Southern Thailand Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hike, eat, stay at, and more in Southern Thailand. Learn about the local culture, customs, safety, and health. Plan your trip now with this ultimate guide.


A Comprehensive Guide to Southern Thailand

Southern Thailand is a tropical paradise filled with white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and idyllic islands. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, Southern Thailand has something to offer for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the best places to visit, hike, eat, stay at, and more. We’ll also provide you with essential information about the local culture, customs, safety, and health, helping you plan your trip efficiently.

Introduction to Southern Thailand

Southern Thailand is a region that comprises ten provinces: Chumphon, Krabi, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Narathiwat, Pattani, Phang Nga, Phatthalung, Ranong, Songkhla, and Surat Thani. This region, located on the Malay Peninsula’s southern edge, offers some of the most stunning natural sights and cultural attractions in the country.

List of Places to Visit in Southern Thailand

Southern Thailand boasts an array of attractions and destinations. We’ve compiled a list of the top must-visit places in every area:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Phra Mahathat Chadi Phra Phutthammaprakat (Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan) in Nakhon Si Thammarat
  2. Chaiya National Museum in Surat Thani
  3. Hat Yai Nai temple in Songkhla
  4. Phuket Old Town in Phuket
  5. Khao Luang National Park in Nakhon Si Thammarat

Natural Attractions of Southern Thailand: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Koh Phi Phi in Krabi
  2. Similan Islands in Phang Nga
  3. Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park in Surat Thani
  4. Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani
  5. Railay Beach in Krabi

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Thailand

  1. Khao Luang National Park trek in Nakhon Si Thammarat
  2. Khao Phanom Bencha National Park in Krabi
  3. Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani
  4. Ton Nga Chang Wildlife Sanctuary in Surat Thani
  5. Tab Kak Hang Nak Hill Nature Trail in Krabi

Best Things to Do in Southern Thailand: Activities and Tours

  1. Snorkelling and diving in Koh Lipe, Satun
  2. Kayaking and paddleboarding through the mangrove swamps in Phang Nga Bay
  3. Island-hopping tour in Koh Phi Phi, Krabi
  4. Ziplining and canopy tours in Khao Sok National Park, Surat Thani
  5. Elephant Sanctuary tour in Krabi and Phuket

Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Thailand

Day 1: Explore Phuket Old Town Day 2: Take a day trip to Phi Phi Islands Day 3: Visit Khao Sok National Park and go trekking/ziplining Day 4: Visit the Similan Islands for snorkelling or diving Day 5: Take a kayaking trip through the mangroves in Phang Nga Day 6: Enjoy white sand beaches of Koh Lipe Day 7: Relax on Railay Beach and rock climb

Food and Drink Scene of Southern Thailand

Southern Thailand has a diverse culinary culture, influenced by its Malay and Chinese heritage and unique local ingredients. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Tom Yam Goong: Spicy and sour shrimp soup
  2. Massaman Curry: Rich and creamy curry with potato and peanuts
  3. Khao Yum: Rice salad with fresh herbs, fruits, and vegetables
  4. Roti: Crispy and flaky bread served with curry
  5. Satay: Grilled meat on skewers served with peanut sauce

Local Beverages

  1. Cha Yen: Sweet iced tea with condensed milk
  2. Coconut Water: Refreshing and hydrating drink served in fresh coconut
  3. Thai iced coffee: Strong and sweet coffee served with condensed milk and ice
  4. Sangsom: Local rum made from sugar cane
  5. Chang Beer: Popular and affordable Thai beer

Where to Stay in Southern Thailand: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

You can find a wide range of accommodation options in Southern Thailand, from luxury resorts to budget hostels. Some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses are:

  1. Koyao Island Resort in Phang Nga: Luxury eco-resort on a secluded island
  2. The Lanta Castaway Beach Resort in Koh Lanta: Eco-friendly beach bungalow
  3. The Loft House in Krabi: Chic and modern apartment in Krabi Town
  4. Pak-Up Hostel in Krabi: Hip and budget-friendly hostel in Krabi Town
  5. Tea Bungalow in Phuket: Traditional Thai-style guesthouse in Phuket Town

What to Buy in Southern Thailand: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Batik sarongs and scarves
  2. Handmade soap made with local ingredients
  3. Gemstones and silver jewelry
  4. Thai herbs and spices
  5. Stuffed toy elephants

Local Culture and Customs of Southern Thailand

Southern Thailand has a unique and diverse cultural heritage that is worth exploring. Some customs and practices to keep in mind:

  1. Remove your shoes before entering a temple or someone’s house
  2. Dress modestly and conservatively when visiting religious sites
  3. Show respect to elders and monks
  4. Avoid pointing your feet at people or Buddha statues
  5. Don’t raise your voice or lose your temper in public

Best Time to Visit Southern Thailand

Southern Thailand has a tropical climate, which means hot and humid weather all year round. The best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This period offers less rainfall and more sun, making it the perfect time to explore the beaches and islands. However, prices are also higher during this period, and there are more tourists. The rainy season, from May to October, brings heavy rainfall and occasional storms but also fewer tourists and lower prices.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Thailand

Do:

  1. Try the local food and drinks
  2. Respect cultural differences
  3. Learn basic Thai phrases
  4. Be patient and flexible
  5. Take lots of sunscreen and insect repellent

Don’t:

  1. Touch other people’s heads
  2. Use your feet to point at things or people
  3. Disrespect Buddha statues or religious sites
  4. Hug or kiss in public
  5. Ignore traffic laws and safety precautions

Safety and Health

Safety in Southern Thailand

Overall, Southern Thailand is a safe destination to visit. However, there are a few safety concerns to keep in mind:

  1. Petty theft: Keep your belongings safe, especially in crowded areas.
  2. Road safety: Be cautious when renting scooters or motorbikes, and always wear helmets.
  3. Beach safety: Watch out for strong currents, and only swim in designated areas with lifeguards.
  4. Political unrest: Avoid political protests and demonstrations.

Health in Southern Thailand

Southern Thailand is a region with some risks of food-borne illnesses and insect-borne diseases like dengue fever and malaria. To prevent these, follow these tips:

  1. Drink only bottled or boiled water
  2. Eat at busy food stalls or restaurants with good hygiene ratings
  3. Use insect repellent and mosquito nets
  4. Get vaccinated before traveling

Getting to Southern Thailand: Transportation Options and Logistics

Southern Thailand is well-connected to the rest of the country and the region. Here are some transportation options and logistics:

Airports Near Southern Thailand

  1. Krabi International Airport
  2. Phuket International Airport
  3. Trang Airport
  4. Surat Thani Airport

Bus Stations Near Southern Thailand

  1. Southern Bus Terminal in Bangkok
  2. Krabi Bus Station
  3. Phuket Bus Station
  4. Hat Yai Bus Station

Other Options

  1. Ferry services between islands and mainland
  2. Private car transfers
  3. Train journeys from Bangkok to Surat Thani

How to Get Around in Southern Thailand

The best way to get around in Southern Thailand is by renting a scooter or motorbike. Taxis, songthaew (shared pick-up trucks), and tuk-tuks are also available in urban areas. For long-distance travel, there are buses, trains, and flights that connect major destinations.

Where to Go Next from Southern Thailand: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Southern Thailand is a hub for travel throughout Southeast Asia. Some of the best nearby destinations to visit after exploring this region include:

  1. Koh Samui: Luxurious island getaway with white sand beaches and excellent dining options
  2. Langkawi, Malaysia: Tropical paradise with crystal-clear waters and duty-free shopping
  3. Siem Reap, Cambodia: Home to the famous Angkor Wat temple complex
  4. Hanoi, Vietnam: Bustling capital city with delicious street food and rich culture

Conclusion

With its beautiful beaches, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Southern Thailand is an ideal destination for any traveler. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a foodie, or a culture enthusiast, there is something in this region for everyone. By following this comprehensive guide, you can plan a trip that will exceed your expectations and create memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.



    Central Gulf Coast
    Krabi Province
    Northern Andaman Coast
    Phuket
    Southern Andaman Coast
    Southern Gulf Coast