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Songkhla and Pattani Itinerary: A Guide to Thailand’s Enchanting Southern Coastal Towns

February 3, 2024 by Bino Leave a Comment

Songkhla, a serene city in southern Thailand located just less than an hour away by car from the more well-known city of Hat Yai (a popular destination for Malaysians and Singaporeans), is set in a peninsula and surrounded by water across 3 sides. Although relatively small, Songkhla is brimming with cultural heritage, fine beaches, and culinary delights. 

Songkhla is also known for its enchanting blend of Thai and Chinese influences, The city’s laid-back atmosphere is a refreshing contrast to the bustling tourist hotspot such as Bangkok and it also boasts a different vibe from the also-laidback Chiang Mai , making Songkhla an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxed travel experience. I visited the city recently and thought this short Songkhla itinerary inclusive of Pattani might be of help if you are thinking to visit soon.

Table of Contents

Day 1 – Songkhla Itinerary

Samila beach.

samila beach

Renowned for its golden sands and iconic mermaid statue, Samila Beach offers a picturesque setting for relaxation. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the coast, indulge in local street food, or partake in the simple joy of kite flying or horse riding on breezy afternoons. I went to the beach first thing in the morning and enjoyed walking around before the heat had set in.

While in Samila Beach, don’t miss out on the iconic Golden Mermaid Statue , a symbol of Songkhla. It was built in 1966 and was modeled after a Thai story about a mermaid who was combing her hair and was frightened away after seeing a fisherman. Based on my own observation, this is probably the most touristy part of Songkhla and throughout the day, you’ll find people taking photos in front of the statue.

Tangkuan Hill

tangkuan hill lift station

view from tangkuan hill

For sweeping views of the city, head up to Tangkuan Hill . I recommend doing this either at around 8:30AM when they open or during late afternoon so that it’s not too hot. Take the funicular up (50 Baht to go up and down) and you will be greeted with a white pagoda once you reach the peak. In my case, I walked to the lift station from Samila Beach which was around 900 meters away. 

Songkhla National Museum

songkhla national museum

Just outside the old town, the Songkhla National Museum is set in an attractive Chinese-style old mansion. Originating from 1878, the sprawling grounds houses several archeological finds from the area. Exhibits range from Neolithic tools to royal regalia, offering a comprehensive overview of the region’s history. The museum’s architecture itself is an impressive fusion of Thai, Chinese, and European styles. I highly recommend this museum to gain a better understanding of Songkhla’s importance as a merchant town back in the day.

Songkhla Old Town

Songkhla Old Town is a testament to the city’s rich history and is probably the highlight of any visit to Songkhla. Travelers can marvel at the well-preserved architecture, including traditional shop houses and colonial-era buildings. I have visited other old towns in Southeast Asia such as Melaka , Penang and Hoi An and found Songkhla to be almost up there with these more renowned cities but with just a fraction of their visitor numbers. 

Much of the points of interests in Songkhla’s old town are located on 3 parallel streets – these are Nakhonnok , Nakhonnai and Nang Ngam streets. In between, there are also small alleys that intersect these 3 main streets that are filled with noteworthy street art. 

songkhla city pillar shrine

You can easily spend hours marveling at the beautiful old buildings in the old town. Some noteworthy stops include the Songkhla City Pillar Shrine which was built at the time the city of Songkhla was established. The pillar itself is located inside a traditional Chinese shrine. Of note are the myriad red lanterns hanging around the complex, making it a rather photogenic stop.

chao pho kuan temple

Another noteworthy stop almost immediately next to the city pillar is the Chao Pho Kuan Temple which is especially beautiful at night when it is lit up. See it from Nong Chik Alley for a more atmospheric feel. 

nakhon nai museum

For a showcase at how life was back in the day, check out the Nakhon Nai Museum (daily, 9AM to 4:30PM) which offers a peek at life back in the 1800s and early 1900s in Songkhla, with a focus on Chinese merchant families. 

The house reminded me very much of the house-turned-museums in Hoi An. Despite the distance between Hoi And and Songkhla, this is perhaps not surprising due to both towns’ location in the eastern coast of mainland Southeast Asia.

red rice mill

To the north of the museum, the Red Rice Mill is one of the more popular landmarks of Songkhla’s old town as it’s painted in red. This used to be a place of business for a Hokkien merchant family but has served various purposes over the years. Currently, it served as a pier for boats coming from the other side of Songkhla, as the nearest bridge is quite a distance away. 

Inside, there’s a small museum showcasing regular exhibitions and at times, there are workshops conducted here as well.

titan project space in songkhla

Beyond these old town attractions I just mentioned, it is worth strolling down the 3 main streets and the intersecting alleys of Songkhla’s old town. There are plenty of interesting shops, private art galleries, cafes and retail spaces to explore. One such private gallery I chanced upon was Titan Project Space , located just a few buildings south of the red rice mill.

san original scent store

To bring the scents of Songkhla home, there’s SAN Original Scent Store also located within the area. Their two story space also includes a small speakeasy bar at the second floor.

Songkhla Night Market

songkhla night market

Platha Street , located just north of the old town, comes alive every Fridays and Saturdays with Songkhla’s weekend night market. Every self-respecting city in Thailand has a “walking street” or night market and this is Songkhla’s version.

While other cities like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai have plenty of handicrafts in their weekend markets, the one in Songkhla is decidedly more focused on clothing, jewelry and food. Prices are on the low side as it’s catered mostly to locals but it’s still useful to bargain.  

Where to Eat in Songkhla

Songkhla has plenty of food options – from market street stalls to hipster cafes and restaurants that have been around for generations. 

One of the first places I tried was Lyn’s (daily, 9:30AM to 9PM). This is a relatively safe option in the center of town as their voluminous menu includes both Thai and Western dishes. It’s also a good option for vegetarians as they have a separate vegetarian assortment of dishes.  

ploy bualoyyang

Just opposite Lyn’s is a relatively new dessert shop called Ploy Bualoyyang (daily, 11AM to 9PM). Set in a colorful shophouse, guests can indulge in traditional Thai desserts such as rice balls with fillings such as peanut and black sesame. If you are feeling adventurous, you can even opt for the ones filled with durian paste. 

tae hiang aew

One of the most popular restaurants in Songkhla is Tae Hiang Aew . The place is known for its Thai-influenced Chinese cuisine. Expect plenty of stir-fries, seafood and vegetables. I went for their Lime and Garlic Seabass which was especially tangy and quite addictive especially when paired with rice. 

Day 2 – Pattani Itinerary

From Songkhla, I opted to visit Pattani which is roughly 2.5 hours away by car. Pattani is considered part of the 3 southernmost provinces of Thailand which have a Muslim majority. Among the 3 southern provinces, I chose to go to Pattani due to its heritage as it used to be the capital of the Kingdom of Pattani which existed from the 15th century up until 1902. Pattani is the name of the southern province as well as its capital city.

How to Get From Songkhla to Pattani

songkhla bus terminal

A number of minibuses ply the Songkhla to Pattani route and you can easily hop on a bus for the 2.5 hour trip from Songkhla Bus Terminal located almost 2 km south of the old town. Alternatively, you can also ask your hotel to book you a private car with driver. Expect to pay about THB 1,000 for a one-way trip if you choose to go by private car.

Visit Pattani Central Mosque

pattani central mosque

As the morning sun climbs, a visit to the  Pattani Central Mosque is essential. This magnificent structure, known for its stunning architecture, is the largest mosque in Thailand. Open from 8:00 AM, visitors should dress respectfully to witness its grandeur first-hand, absorbing the serene atmosphere. The minibuses are quite flexible in dropping off passengers and I had requested to be dropped off right at the doorstep of the mosque when I arrived in Pattani. 

Lim Ko Niao Shrine

lim ko niao shrine

From the mosque, it’s about 20 minutes walk to the Lim Ko Niao Shrine so I opted to hail a motorbike to take me there. This Chinese temple reflects the area’s spiritual heritage and is adorned with intricate decorations and offerings. It also offers a rare peek at the customs of the local Chinese community in Pattani. 

pattani chinatown

The street where the shrine is located, Anoaru Street , is considered as Pattani’s Chinatown and a large plaque at the beginning of the said street announces exactly that. The entire street is filled with many historical buildings and some traditional shops and it is worth doing a short stroll to admire them.  

Marvel at the Architecture of Krue Se Mosque

krue se mosque

An ancient mosque constructed in the 16th century, the Krue Se Mosque , located roughly 5km outside of town, reflects the Pattani Kingdom’s architectural prowess. It is an iconic historical structure built with a unique blend of Middle Eastern and Malay architectural styles. To get here, I hired a car to bring me there from the center of town.

Immerse in the Creativity of Patani Artspace

patani artspace

Located among the rice fields in the outskirts of Pattani, Patani Artspace is an eye-opening art gallery featuring works by local artists. It was founded by Abdullah Jesorho as a gathering place for locals and visitors and as such, the space also houses an open-air theater and cafe. The artworks here are a reminder of the struggles of the southern provinces of Thailand, with many pieces depicting guns and weapons. One stark reminder I saw was a painting of a lady wearing a hijab that came in the pattern of guns. 

The town of Pattani can easily be explored in a day and you can either get a taxi or hop on a minibus for trips back to Songkhla or to Hat Yai. 

Best Time to Visit

Songkhla is generally pleasant enough to visit during most of the year as the city has a relatively short but rather intense rainy season spanning from October to December. 

Outside of this, rainfall is relatively moderate and scattered, with January to April being the driest months. 

Getting to Songkhla

Songkhla does not have its own airport, but the nearby Hat Yai International Airport serves as the main gateway by air. Located approximately 43 kilometers from Songkhla city center (50 minute drive), it offers:

• Daily flights from major cities such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.
• Airlines : Thai Airways, AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Scoot and others provide regular service.

Where to Stay

I stayed at La Pino Hotel which is located by the highway just 1 to 2km from the old town. Rooms carry something of a Scandi theme and most stays include a good breakfast which is held at the topmost floor with views of the lake. For something within/walking distance from the old town,  Songkhla Tae Raek Antique Hotel is set in a beautiful shophouse filled with plenty of chinoiserie. Rooms feature a myriad of colorful beddings.  

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Hi, my name is Bino and I started I Wander around 15 years ago with the aim of sharing about some of my personal journeys and experiences, hoping that the information may benefit readers like yourselves. Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below. Alternatively, you can also email me at b i n o (at) iwandered.net. You can follow I Wander on Facebook , Telegram , or Instagram . Also, if you liked this article, please feel free to SHARE or RETWEET

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Pattani Travel Guide

Home to many popular cultural sites such as Pattani Central Mosque, Krue Se Mosque and the Lim Kor Niao Shrine.

A photograph of Pattani Central Mosque, a mosque for local Muslims. – Pattani Travel Guide

Introduction to pattani travel guide.

Pattani is one of Thailand’s southern provinces. Narathiwat, Yala, and Songkhla are neighboring provinces. The attractions of modern-day Pattani include unspoilt beauty, numerous historical landmarks, and traditional culture, which has benefited from the merging of Thai, Chinese, and Islamic people.

Pattani was once a significant part of the Sultanate of Patani. Patani, a vassal kingdom of Siam for centuries, has been ruled by Siam since its invasion in 1786. The Burney Treaty with the British Empire in 1826 officially recognized Siamese claims to the land. Both Yala and Narathiwat were formerly part of Patani but were designated provinces in their own right during King Rama V’s reign as part of the territorial administration reform and formation of a united centralized Siam state.

Pattani is a lovely part of the country that sadly receives negative headlines as a result of its conflicts. The province is home to 2 main rivers, the Tani and Sai Buri. Pattani has a generally flat landscape with a 170-kilometer-long coastline on the Gulf of Thailand. It boasts exceptional cultural sites such as the Krue Se Mosque and the Lim Kor Niao Shrine, as well as spectacular natural elements such as forests, rivers, and oceans. 

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• How to get there
• Map of the Province
• Top attractions
• References and Attributions

Credit: Pattani – A fascinating cultural mix in the deep south of Thailand by Destination Thailand

How to get to Pattani

There is no airport in Pattani. However, visitors can fly to Hat Yai International Airport (HDY), which has many domestic and international flight options and then take a bus or taxi to Pattani.

The Pattani Railway Station is in the Khok Pho District, which is about 30 kilometers from the city center. Visitors can take SRT Southern Line to the station. Visitors can use the 12Go platform . to book local rail tickets.

Pattani Bus Terminal is located opposite Pattani ASEAN Mall, at the intersection of Yarang Road Soi 3 and Highway 42. Passengers from other provinces will arrive at this bus terminal. 12Go is a website where visitors may reserve a bus ticket. Click here for more information!

The 2 main highways that connect Pattani to other provinces are Highway 42 and Highway 43. Highway 42 is conveniently allowed travelers to travel to Pattani from Narathiwat and Songkhla. Highway 43 is another option that connects Pattani to Songkhla, especially for visitors who travel from Sadao District. From Yala, visitors can choose between Highway 410 and Highway 418 to visit Pattani. Visitors can use Google Maps to assist in driving in Thailand. It is one of the most useful resources for drivers in Thailand.

Map of Pattani Province

Click Here to Enlarge the Map

Top attractions in pattani.

Pattani Central Mosque

A well-known mosque with elegant design that was built in 1954 and is one of Thailand’s largest mosques.

Krue Se Mosque (Masjid Kerisik)

A mosque from the 16th century with a blend of Middle Eastern and European architectural styles.

Wat Chang Hai Rat Buranaram

An ancient Buddhist temple that has existed for over 300 years.

Chao Mae Lim Ko Niao Shrine (Leng Chu Kiang Shrine)

A shrine dedicated to a local Chinese lady for her sense of filial piety and patriotism.

A province that offers a lot of traditional culture, historic sights and beautiful natural attractions.

Known for natural attractions for tourists such as mountains, waterfalls and caves.

A historic province with ancient ruins and culturally significant sites.

External Resources

• Pattani Weather – Thai Meteorological Department
• Pattani Province Official Website

An old man at the entrance of Krue Se Mosque – Pattani Travel Guide

Summary of pattani travel guide.

Pattani is a tiny province in far southern Thailand that is to the north of Yala on Thailand’s east coast, between Songkhla to the north and Narathiwat to the south. In the province, there are several interesting tourist attractions. Pattani offers it all, from old temples to intriguing museums, cultural landmarks to lovely beaches. Still unsure? Feel free to visit other destinations in Thailand for more suggestions:

Bangkok’s closest coastal town, best known for its beautiful beaches and fresh seafood.

• Ubon Ratchathani

A province in Isan region well-known for its national parks and temples.

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Pattani Travel

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Once the heart of a large Muslim principality that included the neighbouring provinces of Yala and Narathiwat, Pattani Province has never adjusted to Thai rule. Although today’s political situation has stunted the area’s development, Pattani Town has a 500-year history of trading with the world’s most notorious imperial powerhouses. The Portuguese established a trading post here in 1516, the Japanese passed through in 1605, the Dutch in 1609 and the British flexed their colonial muscles in 1612.

Yet despite the city’s fascinating past, there's little of interest in Pattani. There are some decent beaches nearby, but the ongoing insurgency has made most of these sandy destinations unsafe for the independent traveller.

Best time to visit

The weather is warm all year round. Average temperatures go from 30°C (november) to 34°C (april). Sea temperature is Pleasant all year round! It ranges from 28°C to 30°C. The rainiest months are: october, november and december. We recommende the month of january, february, march, to visit Pattani.

Check the below table for the general idea of Pattani weather throughout the year.

Pattani’s current weather and 7-day forecast

The beautiful province of Pattani can be found in Southern Thailand, in the Gulf of Thailand. It is a quite small, but wonderful province, full of natural and cultural attractions.

Budo – Su-ngai Padi National Park

The amazing national park is situated almost entirely in the Narathiwat Province, but a smaller part of it belongs to Pattani. The highlights of the park are the spectacular “Golden Leaves”. The tree has large, soft and golden leaves. As for the animals, there are different species living here, such as tapirs, gibbons, rhinos, langurs and so on. The most significant specie is the cute Dusky leaf monkey.

Pattani Central Mosque

In a town where the predominant population is Thai-Muslim the presence of a great mosque is obvious. The mosque is considered the most beautiful and largest in Thailand. It was inaugurated in 1963 and since than it has become an important tourist attraction of the town.

Pattani beaches

There are numerous fine beaches in the province, such as Hat Ma Ruat, Hat Chalalai, Hat Khae Khae, Hat Sai Chai Bueng Ban Laweng and so on. Many visitors of the province come for the spectacular beaches.

Wat Chang Hai

The outstanding 300-year-old wat can be found in the town of Pattani. It is one of the major landmarks of it. The Buddhist temple is famous for its beauty and for housing numerous sacred slabs.

Kru Se Mosque

Another beautiful mosque of the town of Pattani is the Kru Se Mosque. It is considered the oldest mosque in the town. The construction of the building began in 1578 but was never finished. According to the legend it was due to the curse which was placed on it.

Yarrang Old Town

An important archeological site is Yarrang Old Town. It is the place where evidences were discovered for two ancient communities. The site is very popular among visitors.

Ta Thi Cape

It is actually a beautiful peninsula which can be found in front of Pattani Bay. It is easily accessible and the scenery is picturesque.

It is a beautiful mount of which most significant attraction is a rocky formation. There are also two ponds in the region of which waters are considered to have been used for coronation ceremonies.

Namtok Phong Phong

The gorgeous waterfall presents seven tiers. At the lowest level the waterfall has a natural pond where visitors can have a relaxing bath.

Festivals and events

The province of Pattani is well-known for its fantastic festivals. The Chak Phra festival is considered perhaps the most significant. It is an annual festival which commemorates the returning of Buddha from the heaven.

C.S. Pattani Hotel

Add: 299 M.4 Hnongjik Rd, A Muang, Pattani 94000

This is the hotel of choice for most foreigners who visit Pattani. It's clean, well-managed, luxurious and secure. There are two large pools, a cafe, and a restaurant with an included buffet breakfast. Big discounts, 800 baht or less is possible, depending on length of stay. Next to the Big C mall. Outside the hotel are several small restaurants, cafes, karaoke, and motor bike drivers—5 mins and 20 baht to the town centre. WiFi, 100 baht per hour. 

My Gardens Hotel

Add: 8/28 Charoenpradit Rd 

A clean, comfortable and friendly hotel just on the outskirts of downtown Pattani. Air conditioning, hot shower, mini-bar, and TV with Thai channels in rooms. The staff speak limited English, but are more than willing to try. Breakfast is not included in price, but can be bought for about 80 baht at the hotel restaurant.

As with most places in Thailand, food is very easy to find in Pattani. Although perhaps not known as a culinary destination, the region has an interesting blend of Thai and Malay cooking.

Small family-run restaurants are all over town, as are street vendors and food stalls, far too many to list here. Very few of these will have a menu in English or English-speaking staff, so it may be good to equip yourself with the names of some dishes (or at least the words for noddles or rice) in Thai or Malay/Yawi. They will, however, probably have staff who are delighted to receive foreign guests and willing to do their best to give you what you want. One sure method is to point at pictures that can often be found on menu's, or walk to the kitchen (which will be in open view by the street) and point at some dish that has already been prepared.

The CS Pattani Hotel and My Gardens Hotel both have hotel restaurants and the one in CS Pattani is known as one of the best in the city. The area outside CS Pattani also has several small restaurants and cafés worth a look. There is a night market (head east from the southernmost bridge, close to Santisuk Hotel), where you can get local types of fast food prepared before your eyes.

In 2010, the Halal Science Center at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok published a book called Unique Melayu-Thai Foods in Southern Border Cuisine. The book contains recipes of local food from the provinces of Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, Songkla and Satun, as well as information about the restaurants from which the recipes are gathered.

Although most of the book is in Thai, recipes and locations of restaurants are translated into English. This book is well worth a buy for anybody interested in local food, and should be found in bookstores around town.

My Cake, Charoenpradit Rd 

A restaurant and café serving Thai cuisine. They have newspapers in Thai, WiFi and (unusual for Pattani) a menu in English. Although more expensive than most restaurants in Pattani, with a meal for one costing around 100 baht, My Cake can offer a good break from attempting to order something in Thai or Malay/Yawi if you don't speak either language. 

Khaoyam Benjarong

This restaurant is named after its most famous dish: Khaoyam, in Thai, or Nasi Krabu in Malay. It means rice salad, and is a dish found in both southern Thailand and in Malaysia, but Khaoyam Benjarong has a unique version of the dish. The rice salad itself is very colourful and includes blue peas, and is served with a whole grilled fish and fresh vegetables. This is a sort of private buffet, and you will only pay for what you eat. This should cost only a few dozen baht. The owners speak no English, but are very willing to serve their signature dish to anybody who comes in search of food. 

In the morning it is opened during 05.30-11.00 and in the afternoon is opened during 15.30-18.00. This restaurant serves Indian cuisine, it is called ‘Roti’, made by flour, pour sweetened condensed milk on the Roti and serve with iced tea.The location is on sidewalk. In the morning will have soft-boiled rice and meat balls for order.The cost is cheap.  

It is opened during 9.00-14.00. This restaurant famous for rice steamed with chicken soup and sauce. The chicken that they use is domestic fowl.The environment of the restaurant is cozy. Moreover, the prices are reasonable.

Pattani is about 1,055 km from Bangkok. Visitors can use Hwy 35 (Thon buri-Pak Tho) for about 90 km, then turn left to Hwy 4 to Chumphon for about 460 km. After that, use Hwy 41 or 42 past Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Songkhla, Pak-nam Thepa to Pattani. The total distance is around 505 km.

There is no direct flight to Pattani. Visitors need to travel to Hat Yai airport which is served by Thai Airways, AirAsia, Nok Air and OrientThai from Bangkok. There are also flights from Singapore (Tiger Airways), Kuala Lumpur (AirAsia), Phuket (Happy Air) and Chiang Mai (AirAsia). Thai Airways provides a round-trip shuttle bus (Hat Yai-Pattani) twice daily free-of-charge for passengers who make the reservation in advance. It is also possible to first take the bus from the airport into downtown Hat Yai, find your way to Hat Yai bus station (a tuk-tuk should be able to get you there) and from there catch a minibus that will take you to the door of a hotel of your choice. This takes about an hour and a half. Flight information can be requested at Tel: 1566, 0 2280 0060, 0 2628 2000 or at Pattani Office Tel: 0 7333 5938.

It is also possible to get in by flying to Narathiwat with Air Asia and then taking a bus or taxi to Pattani.

Contact us for the latest flight schedule and price. Or you can check via some online platform such as SkyScanner.com or Kayak.com

Here you can find some tips to book the cheapest flight

There is no train station in the city of Pattani itself, but the Southern Line service of the Thai state Railways has two stops around 30 km from the city.

Pattani station, so called on official train timetables, is in fact a very small train station located in Khok Pho district, Pattani Province. From there, buses and taxis are available to the city of Pattani, a distance of 29 km.

Yala station is the next stop on the line, in the neighboring city of Yala, 35 km from Pattani. This is a much larger station. Exiting the train station, turn right and walk to the end of that street. If you then go just around the corner you will see red buses that take you to Pattani for 23 baht. You can of course also take a taxi from outside the train station.

It's a long train ride from Bangkok to Pattani, and only served by overnight trains. Special Express trains leave Bangkok at 15:10 and 22:50, arriving in Pattani (Khok Pho) station at 08:56 and 14:03 respectively and Yala about half an hour later. On the way back trains leave Yala at 14:55 and 16:09. There are also various slower trains, leaving from either Bangkok or other (closer) train stations. For more information about times check with Thai State Railways.

To/from Bangkok: Air-con buses by The Transport Co. Ltd (บริษัท ขนส่ง จำกัด (บขส.), bor-kor-sor) run between Bangkok southern bus terminal (สายใต้, sai-tai) and Pattani bus terminal daily. The distance is ~1061 km and normally takes 14 hours.

•    40 seats Class 1 C bus (ม1ข) costs 763 baht, departs from Bangkok at 18:30 and Pattani at 14:30 and 16:00.

There are regular and air-conditioned buses of Transport Co., Ltd. The buses leave from the Southern Bus Terminal to Pattani every day. Departure times from Bangkok for air-conditioned buses which varies in 3 types are as follows:

•    VIP bus – 17:30. •    Standard 1 bus – 10:00 and 18:00. •    Standard 2 bus – 18:30.

We recommend you check the latest bus schedule and price via rome2rio.com

The preferred way of getting around for locals is by motorcycle. The easiest way to get around, for tourists, is to do the same. Motorcycle taxis (mot-ter-sai) are available around the city. Just look out for the men in green vests, either driving around trying to find somebody to pick up or waiting at specific locations. For example, you can be pretty sure to find a driver or two outside most hotels, outside the hospital, by the market and so on. You can expect a ride to cost between 10 and 40 baht, depending on distance.

Tuk-tuks of the four-wheeled variety are also common. Taking a tuk-tuk is more expensive than taking a motorcycle taxi, but also more comfortable, especially if you have luggage.

Pattani is not a very large city, and most distances can easily be covered by foot. Walking right across town might take about 45 minutes. Indeed, walking may be the best way to orient yourself and understand the city. However, you must realize that walking is not a very common means of transportation in Pattani and the pavement is used for pretty much everything other than walking. You will be weaving your way between stalls, tables, motorcycles, and even people's potted plants, and you will regularly have to walk on the road.

What to see & do

Where to stay, what & where to eat, getting there & around.

We believe you have the right to arm yourselves with as much information as possible before making any decision. Check below our recommended plans regarding the theme you prefer or what you can do based on the time frame you have

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Taking a cruise on the fascinating Mekong River offers a unique and memorable travel experience. The Mekong River, one of the longest rivers in Asia, flows through several countries, including China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Each destination along the river offers its own distinct cultural, historical, and natural attractions. In this article, we will go over what you can expect when cruising the Mekong River. 

International travelers to Thailand will no longer be required to show proof of vaccination or ATK test results from October 1st, 2022 onward.

In a new move to attract travelers during peak season, Thailand is doing away with the requirement of needing vaccination certificates or Covid-19 negative results in the case of unvaccinated passengers. Additionally, those infected with Covid-19, but have mild symptoms don’t need to isolate from next month. The same applies to those who test positive but display no symptoms.

Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced these changes on Thursday after the National Communicable Diseases Committee (NCDC) had a meeting on Wednesday.

Instead of isolating those who have contracted the disease would be required to wear a mask, socially distance themselves from others and wash their hands frequently for the first five days. They also need to stay away from those who are immunocompromised and vulnerable.

Dr. Sophon Iamsirithaworn, deputy director-general of the Department of Disease Control, informed that since the present Covid-19 mutation doesn’t cause serious symptoms in most people, disease control measures can be relaxed.

National Security Council secretary-general Supoj Malaniyom added that the new measures are being put in place to help improve the economic conditions of the country.

“The primary aim will be to ensure the economy is back on track so people could earn their livelihoods once more,” he said.

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How long to spend in Thailand may seem like a ridiculous question to address, but if you have plenty of time and aren’t sure how much to dedicate, this blog will definitely help you out. 

How long can you stay in Thailand? 

Well, as long as you like! From 10 days to a month, there are various ways you can travel across Thailand and uncover its secrets. Advising an ideal trip length for Thailand is a bit of a complex challenge, as it depends on several factors such as the places you wish to visit, the activities you plan to join, or if you want to combine Thailand with its neighbor countries. 

Stay tuned! We are going to sort all these things out including the step-by-step guide to create the best itinerary in Thailand.

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• Krue Se Mosque
• Lim Kor Niao Shrine
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Pattani is both the name of the province in the south of Thailand and the City that is its capital. Pattani contains two major rivers, the Tani and Sai Buri and covers a relatively flat region with a long coastline that runs 170 kilometers along the Gulf of Thailand . It has outstanding cultural places such as Krue Se Mosque , Lim Kor Niao Shrine, and beautiful natural features including forests, rives, and seas.

Pattani still maintains the ruins of an ancient town in Amphoe Yarang that once served as an important port and centre of administration, trade, and Culture for many centuries. Attractions in modern-day Pattani include unspoiled nature , numerous Historical sites, and traditional Culture , which has benefited from the integration of Thai, Chinese and Islam settlers.

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Pattani (ปัตตานี) is a far Southern Province along the Gulf of Thailand. It has long stretches of beaches and a mountain range in the south with a national park and some nice waterfalls. The population is nearly 90% ethnic Malay Muslim with their own language and culture. Pattani is one of three Southern Provinces where an insurgency has caused most foreign embassies to recommend against non-essential travel.

Most of Thailand falls in to the generic high and low season categories, including Pattani.

High season - begins in November and runs through to February, bringing cooler temperatures, lush greenery from the previous months of rain, good air quality, and less rain. The downside is larger crowds and sometimes higher prices for tours, flights and accomodation.

Low season - begins in July and runs through to October. During low season the temperatures are higher, the chance of rain and storms are higher. That doesn't mean it's a bad time to visit though, if you can be flexible, there are deals to be found on flights and accomodation.

While it's always hot in Pattani, the small change in temperature between high and low season can be just enough that the heat isn't unbearable when out and about.

Need more? Read our post discussing the best time to visit Thailand .

Where to stay

Instead of recommending hotels, we think it will be more useful to share our process so you can pick based on your own critera for location, budget and style.

We always start our search on either Booking.com or Agoda . They have an easy to user interface and have some extra benefits for "Genius" and "VIP" users. You can also sometimes pay with credit card in advance if you're playing the cashback or air miles game.

• Search for specific province, city or town.
• Apply rating filters for a minimum rating or either 7, 8 or 9.
• Apply other filters: budget, fitness, breakfast, etc.
• If you have a specific location in mind, use map view to browse and make a final selection.

If there are too many properties available to choose from, increase the rating filter for less, higher rated selections.

Final notes: Prices are dynamic. Check the same hotel on both Booking.com and Agoda to see which has the best deal at any given time (go through to checkout to make sure all VAT and service charges are factored in). You can go one step further by calling the hotel and checking the price for booking directly. In our experience this saves money 50% of the time but you have less guarantees.

Emergency contacts

Knowing an emergency number could save your own, or somebody elses life. Take a photo or save these numbers on your phone:

Police & emergencies - 191 The most important number to remember. If the operator is unable to speak English, call 1155 (below).

Tourist Police - 1155 or (+66) 2308-0333 This hotline is available 24 hours a day and they will all speak English. This is an important phone number to remember - They will help you out with any concerns or questions you have and can redirect you to the correct number you may need.

Public Ambulance - 1669 Dialing this number will connect you to a public ambulance service, which will dispatch a vehicle to your location. The average response time for urban areas is around 10 minutes, but may take up to 30 minutes in rural areas. English-speaking staff should be available to assist you.

Fire Department - 199 In case of an emergency such as a house fire, or forest fire, call 199 for the Fire Department to be dispatched to your location.

Highway Police - 1193 If you plan on driving in Thailand, then you may end up needing to use this number if you break down in an unsafe place etc.

• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Orientation
• 2.2 By plane
• 2.3 By train
• 3 Get around
• 11 Stay safe

Pattani (ปัตตานี), also spelled Patani in Malay, is the capital of a province of the same name on the Southern Gulf Coast . The population of the city is a little over 40,000 and is a mix of Malay, Thai and Chinese ethnic groups and Muslim and Buddhist religions. The majority of the population are Malay-Muslim, with Thai-Buddhists and Chinese forming large minority groups.

Understand [ edit ]

For several years, Southern Thailand has been experiencing violence linked to a complex and long-running conflict. Foreign governments frequently issue travel warnings for the region, and parts of the area can indeed be quite unsafe. Independent research into the situation is therefore an absolute necessity before heading to the region.

Pattani provides a wonderful example of how people can continue to live their lives under difficult conditions. If only because of this, Pattani would be well worth a visit. But of course seeing life under conflict is not the only reason to visit. The city has a unique and vibrant culture, and the wider region has beautiful and interesting nature spots (including the beaches of Pattani Bay, which are not safe to visit). If not for the on-going violence, the entire region could be quite attractive for tourists. But the conflict is there, and so the tourists aren't. This means that you will get a lot of attention, especially if you don't look Southeast Asian. Children are likely to stare and point, adults will smile to you and even greet you on the street. It's possible to get tired of this, but take it as it is: people are simply happy to have you there.

If you stay safe from attacks, the way are most likely to notice the security situation is the heavy military and police presence. Sandbag bunkers (often "disguised" to look like wooden sheds) are located at sensitive points in the city, as are security cameras. Military vehicles tour the city constantly, including Hummvees. This is not likely to affect you in any significant way while you're in the city, but when travelling between towns there are checkpoints with regular intervals. It's quite possible that you will be asked for ID, so carrying your passport at all times is recommended.

History [ edit ]

Pattani has its origins in the ancient Hindu Malay kingdom of Langkasuka. Later it became the center of an eponymous kingdom, the Kingdom of Pattani. This kingdom was for long a protectorate of Siam, but since 1902 the entire region has been directly ruled from Bangkok.

Pattani was one of the first regions in Southeast Asia to adopt Islam, starting in the 14th century. It later became a centre for Islamic scholarship, and a centre of worship for a much wider region.

Orientation [ edit ]

The Pattani River runs through the city, crossed by several bridges, finding its way into the Pattani Bay. The river itself is home to many colourful fishing boats, fishing being an important part of the economy of the city.

On the west side the most important roads are Makrut Rd and Nongjik Rd running east-west, and Charoenpradit Rd and Decha Rd which run south-north. Where Charoenpradit Rd and Nongjik Rd meet, there is a roundabout with a clock tower. On the east side Yarang Rd, Panare Rd, and Pattani Pirhom Rd all run north-south, with several streets crossing between them.

The Prince of Songkhla University is on the west side of town, by the northern section of Charoenpradit Rd. Most government buildings are found close to the west bank of the river. To the east of the river is the old commercial hub of the town, containing several markets and shopping streets. Pattani Central Mosque is also in the east part of town, by Yarang Rd.

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ].

Pattani is about 1,055 km from Bangkok. Visitors can use Hwy 35 (Thonburi-Pak Tho) for about 90 km, then turn left to Hwy 4 to Chumphon for about 460 km. After that, use Hwy 41 or 42 passing Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Songkhla, and Pak-nam Thepa to Pattani. The total distance is around 505 km.

By plane [ edit ]

There is no direct flight to Pattani. Visitors need to travel to Hat Yai airport which is served by Thai Airways, AirAsia, Nok Air and OrientThai from Bangkok. There are also flights from Singapore ( Scoot ), Kuala Lumpur (AirAsia) and Chiang Mai (AirAsia). Thai Airways provides a round-trip shuttle bus (Hat Yai-Pattani) twice daily free-of-charge for passengers who make the reservation in advance. It is also possible to first take the bus from the airport into downtown Hat Yai, find your way to Hat Yai bus station (a tuk-tuk should be able to get you there) and from there catch a minibus that will take you to the door of a hotel of your choice. This takes about an hour and a half. Flight information can be requested at Tel: 1566, 0 2280 0060, 0 2628 2000 or at Pattani Office Tel: 0 7333 5938.

It is also possible to get in by flying to Narathiwat with Air Asia and then taking a bus or taxi to Pattani.

By train [ edit ]

There is no train station in the city of Pattani, but the Southern Line service of the Thai State Railways has two stops around 30 km from the city.

• Pattani station , so called on official train timetables, is in fact a very small train station located in Khok Pho district, Pattani province. From there, buses and taxis are available to the city of Pattani, a distance of 29 km.
• Yala station is the next stop on the line, in the neighboring city of Yala, 35 km from Pattani city. This is a much larger station. Exiting the train station, turn right and walk to the end of that street. If you then go just around the corner you will see red buses that take you to Pattani for 23 baht. You can of course also take a taxi from outside the train station.

It's a long train ride from Bangkok to Pattani, and only serviced by overnight trains with comfortable sleeper carriages. Special express trains leave Bangkok at 15:10 and 22:50, arriving in Pattani (Khok Pho) station at 08:56 and 14:03 respectively and Yala about half an hour later. On the way back trains leave Yala at 14:55 and 16:09. There are also various slower trains, leaving from either Bangkok or other (nearer) train stations. For more information about times check with Thai State Railways.

By bus [ edit ]

To/from Bangkok: Air-con buses by The Transport Co. Ltd (บริษัท ขนส่ง จำกัด (บขส.), bor-kor-sor ) run between Bangkok southern bus terminal (สายใต้, sai-tai ) and Pattani bus terminal daily. The distance is ~1061 km and normally takes 14 hours.

• 40 seats Class 1 C bus (ม1ข) costs 763 baht, departs from Bangkok at 18:30 and Pattani at 14:30, and 16:00.

There are service of regular and air-conditioned buses of Transport Co., Ltd. The buses leave from the Southern Bus Terminal to Pattani every day. Departure times from Bangkok for air-conditioned buses which varies in 3 types are as follows:

VIP bus – 17:30.

• Standard 1 bus – 10:00, 18:00.
• Standard 2 bus – 18:30.

For more details, contact Tel: 0 2435 1119 and 0 2434 5557-8.

Get around [ edit ]

The preferred way of getting around for locals is by motorcycle. The easiest way to get around, for tourists, is to do the same. Motorcycle taxis are available around the city. Just look out for the men in green vests, either driving around trying to find somebody to pick up or waiting at specific locations. For example, you can be pretty sure to find a driver or two outside most hotels, outside the hospital, by the market and so on. You can expect a ride to cost between 10-40 baht, depending on distance.

Tuk-tuks of the four-wheeled variety are also common. Taking a tuk-tuk is more expensive than taking a motorcycle taxi, but also more comfortable, especially if you have luggage.

Pattani is not a very large city, and most distances can easily be covered by foot. Walking right across town might take about 45 minutes. Indeed, walking may be the best way to orient yourself and understand the city. However you must realize that walking is not a very common means of transportation in Pattani and the pavement is used for pretty much everything other than walking. You will be weaving your way between stalls, tables, motorcycles, and even people's pot-plants - and you will regularly have to walk on the road.

See [ edit ]

• Matsayit Klang - built in the early 1960s, this traditional green-hued structure is probably south Thailand's most significant mosque
• San Jao Leng Ju Khieng Shrine
• Wat Changhai
• Wat Si Mahapo

Do [ edit ]

• Chak Phra Festival (ประเพณีชักพระ) This annual festival commemorates the return of Buddha from heaven. Buddhists accompany a decorated boat procession from all temples. Activities include dancing and offering food to Buddhist monks at the district office for five days and nights.
• Chao Mae Lim Ko Niao Fair (งานสมโภชเจ้าแม่ลิ้มกอเหนี่ยว) This fair is celebrated annually 15 days after Chinese New Year. Highlighting the event is the procession to carry the wooden sculpture of Chao Mae Lim Ko Niao, a goddess which is respected by the citizens of Chinese ethnicity in Pattani. This annual fair features extraordinary arts of endurance such as fire walking. Before joining the festival, for seven days participants need to be vegetarians.
• Sport Fishing in Sai Buri (งานแข่งขันกีฬาตกปลาสายบุรี) A competition is annually held on the second weekend of May at Hat Wasukri, Amphoe Sai Buri.

Buy [ edit ]

Pattani is definitely not a place that tourists flock to for its shopping potential. Souvenir shops are non-existent (not surprising, seeing as there are almost no tourists to shop in them anyway), and the town has very little in the way of shops selling either local handicrafts or fashion.

For your day-to-day needs while staying there, however, you should have no problems finding what you want. All sorts of shops line pretty much every major street in Pattani. 7-Eleven is ubiquitous and can be a good place for the essentials, but it will be slightly cheaper (and more fun) to shop at the many smaller, mainly Chinese-run, convenience stores scattered around town. Fresh fruit can be found at stalls around town, with several of them on both Makrut Rd. and Nongjik Rd.

The streets immediately to the east of the river are especially good for shopping. There are several bookstores, which generally stock either or both The Nation and Bangkok Post but relatively little else in English. Chinese stores, many selling a wide assortment of seemingly random stuff, line a section of Pattani Phirom Rd.

Several markets can be found around Pattani. The largest one is on Yarang Rd. on the way out of town towards Yala .

There's a Big C on the outskirts of town to the west, on the road to Hat Yai .

Eat [ edit ]

As with most places in Thailand, food is very easy to find in Pattani. Although perhaps not known as a culinary destination, the region has an interesting blend of Thai and Malay cooking.

Small family-run restaurants are all over town, as are street vendors and food stalls, far too many to list here. Very few of these will have a menu in English or English-speaking staff, so it may be good to equip yourself with the names of some dishes (or at least the words for noddles or rice) in Thai or Malay/Yawi. They will, however, probably have staff who are delighted to receive foreign guests and willing to do their best to give you what you want. One sure method is to point at pictures that can often be found on menu's, or walk to the kitchen (which will be in open view by the street) and point at some dish that has already been prepared.

The CS Pattani Hotel and My Gardens Hotel both have hotel restaurants and the one in CS Pattani is known as one of the best in the city. The area outside CS Pattani also has several small restaurants and cafés worth a look. There is a night market (head east from the southernmost bridge, close to Santisuk Hotel), where you can get local types of fast food prepared before your eyes.

In 2010, the Halal Science Center at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok published a book called Unique Melayu-Thai Foods in Southern Border Cuisine . The book contains recipes of local food from the provinces of Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, Songkhla and Satun, as well as information about the restaurants from which the recipes are gathered. Although most of the book is in Thai, recipes and locations of restaurants are translated into English. This book is well worth a buy for anybody interested in local food, and should be found in bookstores around town.

• Khaoyam Benjarong , 4/4 Nongjik Road , ☏ +66 89 0527370 . This restaurant is named after its most famous dish: Khao yam, in Thai, or Nasi Krabu in Malay. It means rice salad, and is a dish found in both southern Thailand and in Malaysia, but Khao yam Benjarong has a unique version of the dish. The rice salad itself is very colourful and includes blue peas, and is served with a whole grilled fish and fresh vegetables. This is a sort of private buffet, and you will only pay for what you eat. This should cost only a few dozen baht. The owners speak no English, but are very willing to serve their signature dish to anybody who comes in search of food.  
• My Cake , Charoenpradit Rd. ( just north of the clocktower roundabout ). 10:00-21:00 . A restaurant and café serving Thai cuisine. They have newspapers in Thai, Wi-Fi and (unusually for Pattani) a menu in English. Although more expensive than most restaurants in Pattani, with a meal for one costing around 100 baht, My Cake can offer a good break from attempting to order something in Thai or Malay/Yawi if you don't speak either language. ca. 100 baht .  

Drink [ edit ]

Pattani has a Muslim majority, and many restaurants and coffee shops will not sell alcohol. Thai or Chinese-run restaurants usually will, but not those owned by Malay Muslims. The Muslim population is quite tolerant and people are not likely to react angrily if you ask for a glass of beer with your food, but being aware of the cultural setting can help avoid embarrassing situations. For example, if you see a sign in Chinese it's likely that the restaurant or café will serve alcohol, while if the place is decorated with Islamic art you should not expect it to.

There are a number of coffee and teashops in town. Coffee is usually not very good in Pattani and instant coffee seems to be the norm, although there are some exceptions. Tea can be more interesting, with Malay varieties available along with the types available elsewhere in the world. If you buy coffee, you will often also get a pot of very bland tea to drink when you've finished your coffee.

• Coffee@Peace , Bang Chak gas station, Nongjik Rd ( West of the clock tower roundabout ). This coffee shop, strangely located at a gas station, serves surprisingly good coffee. But even more interestingly, it's run as a peace initiative of sorts, as a place where people of different backgrounds can come together and discuss in peace. Free Wi-Fi available.  
• Coffee Press , Pattani Place, Charoenpradit Rd . A small, friendly coffee shop run by a local journalist. Seems to have a steady flow of regular customers. The location, Pattani Place, is a mall under construction by Charoenpradit Rd. (about halfway to the PSU campus).  
• Raan Chachak Rongraem C.S. Pattani , 299 Moo, 4 Nongjik Rd ( in the C.S. Pattani Hotel ), ☏ +66 73 335093-4 . The specialist teashop, known for "pulling tea" in a customary Malay way.  

Sleep [ edit ]

• 6.8639 101.2337 1 C.S. Pattani Hotel ( [email protected] ), 299 Moo 4 Hnongjik Rd , ☏ +66 73 336090-6 . This is the hotel of choice for most foreigners who visit Pattani. It's clean, well-managed, luxurious, and secure. There are two large pools, a cafe, and a restaurant with an included buffet breakfast. Big discounts, to 800 baht or less is possible, depending on length of stay. Next to the Big C mall. Outside the hotel are several small restaurants, cafes, karaoke, and motor bike drivers. 5 min and 20 baht to the town centre. Wi-Fi, 100 baht hour. 1,500 baht .  
• My Gardens Hotel , 8/28 Charoenpradit Rd ( By the clock tower roundabout ), ☏ +66 73 3310558 . Check-out: 13:00 . A clean, comfortable and friendly hotel on the outskirts of downtown Pattani. Air conditioning, hot shower, mini-bar, and TV with Thai channels in rooms. The staff speak limited English, but are more than willing to try. Breakfast is not included in price, but can be bought for 80 baht at the hotel restaurant. 600 baht for double/twin room .  

Cope [ edit ]

When you arrive you will find that your Thai SIM card no longer works. This is due to the ongoing security situation. The SIM must be re-activated. To do this you must fill out a simple form, which includes your passport number, and it costs 50 baht. Most phone shops around town can do this. Foreign SIMs cannot be used, but it is easy to buy a prepaid number in the phone shops.

Stay safe [ edit ]

In 2004, long-simmering resentment in the southern-most Muslim-majority provinces burst into widespread violence in Narathiwat , Pattani and Yala Provinces. The main target of bomb attacks are where people congregate: public markets, hotels, entertainment venues, and shopping areas. Tourists were not targetted however some were killed as by-standers to a bombing attack, which led to foreign governments warning their citizens about travelling to these provinces. The violence was at its worst beterrn 2004-2015 and has now almost ceased. Despite still being under a state of emergency, as of 2022 these provinces are no longer a danger zone and tourists need take no special precautions travelling here. Soldiers will be seen at roadblocks, on trains and other important sites, but they will not cause you any trouble.

Go next [ edit ]

• Yala and Narathiwat can both be reached by buses leaving from Ruedi Rd. (Rte 42), costing 23 and 60 baht respectively. The bus to Yala takes about an hour and to Narathiwat two hours and the leave once or twice an hour. They can be recognised by their colours, the one to Narathiwat is blue and the one to Yala red. You can get on or off anywhere you like on the way, but be sure to say where you intend to get off when you pay the fare as shorter distances will of course cost less. Another way to reach these neighboring cities is by taxi, which is more expensive, but a lot quicker.
• Krue-Se Mosque is a historic 16th century Mosque about 5 km outside the city itself. It is in use for the five regular daily prayer-times, but not for Friday prayers. The mosque was renovated in the 1980s, and again after the Thai military stormed it in 2004 and killed 32 suspected insurgents inside. This incident caused a lot of controversy and is considered an important moment in the current conflict. Krue-Se Mosque an be reached by songthaew (a pick-up truck with covered back) leaving from Ruedi Rd., close to the busses to Yala and Narathiwat. Take the dark-green songthaew that goes to Yaring and tell the driver you want to get off at Krue-Se.
• Hat Yai and Songkhla Province may be reached by minibuses that can be booked to pick you up at any hotel in town and cost 100 baht.
• Songthaews run to all of the neighbouring districts, but before heading out please make sure that the district you wish to visit is relatively safe. The risk of violence varies widely between districts.
• Further afield: Buses to other parts of the country can be found at the long-distance bus station a few kilometres outside of town. It's probably best to ask a tuk-tuk or motorbike taxi to take you there, or to ask the hotel to book a taxi. There is a very small train station in Pattani Province, in Amphoe Khok Pho. Train timetables appear to call this station Pattani, but if you are in the city of Pattani may be easier to go to Yala and take the train there.

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Pattani travel guide

Pattani tourism | pattani guide, you're going to love pattani.

With a population of 43.690, Pattani is the largest city in Pattani, Thailand by the number of inhabitants. It is among the most popular tourist destinations in the country.

When to visit Pattani

Looking for warm weather? Then head to Pattani in April, when the average temperature is 28 °C, and the highest can go up to 32 °C. The coldest month, on the other hand, is January, when it can get as cold as 23 °C, with an average temperature of 26 °C. You’re likely to see more rain in November, when precipitation is around 450 mm. In contrast, February is usually the driest month of the year in Pattani, with an average rainfall of 20 mm.

How to Get to Pattani

Although Pattani doesn’t have its own airport, you can fly to Narathiwat (NAW), which is located 67 km from Pattani.

The train station in Pattani is called Pattani Pattani Railway Station, and is located 23 km from the city centre.

Another option to get to Pattani is to pick up a car hire from Krabi, which is about 290 km from Pattani. You’ll find branches of Hertz and Drive Car Rental, among others, in Krabi.

Airports near Pattani

Airlines serving pattani, where to stay in popular areas of pattani, hiring a car in pattani.

Expect to pay ₹ 109 per litre in Pattani (average price from the past 30 days). Depending on the size of your car hire, filling up the tank will cost between ₹ 1,312 and ₹ 1,750.

Curious Wanderers

10 Best Attractions in Pattani Province

Pattani is a safe and lively province in Southern Thailand with old town, sacred temples, beautiful mosques, seaside location, a kilometer long market, and delicious food.

We stayed here for 8 days and were so impressed that we wanted everyone to experience it.

Best Attractions in Pattani

Chao mae lim ko niao shrine .

Definitely one of the must-see attractions in Pattani. This shrine has stories that are related to several other places, such as Ban Khun Phithak Raya and Krue Sae Mosque. To save time, we will provide a brief narration on how are they all related.

The shrine’s original name was “Leng Ju Kiang Shrine” and was built in 1574.

Later, Phra Chin Kananurak*** invited Lim Ko Niao, a well-known and highly respected goddess from Ban Krue Sae to be enshrined in the shrine. And since then, the shrine’s name became known as Chao Mae Lim Ko Niao Shrine.

The statue of Goddess Lim Ko Niao inside the shrine is carved from a cashew nut tree and is considered highly sacred, especially for blessings about health.

It also enshrines many other gods, such as Zhou Sigong, the Ruby Goddess, and Tua Lao Ia. Therefore, the shrine is regularly visited by people that often come to perform rituals to ward off misfortunes.

If you are not so sure on how to perform such rituals, there is always a staff nearby who can give you detailed advice.

The chronicles of Goddess Lim Ko Niao and Krue Sae Mosque

Legend has it that Goddess Lim Ko Niao was a Chinese woman who came in search for her brother in Pattani following her mother’s wishes.

However, she could not convince him to return home as her brother had already married the daughter of Phraya Thani and converted to Islam. He also wanted to finish building the Krue Se Mosque first.

She was very saddened by this turn of events and decided to hang herself on a cashew nut tree. With her dying breath, she cursed that the mosque would not be built successfully.

Thereon after, whenever the mosque was nearly finished, it was struck by a lightning causing the roof to collapse. Visitors can evidently see that the Krue Sae Mosque has not been completed to this present day.

*** “Phra Chin Kananurak” is the father of “Khun Phithak Raya” and his house is a tourist attraction worth stopping by.

Location • Google Maps • The shrine is located in the Kuedajinor area and is just a short distance away from Khun Phithak Raya’s house. Opening Hours • 06.00-17.00 hrs. • Closed on public holidays • Every year on the 15th day of the waxing moon of the 3rd lunar month, a lively celebration for the goddess is held.  Admission Fee • Free

References • https://thai.tourismthailand.org • https://th.wikipedia.org • https://pattaniheritagecity.psu.ac.th

For anyone who enjoys reminiscing about the past, you should not miss Kuedajinor, which is a Chinese trading area since the ancient Ayutthaya period.

The architecture of this community is a mix of Chinese and Portuguese and is still very well looked after.

The area also features many attractive paintings that are suitable for taking photos.

“Kuedajinor” is a Malay word that means a Chinese community market; when broken down “kueda” means market, and “jinor” means Chinese.

Location •  Google Maps Opening Hours • 24 hrs. Admission Fee • Free

References • https://readthecloud.co/travelogue-aromdee-pattani • https://thai.tourismthailand.org

Ban Khun Phithak Raya

A century-old house that is an architectural reflection of the former prosperity of the Kuedajinor area. It also appears in old historical photographs during the Japanese landings in 1941.

The construction style still retains the aura of traditional China, as can be seen from the entire building structure, terracotta roof tiles, right up to the Chinese-style kitchen. The interior is decorated with the homeowner’s old items.

Anyone who likes historical tourist attractions and beautiful houses should not miss this place at all costs.

Location • Google Maps Opening Hours • Advance reservation is required for a visit. The process is convenient and they also provide a guide to conduct the tour. Admission Fee • Free Contact • Tel: Miss Mayuree Songkaew, 081-609-4515 • Website: https://bankhunpitakraya.com

References • https://virtualexpo.asa.or.th • https://bankhunpitakraya.com

Krue Sae Mosque

An ancient religious place for Muslims that is over 200 years old and assumed to have been built during the Ayutthaya period. The building is not plastered and has mixed architecture of Islamic and Arabian styles.

It is a mosque that has not been successfully completed until this present day and, according to ancient legend, is related to the Goddess Lim Ko Niao.

Visitors can find Muslims praying silently all around the area. What you have to be careful of is not to walk in front of people who are praying. Tourists may enter the mosque, however, inside is only a small room with hardly any decoration.

Location • Google Maps Opening Hours • 08.00-17.00 hrs. Admission Fee • Free

Reference • https://www.bangkokpost.com

Take a Boat Trip at Bang Pu, Pattani

Take a long-tail boat ride through the lush mangrove forest. The main attraction is a 500-meter mangrove ‘tunnel’ where the boat will move slowly, giving us a chance to admire the surrounding nature.

Thereafter, the boat will float out of the canal into the wide sea, passing through the mangrove forest inhabited by dozens of birds. Then it will turn back into the small canal again before returning to shore. The whole trip takes about 60-90 minutes.

The scenery of the mangrove forest, the friendliness of the boat operators, and inexpensive prices, makes this one of our favorite spots in Pattani. So, don’t miss it.

Location •  Google Maps Opening Hours • 08.00-17.00 hrs. Pricing • A charter rate of 590 baht is available for 1-5 persons. • For 6 persons or more, it’s 99 baht/person. Contact • Facebook: Bangputour • Tel: 086-4912556, 084-0127690

References • https://www.dasta.or.th • http://www.chaicatawan.com

Wat Chang Hai Rat Buranaram

Features an old temple built more than 300 years ago, in which Luang Pu Thuat (Somdet Chao Phakho, Luang Pu Thuat that stepped on sea water and made it fresh), the highly-revered monk whom Southerners respected, was once an abbot, and is currently enshrined in a life-size statue.

As a result, there is a constant flow of tourists stopping by to pay their respects and ask for blessings.

Within the temple is an elephant statue and a pagoda containing the relics of the Lord Buddha that is 59 meters high and has a 7-tiered top made from 1524 grams of gold, suitable for taking photos as well.

This temple is located beside the railway line, far from Pattani city center. The route to and around the temple consist of lush green trees that are absolutely comforting to the eye.

Location •  Google Maps Opening Hours • 08.00-17.00 hrs. Admission Fee • Free

Reference • https://thai.tourismthailand.org

Sai Khao Waterfall (White Sands Waterfall)

The waterfall was discovered about 90 years ago, and its source originates from the fertile evergreen forest of the Sankalakiri mountain range.

The waterfall is about 10 stories high but requires quite a bit of climbing. Therefore, tourists usually prefer playing in the waters of the first stage (including us).

Sai Khao Waterfall is not too far from Wat Chang Hai. Therefore, if you are visiting places outside of Pattani city center, we recommend you visit both places.

Location •  Google Maps • Located not far from Wat Chang Hai, and it is recommended to visit both places on the same day. Opening Hours • 08.30-16.30 hrs. • Closed between October 15-December 15 Admission Fee • Adults: 20 baht • Children: 10 baht Contact • Facebook: Namtok Sai Khao National Park

References • https://nps.dnp.go.th • https://thai.tourismthailand.org

Pattani Central Mosque

A large mosque opened in 1963 and its design is similar to the Taj Mahal combined with a Western-style church.

The building has a large dome in the center and 4 corner small domes flanked by minarets that are installed with loudspeakers for broadcasting calls to prayers.

Location •  Google Maps Opening Hours • Visitors are allowed to walk around 24 hours a day with no holidays. • Visitors are not allowed to enter the building during prayer. Estimated times are 05.00, 12.00, 15.30, 18.00, and 19.00 hrs. • Prayer times are not the same each day. Exact prayer times for each day can be viewed here . Admission Fee • Free of charge Dress Code • Dress conservatively, i.e., long pants or a skirt that covers your knees, and a shirt with sleeves. • It is not necessary to wear a headscarf (hijab) to enter.

References • https://pattaniheritagecity.psu.ac.th • https://th.wikipedia.org

Bana Wooden Bridge

Bana Wooden Bridge features a very nice ambiance to visit, especially during the morning. The bridge was started from the collaborative efforts of the local community who wanted to create a mangrove conservation tourism destination.

“Bana” is Persian which means port city, as there used to be hundreds of cargo ships docked at the port in the past.

Location • Google Maps Opening Hours • 24 hrs. Admission Fee • Free

References • https://chailaibackpacker.com • https://mgronline.com

Rong Peep Restaurant

A former metal bucket factory that has been renovated into a quirky café. The interior still retains the typical structure of a factory, and the machineries that were used to produce metal buckets are perfectly arranged as decorative items.

Vintage decorations are scattered all around, giving an ambiance similar to a gangster-era Chinese movie.

Not only is the place attractive, but it also features delicious food and beverages, such as mixed Radna (noodles in gravy sauce), chicken stir-fried noodles with creamy egg, and pickled egg on rice.

The downside is that this restaurant is in an alley and parking for private cars may be difficult to find.

Location • Google Maps Opening Hours • 10.00-20.00 hrs. Pricing • $$

Rusamilae Market

Rusamilae Market is a street side market that is more than 1 kilometer long, and features a wide variety of clothing and food, with prices starting from 10 baht onwards.

This is a place that should not be missed by anyone who likes second-hand brand name products and appliances with wallet-friendly prices.

Location • Google Maps • To make it easy to understand, the area pinned on the map is considered the beginning of the market, whereas the end is towards Prince of Songkla University . Opening Hours • Sundays, around 08.00-12.00 hrs. • Highly recommended going in the mornings as it gets pretty hot after 11.00 hrs.

Pattani Night Market

The small night market that offers a diverse range of affordable food from Thai Buddhists and Muslims, including rice and curry, Khanom Rang Khai, Khanom Krok, Krue Poh (fish crackers), and other Thai desserts.

A shop that we think you shouldn’t miss is a delicious Chinese chives dumpling shop. We have pinned it on the map for your reference.

Location •  Google Maps Opening Hours • From around 16.00 hrs. The market will begin to wind down at around 20.00 hrs. • The Chinese chives shop is open between 16.00-19.00 hrs.

Other Attractions in Pattani

Other interesting tourist attractions that are also worth mentioning include

Pattani Clock Tower

It is not a major tourist attraction, but becomes attractive when lights light it up in the evenings. Good for taking photos.

This place is also near the very delicious Pae-Chun pork noodle shop . If you stop by for noodles, visiting the clock tower is not a bad idea.

Location •  Google Maps Opening Hours • 24 hrs. • Lights come on at around 18.00 hrs.

Chao Mae Lim Ko Niao Cemetery

After the passing of the Goddess Lim Ko Niao, her older brother buried her body at Pattani Bay .

After water flooded the original burial site, the mausoleum was moved to the side of Krue Sae Mosque. As for the statue of Goddess Lim Ko Niao, it has since been enshrined at the Goddess Lim Ko Niao shrine until this present day.

Location •  Google Maps • It is next to Krue Sae Mosque Opening Hours • 24 hrs. Admission Fee • Free

References • https://pattaniheritagecity.psu.ac.th • https://thai.tourismthailand.org

Laem Ta Chee (Ta Chee Cape) and the road running along the coastline

Laem Ta Chee or Laem Pho is a sandy beach that is directly connected from Talo Kapo and Talo Samilae beaches.

It is formed from the sandbar that separates Pattani Bay and the Gulf of Thailand. What’s really interesting about this place is that the tip of the cape gets longer with each passing year.

The atmosphere of the coastline road before reaching the cape tip is very stunning and peaceful, especially during the sunset.

Unfortunately, the cape area is not so well-maintained as it should be, especially the toilet that is absolutely unusable. Maybe it’s because it’s quite a faraway destination and not frequented by tourists much.

Location • Google Maps Opening Hours • 24 hrs. • Not recommended for visits during the end of the year due to the Southern region’s rainy season. Admission Fee • Free

Accommodations in Pattani

The rooms residence .

A quiet and comfortable budget accommodation located in an alley near Pattani Hospital.

The rooms feature cool air conditioning, fast Wi-Fi network, and a makeup table that can accommodate laptops for working.

Parking is available under the building. However, if it is full, guests also have the option to park in the parking lot at the end of the alley which is located about 200 meters away, free of charge.

Book a room at The Rooms Residence with prices starting at only 690 baht per night. • Agoda.com

ค้นหาที่พักจาก Agoda

Getting around pattani.

Motorcycle taxis can be abundantly found around the city, especially in front of Pattani Hospital . Your hotel can also help to call a car for you.

For travels between districts, it is better to catch a bus at Pattani Provincial Transport Station , which also features taxis that uses an old classic Mercedes (that’s what I usually take when I was in Songkhla).

Most vans and buses have fixed prices along the route they run. But if you want to go outside of their usual routes, rates should be discussed individually with the drivers.

Safety in Pattani

Pattani is considered quite a big province and has a well-known university , lots of people, brightly lit roads, and nothing to worry about. The advice is just like any other big towns, i.e., don’t wander around to any ‘out-of-the-way’ areas alone at night.

And what about all the violence as seen in the news?

The stories seen in the news really happened. During the time I was in Pattani, there was news about bombings throwing, but it happened during the night in some distant remote districts where there were hardly any people around.

Dress Code 

As the majority of the local population are Muslims, we highly recommended that women should dress conservatively, i.e., no tank tops, cropped waists, shorts, or miniskirts, that is appropriate and blend in with the local culture.

Pattani Province’s History

This area was once an important port for Chinese and Indian traders as evidenced in the records of many nations since the 11th Century (457-557 AD) and was known by its different names according to the local language of each country, such as Lang Yasu (Chinese), Langkasoka (Sanskrit), Langkasuka (Malay).

Lankasuka was a city where Buddhism flourished due to the discovery of antiques such as Buddha images, Mahayana Buddhist mantras written on pottery, and others.

Around the 19th Century (1257-1357 AD), Lankasuka reached its decline due to changes in the sea level making it no longer suitable to be a port city and the local population began to migrate. And it is assumed to be the origin of the present city of Pattani.

Related Topics

• 10+ Best Attraction in Pattani
• The Best Cafes in Pattani
• The Best Restaurants in Pattani

References https://www.pattanilocal.go.th https://th.wikipedia.org https://thai.tourismthailand.org

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Pattani Naturally Charming Small Town

• By livingasean
• December 6, 2019
• EXPLORE , JOURNEY

Many ask what is so fascinating about Pattani. We hear about negative events in the South of Thailand from time to time. But have you ever wondered what it’s really like to visit Pattani? Here’s an inside story.

///THAILAND///

Story: Samutcha Viraporn / Photo: Sitthisak Namkham, Samutcha Viraporn

Naturally charming, Pattani is a cosmopolitan area with many small town secrets waiting to be discovered. You will love southern hospitality, the friendly and generous reception that locals, for the most part Muslims and Thais of Chinese descent, give their visitors. For simplicity’s sake, let’s look at 5 good reasons why you should pay them a visit.

Adventure: Take the Tunnel of Bushes through a Mangrove Forest

If you travel the world in search of adventure, the sight of a centuries-old mangrove forest and a tunnel of bushes that runs through it will fill you with awe. It’s home to tropical trees and woody plants with countless prop roots that thrive to form dense thickets. The unspoiled forest covers the entire coastal swamp that’s flooded at high tide. Dubbed one of Thailand’s healthiest wetland ecologies, the Bang Poo Mangrove Forest in Yaring District lies along Pattani Bay and only 25 kilometers from the provincial seat.

It’s quite an education to stop by the Yaring Mangrove Forest Study Center. Take a boat ride under forest canopies, then head out to sea and back. The service is offered by villagers. Learn how to collect sea mussels like locals do. On the way back, take a moment to observe sea birds on the bay and coastal wetlands, where sedges and other grass-like species thrive. They provide raw material for sedge basket weaving industries in the area. It could be your most exciting ride, and the view is fantastic.

The mangrove forest was originally part of ancient coastlands that had grown to form an impenetrable mass around Pattani Bay. After a period of neglect, concerted efforts have been successful in restoring it to good health. Nowadays, tour activities vary from season to season, ranging from boat rides into the forest on nights aglow with fireflies, to stargazing night rides, to homestays at affordable prices.

Old World Charm, Chinatown, and Cool Café

Like other settlements in an earlier time, Pattani originally was a regional hub of commerce. The charming old town sits on the banks of the Pattani River that provides convenient access to the open sea and areas in the hinterland. This is evident in the way shop houses and people’s homes are located along river banks. You will like a quiet saunter on Pattani Pirom Road from Ruedee Intersection to Anohru Road.

Since ancient times, the little Chinatown at Anohru had been a region of diverse cultures, where Thais, Indians and Chinese met for the buying and selling of goods. It’s also home to the holy shrine of Lim Kor Niew, a goddess widely revered for her supernatural powers. Other main tourist attractions include relics of a bygone society, such as the ancestral home of the Kunanurak clan, and the residence of Khunpitakraya, son of Chinese monk Kunanurak who governed Pattani in the past.

Anohru Road is famous for cozy Chinese style inns, charming wood homes, and Sino-Portuguese architecture. Coffee lovers shouldn’t miss the old town’s greatest hangouts – All Good Coffee & Bakery (which is right next to a famous Hainan chicken restaurant), and IN_T_AF Café & Gallery.

Looking for a holy place to pray to God? There are the famous Krue Se Mosque and the Central Mosque of Pattani. Dress properly if you intend to visit.

Delicious Food, Good Tea, Great Roti, and all

Pattani food culture is interesting for it brings people together to enjoy good eating. There is happiness in their eyes as people meet and eat together in their favorite restaurants. If Roti, or Chapati, is your thing, you shouldn’t miss the Wae Mah Roti shop. It’s always full of people, but it’s worth a visit. There’s the slightly salty, crispy crunchy kind to suit every pleasure of taste. The best place no doubt, if you want to eat like locals do. And it’s inexpensive, too!

For a more modern atmosphere, there is Chaba Roti & Coffee located behind Mor Or (call sign of the Prince of Songkhla University at Pattani). It’s located on Samakkee Road Route B. Their famous tea recipes go together very well with Roti. A nice place to dine alfresco. By the way, if strong tea is your thing, go to a small shop called Cha-Indo & Roti located on the same road. Right opposite from it stands Papa TaGu Restaurant that serves Khao Mok, the Thai Muslim version of Indian Biryahni. The fragrant yellow rice dish is served with chicken, fish, beef, or goat meat. All good. Take your pick. If you dine together as a group, it’s better to order trays of food and come away satisfied every time. You will love the Arab rice they use, which is perfectly fluffy and not sticky.

If the ambience of a restaurant is important in entertaining guests, we recommend Baan De Nara. Try out their signature yellow curry with mackerel and coconut milk. You may also like Solok, a traditional southern dish made of bell peppers stuffed with fish, shrimp, and a healthy dose of curry, a lesser-known recipe but delicious nonetheless.

Chinese food is meant to be savored and enjoyed. For that, we recommend London, an old restaurant widely admired for enchanting Chinese cuisine. Their highly pleasing recipes are on par with those that you get in Bangkok no doubt. But for a mouth-watering Rad-Na meal (stir-fried noodle with pork and kale soaked in gravy), go to Num Ros Restaurant, and you won’t be disappointed.

A Vibrant and Growing Scene of Art and Design

You may have heard of the Koleh boat that over time has come to symbolize culture and the way of life on the Malay Penninsula. But there is more to Pattani than just the Koleh boat. Nowadays, at a continually increasing rate the young generation of Pattani has taken a keen interest in art and design. As a result, an art gallery called “Patani Art Space” was born. It has achieved its objective in promoting the works and ideas of up-and-coming young artists in the three southernmost provinces.

Over the past several years, their designs have received proper recognition. Take for example the Benjametha brand of ceramics, which earned a few DEmark design awards; the Batik of Baan De Nara, which some Japan buyers bought for Kimono making; and the Tlejourn brand of footwear that turned recycled ocean waste into products of quality and value.

The force behind this success was Rachit Radenahmad. He teamed up with Melayu Living, a local creative group. Together they succeeded in staging “Pattani Decoded”, the province’s first Design Week showcasing works by local artists, designers and community members in August 2019.

OTOP as Memento of Your Visit

Your adventures in Pattani are not complete without something to take home or a souvenir to remind you of your visit. For that, we recommend Roti Achiva, a local brand of crisped-to-perfection meals made by members of the Vocational College of Pattani. It’ so delicious it’s hard to stop eating. By the way, there’s another Roti brand called Miss Millah, which is also very good. It’s part of OTOP, an acronym for the “One Tambon, One Product” project. Take your pick. Or go for dried banana strips and fish flavored rice chips that are equally popular.

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All COVID-19 restrictions for coming to Thailand lifted from October 1 !

We have been waiting for it for months, hoping it will happen on July 1, but it will finally be October 1, 2022, when Thailand will lift the last COVID restrictions to enter the country. From this date, it will no longer be necessary to show...

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Home » Southeast Asia » Thailand » Pattaya

INSIDER PATTAYA ITINERARY for 2024

Pattaya is a popular east coast tourist city in the Gulf of Thailand. Since the 1980s, it has become a tourist Mecca, and the local industries and businesses reflect that – for example, it is estimated that there are more than 2000 beer bars in the city!

Pattaya is well known for its beaches, as well as its access to islands in the gulf. Add to that some theme parks, cultural tours, and thriving accommodation industry. It’s no wonder that 10m+ annual visitors are totally spoilt for choice.

It has traditionally been seen as a party town. However, in recent years, authorities have pushed efforts to develop Pattaya into a destination for families and these efforts are paying off, as this itinerary shows.

We’ve collected the best of what a vacation in Pattaya has to offer. In terms of cultural visits, scenic beauty, beach life, and even a bit of bar hopping. Out of this, we’ve designed two days of variety for you to enjoy on your Pattaya itinerary. And, hopefully, create a few lasting memories on the way.

Got more than two days to spare? No problem. We’ve added a few extra Pattaya attractions for you to consider and even thrown in a few day trips that are well worth the ticket. Here’s an awesome Pattaya guide you can follow when planning your trip.

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Best Time To Visit Pattaya

Where to stay in pattaya, pattaya itinerary, day 1 itinerary in pattaya, day 2 itinerary in pattaya, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in pattaya, day trips from pattaya, faq on pattaya itinerary.

There are three main periods to consider when planning 3 days in Pattaya. Depending on your tolerance for heat, rain, or people, you‘ll want to consider visiting at different times of the year.

Many Thailand backpackers travel to Pattaya between November and February. This is indeed high tourist season when the weather is at its most moderate. The downside is that the beaches, bars, and accommodations are likely to be packed . You should expect to pay a little more to get better options.

The crowds thin out slightly between March and May, as the mercury rises. The heat does tend to become a little stifling at times but it is quieter. That said, many tourists seem to like this, so if you’re a fan of the sun, you’ll fit right in.

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The rains will be more frequent between June and October, which is when you’re likely to see Pattaya at its least crowded. The temperatures are not off-putting – it’s still fairly warm most of the time – but be prepared to spend several days in downpours over this period.

The upside is that accommodation becomes a lot cheaper. You should be able to move about a bit more on the beach, and the bars won’t be too chaotic – at least during the day. If you’re comfortable in the monsoon, this is the time for you. Just bring a good pair of rain shoes.

Here’s a breakdown of each month’s conditions to help you decide when you’d like to plan a visit in Pattaya. It should give some idea of how to further structure your Pattaya itinerary.

By far the busiest part of the city – especially for visitors – is Central Pattaya . Beach Road and its attractions draw beachgoers and holidaymakers from all over the world. The beach is a 24-hour party zone, and there are tons of water-based activities on offer. This area is the best place to stay in Pattaya to serve as a jumping-off point from which to explore nearby islands. It’s not hard to find accommodation to suit any budget here, and there’s plenty of shopping available, too.

North Pattaya is often described as slightly more “upmarket” than central Pattaya but it’s a matter of preference, really. The impression one gets is that the beaches and tourist-focused industries feel slicker, tidier and more developed. This is probably helped by the abundance of shopping centers and upmarket dealerships.

Na Klua District’s beaches are a little quieter than many of the other regions’ offerings. Palm Beach and Phra Chan are worth checking out if you prefer slightly quieter than the main Pattaya hotspots. Although these are still somewhat popular, make no mistake. That said, there are several budget options here when it comes to accommodation, perhaps because there’s less of a demand.

Pratuamnak is generally considered an area for the social elite. An abundance of luxury hotels and beach facilities, a golf course and particular prestigious landmarks can be found in the area. There is also a significant Russian expat community here. Very few of Pattaya’s hostels are situated here.

The most famous attraction in South Pattaya is Walking Street, which some say might be the busiest tourist hotspot in all of Thailand. It could be the highlight of a Pattaya itinerary, with its more than half a mile of go-go bars, beer bars, clubs, restaurants, and whatever other nightlife you can think of!

Jomtien is another popular area for tourists, partly because of its beach. At nearly four miles, it’s one of the more popular longer beaches in Pattaya and known for its picturesque sunsets. Here are our picks of the best options for accommodation in Pattaya, whether you’re looking for the best place to stay in Pattaya at a hostel, economy hotel, or a top-class affair.

Best Hostel in Pattaya – Nonze Hostel

The spacious Nonze Hostel is situated on the popular Beach Road in Pattaya and puts a lot of effort into guest privacy and security. Choose between a capsule suite, a twin capsule suite, or single capsule units. All contain a safe box, air-con, and even a personal mirror! Ask for a locker if needed. There’s a relaxation area on the second floor with a view of the beach, and a common area to socialize with other travelers!

Best Airbnb in Pattaya –  Simple but cute bungalow

It might look simple, but this Airbnb has got everything you could wish for. The bungalow is made out of wood but very clean and comfortable, with a mosquito net and fan inside. Enjoy the evening after a long day at the beach in your private balcony hammock. The beach itself is only 100m away from your home, right after the host’s restaurant where you can enjoy a nice dinner.

Best Budget Hotel in Pattaya – The Forest Pattaya

This Pattaya South hotel in the Jomtien district offers all the expected amenities including satellite channels in the rooms, a buffet or American breakfast, and a rooftop pool for those hot days! It’s very close to a night market, and just a few minutes from Pratumnak, Dongtan, Jomtien, and Cosy beaches.

Best Luxury Hotel in Pattaya –  Grande Centre Point Pattaya

This 5-star luxury hotel is situated on North Pattaya Road in Pattaya Central.  The hotel itself offers two restaurants – the indoor Waves & Wind and incredible panoramic The Sky 32 on the rooftop. Adults can also enjoy the relaxing spa and outdoor jacuzzi. The hotel is within easy reach of several popular attractions like the Alcazar Cabaret, Beach Road, and the King Power Pattaya Complex!

This is a busy city, and it can seem challenging to get around. If you’re staying in a place that’s central to most of what you’re planning to do, walking is always the best option! Should you need to move a little further away, then consider these options:

When touring Pattaya, use a Baht Bus when possible. The Baht Bus is a popular form of local transport that involves little more than some seating in the back of a pickup van. The system proved immensely popular from when it was introduced, as it only cost 1 Baht ($0.03 USD) back then. It now costs 10 Baht ($0.33 USD) but is still incredibly cheap.

There are set routes for Baht Buses, but a driver may break that route to get you where you’re going. The downside is he’ll charge you a lot extra for it, so be careful when engaging! If you know you’re on the right route, just get on and off where you need to.

If you’re in a hurry to get somewhere, you may want to try a more expensive motorcycle taxi or use a Grab Taxi app, which functions like Uber or Lyft.

For visits to Pattaya landmarks further afield, meter taxis can also be found, but many drivers would rather negotiate a rate than use their meters. Fortunately, many day trips to specific places will include transport to and from your accommodation, which makes a structured Pattaya itinerary quite convenient!

With this in mind, let’s dive into the tourist playground that is Pattaya.

Sanctuary of Truth | Mini Siam | Art in Paradise | Night Bazaar | Alcazar Cabaret Show

Our Pattaya trip itinerary begins with a respectful bow to the Buddhist and Hindu philosophies of the region. We’ll then walk around the world’s most famous landmarks and see the history of the Kingdom through its most famous historical structures. We’ll bend our minds around incredible 3D art and interactive displays and stop in for a bit of late afternoon shopping. Then we’ll take in a world-famous cabaret show in one of the country’s most impressive theatres. Let’s go!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Sanctuary of Truth

• Why it’s awesome: It’s the world’s largest wooden castle!
• Cost: USD $17
• Food nearby: The Na Klua Restaurant is close by, with a view of the sanctuary.

  Standing at nearly 350 feet, the spectacular building known as the Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya is a religious building, intended to signify all religious philosophies that eventually lead to a single truth. It is made entirely of wood and houses contemporary art. Taoist and Confucianist philosophies are quite prevalent in the artwork.

The elaborately detailed carvings that make up the exterior face of the seaside building are a marvel to observe! Viewed from a particular angle, it looks as if the building is rising out of the sea.

Inside, a guide will take you on a tour of the building. Visitors are then free to explore and take pictures.

There are daily shows and activities to participate in, including a sight-seeing boat ride around the Sanctuary on a traditional Thai boat!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Mini Siam

• Why it’s awesome: A miniature snapshot of Thai civilization and history.
• Cost: UDS $10
• Food nearby: A small cafeteria inside serves snacks and drinks

Miniature cities are always a treat to walk around! Mini Siam was built in 1986 and is actually part of a broader attraction that includes Mini Europe (though it technically represents the rest of the world).

There are several miniature world landmarks here, including the Eiffel Tower, Altar of Heaven, St Petersburg Cathedral and more! Cross a small water feature and you enter the zone dedicated entirely to Thailand.

The buildings here offer a sort of historical snapshot of civilization in the kingdom.  All in all, more than 100 famous landmarks adorn the pretty garden at 1:25 scale.

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Art in Paradise

• Why it’s awesome: One of the most unique museums you’re likely to visit.
• Cost: USD $15
• Food nearby: Try the Indian Garden restaurant close by for some spicy treats.

This amazing museum carries a whole host of interactive and 3D art that you can be a part of.

There are insane mind-bending 3D illusions to ponder. Various zones are thematically grouped, like the Safari area, where the artworks depict animals and nature. There’s also a section dedicated to classic artworks – are rather, versions of classic artworks. Let’s just say you’ll never look at these the same way again!

There’s a special section on Egypt, a colorful collection for Thailand, and an especially fascinating fantasy area that will stretch your senses! Our favorite is the dinosaur exhibit.

Insider Tip: Art in Paradise offers discounts for tickets booked online.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Pattaya Night Bazaar

• Why it’s awesome: You can find lots of everything here!
• Cost: Free, but you’ll want to shop and haggle
• Food nearby: Lots of food stalls available.

Time for a bit of shopping. It’s called a night bazaar, but in reality, it operates all day. Here, as with most markets, haggling is the name of the game. Aim to get 30-50% off the initial price. There are more than 250 stalls to browse. You’ll find shoes, clothing, jewelry, and cute homemade souvenirs.

There are so plenty of night markets in Pattaya – this one’s a great option since it’s air-conditioned, well-lit and designed well enough to allow for easier movement. So, you can get out of the heat for a moment while you’re shopping.

Keep an eye out for little trinkets, but don’t be fooled into buying a brand item. There are food options available, but the main thing you’re looking for here is the Thai-centric items that you can take home for show and tell.

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Alcazar Cabaret Show

• Why it’s awesome: Allegedly the finest cabaret shows in all of Thailand!
• Cost: USD $20
• Food nearby: Mensho Tokyo Ramen bar next door is outstanding – grab a bite before or after.

Some say it’s the best transvestite cabaret show in Thailand. There’s only one way to know for sure, and that’s to see it yourself.

It is an impressive theatrical spectacle, in a 1200-seat state of the art theatre. Big budget productions employ top-quality costumes, lighting and sound. A skilled crew of 400 brings you productions that have been compared to the Lido and the Moulin Rouge.

There are several shows per day: 5 pm, 6:30 pm, 8 pm, and 9:30 pm, each running a little over an hour. This is a must-do on any Pattaya itinerary.

Insider Tip: If you can, book ahead and opt for the VIP ticket – it’s a better seat!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Jomtien Beach | Ripley’s Believe It or Not  | Floating Market | Nong Nooch Botanical Garden | Walking Street

If you have more than one day in Pattaya, you’re in for a treat. Get to the beach early before the general crowds arrive. Today’s shopping fix comes courtesy of a market entirely built on water. Then get back to dry land for a walk through one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world. Finally, we’ll get to Pattaya’s most famous street, and let our hair down for a while.

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Jomtien Beach

• Why it’s awesome: It’s a far quieter option than Pattaya beach!
• Cost: Free, but water activities will cost.
• Food nearby: For awesome seafood and a great sea view, try Obaroi!

Why not start the day at the beach? You’re on holiday after all. Jomtien’s four-mile stretch of beach is slightly less crowded than Pattaya beach, and if you get there early enough, you’ll enjoy plenty of open space on the sand.

The water itself is also clearer and if you are feeling peckish, you can grab a snack from one of the wandering vendors. The stretch is also the windsurfing and paragliding hub of Pattaya, so if you’re looking for some water-based adventure, this is the place for you!

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Pattaya Floating Market

• Why it’s awesome: 300 000 square feet of the market on the water!
• Cost: Free, besides what you spend on shopping.
• Food nearby: The market is known for many traditional and regional That food options.

The Pattaya Floating Market is also known as the Four Regions Floating market and is divided into four sections. Each of the section – north, northeast, central and south – represent their respective regions of Thailand.

Navigate the market with a hired boat and operator or walk through the various sections for a closer look. Sample as much of the food as you can; this market is known for its myriad food options. And of course, the regular market items can be found to bargain over as well.

But be aware that this is a big market (over 300 000 square feet) so do pace yourself. You can get away from the hustle and bustle of commerce for a few minutes at the wood carving museum or the sunflower field, which are part of the market experience.

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden

• Why it’s awesome: This garden was ranked the 4 th Most Beautiful Garden in the world!
• Cost: From USD $10 for basic entry.
• Food nearby: Plenty of on-site restaurants and a food court.

The market is fun but requires a bit of peace and quiet afterward. The international award-winning Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden is beautifully designed and has a number of divisions or areas. These include, French, European and Stonehenge gardens, an ant tower, and a flower valley.

Nong Nooch specializes in Cycads and has a dedicated science center and cycad gene bank at the facility. Kids will also love the Dinosaur Valley, where technicians continue to create molds of dinosaurs to “walk” among the gardens!

A number of other activities can be found in the garden, such as martial arts displays and religious ceremonies. And of course, there are horticulture-related exhibitions and talks happening throughout the year. We recommend you just start by taking in the extraordinary beauty of the gardens.

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Walking Street

• Why it’s awesome: Thai tourist hotspots like this Defines the concept of ‘nightlife’!
• Cost: Free, except what you decide to spend.
• Food nearby: Dozens of shops, cafés, food stalls, restaurants dot the street.

We’ll finish our two-day Pattaya itinerary with the legendary nightlife of Walking Street. Almost every building along this famous long road is a club, a bar or a food vendor. The same can be said of the small streets and alleys branching off it, which makes this the social hub of the city!

There are several live music bars here, many of which are unexpectedly good. These are good places to have a beer or two and enjoy a few classics. There are LOADS of bars here to choose from and there’s a small amount of shopping options – gem shops and similar tourist-focused outlets dot the street.

Fair warning, though, this street gets busy, and seldom slows down! It’s not a good idea to overindulge and it’s best to avoid any situations that feel uncomfortable. That said, there’s plenty of tourist police about, should you feel unsure of what to do or where to go at any given time. This should be a fun finale to a 2-day itinerary in Pattaya.

You can essentially do a Pattaya walking tour of this street alone every day for a week, and you’ll discover something new each time.

Insider Tip: Local brands of beer are generally cheaper than European or American brands. Singha and Chang are especially popular.

Nonze Hostel

The spacious Nonze Hostel is situated on the popular Beach Road in Pattaya and puts a lot of effort into guest privacy and security. Choose between a capsule suite, a twin capsule suite, or single capsule units.

• Free Breakfast

Pattaya Water Park | Silver Lake Vineyard | SKY Rocket Ball Ride | Teddy Bear Museum | Underwater World

Got more than 3 days in Pattaya? We highly recommend mixing up the fun and entertainment with a taste of Thailand’s cultural offerings. We’ve looked at a few additional activities to fill your 3-day itinerary in Pattaya

Pattaya Park Water Park

• A fun day out to cool off
• Kids area make it a good stop for families
• Rides and amusement park extras are close by

The pools and waterslides will be a welcome relief from the heat. But there are a lot of reasons to consider spending a day at this seaside water park!

Your inner adrenaline junkie can try the amusement rides like the Tower shot. There’s also a spectacular tower Jump from the 56 th floor of the tower! This is a cable-suspended and harnessed zip line, offering awesome views of the surrounds, and your heart in your mouth.

Other standard amusement park rides like the demolition derby and the carousel also remain eternally popular! There’s a newer slalom roller coaster and a tower slingshot to try if you have the constitution. Note that while entrance to the park is usually around USD $5, the rides may cost extra.

Finally, at the top of the tower is a revolving restaurant if you’re feeling hungry after a long day at the poolside. The tower is reported to be the highest of its kind in Thailand and provides spectacular 360-degree views of the surrounding seaside area! We probably wouldn’t recommend doing the Tower Jump after your meal.

Silver Lake Vineyard

• Get out into the beautiful countryside
• Try some locally cultivated wine
• Only 30 minutes from Pattaya central

Wine in Thailand ?! It may not be the first thing to mind when thinking of Thailand, but, yes, there is a wine scene in the Kingdom! Silver Lake’s plantation will appeal to wine lovers, offering food and events as well. It’s an unexpected entry on our list of the best places to visit in Pattaya .

In fact, the owners were inspired to create the venue when they discovered a mutual passion for music and wine. The Silver Lake activities lawn plays host to several concerts and festivals throughout the year!

Visiting Silver Lake is also a great excuse to get out into the countryside, which is serene and tranquil, compared to the hustle of Pattaya downtown.

On most days, a tour of the grounds is available as part of a wine tasting experience. The tour is taken by an electric tram. A restaurant on the premises serves a good Italian-style menu. The label offers a full range of wines to enjoy, taking special pride in a Shiraz and Chenin blanc. All the wines can be purchased at cellar door prices.

There are non-alcoholic grape juices available too, which are particularly delicious.

Teddy Bear Museum

• Take a pic with more than 2000 teddy bears
• It’s quirky and weird, but it’s a whole lot of fun to add your itinerary for Pattaya
• It’s impossible to leave this place without a smile on your face

It’s not just for kids! Or rather, it’s for kids of all ages. The Teddy Bear Museum may have seemed like a silly idea, but it has proven to be immensely popular.

There are more than 2000 teddies on display in this truly one of a kind museum! Twelve zones explore different concepts, some of which may be more “imaginative” than others. There’s a Santa Town, an Eskimo Zone, Under the Sea, an Africa Zone, and even a Dinosaur Ze\one, where teddies can be seen interacting with prehistoric monsters.

The biggest teddy in the museum is a Giant Panda standing three meters high. But the most intimidating bears are the ones to be found in the Space Zone, the Jedi teddies. (No, really!) You’re going to want to stop in at the gift shop before you leave, so you can take one home with you!

Asked at the opening of the museum why he chose such a strange theme, the owner and founder, Hyun Chul Kim, simply said: “I really like teddy bears.” Can’t argue with that!

Because of Pattaya’s high tourist and expat numbers, it has perhaps unfairly developed a reputation for being unsafe. In truth, Pattaya is no more dangerous than any tourist city, and in fact, is statistically far safer than other similar destinations around the world.

A lot of the Pattaya nightlife is adult-oriented nightlife, especially around Walking Street where sex workers operate semi-openly. It’s best to avoid overindulging until the wee hours as that may expose you to unwanted attention from criminal elements.

Violent forms of crime rarely affect tourists but it’s nonetheless advisable to avoid any situation that feels uncomfortable.

More relevant are the somewhat loose rules of the road in Thailand. Be aware of high volumes of traffic, and many drivers who don’t really worry too much about formalities!

It’s also worth taking note of some of Thailand’s social customs, so as not to offend the local people. For example, putting your feet on tables or touching someone’s head. There’s lots of handy info around about Thai customs than can save you a lot of trouble.

Beyond that, common sense should always prevail. Avoid deserted placed very late at night, and it’s best to have your wits about you, so pace your party as best you can!

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Pattaya

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

The options for day trips in and around Pattaya range from the scenic to the adventurous. Whether visiting temples, taking adventure-based drives, or even exploring the islands, there is something for every mood! Most of the local day trip offerings will even pick you up from where you’re staying, and deliver you back safely. Here are just a few additional things to do in Pattaya, Thailand.

Laser Buddha Mountain, Chinese Temple and Vineyard Tour

This relaxing tour’s centerpiece is a huge Buddha figure carved into a mountain! The figure was carved using a laser and is infused with gold leaf. At over 400 feet high, it’s one of the biggest depictions of Buddha in the World!

You’ll also get to see a real Chinese terracotta warrior museum and stop off at a local vineyard for a relaxing glass. The tour will pick you up and drop you off at your accommodation in Pattaya.

Big Buddha Hill, Gems Gallery and 3D Museum Tour

This entire tour is the perfect photo op! An enormous statue of the Buddha sits atop Pratumnak Hill.  This is the first stop on this varied six-hour tour, which allows you to also explore the Wat Phra Yai Temple.

The next stop is Pattaya View Point, one of Pattaya’s most breathtaking locations from which to view the bay. Look in the other direction, and you’ll see the whole of Jomtien beach!

After a quick stop to view some gems and jewelry at a local gallery, it’s off to art in paradise, which is the largest 3D museum in the world.

Day Trip to Samet, Kham, Kudee and Talu Islands

If you’re a little weary of the crowded, muddy waters of Pattaya, a full-day day trip to the four islands is the remedy! A high-speed catamaran takes you out into the blue waters to snorkel and swim. You can also opt to just enjoy the silvery island beaches.

There’s plenty of time to do both, of course! Overall, you’ll have gained a taste of what each of the Kohs has to offer, and hopefully, get to see some of the rich and exotic marine life up close. The day trip includes an enjoyable and refreshing a Thai-style buffet lunch in the middle of the day, to keep your energy up.

ATV Off-Road Adventure Tour

If you’re up for a bit of adventure, try an ATV ride through the country. The focus here is on having fun, so no previous driving experience is required. You’ll receive a briefing on arrival, and from there it’s ae exciting off-road blast through the trails and paths.

After gearing up, you have a choice of a quad bike or a buggy kart, so it’s completely safe! The 17-mile course takes you through palm, pineapple and eucalyptus plantations, a few mud puddles and maybe even over a hill or two!

Best of all, there’s a delicious snack waiting for you at the end of it all, including a burger (beef, chicken or veggie), soft drinks and a Thai-licious fruit platter for dessert.

Coral Island Snorkeling

Someone thought it would be a good idea to get you to spend an entire day away from Pattaya doing holiday stuff on Koh Larn. They were right! The day starts on the pier where you kick off with a paraglide!

After a comedown walk, you’ll arrive at Coral Island (Koh Larn) where you’ll visit a picturesque viewing point, pay respect to the Buddha there, and settle down to a delicious seafood lunch. You can opt to jet ski or take the banana boat after lunch or relax on the beach into the afternoon. Finish out the day trip with a snorkel along the reef, and you’ll be a new person by the time you get back to your lodgings!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Pattaya itinerary.

What is Pattaya best known for?

It’s best known as a party town with great beaches close to Bangkok.

How can I spend 3 days in Pattaya?

Be sure to take in a mixture of culture at the local temples, sample the street food and nightlife as well as hitting the beach for some relaxation.

What can you do in Pattaya for free?

The Big Buddha is a classic place to visit in Pattaya for free and it offers some great views too.

What is the best time to visit Pattaya?

November to February are the best times when the weather is perfect but the crowds do pick up a little.

As you can see, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to what to do in Pattaya. Take care to stay cool and drink plenty of fluids during the hot humid days, and most of all, enjoy your time there. We hope this list of activities provides you with a wonderful multi-day itinerary for Pattaya! You can also check out our roundup of the best things to do in Pattaya  for some more inspiration!

Clair Cathryn

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Thanks for the very nice article Clair. Am looking for info on Pattaya and this was really helpful. Have a great day

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Passing Thru Travel

Thailand’s Secret Oases: 12 Uncharted Islands for Your Ultimate Island Hopping Exploration

Posted: May 7, 2024 | Last updated: May 7, 2024

Thailand’s archipelagos are lush, tropical paradises offering unique experiences far removed from the bustling tourist centers. This guide ventures beyond the well-known to spotlight the country’s lesser-known islands, where the sands are unspoiled, the ecosystems are fragile, and the sense of adventure is palpable. From the tranquil shores of Koh Yao Noi to the untouched beauty of Koh Phayam, these hidden gems provide a serene escape into Thailand’s natural wonders, offering both adventure and relaxation in equal measure.

1. Koh Yao Noi

Image Credit: Shutterstock / KOHYAO

Koh Yao Noi, a jewel in the emerald waters of Phang Nga Bay, remains one of Thailand’s most serene escapes, offering a rare glimpse into the traditional way of life untouched by mass tourism. The island’s landscape, a picturesque blend of rubber plantations, rice paddies, and mangrove forests, is framed by the stunning backdrop of limestone karsts rising from the sea. For the adventurous, kayaking through the hidden lagoons and secret caves presents an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature’s majesty. Meanwhile, cycling along the island’s rural roads reveals small villages and local markets, where the pace of life moves to the gentle rhythm of the tides. The island’s commitment to eco-friendly practices is evident in its boutique resorts and homestays, which offer a sustainable way to experience its natural beauty.

2. Koh Phayam

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Dragonite_East

Koh Phayam, with its laid-back atmosphere and pristine natural beauty, stands as a bastion of tranquility in the Andaman Sea. The island’s beaches, notably Ao Yai and Ao Khao Kwai, boast some of Thailand’s best surfing waves, attracting surfers from around the globe. Beyond the surf, the island’s interior is a lush haven for wildlife, offering peaceful walks under the canopy of tropical forests. The absence of cars enhances the sense of serenity that envelops the island, allowing the sounds of nature to take center stage. Small, eco-conscious businesses dot the landscape, from rustic bungalows to beachfront cafes, each contributing to the island’s charm without overshadowing its natural beauty. Koh Phayam is a reminder of Thailand’s ability to preserve pockets of paradise amid the rush of modern life.

3. Koh Libong

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Petr Malyshev

Koh Libong, Thailand’s hidden gem in the Trang Archipelago, offers an authentic escape into nature. The island’s extensive mangrove forests and seagrass beds are vital ecosystems, providing sanctuary for many bird species and the elusive dugong. The tranquility of Koh Libong is palpable, with long stretches of deserted beaches offering peaceful solitude and spectacular sunsets. The local communities, predominantly Muslim fishermen, add rich culture to the island’s natural allure. Their traditional way of life, closely tied to the rhythms of the sea, offers a fascinating insight into sustainable living. Koh Libong’s commitment to conservation and community-based tourism makes it an exemplary destination for those seeking to responsibly explore Thailand’s natural and cultural heritage.

Image Credit: Shutterstock / bang tongkeawsawat

Between Krabi and Koh Lanta, Koh Jum is a sanctuary of peace and natural beauty. The island, with its unspoiled beaches and lush tropical forests, offers a retreat from the world, where the only sounds are the gentle waves and the rustling leaves. The local villages, scattered along the coast, warmly welcome visitors, offering a glimpse into a lifestyle that has remained unchanged for generations. The island’s beaches, from the golden sands of Ao Si to the rocky shores of Ao Luboa, offer secluded spots for relaxation and reflection. For those seeking to immerse themselves in nature, the island’s interior offers hikes through dense jungle to hidden waterfalls and breathtaking viewpoints. Koh Jum is a testament to the beauty of simplicity, a place where time slows down, and the spirit is renewed.

5. Koh Kradan

Image Credit: Shutterstock / JKI14

Koh Kradan, part of the enchanting Trang Archipelago, is celebrated for its crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand beaches, making it a slice of paradise for beach lovers and snorkelers. The island’s underwater wedding ceremony, an annual event, adds a unique cultural highlight, drawing couples from across the globe to exchange vows in an aquatic setting. Despite its growing popularity, Koh Kradan has retained a sense of untouched beauty, with minimal development ensuring that its natural landscapes remain pristine. Just a short swim from the shore, the coral reefs are alive with colorful marine life, offering easy access to some of Thailand’s most vibrant underwater ecosystems. Koh Kradan embodies the delicate balance between accessibility and preservation, offering a tranquil escape into the heart of Thailand’s marine splendor.

6. Koh Bulon Lae

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Michelle Holihan

Koh Bulon Lae is a testament to tranquility and sustainable living, starkly contrasting Thailand’s more commercialized islands. This small island paradise in the Satun Province has lush jungles, white sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters, providing a serene backdrop for a relaxing getaway. The local communities here, including the Moken Sea Nomads, live in harmony with their surroundings, offering insights into a lifestyle that prioritizes environmental preservation and simplicity. The island’s commitment to eco-tourism is evident in its minimal development, with a handful of low-impact resorts and bungalows emphasizing conservation and cultural respect. The beaches, particularly Panka Yai and Panka Noi, are perfect for those seeking solitude and a chance to connect with nature, while the surrounding coral reefs offer snorkelers a vibrant underwater world to explore. Koh Bulon Lae is a destination where time seems to stand still, inviting visitors to step into a slower pace of life and embrace the beauty of unspoiled nature.

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Koh Tao, a small island in the Gulf of Thailand, has carved out a reputation as a premier destination for divers and snorkelers, drawn to its clear waters, abundant marine life, and vibrant coral reefs. Beyond its underwater magic, Koh Tao is deeply committed to marine conservation, with numerous dive shops and local organizations leading efforts in restoring coral reefs and protecting marine species. The island’s rugged terrain offers adventurous trails leading to secluded bays and stunning viewpoints, balancing land and sea activities. Though more subdued than its larger neighbors, the nightlife and dining scene offers a glimpse into the island’s community spirit, with local businesses supporting sustainable practices. Koh Tao’s blend of natural beauty, adventurous spirit, and commitment to conservation makes it a unique destination for eco-conscious travelers seeking to explore Thailand’s underwater wonders while contributing to their preservation.

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Koh Mak, a tranquil island located in the eastern Gulf of Thailand, stands as a model for sustainable tourism within the country. Owned by a single family committed to preserving the island’s natural beauty, Koh Mak has managed to maintain a low-key atmosphere despite its stunning beaches and clear waters. The island is dotted with rubber plantations and coconut groves, with a network of roads perfect for cycling enthusiasts to explore. Its coral reefs are part of a marine protected area, offering snorkeling and diving experiences that are both breathtaking and respectful of the marine environment. Accommodations on Koh Mak range from eco-friendly bungalows to luxury villas, all designed to minimize their environmental impact. The island’s commitment to green initiatives, including waste management and renewable energy, sets a precedent for responsible travel in Thailand. Koh Mak is not just a destination but a retreat into a sustainable way of life, where the beauty of nature is preserved for future generations to enjoy.

9. Koh Lao Liang

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Koh Lao Liang, part of the Petra Archipelago, is a hidden gem that offers an intimate connection with nature away from the crowds. This island is renowned for its towering limestone cliffs that provide some of Thailand’s best rock climbing experiences, set against the backdrop of the Andaman Sea’s turquoise waters. The beaches here are pristine, with soft white sand and clear waters ideal for snorkeling and kayaking, allowing visitors to explore the rich marine life and coral gardens. The island’s approach to tourism is highly sustainable, with eco-tents and minimal development ensuring a low environmental footprint. Koh Lao Liang’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty while offering adventure and relaxation makes it a must-visit for those looking to explore Thailand’s natural wonders in a responsible and sustainable manner.

10. Koh Sichang

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Koh Sichang, situated in the Gulf of Thailand, offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and serene landscapes. This island, once a royal retreat, is steeped in history, with ancient temples, a summer palace, and colonial buildings dotting its landscape. Despite its proximity to Bangkok, Koh Sichang maintains a peaceful atmosphere, with quiet beaches and lush hillsides offering a tranquil escape. The island’s slow pace of life and cultural richness make it an ideal destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in Thailand’s history while enjoying its natural beauty. Sustainable tourism practices on Koh Sichang ensure its historical sites and natural environments are preserved, offering a thoughtful and respectful way to experience one of Thailand’s lesser-known islands.

11. Koh Wai

Image Credit: Shutterstock / APICHIT BOV

Koh Wai, nestled between Koh Chang and Koh Mak, is a peaceful sanctuary for travelers seeking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. With its pristine beaches and clear, shallow waters, this small island is a paradise for snorkelers and those looking to unwind in a serene setting. The coral reefs just offshore are teeming with marine life, providing easy access to an underwater world of wonder. With only a few accommodations and no roads, Koh Wai encourages a simple, eco-friendly approach to island life, where electricity is limited, and the stars light up the night sky. The island’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty and providing a haven of tranquility makes Koh Wai a precious jewel in Thailand’s archipelago, inviting visitors to experience the essence of untouched paradise.

12. Koh Lipe

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Koh Lipe, located in the southern Andaman Sea, is often celebrated for its breathtaking beauty, earning it the nickname “the Maldives of Thailand.” Despite its popularity, the island has managed to strike a balance between development and the preservation of its natural and marine environments. The vibrant coral reefs surrounding Koh Lipe are part of the Tarutao National Marine Park, offering exceptional opportunities for snorkeling and diving while emphasizing the importance of marine conservation. The island’s Walking Street provides a lively hub of activity, with a variety of dining and shopping options that showcase the local culture and cuisine. Koh Lipe’s commitment to sustainable tourism practices, including efforts to protect its coral reefs and reduce waste, ensures that visitors can responsibly enjoy the island’s natural splendor.

The Bottom Line

Image Credit: Shutterstock / ARZTSAMUI

Exploring Thailand’s lesser-known islands offers a unique opportunity to experience the country’s stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and commitment to sustainable tourism. By choosing to visit these hidden gems, you not only enjoy a more serene and authentic island experience but also contribute to preserving these fragile ecosystems and the well-being of local communities. As you embark on your island-hopping adventure, remember that your travel choices can make a positive impact, ensuring that Thailand’s islands remain vibrant and welcoming for generations to come.

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