the beautiful murals inside

24 Songkhla Wat Khao Rup Chang

Wat Khao Rup Chang the shaded and tranquil area of the temple to The spectacle of ‘Wihan Phra Phuttha Chedi the cave. Approaching the entrance and you Muen Ong’ or the ‘10,000 Buddha Shrine Hall’ can see a gigantic 50-feet-tall Buddha image that can be seen standing tall within the com- inside the cave. Walking behind the Buddha pound of Wat Khao Rup Chang is just the first image to explore other several partitions of of the temple’s many interesting and unique the cave, which contain numerous Buddha facets. The exterior of the building is in light images, including Reclining Buddha and Di grey colour and the outer walls are carved with Zhang Bodhisattva, as well as natural stalac- Buddha reliefs. Walking inside the building, tites and stalagmites that are illuminated with you are greeted with the vibrant colours that coloured lights. Complete the visit to the cave make a complete contrast to the outside. All 32 by spending time at the last part of the cave, red-coloured pillars are decorated with golden where the golden statue of standing Guan Yin dragons, while the ceiling is painted in blue and (the Chinese Goddess of Mercy) is enshrined by white, and the walls are adorned with beautiful the peaceful pond. and colourful murals. Take your time marvelling Location: Tambon Padang Besa, Amphoe Sadao, at the beauty of the arts and paying homage to Songkhla the Buddha images and Chinese deities inside GPS: N06° 42.925´ E100° 16.705´ the building, before making your way through

Songkhla 25 Wat Pha Kho

Wat Pha Kho pirates apologising to Luangpu Thuat and A trip to Wat Pha Kho, also known as Wat accepting him as a venerable monk. There Phraratchapraditsathan, allows one to see the are several statues of Luangpu Thuat, from faith and beliefs of the locals towards Buddhism, sitting posture to pilgrimage posture holding as the temple is always busy with people coming umbrella, rice bowl, and walking stick, within to pay homage to the statues of Luangpu the temple ground, as well as other Buddha Thuat and Phra Malika Chedi. Learning about images, including the 18-metre-long reclining the stories of Luangpu Thuat, one of the most Buddha image inside the Wihan (image hall). revered Buddhist monks in Thailand that once Another important part of Wat Pha Kho is the resided at this temple, beforehand makes enormous Lankan-style white pagoda with the visit to Wat Pha Kho even more interesting. golden spire, which contains the relics of the Legend has it that the pirates kidnapped Lord Buddha named Phra Malika Chedi. You Luangpu Thuat, who at that time was famous are invited to walk up to the stairs or take the for having shown many miracles, to test his skill. elevators to reach the Chedi and pay homage The vessel, however, came to a halt and could to the relics enshrining in the Chedi and the not continue, and they ran out of freshwater Buddha images that encircle the Chedi, as well to consume. Luangpu Thuat then dipped his as enjoy the beautiful view of the surroundings. foot into the sea and the seawater miraculously Location: Tambon Chumphon, Amphoe Sathing transformed into freshwater, resulting in the Phra, Songkhla

26 Songkhla GPS: N07° 36.027´ E100° 23.570´ highest point on the island, allowing visitors to get a magnificent panorama of both Thale Discover the Rich Culture and Sap Songkhla and the Gulf of Thailand. Another History of Songkhla important temple on Ko Yo is Wat Thai Yo, where you can witness the ancient raised-floor Ko Yo wooden Kuti (monk’s quarters) with clay roof A small island where most of the men fish and tiles, which is over 200 years old. the women make handwoven cotton, Ko Yo A trip to Ko Yo will only be complete if one gets is an interesting place where the abundance to live the local way of life at Ko Yo Homestay. of nature allows the locals to live happy lives, The stay is particularly special as you spend the whereas visitors can spend at least a night night on a ‘Khanam’, a floating hut-like accom- or two here to fully enjoy exploring its many modation built in the middle of the lake. charms. While crossing the Thale Sap Songkhla Experience the fisherman’s way of life by (Songkhla Lake) from Songkhla town on the following the fishermen when they sail their Saphan Tinsulanonda (Tinsulanonda Bridge) boats out to the sea in the evening to hang to Ko Yo, not only can you enjoy viewing the lamps over ‘Sai’ (a traditional fishing equipment beautiful views of the Lake but you can also made of bamboo and netting to catch aquatic spot the giant golden reclining Buddha in the animals) to attract the prawns. In the morning, front. After arriving Ko Yo, visit Wat Laem Pho the fishermen would get the prawns from the to pay homage to the reclining Buddha, which traps by lifting the nets full of prawns from the is the biggest Buddha image in the attitude of bottom of the sea. Staying with the locals also Nirvana in Thailand. From there, take a walk enables you to taste ‘Chempedak’, a fruit similar around and you will hear the incessant sound to jackfruit but sweeter and has stronger smell. of traditional looms coming from Ratchawat Complete the trip with delicious seafood items, Saeng Song La Group. Ko Yo is famous for and do not miss ‘Yam Sarai’ (spicy seaweed the unique ancient pattern of the handwoven salad), a popular and tasty local snack made by cotton called ‘Ratchawat’, and you can observe mixing fine threads of seaweed with tamarind the women working the magic on the looms as sauce, coconut sugar, grated coconuts, shallots, well as buy the finished products as souvenirs. dried shrimp, salt, and chili. Those interested in learning about the culture Location: Tambon Ko Yo, Amphoe Mueang Song- and history of Songkhla can spend time at the khla, Songkhla Southern Folklore Museum, before coming GPS: N07° 09.516´ E100° 33.347´ (Wat Laem Pho) out to the Observation Tower to get a spectacu- N07° 09.877´ E100° 32.855´ (Ratchawat Saeng lar view of the Saphan Tinsulanonda. Another Song La Group) great place to admire the beautiful sight of N07° 10.914´ E100° 32.552´ (Southern Folklore the Saphan Tinsulanonda over the Lake is at Museum) Khao Kuti Monastery. The Monastery is not N07° 10.255´ E100° 32.469´ (Khao Kuti Monastery) only a centre of faith for the locals in Ko Yo N07° 09.306´ E100° 31.918´ (Wat Thai Yo) who come to pay homage to the pagoda and several Buddha images, but it is also on the N07° 09.225´ E100° 31.697´ (Ko Yo Homestay)

Songkhla 27 Ko Yo Sculpture of Manora Dancers

Southern Folklore Museum Thai way of life and there is a room inside the Seeing the life-sized sculpture of Manora ‘Blano Building’ that is dedicated to ‘coconut (traditional southern Thai dance) dancers in- grater’ or what the Thai people called ‘rabbit’. dicates that you have arrived at the Southern Have fun discovering the many shapes and Folklore Museum. Split into several buildings, sizes of the coconut grater, some of which are the Southern Folklore Museum is one of the made of wood while some are made from metal, best places to get a complete understanding before exploring other rooms, which showcase about the culture, way of life, and history of arts and crafts, as well as lights and glassware. the southern Thai people. As you walk into the The last building is the ‘Hip-Gable Roof Building’ ‘Nawamaphumin Building’, you are presented and displays coin collection, explains about with information on history and ethnicity of Muslim study, and illustrates the folk play of the southern region. Here, you can explore the local people in the past. Complete a visit the artefacts, including ancient beads and to the Southern Folklore Museum by spending ornaments, knives and weapons, pottery, a time at the observation tower and admire the superb collection of southern Thai textiles, as enticing view of Thale Sap Songkhla (Songkhla well as displays of fabric weaving equipment. Lake) and Saphan Tinsulanonda (Tinsulanonda Coconuts play important role in the southern Bridge).

Songkhla 29 Sala Phra Wihan Daeng

Location: Tambon Ko Yo, Amphoe Mueang Song- ‘Sala Phra Wihan Daeng’ or the ‘Pavilion Residence khla, Songkhla of King Rama IV’, which was built in 1889. Make a GPS: N07° 10.914´ E100° 32.552´ stop at the pavilion for a small rest and to admire Operating Hours: Every day 8.30 a.m. – 4.30 p.m. the beautiful architecture before continue (closed on Tuesday) walking up another set of stairs to the top. Once Entrance Fee: 100 Baht for adults and 50 Baht you reach the hilltop, your exhausting hike of for children over 300 steps will be rewarded by the 360- degree view of the Songkhla town, Hat Samila, Khao Tang Kuan and Thale Sap Songkhla. Spend time marvelling at the beautiful scenery while catching your If you are contemplating whether you should breath, then pay homage to the ancient bell- walk up the Naga Staircase to Khao Tang Kuan shaped pagoda named ‘Phra Chedi Luang’ or or take a 3-minute escalator-like lift ride, the ‘Royal Pagoda’, a significant pagoda of the be adventurous and take the stairs. After walking people in Songkhla. Before leaving, take a photo up the endless steps of the Naga Staircase and with another symbol of Khao Tang Kuan, which passing groups of monkeys, you are greeted is an ancient lighthouse that was constructed in by the beautiful red and white building called 1896 under the royal command of King Rama V.

Namtok Phu Soi Dao

30 Songkhla Hub Ho Hin

Location: Tambon Bo Yang, Amphoe Mueang traditional Chinese architecture, Sino-European Songkhla, Songkhla architecture, contemporary style, and modern GPS: N07° 12.560´ E100° 35.189´ (Naga Staircase style. Start the journey to the past at the Song- to Khao Tang Kuan) khla Old Town Gate, and make your way along N07° 12.649´ E100° 35.449´ (Lift Station to Khao Nakhon Nok Road to Ban Nakhon Nai, a Sino- Tang Kuan) European building that houses a collection of Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 10.00 a.m. – Chinese antiques; such as, vases and ceramic 7.00 p.m. Saturday – Sunday 8.00 a.m. – 7.00 p.m. plates, as well as a room that dedicates to King Entrance Fee: 30 Baht for adults and 20 Baht for Rama IX. Just a stone’s throw away is a striking children (lift ticket) red building called Hub Ho Hin, an ancient rice mill built in 1914 and is one of the icons of Songkhla Old Town Songkhla Old Town. Walking inside the building in which today is the Songkhla Heritage Club, Step back in time and feel the old-world charm you can learn about the history of this town as you stroll along the streets of Songkhla Old and this rice mill. Town. Beautifully retained its historical heritage, the Songkhla Old Town exudes diverse Embark on a scavenger hunt and explore every architecture from different cultures, including nooks and crannies of Songkhla Old Town to

Songkhla 31 Street arts search for over 10 street arts that are painted delicacies, ranging from Chinese steamed buns on the walls of the old shophouses or buildings. to traditional Thai desserts, roti, and ice cream. The amazing street arts display many interesting A visit to Songkhla on the second Sunday of the pieces, including the daily life of the locals, and month enables you to explore Song Le Market, a Chinese opera artist. While searching for the in which Nakhon Nok Road turns into a walking street arts, stop by at the City Pillar Shrine, street with vendors selling delicious food and which is a Chinese-style shrine to pay respect to handicrafts. If you happened to be in Songkhla the city pillar and the Chinese deities. Look for on Friday or Saturday, enjoy discovering the a Chinese opera stage inside the ground of the charm of Songkhla Old Town and in the evening City Pillar Shrine and you will find a small noodle walk over to Chana Road, in which the road is shop under the raised stage. Give yourself a closed for traffic and becomes Songkhla Tae unique experience and enjoy a bowl of noodle Raek Walking Street where you can watch the under the stage. You can also find many coffee performance by the elders and purchase local shops as well as several stores in Songkhla Old products and local food and snack. Town selling mouth-watering Chinese and Thai

Songkhla National Museum

Songkhla 33 Also located on Chana Road is where you can Wednesday – Sunday 9.00 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. (Song- hop on the free tram service in front of Pha- khla National Museum) thammarong Museum and go on a Singora Entrance Fee: 100 Baht (Songkhla National Tram Tour, which takes you to explore the Museum) Songkhla city, including the Songkhla Old Town, Hat Samila, Suan Song Thale, and Khao Tang Kuan. If time permits, either before or after the Be Spellbound by Songkhla’s Singora Tram Tour, spend time at Phatham- Scenic Attractions marong Museum to observe the story and Hat Samila items related to the late General Prem Tinsu- A trip to Songkhla is not complete without lanonda, the former head of the Privy Council visiting Hat Samila or the Samila Beach and take who was born in Songkhla and is highly photos with the Golden Mermaid Statue, respected by the local people. A block away the renowned symbol of Hat Samila. The Golden from the Phathammarong Museum is Songkhla Mermaid is a character from a popular Thai National Museum, where those who are literature that tells a story of a mermaid sitting on interested can explore the archaeology, a beach and combing her hair when a fisherman history, and culture of Songkhla in the beautiful came and frightened her. The mermaid fled into Chinese style mansion. the sea and the fisherman waited for her but she disappeared forever. After posing for a photo Location: Nakhon Nok Road, Nakhon Nai Road, with the Golden Mermaid, take a moment to Nang Ngam Road, and Chana Road in Tambon bask in the gorgeous view of the sea from the Bo Yang, Amphoe Mueang Songkhla, Songkhla pavilion located near the Golden Mermaid GPS: N07° 11.578´ E100° 35.410´ (Songkhla Old Statue before strolling along the area shaded Town Gate) by pine trees to the Mouse and Cat Statue, N07° 11.827´ E100° 35.342´ (Ban Nakhon Nai) another famous statue at Hat Samila. Standing N07° 11.894´ E100° 35.315´ (Hub Ho Hin) in front of the statue allows one to see Ko Nu N07° 11.696´ E100° 35.360´ (Song Le Market) and Ko Maeo, the two islands steeped in legend, N07° 12.121´ E100° 35.373´ (Songkhla Tae Raek in the background. Legend has it that a dog, Walking Street) a cat, and a mouse stole a merchant’s crystal N07° 12.135´ E100° 35.437´ (Singora Tram Tour and tried to swim ashore but the mouse and and Phatthammarong Museum) the cat drowned and became Ko Nu (Mouse N07° 12.151´ E100° 35.318´ (Songkhla National Island) and Ko Maeo (Cat Island), while the dog Museum) made it to land but died of exhaustion and Operating Hours: Every day (Songkhla Old Town) turned into Khao Tang Kuan (Tang Kuan Hill) Friday – Saturday 5.00 p.m. – 10.00 p.m. (Tae Raek and the crystal becomes the beautiful sand of Walking Street) the nearby Hat Sai Kaeo. Taking photos of the Every second Sunday 5.00 p.m. – 9.00 p.m. (Song scenery and the statues are not the only thing Le Market) one can do here at Hat Samila, as you can also Every day 9.00 a.m. – 3.00 p.m. (Singora Tram Tour) ride a pony along the fine white sand or cool Tuesday – Sunday 8.30 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. (Pha- off from the heat with refreshing coconut ice thammarong Museum)

34 Songkhla Golden Mermaid Statue

cream while relaxing on a bench beneath the three sections; the head, the body, and the pine trees. Conclude the trip by visiting one tail. Strolling along the road shaded by pine of the restaurants that dotted the area for the trees at Suan Song Thale and you can spot scrumptious seafood meal. the 9-metre-high sculpture of the Naga’s Head situated at the tip of Laem Son On. Representing Location: Tambon Bo Yang, Amphoe Mueang intelligence and wisdom, the Naga’s Head is Songkhla, Songkhla the iconic symbol of Songkhla and most visited GPS: N07° 12.915´ E100° 35.720´ out of the three parts of the Great Serpent Naga. The Naga’s Head sculpture sprays water into Suan Song Thale and Laem Son On mouth of Thale Sap Songkhla (Songkhla Lake) Embark on a mission to search for the three to signify the belief that the Naga sprays divine parts of the Great Serpent Naga, as it is believed water to make people feel fresh and happy that those who pay homage to all three of them and to purify people’s mind and body. Spend are blessed with good luck and prosperity. time admiring the Naga’s Head sculpture People in the southern region believe that the before continuing the search for the other Great Serpent Naga is the deity of the divine two sculptures. The upside-down u-shaped creation of water and fertility of all living things. Naga’s Body or the Serpent’s Naval, which The sculpture of the Great Serpent Naga was symbolises wealth, is located at the Sculpture created to bring good fortune and prosperity Garden Chaloem Phrakiat, while the Naga’s Tail, to the people of Songkhla, but it is divided into which represents charisma and strength, can be found on the opposite side of Hat Chalathat.

Songkhla 35 Laem Son On

Location: Tambon Bo Yang, Amphoe Mueang ‘Nai Raeng’, a man who committed suicide here Songkhla, Songkhla in disappointment after failing to bring his GPS: N07° 13.598´ E100° 34.647´ (Suan Song Thale) 900,000 Baht worth of treasures to place inside N07° 13.625´ E100° 34.625´ (Laem Son On and the Chedi at Wat Phra Mahathat in Nakhon Si Naga’s Head) Thammarat in time. He asked his men to bury N07° 12.851´ E100° 35.289´ (Naga’s Body) his treasures underneath the boulder, in which N07° 12.570´ E100° 35.960´ (Naga’s Tail) the locals named it ‘Hua Nai Raeng’ to honour him. It is believed that the spirit of Nai Raeng Khao Kao Seng still guards the boulder and the treasures today. ‘Khao Kao Seng’ also derives from Nai Raeng’s The wind blows onto the face as one is walking 900,000 Baht worth of treasure, as 900,000 is along the stepped boardwalk that wound ‘Kao Saen’ in Thai, and it later becomes ‘Kao its way around the bed of rocks at Khao Kao Seng’ as it is known today. After spending time Seng to find the perfect spot to sit down and being intrigued by the legend and the natural enjoy the marvelous view of shiny sparkles of beauty, visit Wat Khao Kao Saen, a temple sun reflection on the sea water. Amongst the located within the same area and pay homage countless pieces of rock, one gigantic boulder to several Buddha images as well as Chedi on the top of the cliff particularly stands out and Phraya Wichian Khiri, an ancient pagoda that it is referred to by the locals as ‘Hua Nai Raeng’. was constructed in 1829. The story behind this boulder is a legend about

36 Songkhla Location: Tambon Khao Rup Chang, Amphoe the shore of Amphoe Mueang Songkhla to the Mueang Songkhla, Songkhla southern coast of Ko Yo, while the other is 1,700 GPS: N07° 10.957´ E100° 37.314´ metres long and linking the northern coast of Ko Yo to the shore of Ban Khao Khiao. Apart from Hat Muang Ngam admiring the view on both sides while travelling across the bridge, you can get a bird’s-eye Feel the cool breeze as you walk along the pave- view of the bridge grandiosely stretching across ment shaded by coconut trees and pine trees the lake from the Observation Tower at the that run in parallel with Hat Muang Ngam. A Southern Folklore Museum. The Observation tranquil 3-kilometre-long beach that is one of Tower is the must-stop destination for those the locals’ favourite places for recreation and who are into photography or those who just relaxation, Hat Muang Ngam is most beautiful want to spend time soaking up the breathtaking and most visited when the sun is lower in the scenery and appreciating the scenic beauty of sky and has lost most of its heat. The locals the manmade structure nestling in the midst gathering and enjoying their picnic by the of the natural surroundings. beach, the children laughing while building sand castles, or the teenagers happily playing Location: Tambon Sathing Mo, Amphoe Sing- water splashing, are the simple but usual sights hanakhon, Songkhla that one can expect to see at Hat Muang Ngam. GPS: N07° 11.748´ E100° 33.028´ (Beginning of Sit on a swing that is hung between two pine Saphan Tinsulanonda) trees, and take the time to appreciate the N07° 10.827´ E100° 32.569´ (Observation Tower beauty of the white sandy beach that makes at Southern Folklore Museum) a beautiful contrast to the turquoise colour of the sea. Give yourself time to connect with the Khao Le nature so that you can feel at ease, forget all The usually quiet area around Khao Le Buddhist things in life, and focus on the simplicity you Park is filled with exciting vibe of people prep- see in front of you here. ping for the hike, even though it is only a little Location: Tambon Muang Ngam, Amphoe Sing- after 4 o’clock in the morning. After everyone hanakhon, Songkhla is ready and equipped with suitable clothes GPS: N07° 21.181´ E100° 29.429´ and shoes, flashlight, and a bottle of water, the hike to view the sea of mist at Khao Le begins Saphan Tinsulanonda at 5 o’clock. It takes around an hour of hiking through the trail, some easy, some steep, When travelling between Amphoe Mueang some rugged, and some slippery to reach the Songkhla and Ko Yo (Yo Island), one would have viewpoint, which stands at 260 metres above to cross Saphan Tinsulanonda (Tinsulanonda the sea level. Getting up early and starting Bridge) that spans across the Thale Sap Songkhla the hike in the wee hours of the morning was (Songkhla Lake). Saphan Tinsulanonda is the worth every effort, as the incredible 360-degree longest concrete bridge in Thailand at 2.64 view at the top is beyond magical. The sight of kilometres and consisting of two parts, the first the sun slowly peeking its warm ray over the one is the 940-metre-long bridge connecting

Songkhla 37 horizon, painting the sky with hues of pink and Remark: The number of people hiking to view orange, and shining its morning glow through sea of mist at Khao Le is limited to 40 person the fluffy sea of mist that blanketed the valley a day, please make a reservation by contacting is indescribable. Spellbound by the magnificent Sadao Municipality Office at Tel. +66 7441 1400 scenery, everyone is lost in their own world in advance. while breathing in pure fresh air, feeling the cool morning breeze caressing the skin, and Namtok Boriphat Forest Park relishing the pristine beauty that Mother Nature has gifted us. Hearing the water flowing down the rocks into the pool alternating with children laughing Location: Tambon Sadao, Amphoe Sadao, Song- indicates that one has arrived at Namtok Boriphat khla Forest Park. The first of seven levels of Namtok GPS: N06° 38.912´ E100° 24.037´ (Khao Le Bud- Boriphat (Boriphat Waterfall) is usually crowded dhist Park) on the weekends with local people coming to Contact Information: Sadao Municipality Office enjoy cooling off in the pool under the shades Tel. +66 7441 1400 of forest canopy. Walking up to the second

38 Songkhla Tinsulanonda Bridge

level of the waterfall and all you can hear is GPS: N06° 59.670´ E100° 08.970´ the soothing sound of the water cascading. Operating Hours: Every day 8.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. Behind the curtain of aerial roots and vines is the magnificent white stream of water falling Namtok Ton Plio through the natural rock sculptures into the vast While travelling along the road that leads to the pool. The second level is less crowded, allowing waterfall, the white water of Namtok Ton Plio one to feel more relaxed and peaceful while can be seen making a striking contrast to the being embraced by the lush surroundings. Take greenery of the forests that surround the water- a rest from the walk and enjoy frolicking in the fall from afar. Nestled in the evergreen tropical cool water to refresh your body and soul. Close rainforest and rocky hills, Namtok Ton Plio is a your eyes, let the sound of nature permeate towering 12-tiered waterfall that is the source your mind, and feel the serenity and calmness of stream that leads to Thale Sap Songkhla that Namtok Boriphat provides for you. (Songkhla Lake). Each of the tier displays dif- Location: Tambon Khao Phra, Amphoe Ratta- ferent beauty and characteristics, but the most phum, Songkhla visited are the first two tiers. A short walk from

Songkhla 39 the carpark takes you to the first level, where pink lotuses that are in full bloom, while the late the large pool at the bottom of the waterfall is afternoon trip allows you to see the sun slowly ideal for a refreshing splash or a swim. Spend starting to descend from the sky and casting time absorbing the cool temperature and captivating long shadows across the lake. enjoy the relaxing effect of the waterfall while Location: Tambon Khu Khut, Amphoe Sathing admiring the cascading waters. Whether it is Phra, Songkhla trekking along the trail in the forest to the second GPS: N07° 27.777´ E100° 24.750´ level or simply relaxing under the shades by Operating Hours: Every day 8.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. the pool at the first level, it is easy for one to be Remark: The recommended time to visit is early lost in the sheer beauty of the tranquil nature morning or late afternoon, between December of Namtok Ton Plio. and March. Location: Tambon Kamphaeng Phet, Amphoe Rattaphum, Songkhla Fun Options for a Unique GPS: N07° 00.068´ E100° 14.141´ Experience Operating Hours: Every day 8.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. Asian Cultural Village and Dinosaur Park Entrance Fee: 200 Baht for adults and 100 Baht for children Travelling all the way from Songkhla city centre to Amphoe Sadao or known widely as Dan- nok, which is located at the Thailand-Malaysia Khu Khut Waterfowl Park (Thale Sap border, takes nearly two hours but all the Songkhla Non-hunting Area) interesting things at the Asian Cultural Village The melodious sound of birds chirping filled and Dinosaur Park makes it worth the trip. Hop the air as the boat makes its way along the calm on the tram and be amazed as the tram makes water of Thale Sap Songkhla (Songkhla Lake). its way passing the variety of attractions within Part of the Thale Sap Songkhkla, the Khu Khut this huge family-friendly Village. Make a stop at Waterfowl Park or the Thale Sap Songkhla Non- the Panda Garden to take photos with count- hunting Area is a paradise for bird lovers with less gigantic panda models that dotted the over 200 species of both resident and migratory expanse of lawn, then enjoy several activities birds in the area. Along the one-hour-long boat like riding an ATV or archery shooting. If the ride, you can spot and take pictures of countless heat becomes too hot to handle, head to the birds, including a spring of teals that quietly Water Fun Park to cool off with water from swim together in the lake, a few sea hawks the fountains that spray into the air. Move on swooping over the lake, or the little cormorant to Baan ACV to learn about the way of life of enjoying the sunlight. Apart from the birds, the long-neck Karen tribe from the northern one cannot help but be immersed in the mag- region of Thailand. Before sunset is the best nificent natural surroundings, particularly the time to visit the Dinosaur Park and explore picturesque scenery of mangrove apple trees over 30 species of dinosaur, as the Park will be making a reflection to the stillness of lake water. lit up with colourful and beautiful lightings. The A visit in the early morning enables you to wit- darken sky combines with the lightings, as well ness the lake being carpeted by hundreds of as the sounds and movements of the dinosaurs,

40 Songkhla makes it an even more exciting experience than of local heritage and brings you back to the a visit during the day time. In the evening of olden days where people live a peaceful life every weekend, the Road of Wulin, which recre- by the canal. As you take a boat ride along the ates the ancient Chinese village with wooden canal or stroll along the wooden platform on shophouses and are adorned with glowing red both sides of the canal, you can enjoy observing lanterns, becomes a Wulin Night Market, where the beautiful traditional wooden houses. One you can enjoy shopping while travelling back in interesting shophouse is Kru Sayan Museum time to ancient China. There are many more in- in which you can find a collection of items used teresting attractions for you to explore; such as, by local residents in the past. Not far from the Cowboy Town, 18 Lohan Garden, and Animal Museum is Sri Suk O-sot, an ancient drugstore World. If you stay until dark, everywhere in the that sells traditional herbal medicines prepar- Village is decorated with colourful lights, ing with over 200-year-old medicinal recipes. offering a wonderful nighttime photo taking A visit to the floating market is not complete opportunity to visitors. without filling your stomach with the tasty dishes. Here you will discover amazing array of Location: Tambon Samnak Kham, Amphoe Sadao, delectable options, including Khanom Chin Songkhla (rice vermicelli) topped with your choice of cur- GPS: N06° 31.973´ E100° 24.505´ ries, Khao Yam Ho Bai Bua (southern style rice Operating Hours: Every day 10.00 a.m. – 10.00 p.m. salad wrapped in lotus leaf), as well as many Contact Information Tel. +66 7455 7133 southern-style food and desserts. When the sun Remark: It is recommended to visit the Asian is descending, get ready to watch the Manora Cultural Village in the late afternoon until night- performance, where the local teenagers wear time, because some attractions are opened in the bright-coloured costumes and perform diffi- afternoon, and it can be very hot during the day cult yet elegant movements of the traditional as most of the attractions are outdoor. southern-style dance. Please contact Asian Cultural Village for more information on the entrance fee, as some parts of Location: Tambon Khlong Daen, Amphoe Ranot, the Village can be entered for free while some parts Songkhla required entrance fee. GPS: N07° 54.849´ E100° 18.526´ Operating Hours: Every Saturday 12.00 p.m. – 9.00 p.m. Contact Information: Tel. +66 8 8231 5281 Khlong Daen Floating Market Remark: If you want to experience more of the com- If one asked where can one experience the local munity’s way of life, homestay accommodation is way of life, sample delicious local specialties, available. Please contact Tel. +66 8 8231 5281 for and watch local performance, all in one place more information. in Songkhla, then the answer would be the Khlong Daen Floating Market. Located at the junction of the three canals that straddling Bang Klam Floating Market Songkhla province and Nakhon Si Thammarat When the afternoon is coming to a close, get on province, Khlong Daen Floating Market is a a long-tail boat and enjoy observing the local community that focuses on the conservation way of life on both sides of Khlong Bang Klam

Songkhla 41 (Bang Klam Canal) while the boat meanders observe one of the most beautiful festivals in its way along the canal. Getting back from Thailand called ‘Tak Bat Thewo’, where a proces- the boat ride, it is time to explore Bang Klam sion of hundreds of monks walk down the stairs Floating Market and have fun browsing a from Khao Tang Kuan to receive the offerings diverse selection of local delicacies from the from the Buddhist devotees who are waiting shops and stalls that lined up on the ground, at the foot of the hill. The ritual is to depict the unlike other floating markets where the vendors traditional belief that the Lord Buddha comes are on the boats. After selecting a few dishes down from the heavenly world to earth after to sample, for instance, Phat Thai (stir-fried the three months of rain retreat during the noodle), Somtam (papaya salad) and Mu Sate Buddhist Lent period. After the Tak Bat Thewo (pork satay), bring the plates to the low table activity, enjoy watching the boat decoration that are placed on the pavement by the canal. contest as well as witnessing the procession of Enjoy tasting the tasty dishes while taking in the beautifully decorated boat around town. the peaceful atmosphere of life by the canal. Date: The end of the Buddhist Lent period (around As there are no boats selling food along the October) canal, visitors are able to enjoy the scenery of the tranquil canal without anything blocking Location: Khao Tang Kuan in Tambon Bo Yang, the view, which is particularly picturesque Amphoe Mueang Songkhla, Songkhla during sunset. GPS: N07° 12.560´ E100° 35.189´ Contact Information: Tourism Authority of Thai- Location: Tambon Bang Klam, Amphoe Bang land (TAT), Hat Yai Office Tel. +66 7424 3747 Klam, Songkhla Remark: Please contact the Tourism Authority of GPS: N07° 07.541´ E100° 25.752´ Thailand (TAT), Hat Yai Office for more information Operating Hours: Every Saturday and Sunday and for the exact schedule of the festival. 5.00 p.m. – 9.00 p.m. Remark: Bang Klam Floating Market offers long- tail boat services to observe the scenery along Songkhla Seafood Festival the canal. Please contact the boat operator at the The delicious smell, sight, sound, and taste of market for the price. scrumptious seafood fill the area of Sa Bua as people flock the Songkhla Seafood Festival for Be a Part of Songkhla’s Amazing some tasty treats. Held for several days, the Festivals Festival features countless stalls offering a wide range of seafood dishes, ranging from fresh Lak Phra and Tak Bat Thewo oyster to grilled fish, grilled squid, grilled prawn, The local people of Songkhla celebrate the end deep-fried crabs, and seafood fried rice, just to of the Buddhist Lent period by gathering to- name a few. Apart from the seafood items, you gether for a traditional and sacred ceremonies. can also find a variety of local desserts; such as, The ritual begins with a procession of a large sticky rice with mango, traditional Thai desserts, cloth around town and then wrapping that and ice cream. Not only can you enjoy tasting piece of cloth around the pagoda on Khao Tang all sorts of tasty menus, but you can also enjoy Kuan. The next day, head to Khao Tang Kuan to watching entertainments and beauty contest,

42 Songkhla By bus Several air-conditioned bus and VIP coaches depart from the Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal (also known as Sai Tai Mai), located on Borom- maratchachonnani Road, to Songkhla daily. For more information, visit www.transport.co.th. By train There is no train station in Songkhla and the nearest train station is in Hat Yai. Trains to Hat Yai leave Hua Lamphong Railway Station in Bangkok daily. For more information, visit www. railway.co.th.

Central Mosque, Songkhla Songkhla 43 HatSongkhla Yai

Mural Painting, Wat Cha Thing Phra