Pak Bara Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Pak Bara with our comprehensive travel guide to discover its natural attractions, outdoor adventures, hiking and biking routes, local culture and customs, and more.


Introduction to Pak Bara

Pak Bara is a peaceful fishing village situated on the Andaman Coast of Southern Thailand. Known for its beautiful beaches and pristine waters, Pak Bara is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It is an ideal place to unwind and relax, away from the hustle and bustle of the busy city life.

List of Places to Visit in Pak Bara

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Pak Bara Royal Residence: Built-in 1907, the Pak Bara Royal Residence is a historical monument that showcases the Thai architectural style and showcases the rich cultural history of Southern Thailand.
  • Satun National Museum: Located in Satun, this museum displays artefacts of the local lifestyle, nature, culture, and history of Satun and its neighbouring provinces.
  • Wat Chee Katawaram: A revered temple in Pak Bara, Wat Chee Katawaram is known for its serene atmosphere, spiritual sermons, and stunning temple architecture.

Natural Attractions of Pak Bara: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tarutao National Park: The archipelago of Tarutao National Park boasts of stunning beaches, clear waters, coral reefs, and lush green tropical forests. Visitors can indulge in activities like snorkelling, kayaking, and jungle trekking, and birdwatching.
  • Koh Lipe: A small island paradise near Pak Bara, Koh Lipe is famous for its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. Visitors can indulge in activities like snorkelling, diving, and island-hopping.
  • Pak Bara Beach: This long strip of unspoiled white sand beach offers stunning sunrise and sunset views, and visitors can unwind and relax on the beach chairs under the towering coconut trees.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pak Bara

  • Khao Banthad Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in nearby La-ngu district, the Khao Banthad Wildlife Sanctuary offers hiking and camping opportunities with scenic views of the Andaman Sea.
  • Pak Bara Mountain: Visitors can hike to the top of the Pak Bara Mountain, which promises stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Pak Bara: Activities and Tours

  • Snorkelling and Scuba diving: Visitors can explore the coral reefs and diverse marine life near Koh Lipe and Tarutao National Park.
  • Island Hopping: Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the nearby islands like Koh Bu Bu and Koh Tarutao.
  • Cooking Classes: Visitors can attend a local cooking class and learn to cook authentic Thai dishes.
  • Spa and Wellness: Visitors can indulge in a relaxing Thai massage or spa treatment at the resorts and spas in Pak Bara.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pak Bara

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Pak Bara, relax on Pak Bara beach
2 Visit Tarutao National Park for jungle trekking, birdwatching, and beach hopping
3 Join a snorkelling and diving tour to Koh Lipe, explore the coral reefs and marine life
4 Explore the local culture and customs of Pak Bara, visit the temples and museums
5 Hike to the top of Pak Bara mountain for panoramic views
6 Learn to cook authentic Thai dishes in a local cooking class
7 Relax and unwind with a spa treatment, depart from Pak Bara

Food and Drink Scene of Pak Bara

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tom Yam Goong: A hot and sour soup with prawns, spices, and herbs.
  • Massaman Curry: A signature Southern Thai curry dish with coconut milk, potatoes, and peanuts.
  • Seafood: The fresh catch of the day is a must-try in Pak Bara. Visitors can choose from grilled, steamed, or sautéed seafood dishes.

Local Beverages

  • Cha Yen: Also known as Thai iced tea, this sweet and creamy beverage is a perfect thirst quencher in the hot Thai climate.
  • Nam Manao: A refreshing limeade drink, perfect for cooling down on a hot day.
  • Chang Beer: A popular local beer in Thailand, Chang beer complements any Thai dish.

Where to Stay in Pak Bara: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Sevenseas Resort: A luxury beachfront resort with an outdoor pool, spa, and wellness centre.
  • Pak Bara Beach Resort: A budget-friendly option right on the beach with comfortable rooms and free Wi-Fi.
  • Rainforest Resort Pakbara: A mid-range option with comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant serving both Thai and international cuisine.

What to Buy in Pak Bara: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Soaps: Visitors can buy locally made soaps in different fragrances and ingredients.
  • Beachwear and Accessories: Visitors can buy beachwear, hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses from the local shops.
  • Local Snacks: Visitors can buy snacks like dried fruits, nuts, and wafer rolls as souvenirs or gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Pak Bara

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and avoid wearing revealing clothing.
  • Remove your shoes before entering a temple or a local’s house.
  • Do not touch people’s heads, as it is considered disrespectful in Thai culture.

Best Time to Visit Pak Bara

The best time to visit Pak Bara is from November to February when the weather is dry, and the humidity is low. The temperature is generally comfortable, and the beaches are perfect to enjoy the sunny weather.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pak Bara

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated in the hot Thai weather.
  • Use insect repellent to ward off the mosquitoes and bugs.

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beaches or the ocean.
  • Disrespect the local religion and customs.
  • Worry too much about the language barrier; locals are friendly and generally try to help.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pak Bara

  • Visitors should be careful while traveling on the boats or ferries and pay attention to the safety instructions.
  • Visitors should avoid wandering alone on deserted beaches or isolated areas.
  • Visitors should be careful while indulging in adventure activities and follow the safety guidelines.

Health in Pak Bara

  • Visitors should drink bottled water and avoid drinking tap water.
  • Visitors should avoid street food from unhygienic stalls and eat in clean places.
  • Visitors should carry insect repellent and sunscreen to avoid getting sunburnt or bitten by mosquitoes.

Getting to Pak Bara: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pak Bara

  • The nearest airport is Hat Yai International Airport, approximately 75km away from Pak Bara.

Bus Stations Near Pak Bara

  • The Pak Bara Bus Terminal connects Pak Bara to other major destinations in Thailand.

Other Options

  • Visitors can also take shared taxis or private cars from Hat Yai or other nearby towns.

How to Get Around in Pak Bara

  • Visitors can rent a scooter or a motorbike to explore the nearby areas.
  • Visitors can hire a tuk-tuk or a taxi to get around Pak Bara.

Where to Go Next from Pak Bara: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Koh Lanta: A beautiful island destination near Pak Bara, known for its stunning beaches and coral reefs.
  • Phuket: The most popular beach destination in Thailand known for its vibrant nightlife, white sandy beaches, and water sports.
  • Krabi: A region of diverse attractions including beautiful islands, beaches, waterfalls, and caves.

Conclusion

Pak Bara is a hidden gem in Southern Thailand, waiting to be explored. From pristine beaches and beautiful mountains to delicious local cuisine and rich cultural heritage, Pak Bara offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Follow our comprehensive guide to plan your next trip to Pak Bara and have an unforgettable holiday experience.

Pak Bara ferry pier, Feb 2016 Pak Bara ferry pier, Feb 2016