Songkhla

Introduction

You will find Songkhla in the southern reaches of Thailand, where the landscape is shaped by its proximity to neighboring provinces such as Satun, Phatthalung, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Pattani, and Yala. Exploring this region offers a gateway to the southern borderlands.

Your journey takes you toward the southern frontier, where the province shares a border with the Malaysian states of Kedah and Perlis.

Before you go

Prepare to explore a city defined by layers of history, from its roots in the Malay Kingdom of Langkasuka to its era as a bustling trading post for Indian, Persian, and Arab merchants. You will encounter an atmosphere of faded glory where community-led efforts have revitalized the old town since 2009. Because the city has moved across three different sites along the coast over centuries, you should arrange for a hired car to reach all the historical landmarks. To orient yourself within this complex history, visit the Songkhla National Museum, where a map overlay in the courtyard provides an overview of the city's locations throughout various periods.

As you explore the area surrounding Songkhla Lake, keep these details in mind:

• The name "Sing Lha" refers to two lion-shaped islands at the lake's mouth, now known as Ko Nu and Ko Maeo.
• The local heritage is deeply influenced by Chinese immigrants from Guangdong and Fujian who arrived in the 18th century.
• The region has evolved into a focus for green tourism and domestic travel following a period of decline in the late 20th century.

Getting there

You can reach Songkhla by bus from several regional hubs. Air-conditioned buses run daily between Bangkok and the local terminal, while regular services connect you to Chumphon and Nakhon Si Thammarat. If you are traveling from Hat Yai, ordinary buses and minivans provide transit options along Raamwithi Road. For those seeking a more personalized experience, hiring a taxi from Hat Yai allows you to tour various sites in the area with a guide.

• Minivans depart from the southern end of Raamwithi Road for destinations including Yala and Pattani.
• A songthaew is available at the clock tower in Hat Yai.

Getting around

You can navigate the city using local songthaews or motorcycle taxis. These modes of transport provide a convenient way to travel throughout the area.

Where to stay

You can find a variety of accommodations ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to boutique resorts. For those seeking value, several options are located near the night market or in the Rong Mueang area, offering amenities like hot showers and televisions. Some of these smaller establishments feature cozy wooden rooms on upper floors, while others provide modern beds with privacy curtains in renovated historic buildings within the Songkhla Oldtown. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, you can stay in a family home located in a peaceful lane off Saiburi Road.

For a more upscale experience, choose from beachside options near Samila Beach or Chalatat Beach. These locations offer proximity to local restaurants and coastal views, though some may be lively due to nearby events or early morning activity. You can also find accommodations that provide convenient transportation links for those arriving by bus.

Food & drink

Savor the local flavors in the heart of the old town, where you can dine in a renovated two-century-old Chinese house serving steak, coffee, and traditional dishes. If you prefer regional specialties, head to an alleyway to find a restaurant specializing in Isaan cuisine and flavorful curries. For those seeking a meat-free experience, a vegetarian Thai restaurant is located just a short walk from the local museum.

Explore the vibrant atmosphere of the town center during the weekend, where you can visit food markets on Friday and Saturday nights to browse various stalls. While exploring these culinary offerings, be sure to try khao tom mat, a traditional and delicious Thai dessert.

What to see and do

Explore the rich history of the region by visiting the Songkhla National Museum, a Chinese-style building housing prehistoric finds and local artifacts, or the Institute for Southern Thai Studies, which features extensive displays on southern art, culture, and traditional ways of life. For a closer look at local heritage, visit the Phathammarong Museum to see a traditional building reflecting the history of a former statesman, or explore the city's Chinese-influenced architecture near the City Pillar.

Experience the coastal scenery by strolling along Samila Beach, known for its white sands and pine groves, or view the expansive Songkhla Lake from the vantage points at Khao Tang Kuan or the zoo. You can also visit Ko Yo, an island reachable via the Tinsulanond Bridge, famous for its fruit-growing and hand-woven fabrics. Other notable sites include:

• The Great Serpent Nag monument, which features a water spout head facing the port.
• Ban Sattha, a house situated on a hill overlooking the bridge and surrounded by coconut plantations.
• Khao Noi, where you can visit a hilltop statue and nearby gardens.
• Son On Beach, a shaded spot offering views of Ko Nu and the lake.
• The Laem Sai Estuary Fortress, a historical structure located behind the provincial police headquarters.

Three days in Songkhla

Day one, you begin your journey in Songkhla by exploring the local history and culture. You can visit the Songkhla National Museum to learn about the region's heritage.

Day two, you head toward the water to experience the scenery of Songkhla Lake. You can also spend time near the coastal areas of Ko Nu and Ko Maeo.

Day three, you travel through different landscapes as you move toward nearby regions like Hat Yai or explore the diverse influences from Malay, Indian, Persian, and Arab cultures that shape the local atmosphere.