Thailand

Phatthalung is a Thai city still relatively unknown to travelers and thus relatively spared from mass tourism. Located in the far south of the country, on the west coast of Lake Songkhla, Phatthalung is considered the origin of Nagn Talung, the shadow play and puppetry of the Nora dance. Despite its low tourist fame, travelers tend to forget that Phatthalung boasts a range of tourist sites to visit. The city is home to Wat Tham Khuha Sawan temple, Thale Noi natural park, the gigantic Ratchaprapa Dam lake, Khao Ok Talu mountain, and more. A short stay in Phatthalung ensures experiencing and discovering an authentic Thailand off the beaten path.

History

Phatthalung was known as Mardelong (Jawi: مردلوڠ) in Malay, likely a name influenced by the Malay-Muslim religion. Historically, it was closely linked to the province of Songkhla. During the 7th century, in the era of Srivijaya, the Phatthalung community was influenced by Indian culture in the manner of Mahayana Buddhism. During the reign of King Ramathibodi I (U Thong) of Ayutthaya, Phatthalung became one of the 12 royal cities in the region.

A few days in Phatthalung

In Phatthalung, you take your time. You take the time to live, to discover, and to immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere of the city. Still spared from mass tourism, visits are made calmly, and locals are always happy to interact with travelers.

A brief getaway to Wat Tham Khuha Sawan Temple (วัด คูหาสวรรค์)

Wat Tham Khuha Sawan temple belongs to one of the ancient monuments of Phatthalung city. This magnificent temple sprawls over a pair of rocks, accompanied by a few caves with panoramic views.

This site was used for religious ceremonies between the 8th and 10th centuries. Visiting this temple plunges you into the heart of Phatthalung's history.

To access the temple, you enter from the north, passing first through a limestone outcrop. This is then topped by a bell-shaped stupa. Then you take a large, moss-covered staircase leading directly to Khao Ok Talu mountain, 250 meters high. You can even meet one of the forest monks for meditation. It's also a pleasant place to visit for bat enthusiasts.

Thale Noi, a complete natural park

Thale Noi is the largest aquatic bird park in Thailand. Numerous aquatic plants and a rich natural resources environment explain the high concentration of aquatic birds in the region. There are teal, seagulls, moorhens, marsh hens, and sandpipers migrating there every winter. In fact, 180 bird species have been recorded in the area. Thale Noi is considered the first non-hunting zone in Thailand. Then it is one of the most important wetland ecosystems in the country. To visit it, you must go by boat.

Then, just 2 km from the park, is a magnificent cave containing stalactites and stalagmites called Tham Matcha Pla Won. This one houses giant Asian toads and millipedes. Moreover, it will also be an opportunity to take a look at Pha Phueng, a limestone cliff located about 300 meters from the park. Every year, from February to March, giant bees come to build hundreds of hives there.

From nature to crafts

Hiking in the mountainous part of Phatthalung city gives you the opportunity to visit natural sites. You can discover the large waterfalls, including Mom Chui and Phraiwan. It is also pleasant to climb to the top of Khao Ok Thalu, known as the symbol of Phatthalung province. Also, on the same route, you can enjoy a walk in the Khao Pu-Khao Ya national park. This is considered the 42nd Thai national park; where the forest is still as green and humid as ever. It is especially famous for the diversity of its fauna, with about 132 animal species, 60 of which are mammals.

For enthusiasts of local crafts, a center dedicated specifically to handicrafts is open for visits. You can find coconut shell craft specialists who make products such as bags, decorative objects, bracelets, necklaces, etc. You can also discover the Bang Kaeo center, specialized in the production of shadow puppet theater puppets. Many historical figurines are present there.

Exploring Ratchaprapa Dam lake

With stunning beauty and calm purity, Ratchaprapa dam lake is worthy of a haven of peace. It is rare to encounter other tourists there, giving you the privilege of discovering its beauty alone. By touring the lake, you will see a magnificent floating village around it followed by sugarloaf hills that offer a sumptuous backdrop to the surrounding areas. This lake is known as a sanctuary for aquatic birds and monkeys.

Climate

Phatthalung city experiences a tropical climate. During the rainy season, rainfall is very significant, with 1923 mm of precipitation per year. Knowing that the dry season in this city is short. Its average temperature each year is 27.5 °C. The best times to travel there are between the months of January and March.

How to get there?

To get to Phatthalung city, you can board the sleeper night train. Departure at 4:11 p.m, with an expected arrival the next day at 5:04 a.m.