Deep South' provinces are almost often missing in mainstream travel itineraries but there are true hidden gems in each of them waiting to be explored. In 2020 Betong International Airport (Yala) is expected to open and these currently seriously off-the-beaten-track destinations will most probably become much more crowded. Go right now when it is not too late.
Yala
Yala offers some of the most pristine ecotourism experiences in the whole country. Check the scenic Bang Lang Dam on the Pattani River and do not skip Betong that has something to every taste – from bright wats to hot springs, from the sea of mist to Hala Bala Wildlife Sanctuary. It is rightfully considered a foodie's hotspot with rich traditions of Southern Thai cuisine, Chinese and Muslim food blending seamlessly with each other.
Pattani
There are more checkpoints here than in other parts of the country but in general it is totalli safe for tourists. Pattani Skywalk is a great vantage point to enjoy the panorama of the city, Pattani Bay, and Tachi Cape. It is the realm of mosques and shrines and many of them including Pattani Grand Mosque are worth visiting.
Songkhla
While Hat Yai is the best known city in the province, the provincial capital of Songkhla deserves your attention, too. Songkhla is a favourite destination with Thai and Malaysian travellers while other foreign visitors are rarely seen here. It is a much quieter alternative to more well-known seaside resort cities of the Andaman Sea. Songkhla also boasts one of the most picturesque Old Towns in the whole country. Its 'Singora' (Old Town) is filled with colourful Sino-Portuguese houses and is very instagramable.
TAT's Newsroom Embarks on a Discovery Tour of Thai Deep South
News in Asia
The Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) Newsroom has recently embarked on a discovery tour of Thailand’s Deep South that included the three southern provinces: Yala, Pattani and Songkhla to promote these off-the-beaten-track destinations to tourists.