Phatthalung

Phatthalung province may not be as famous as other locations in Southern Thailand, but that is part of its charm. Phatthalung offers an authentic experience where you can slow down, explore natural delights, and enjoy the benefits of travelling off the beaten path.

Thale Noi Wetlands

The Thale Noi wetlands are a highlight of any trip to Phatthalung. Thale Noi, which translates as ‘Small Sea,’ is a vast wetland and one of the most biodiverse sites in Thailand. Thale Noi is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts with the expansive freshwater lagoon home to almost 300 species of aquatic birds. While the bird population is impressive year-round, it swells in the summer when hundreds of thousands of migrating birds stop here to feed on the marshland.

Take an early morning boat trip to enjoy the majesty of the wetlands with carpets of red lotus stretching out before you and an abundance of birdlife enjoying the serenity.

Experience the traditional lifestyle in the village of Ban Thale Noi where local people continue to follow age-old practices, using wisdom and skills passed down through generations. Each morning, fishermen tend to giant square-shaped nets, called ‘yo’ in Thai, mounted on wooden frames. They dip the nets into the water and raise them to catch fish, which are then sold at local markets.

In this rural community you can see farmers leading their water buffaloes to the grazing areas while women from the community row their small boats out to collect sedge stems and krajood. This grass-like plant thrives in this area and has traditionally been used for handicrafts.

Phatthalung is connected with neighbouring Songkhla province by a raised road bridge over the Thale Noi wetlands. Officially known as Chaloem Phrakiat 80 Phansa Bridge, locals call it Saphan Ekachai (Ekachai Bridge). With a dedicated cycle lane and viewing areas, the bridge provides some epic views of the wetlands.

Wat Khuha Sawan

The oldest in Phatthalung is a peaceful escape with its stunning cave system. Inside the temple, you’ll find numerous Buddha statues and artefacts amidst the natural rock formations. Climb to the top of the hill for panoramic views of the Phatthalung countryside.

Khao Ok Thalu

East of Phatthalung town, the distinctive shape of Khao Ok Thalu mountain dominates the skyline. With a reasonable level of fitness, you can access a shrine, cave, and viewpoint high up on the mountain via a set of stairs.

Handicrafts

Nestled in the rice fields, Sampaothai Resort is a photogenic spot featuring a wooden walkway, a replica sailing ship, and a ‘King Kong’ sculpture that attracts Thai Instagram enthusiasts. However, local handicraft centres like Varni Southern Wickery and Lung Prum Coconut Shell Village offer more rewarding visits. Purchases from these centres directly support the local communities in Phatthalung and help preserve traditional craftsmanship.

Shadow Puppet Theatre

One of the cultural highlights of Phatthalung, Nang Talung is a traditional shadow puppet display. These performances use intricately carved leather puppets to tell stories, offering a glimpse into the region’s artistic heritage. Attending a Nang Talung show is a journey into the past, where folklore and history come to life via these expert puppeteers.

Food and drink in Phatthalung

In Phatthalung town the night market near the train station is a good option for tasty and cheap food. A little further out of town, there are a couple of impressive farmers’ markets. Talat Pa Phai Sang Suk aka the ‘Bamboo Forest Market’ is open at the weekends with an excellent food selection and local souvenirs. The nearby Tai Nod Green Market is open on Sundays and is another great option for food and handicrafts.

Where to stay in Phatthalung

Phatthalung town isn’t used to seeing many overseas tourists and you won’t find the same choice of accommodation you can find in better-known destinations. If your main reason for visiting the area is to see Thale Noi, there is some good value accommodation in the village of Ban Talae Noi. If you do stay in the Ban Talae Noi area, hiring a bicycle is a good option where you can safely cycle along quiet rural roads and see local life in the area.

Ideas for accommodation
Chuanchom Resort (Ban Talae Noi)
Sri Pakpra Boutique Resort (Ban Talae Noi)
Varni Homestay (Ban Talae Noi)
Sitthinard Grandview Hotel (Phatthalung town)
Siva Royal Hotel (Phatthalung town)

Travel to Phatthalung

Getting to Phatthalung involves a little more effort, but that is amply rewarded. The nearest airports are located in Trang (1.5 hours to the west), Hat Yai (around a two-hour drive to the south of Thale Noi), and Nakhon Si Thammarat (two hours north).

Phatthalung can also be reached by train with services connecting Phatthalung with Bangkok and Hat Yai. From Phatthalung town, minivans and songthaews travel to Thale Noi with a journey time of around one hour.

A trip to Phatthalung and Thale Noi can be combined with visits to the islands and beaches in Trang province or with the cities of Hat Yai, Songkhla and Nakhon Si Thammarat.