Southern Thailand

The Emerald Ocean and Multicultural Way of Life

Southern Thailand is geographically defined by its coasts along the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, which gives it a wealth of beautiful beaches and islands. Its culture is a vibrant mosaic, shaped by its history as a trade hub that brought influences from Indian, Persian, and Chinese cultures.

Local Tourism

The South offers a wide range of tourism experiences, from marine adventures to exploring deep jungle nature.

Marine and Beach Activities

The region is internationally renowned for its marine destinations, such as Phuket, Ko Samui, Ko Lipe, and the Phi Phi and Similan archipelagos. Popular activities include snorkeling and scuba diving to explore beautiful coral reefs and diverse marine life. Boat trips to iconic landmarks like James Bond Island and the "unseen" Emerald Cave are also major attractions.

Adventure Tourism in Jungles and Islands

Beyond the beaches, the South also offers other stunning natural wonders. Khao Sok National Park, known as "Guilin of Thailand," features floating bungalows amidst limestone mountains. In Yala, the Ai Yerweng Skywalk provides a breathtaking view of a sea of mist over the forest canopy. Adventure activities also include whitewater rafting, ziplining, and visits to ethical elephant sanctuaries.

Festivals and Traditions Reflecting Beliefs

Festivals in the South reflect the region's rich cultural and religious diversity. The Phuket Vegetarian Festival is a globally recognized event, famous for its intense spiritual rituals, including body piercing and fire walking. This tradition is a part of the ritual for purifying the mind and body and honoring the Nine Emperor Gods. The South also celebrates the Chak Phra Festival, where Buddha images are paraded on boats or on land, and the Sart Duan Sip festival in Nakhon Si Thammarat, which honors ancestors.

Unique Cuisine and Flavors

Southern cuisine is well-known for its intensely spicy and bold flavors. A staple ingredient is turmeric, used to remove fishy odors and add a beautiful color. Iconic and popular dishes include Gaeng Tai Pla, a rich and pungent curry made from fermented fish innards. Other notable dishes are Gaeng Som, a sour curry, and Kua Kling, a dry-style curry stir-fried with meat. The diverse cultural influences are also evident in dishes like Moo Hong (braised pork stew) and Mee Hokkien (stir-fried noodles), which have Chinese roots. Khao Yam (rice salad) and Nam Phrik Kung Siap (spicy shrimp dip) are also key local dishes to try.