Blessed with sandy beaches, a picturesque lake, and holiday villages shaded by coconut palms, the beautiful and verdant Songkhla is a coveted tourist destination. Here's an overview of its main attractions.

Which traveler visiting Songkhla could forget the lovely sandy beaches of Samila and Son On? Perched on a reef, a golden mermaid combs her hair gently. A young fisherman named Sunthon Phu spotted her by moonlight. Frightened, the mermaid disappeared, and the fisherman longed for her for the rest of his life. Artist Jitr Buabus drew inspiration from this legend to sculpt the statue of Laem Samila, Songkhla's most iconic landmark.

Capital of its namesake province, the city of Songkhla, located southeast of the Gulf of Thailand, combines rich museums and quality monuments with stunning nature. After sunbathing on the beach, stroll through the historic center to visit remarkable buildings that blend Chinese, Thai, and Persian influences. End your journey with a boat tour on Lake Songkhla, Thailand's largest natural lake, followed by a cruise to the islands. While the destination primarily targets families, it will not disappoint affluent travelers, spa enthusiasts, gourmet dining lovers, and those seeking starred hotels.

History

Archaeological excavations confirm the presence of an important ancient maritime port on the city's outskirts. This occurred between the 10th and 13th centuries, when the Indian kingdom of Tambralinga controlled southern Thailand. Trade exchanges with India, Persia, and Arabia animated the port city.

Its name, Songkhla—or Singgora in Malay—comes from the lion-shaped rocky promontory overlooking the bay (Hin Khao Tang Kuan). In the 18th century, thousands of Chinese fleeing poor farmlands in Fujian and Guangdong arrived on Songkhla's shores seeking commercial opportunities. Their economic rise was accelerated by the tax farming system, whereby a merchant association, by paying a lump sum fixed by the Ayutthaya government, obtained the right to collect taxes. This is how the Na Songkhla family grew wealthy at the expense of residents. The main taxes fell to them. Abusing their commercial power, they easily climbed the political hierarchy. After the former governor was dismissed in 1777, one of their members was appointed to this prestigious post, which remained in the family according to succession law.

Today, the Na Songkhla governors' residence has been converted into a national museum.

Songkhla, the Great City Between Two Seas

As a tourist destination, Songkhla merits this status despite competition from its rival Hat Yai. The city has slightly more than 75,000 inhabitants. Modern infrastructure has been developed for tourists: zoo, ornamental parks, starred hotels, beachfront holiday villages, massage centers, and more. That said, the coastline and mountainous hinterland reveal two different worlds; one, predominantly Buddhist, is enriched by easy money; the other, populated by Muslim ethnic groups, still depends on subsistence agriculture. Pursuing inclusive sustainable tourism development that includes mountain stays will help reduce income inequality.

What to See and Do

A beach outing, a visit to the historic center, a boat ride on Lake Songkhla, or a folk music concert? Whatever your preference, Songkhla can offer you the vacation that suits you.

White Sand Beaches

Samila Beach

White sand, umbrella pines, seafood restaurants… Samila Beach is undoubtedly the city's most popular. The bronze mermaid with long hair turns the heads of young backpackers. Many stop to photograph her statue and seize the chance to steal a kiss.

To the right of Laem Samila stand a cat and mouse in stone, each with their own legend (a secret for you to discover). Walking three kilometers further, you'll reach Khao Kao Seng Beach, known for its splendid rock formations.

Son On Beach

North of Samila, the Son On peninsula perpetually attracts crowds of swimmers. At the beach's end, admire the statue of the Prince of Chumphon, considered the father of the Thai navy.

Religious Heritage

Wat Matchimawat

Built in the 17th century during the Ayutthaya era, Wat Matchimawat, also called Wat Khlang, is Songkhla's most important Buddhist temple. A wealthy heir from the region named Yai Si Chan reportedly financed its construction as a charitable gift. A museum housing various artistic pieces from Songkhla, Sathing Phra, and Ranot.

Wat Chai Mongkon

This late 19th-century temple is situated midway between Phet Mongkhon and Chai Mongkohn. Its chedi, which houses relics of the Buddha, is worth visiting.

Natural Heritage

Lake Songkhla

To escape urban bustle, get some fresh air, or spend quality family time, tourists won't hesitate to travel the 33 kilometers separating the lake from the city center. Lake Songkhla is poetically nicknamed the "little sea" to distinguish it from Thalé Noi, the "great sea." Boat services are at your disposal if you wish to explore the lagoons, observe birds, or discover fishing techniques invented by local residents. Don't miss the cruise to offshore islands: Ko Ha, Ko Mak, Koh Yo, Ko Rai, and more.

Thalé Noi Wildlife Sanctuary

Near 10 kilometers from Lake Songkhla, the Thalé Noi Wildlife Sanctuary hosts a unique gathering of migratory birds—a treat for ornithologists!

Historical Heritage

The Songkhla City Pillar Sanctuary

This sanctuary witnessed the city's founding. Inside stands a wooden pillar made of Cassia javanica wood, a gift from Rama III to the provincial governor.

Tinsulanond Bridge

Crossing the Tinsulanond Bridge, gracefully suspended over Lake Songkhla, is a highlight of the circuit. No concrete bridge in all of Thailand can rival its length. Enjoy 360-degree views of the city.

The Great Naga Serpent

Here's a route to take if you're traveling with young children. At 3 kilometers long, it lets you appreciate the city from every angle.

Songkhla National Museum

The building's constructor was Phraya Sunthararak, who served as deputy governor between 1878 and 1894. The mansion later became the residence of high-ranking officials before becoming the city hall. The collection includes Thai and Chinese porcelain, furniture, jewelry, and other valuable items bequeathed by the Na Sangkhla family, revealing how administrators stripped peasants to fill their own pockets.

Phatammarong Museum

Near the national museum, on Chana Road, stands another interesting museum: the Phathammarong Museum. The exhibition is dedicated to memorabilia of Tinsulanond, Thai Prime Minister and statesman who dominated the country's political landscape in the 1980s and 1990s. Being native to Songkhla, Tinsulanond is a source of regional pride. The building also houses the Tourism Office.

Climate in Songkhla

Like beach destinations in southern Thailand, Songkhla enjoys a tropical monsoon climate. Heat reigns relentlessly year-round, and rainfall is heavy, though the highest precipitation occurs between October and December. Tourists planning beach vacations or a cruise on Lake Songkhla should choose dates between February and March. Note that sunscreen is essential.

How to Get There

Songkhla is accessible by bus from Bangkok, Hat Yai, Surat Thani, and Nakhon Si Thammarat. The Transport Co. Ltd. buses operate services between Bangkok and Songkhla in 12.5 hours. Pickup is at Sai Tai Mai station south of Bangkok. For more comfort, opt for tourist-class buses, though tickets cost twice as much as ordinary buses (€31.50). Departure at 6 p.m.

Getting Around

For foreign visitors, the Singora tram is an excellent way to tour the city's points of interest. Transportation is free, but advance reservations are required.

You'll Love…

• Enjoying the sunset over Lake Songkhla;
• Taking a stroll across Tinsulanond Bridge;
• Having your photo taken with the golden mermaid;
• Photographing the islands of Ko Nu and Ko Maeo;
• Sunbathing on the beach;
• Savoring excellent local cuisine;
• Visiting a shrimp farm;
• Wandering through parks and gardens.