Pattani Travel Guide: Thailand’s Southern Cultural Crossroads

May 23, 2025

Pattani is a culturally rich province located in Thailand’s deep south, near the Malaysian border. Known for its blend of Thai, Malay, and Islamic heritage, Pattani offers travellers a fascinating mix of mosques, temples, peaceful beaches, and vibrant local markets. While the region is less travelled due to occasional political unrest, those who visit are rewarded with an authentic and enriching experience that captures the diversity of Thailand’s southern identity.

Popular Tourist Destinations

Krue Se Mosque

One of the oldest mosques in Thailand, Krue Se Mosque is a historic landmark over 200 years old. Its unique Islamic architecture makes it a symbol of Pattani’s deep-rooted Muslim culture. Despite its incomplete construction, it remains an important religious and cultural site.

Pattani Central Mosque

This is the largest and most significant mosque in the south. With its grand dome and tall minarets, the mosque serves not only as a place of worship but also as a centre for Islamic learning and community events.

Wat Chang Hai Rat Buranaram

Home to the highly revered statue of Luang Pu Thuat, this Buddhist temple welcomes visitors of all backgrounds. It is one of the few places in Pattani that demonstrates the peaceful coexistence of different faiths in the province.

Lim Ko Niao Shrine

A vital Chinese shrine in Pattani town, dedicated to Lim Ko Niao, a historic figure respected by the Chinese community. The annual festival held here is a colourful and energetic celebration featuring processions, firecrackers, and cultural performances.

Pattani Skywalk

A scenic boardwalk extending over the mangrove forests near Pattani Bay. It’s a popular spot for photography, nature walks, and enjoying panoramic coastal views.

Temples and Spiritual Sites

Wat Mutcharinthawapiwihan

A peaceful riverside temple ideal for meditation and reflection. It features serene surroundings and is often visited by locals for religious rituals.

Wat Phutthathiwat

Located in Pattani town, this temple is known for its golden Buddha statue and contemporary architecture, reflecting the province’s Buddhist heritage.

Nightlife and Markets

Pattani’s nightlife is quiet and reflective of its predominantly Muslim culture. There are no major nightclubs, but you can enjoy a low-key evening in the following ways:

Pattani Night Market

A bustling hub in the town centre where locals gather for food, clothes, crafts, and conversation. It’s the best place to sample Pattani’s famous roti, grilled seafood, and southern Thai curries.

Local Cafés and Tea Shops

The café culture is strong here, with local tea houses offering a relaxed setting to enjoy milk tea, Thai desserts, and snacks while watching the world go by.

National Parks and Nature

Sakai National Park (Talo Mano)

Located in Khok Pho district, this park offers trekking trails through dense rainforest, waterfalls like Talo Mano, and lookout points over the mountains.

Khao Ruesi Forest Park

A less explored park with natural trails, small caves, and panoramic views. Ideal for nature lovers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Yaring Mangrove Forest

An important ecological area near Pattani Bay where you can take longtail boat tours through the mangroves and observe birdlife and traditional fishing communities.

Sports Bars and Entertainment

Pattani has no official sports bars due to cultural norms, but some local cafés occasionally broadcast football matches. For a more traditional bar atmosphere, nearby Hat Yai in Songkhla province offers more nightlife options.

Beaches

Laem Tachi Beach

A quiet, crescent-shaped beach with white sand and clear water. It’s ideal for families and couples looking to unwind.

Talo Kapo Beach

Another scenic and peaceful beach with nearby seafood restaurants. It’s popular with locals and relatively undiscovered by tourists.

Mae Lan Beach

A lesser-known beach that offers solitude, calm seas, and great views for sunrise or sunset.

Accommodation for Backpackers and Travellers

C.S. Pattani Hotel

A comfortable mid-range option with spacious rooms, modern amenities, and a central location in Pattani town.

Pak Nam Resort

Located near the coast, this resort offers simple bungalows and a relaxed setting for those seeking nature and sea breezes.

River Inn Hotel

Ideal for budget-conscious travellers, this hotel provides clean rooms and easy access to the city’s main attractions.

Guesthouses and Homestays

Several local guesthouses throughout Pattani offer budget accommodation and an authentic stay among friendly locals.

Getting Around

Trains

Pattani is served by the southern railway line, with the nearest station located in Khok Pho district. Trains run from Bangkok and major southern cities.

Buses and Minivans

Frequent minivans connect Pattani with neighbouring provinces like Yala, Narathiwat, and Hat Yai.

Tuk-Tuks and Songthaews

These are the main ways to get around town. They’re affordable and can be hailed at markets, temples, and transport hubs.

Fun Activities

Boat Tours on the Pattani River

Explore riverside villages and mangrove forests by boat. Tours offer a glimpse into traditional fishing practices and local biodiversity.

Cultural Festivals

The Lim Ko Niao Festival and other religious celebrations bring together diverse communities in lively processions and ceremonies.

Local Handicraft Markets

Pattani’s markets offer unique items like handwoven fabrics, local snacks, and Muslim attire that reflect the province’s mixed cultural heritage.

Cycling

Hire a bike and explore the flat coastal terrain and rural backroads. It’s a great way to experience life outside the city.

Muay Thai in Pattani

Local Gyms

Pattani has a few community gyms where Muay Thai is taught in a more traditional, grassroots setting. These gyms are open to both observers and those wishing to train.

Fight Events

Occasional Muay Thai matches are held during festivals or community events. Ask at your guesthouse or the local tourism office for schedules.

Nearby Training in Hat Yai

For those seeking a more professional Muay Thai experience, Hat Yai offers gyms with English-speaking trainers and structured programmes.

Fun Facts about Pattani

Pattani was once a powerful Malay kingdom with its own sultanate before becoming part of Thailand in the early 20th century.
It has one of the highest percentages of Muslim residents in Thailand, influencing its cuisine, architecture, and daily life.
The province is known for its unique southern Thai dialect and traditional boat-building techniques.
Pattani’s food reflects its cultural mix, with dishes like chicken biryani, spicy fish curry, and roti canai commonly found in local markets.

Necessary Travel Tips

When to Visit: November to February is the best time, with cooler temperatures and low rainfall.
Dress Code: Dress modestly, particularly in rural areas and when visiting mosques or temples.
Travel Safety: Stay informed about current travel advisories and check local conditions. Stick to well-known routes and respect cultural sensitivities.
Currency and ATMs: Carry cash when visiting small towns or markets, as not all places accept cards.

Final Word

Pattani is a province unlike any other in Thailand. With its mix of Thai, Malay, and Islamic influences, it provides a rich cultural experience in a peaceful, lesser-known part of the country. Whether you’re wandering ancient mosques, relaxing on quiet beaches, or exploring vibrant markets, Pattani offers a journey into a side of Thailand that few travellers ever see.

Have you visited Pattani or are planning your trip soon? Let us know in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this guide and subscribe to our YouTube channel for more cultural travel insights across Thailand.