Nakhon Si Thammarat, Southern Thailand

In recent years, Nakhon Si Thammarat (also called Muang Kon or just Nakhon) has kind of gotten on tourists’ radar thanks to Kiriwong Village, the place with the purest ozone in Thailand. Well, emphasis on “kind of”. The rest of the southern city remains underexplored, but it’s actually packed with variety.

Quiet beaches with a good chance of pink dolphins, home of Thailand’s greatest shadow puppet master, retro town brimming with ancient sites and unique cuisine, and one of the most sacred temples of the South, Wat Phra Mahathat. The eclectic charms of the coastal city is within easy reach thanks to several daily direct flights from Bangkok to Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport as well as ferry rides from Koh Samui and Koh Tao. New destinations full of local charms have also been popping up.

For an alternative taste of Southern Thailand, you now know where to go. Check out these top things to do in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, and enjoy authentic local experiences before the rest of the world catches on.

Top 9 Things to Do in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand

1. Trace the tale as old as the town at Wat Phra Mahathat

If you flip a 25 satang coin, you’ll find a gigantic Sri Lankan-style stupa called Phra Borommathat Chedi (the Great Noble Relics Stupa). The iconic Buddhist structure is part of the ancient temple, Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan or Wat Phra Mahathat. One of the holiest temples in Southern Thailand (and Thailand), it’s no wonder why the temple became the city’s signature.

Almost as old as the city itself, the stupa of Wat Phra Mahathat was built in the 13th century as the symbol of Theravada Buddhism. The magical thing about Phra Borommathat Chedi is, it never casts a shadow on the ground! In addition, you can join one of Southern Thailand’s greatest Buddhist festivals, Hae Pha Khuen That. On Makha Bucha Day (the third full moon) and Visakha Bucha Day (the sixth full moon), Buddhists make merit by parading a large piece of cloth up and wrap it around the stupa.

2. See the Giant Swing and Hindu gods

Yes, you read it right. The South also has its own Giant Swing and it’s one of the only two in Thailand. And since the Hindu Giant Swing is there, it’s obvious you’ll find the Shiva Shrine (Ho Phra Isuan) and the Vishnu Shrine (Ho Phra Narai). Inside these shrines are religious images such as Shiva Linga, the image of Vishnu and other Hindu gods.

3. Reminisce and replenish in the retro old town

Not as developed as Phuket, Nakhon Si Thammarat is a perfect option for those looking for a peaceful old town. Ruins of ancient city walls have been revived. Century-old houses are well-preserved. It’s a beautiful history and culture walk.

But the highlight of the old town has to be food and drink. There are loads of specialties and you can spend the whole day tasting your way through the city. Rise and shine at Kopi with the best breakfast in town, such as Bak Kut Teh (pork bone tea soup), Chinese donuts and old-style coffee. For lunch, spice up your day with Kanom Jeen Sen Sod (freshly prepared Thai rice flour noodle). In the evening, treat yourself to Pad Mee Muang Kon (Nakhon Si Thammarat-style stir-fried noodle) and its mouthwatering coconut milk scent.

4. Play with the shadows at Suchart Subsin’s Nang Talung Museum

Nang Talung or small shadow puppets are carved from cow skins and this ancient cultural performance originated in Southern Thailand. Nang Talung puppets can be as small as 15 centimeters in length and require meticulous attention to details. Late national artist Suchart Subsin was one of Thailand’s greatest Nang Talung craftsmen and puppeteers. He had brought Nang Talung to international level and even though he passed on, his family and apprentices are working hard to keep the heritage alive.

At Suchart Subsin’s Nang Talung Museum, you can admire the Nang Talung puppets and also watch them in action. Nang Talung puppets are available as souvenirs.

5. Get into the local Muang Kon spirit in Pak Phanang

Jutting out into the sea, Pak Phanang (locally known as Pak Nang) was once a bustling port town. Though a severe storm hit the area in 1962 and Pak Phanang is no longer as busy as it was, its charms have recently been restored. Stroll in the 100-year-old Pak Phanang Market and take in the sight of old wooden houses. Pak Phanang locals still live a simple life (fishing and running their own shops selling sweets and fruit including Siamese Ruby pomelo) and it’s all authentic.

6. Bring Yan Lipao baskets, bags and other products home

One of the top handwoven products in Thailand, Yan Lipao basketry was born here in Muang Kon. The fine, strong vines of Lipao plants are transformed into elegant yet durable baskets, bags, boxes and a lot of other utensils by the meticulous hands of the locals.

7. Hop on a boat to see pink dolphins in Khanom Beach area

While there are prettier beaches in Southern Thailand, Khanom Beach in Hat Khanom-Mu Koh Thale Tai National Park makes up for it with pink Irrawaddy dolphins. A boat trip is worth it as this is the best place in Thailand to see these cute creatures. (June, July and August are the best months.) After lazing around and diving in Koh Samui and Koh Tao areas, take a ferry to Khanom Beach for an entirely different beach vacay.

8. Breathe in Thailand’s freshest air at Kiriwong Village

The sights of green surroundings, crystal clear streams and majestic mountains are refreshing enough, but the air itself is even more rejuvenating. With Thailand’s purest ozone as the village’s main claim to fame, Kiriwong Village draws a lot of nature lovers. Especially city dwellers and cycling lovers.

However, idyllic beauty and friendly locals (homestays available) aren’t the only charms of Kiriwong Village. It’s a community-based tourism at its finest. The villagers’ lives are entwined with nature and apart from organic fruit farming (Come in August-October for durians, mangosteens, rambutans and more), many local workshops are available. From fruit processing and soap making to tie-dying and beading, everything is made from materials found in Kiriwong. The village is abundant in not only nature but also local wisdom.

9. Journey into the wild in Krung Ching

Krung Ching is a rather new face among Nakhon visitors, but it’s definitely not to be underestimated. Dominated by verdant jungles, the area offers ultimate tranquility with a sense of adventure. Located in Krung Ching, Khao Luang National Park is home to the South’s highest peak (also called Khao Luang), waterfalls (like Krung Ching Waterfall), caves and over 300 kinds of orchids.   

That’s it for things to do in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, but that’s not all you can do on your journey. Combine your visit to Nakhon Si Thammarat with trips to other charming cities in Southern Thailand.

Welcome to Amazing Thailand – Open to the New Shades. This is your ultimate Thailand travel guide, off-the-beaten-track edition. Go local and explore Thailand through new perspectives. Open your heart and mind… to the shades of Thailand that you never knew exist!

The post Top Things to Do in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand: Pink Dolphins, Shadow Puppets and Thailand’s Purest Ozone appeared first on Amazing Thailand.

Satun, Southern Thailand

Satun might be a speck on Thailand’s map, but the southern city has some of the most stunning islands and beaches in the whole country. It has plenty of great diving spots, but what’s above the water is as gorgeous. Many islands have unique rock and stone formations. There’s a beach full of shiny black rocks. UNESCO also declared Tarutao National Marine Park an ASEAN Heritage Park and Reserve thanks to its unspoiled nature and abundance of wildlife.

The mainland is also unmissable with amazing caves and culture. Formerly a Malay state, Satun is very culturally unique. It’s a Muslim-majority city and Islam and Buddhism co-exist peacefully. Don’t forget to take some time to learn more and appreciate its history and local ways of life.    

Check out these top things to do in Satun, Thailand, and enjoy authentic local experiences before the rest of the world catches on.

Top 9 Things to Do in Satun, Thailand

1. Feel like Moses on San Lang Mangkon Beach

It’s as if the sea parted and a dragon emerged… This 3 kilometer-long seashell-covered sandbar in Tanyong Po is called San Lang Mangkon Beach, a nod to its dragon’s back-like shape. To step onto the mythical creature and cross to the other island on its back, you have to visit at low tide.  

2. Canoe into Le Stegodon Cave and discover fossils

The longest cave in Thailand, the 4 kilometer-long Le Stegodon Cave boasts not only strangely-shaped rock formations. A 1.8 million-year-old fossil of a Stegodon elephant was discovered in the cave and you can still see other fossils of ancient plants and animals. The cave is both a natural and archaeological wonder.  

3. Bathe in the surreal beauty inside Phu Pha Phet Cave

Phu Pha Phet Cave is the largest cave in Thailand and the fourth largest in the world, but the real highlight isn’t its size. The stalactites and stalagmites inside seem to glitter like diamond flakes. The innermost part of the cave is called Saeng Morakot Room. When the light shines through the cave ceiling and catches the green stalactites and stalagmites, the room seems to glow emerald. It’s out of this world.

This phenomenon can be witnessed in May and June from 3pm-3.20pm. About 3,000 years ago, Phu Pha Phet Cave was a human settlement. A home with a view, isn’t it? You can still find their prehistoric traces inside the cave.    

4. Journey into the wild at Tarutao National Marine Park

It’s hard to believe the islands has a dark past. Once a Thai version of Alcatraz for political prisoners, it’s now a dream destination for nature lovers. Honored by UNESCO, Tarutao National Marine Park consists of 3 archipelagos. The park teems with hundreds of animal species. Birdwatchers and wildlife spotters will be delighted by sightings of boars, mouse deer, raptors, king cobras and many more. Tarutao National Marine Park is also great for snorkeling and scuba diving.

5. Relax on island paradise Koh Lipe and visit a sea gypsy community

This is the place everyone will tell you visit. While Koh Lipe has been developing fast in recent years, the island still retains its fine beaches and crystalline water. Pattaya Beach is the most popular and also the most beautiful beach on the island. For sunrise and sunset, go to Sunrise Beach and Sunset Beach, respectively.

With an abundance of snorkel and diving tours to other islands, Koh Lipe is a brilliant base for underwater explorers. However, local ways of life persist. This is where you can meet Moken, a group of Andaman sea gypsies.        

6. Marvel at the most extraordinary black beach on Koh Hin Ngam

Black sand beaches are beautiful, but how about shiny black rock beach? It’s as if Koh Hin Ngam’s beach were crafted from gemstones, hence the name (Beautiful Rock Island). The island is also one of the best diving spots.

To preserve nature, please don’t take any rock from Koh Hin Ngam.     

7. Admire Love’s Gate and sea turtles on Koh Kai and enjoy scuba diving

Koh Kai means Egg Island and the “egg” here has more than one meanings. One is that the sand is beautiful and its color is compared to egg shells. Sea turtles also come to lay eggs on its sandy shore every year and that’s another reason why the island is called Koh Kai. Love’s Gate, the gigantic natural stone arch on the island, is one of its icons. Local legend has it that those who walk through the gate will be lucky in love. If lovers walk through together, they will also get married.

Koh Kai is also a beautiful scuba diving spot. The sea around the island is rich with colorful coral reefs and marine life, including rays and pufferfish.

8. See a natural submarine on Koh Hin Sorn and find Nemo

Koh Hin Sorn is a very unique sight. Two big square rocks somehow lie on top of each other, looking like a submarine. Even earthquakes nearby can’t tear them apart!

The marine scene around Koh Hin Sorn is marvelous. It’s especially abundant in coral reefs and clownfish.   

9. Discover the harmony between local Buddhists and Muslims

Muslims and Buddhists in Satun are well-known for their harmonious relationship. Visit Satun Central Mosque (Mambang Mosque) and Wat Chanathip Chaloem (Mambang Temple), both of which built in pretty unique architecture styles. Taste Bunga Kuda or Dok Lamchiak, a Thai-Malay dessert found only in Satun.

To delve into the city’s history and local culture, visit Satun National Museum. Also called Kuden Mansion, the building was the residence of a former governor, Phraya Phuminatphakdi.     

That’s it for things to do in Satun, Thailand, but that’s not all you can do on your journey. Pair your visit to Satun with a trip to its charming neighbor, Trang. Find out things to do in Trang, Thailand.

Welcome to Amazing Thailand – Open to the New Shades. This is your ultimate Thailand travel guide, off-the-beaten-track edition. Go local and explore Thailand through new perspectives. Open your heart and mind… to the shades of Thailand that you never knew exist!

The post Top Things to Do in Satun, Thailand: Sea Gypsy Village, Prisoner-Turned-Marine Park and Crystal Clear Ocean appeared first on Amazing Thailand.

Trang, Southern Thailand

Southern Thailand is the ultimate dream destination for sea, sand and sun seekers, but where to? If you ask a local for recommendation, Trang will definitely be one of the answers and rightfully so. While Phuket, Samui and Krabi are obvious choices, Trang is still a hidden gem among foreign travelers. Its serene beaches, sparkling blue sea and enchanting underwater world hold a lot of surprises, including extremely rare dugongs and underwater wedding.

Apart from being well-connected to other southern cities, Trang is only a little more than an hour away from Bangkok thanks to daily direct flights. Before or after heading out to its beautiful beaches and islands, don’t forget to enjoy greenery and caves for a change and immerse yourself in its historic side. As a former port town, the city saw some pioneering development, like the first rubber tree in Thailand, and got to welcome cultural diversity. Its food scene is seriously one of the best in Thailand.

In a nutshell, this southern city is very colorful and flavorful. Check out these top things to do in Trang, Thailand, and enjoy authentic local experiences before the rest of the world catches on.

Top 10 Things to Do in Trang, Thailand

1. Set sail on your sea voyage at Hat Chao Mai National Park

Beautiful and peaceful beaches in Hat Chao Mai National Park will make for a great start of your island hopping trip. Kick back, relax and enjoy the view. The national park is also dotted with karst cliffs and mangrove forests and has Kuan Khang Hot Spring.   

The national park is unbeatable when it comes to accessibility to Trang’s wealth of islands. Pak Meng Beach is the best starting point. You can use it as your base when exploring the top islands like Koh Muk, Koh Kradan and Koh Chuak.        

2. Visit the city’s most beautiful island, Koh Kradan, and even get married under the sea

The sand is so white it seems to shine. The sea is so clear you can see the marine life. It’s no wonder Koh Kradan is considered the city’s best and one of Thailand’s best. You’ll want to lie down on the powdery sand and enjoy the view of other islands from the beach, but don’t miss underwater beauty. Go out into the sea for a snorkeling experience of your lifetime.

Speaking of an experience of your lifetime, Koh Kradan is one of the venues for the world-famous underwater wedding in mid-February. As certified by Guinness, it’s the biggest underwater wedding ceremony in the world. Its beauty also lies in the local cultural elements.

3. Marvel at Morakot Cave near Koh Mook

Morakot Cave translates to Emerald Cave and it’s as magical as the name suggests. The journey from Koh Mook to the cave itself is pretty exciting. The sea cave entrance is so small that you can only swim or kayak through during low tide. It’s also dark inside, so it’s wise to follow a guide. At the end of the cave, a white sand beach, a lush forest and tall cliffs await. The real spectacle, though, is obviously the moment when the water turns emerald green. The magic happens thanks to the sunlight that shines through the cave opening and it depends on the angle. Time your visit between 10am-2pm.

Like Koh Kradan, Morakot Cave is part of the city’s underwater wedding ceremony.

4. Be enchanted by the city’s best snorkeling spots, Koh Ma and Koh Chuak

Koh Ma and Koh Chuak are small islands, but their charms actually lie in the sea. Beneath the aquamarine water is a whole new world of colors created by coral reefs, fish and other sea creatures. As there are rapids between the two islands, you’ll have to hold onto a rope for support while snorkeling.

If you fancy taking your island-hopping to the next level, don't miss exploring Similan islands, Surin islands, the secluded and charming Yao Noi island on a private boat with our Local Experts. You can also cruise along the dreamy coast from Phuket to Phangga Bay here.

5. Go dugong spotting on Koh Libong

As you travel around the city, you’ll notice several dugong statues, signs and souvenirs. Why did they become the city’s mascot? That’s because most dugongs left in Thailand are found in Trang. They are an endangered species and there are only about 100 dugongs in Koh Libong and the vicinity. An encounter with them requires some luck, but it’s worth climbing and trekking to Point Dugongs.

Koh Libong also offers a wide range of activities. Tranquil beaches for beach bums. Scenic mountains and forest trails for adventurers. Traditional stilt houses and local way of life at Muslim fishing village for cultural enthusiasts. The city’s biggest island has something for everyone.      

6. Feast on heavenly cuisine and charming cultural diversity

While Trang’s old town might not be as colorful as Phuket, a Sino-Portuguese architecture walk in the area is still a good idea. It might not be an exciting love at first sight, but slowly sip its charm and you’ll end up falling for the wonderfully retro atmosphere. You can also visit Chinese shrines, mosques and Trang Church to learn about the city’s diverse religions. 

Tired after the walk? No worries. Local culinary specialties to the rescue. The city’s repertoire is delightfully huge and you can actually spend the whole day tasting them. Dim sum and kopi (Southern Thai coffee) make traditional breakfast in the south, but Trang locals are the one and only to have roasted pork with them. Trang-style roasted pork is crispy, juicy and also tender, with mouth-watering smell. Try it and you won’t regret it. For lunch and breakfast, taste Muslim, Chinese or even vegetarian cuisine. (The city's local food is a wonderful blend of Thai, Chinese, Malay and Indian influences.) Finish your meal off with a slice of fluffy Trang cake.     

7. Trace the city’s historic legacy in Kantang

Though it’s now a quiet town, traces of Kantang’s rich history can still be seen and felt. Kantang Railway Station, the terminal station of the Southern-Andaman railroad, is one of Thailand’s architectural gems with its classical beauty and iconic mustard yellow paint.  

Close by is the Phraya Ratsadanupradit Mahitsaraphakdi Museum, which is housed in his former residence. The city’s most influential governor was also called Khaw Sim Bee (his birthname) and among his numerous contributions was importing Thailand’s first rubber tree from Malaysia. It leaves a long-lasting impact as rubber farm is now one of Thailand’s major sources of income. The rubber tree that began everything is still in Kantang.  

8. Walk above the trees at Trang Peninsular Botanic Garden

Green might not be the first color that comes to mind in seaside cities, but Trang’s natural landscape isn’t just about beaches and islands. At Thung Khai or Trang Peninsular Botanic Garden, you can relax among rare plants and recharge with super fresh forest air. Above all, a visit there is more than a walk into the woods with its canopy walkways.

9. Lie down and paddle under the dragon’s belly inside Le Khao Kop Cave

Le Khao Kop Cave is full of amazing stalactites and stalagmites, but it’s also the thrill that makes travelers love it. First, you have to paddle into Le Khao Kop Cave and after a guided stroll in the limestone cave comes the city’s ultimate water adventure. You’ll have to row along the lowest part of the cave, which stretches about 350 meters. How low is the ceiling? So low you have to lie down on your back on the boat.

This is likened to walking under the dragon’s belly. According to the Chinese belief, dragon’s belly walk is an act of attracting fortune. Hence the lowest part of the cave is called Dragon Cave.

10. Learn about the art of weaving at Ban Na Meun Sri

Ban Na Meun Sri women weave their own fabrics for important occasions in their lives: their wedding, their son’s ordination and their funeral. The 200-year-old craftsmanship almost died out due to the lack of material during the World War II and industrialization of weaving.

Fortunately, the elder in the village initiated the preservation of their traditional weaving and their successors have established Ban Na Meun Sri weaving group. Red fabrics with yellow patterns are the most common, but many unique patterns are available. From doll pattern to Constitution Monument pattern. Over 100 beautiful handwoven fabrics are on display at the museum.

That’s it for things to do in Trang, Thailand, but that’s not all you can do on your journey. Pair your visit to Trang with a trip to its charming neighbor, Satun. Find out things to do in Satun, Thailand.

Welcome to Amazing Thailand – Open to the New Shades. This is your ultimate Thailand travel guide, off-the-beaten-track edition. Go local and explore Thailand through new perspectives. Open your heart and mind… to the shades of Thailand that you never knew exist!

The post Top Things to Do in Trang, Thailand: To-Die-for Snorkeling Spots, Diverse Cuisine and 200-Year-Old Weaving Culture appeared first on Amazing Thailand.