The provincial capital of Songkhla, the city has become somewhat overshadowed by its flashier neighboring city of Hat Yai. But Songkhla, which is also known as “the great city on two seas” has plenty of fun things to do and unique places to uncover.
Singora Tram Tour
If you don’t have a lot of time to spend in Songkhla and want to make the most of it, then a tram tour through the city is your best bet. And the best part of it all? It’s totally free! The open decker departs from Thammarong Museum (right next to the Songkhla National Museum) six times per day starting at 9am. The free tour will take you through the Old Town, Chaluthat Beach and Khao Tang Kuan. Did we mention it’s free?
Songkhla National Museum
History buffs will want to start their tour of Songkhla here. This impressive museum is housed in Songkhla’s former city hall, originally built in the late 19th century in Chinese style. Today, it showcases southern folk, arts and crafts, prehistoric finds, and ancient artifacts from all over the region.
Khao Tang Kuan
After you’ve gotten a feel for the Songkhla’s history and major attractions, head up to Khao Tang Kuan to get a sprawling view of the city. “Tang Kuan” means “monkey” in Thai, so this place is also popularly known as Monkey Hill. You can trek all the way up to the top or pay 30 baht for an elevator to do the hard work for you. Once you’re up there, you can visit an ancient chedi and enjoy the panoramic views of Songkhla.
Nag Statue
This three-part giant serpent statue has become one of the city’s landmarks. The head can be found at the tip of the Songkhla peninsula and it jets water out into the bay from its mouth. As for the tail – well, you can trek some 3km to find it.
Songkhla Lake and Islands
This is Thailand’s only natural lake, stretching for some 80km in length and up to 25km in width. The freshwater lake is home to a number of islands that can easily be reached via bridges or the traditional Thai longtail boat. Ko Yo, for instance, boasts a 30-meter long reclining Buddha statue in its Wat Phranon Laem Pho temple. Boat tours can also be arranged to tour the lake and take in this unique Thai landscape. When you’re done exploring the lake, head to one of the many restaurants on its shores to enjoy some delicious Thai seafood.
Songkhla Tae Raek Night Market
Get a taste of local Thai life and head to Songkhla’s night market that takes place every Friday and Saturday night. The makeshift shops and food stalls set up right in the city center, making it impossible for you to miss it! Enjoy some tasty street food, purchase a couple of souvenirs and listen to some local artists playing live.
Songkhla Zoo
Photo by Ammar Khalaf
Sure, there may be a zoo in your hometown or nearby but where can you go to feed these wild animals? At Songkhla Zoo, you can purchase some special meat and use it to feed one of the many animals that call this place home. Tigers, lions, deer, and elephants are all waiting to say hello to you!
Related: Top Cities in Thailand
