[TH] Phatthalung: Spending 1-day at the hidden gem |

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Phatthalung, located in Southern Thailand, neighbours better-known destinations such as Hat Yai and Songkhla. Rich in natural beauty but without the crowd associated with more popular destinations, it offers a tranquil and authentic experience to its visitors. Not only that, visitors looking for a local flavour has plenty to choose from at the bustling train station night market. Top it off with hospitable and friendly locals, my experience at Phatthalung was a memorable one.

Since I had chosen to rely on my feet to get me around town, the places I could explore were somewhat limited (but slow travel has its charm doesn’t it). So those wanting to get more out of their trip could consider renting a motorbike or hiring a grab instead!

Now, let’s start the exploring!

1. Khao Ok Talu

No landmark is more iconic to Phatthalung than Khao Ok Talu, being prominently featured in her provincial seal as well. Its best-known feature is a large hole near the top of the mountain. A series of staircases totalling over 1000 steps lead to the top of the mountain, where a seated Buddha and two monk statues are located. This is also where you can get a good view of the legendary hole.

Somewhere in the middle of the climb up, you will see a trail towards the left. This trail leads to a temple and a meditation centre. I did not venture into this path as I was too tired (read, lazy) after getting down from the summit.

To the peak

If you are eyeing the peak of Khao Ok Talu, then your journey must continue. There is a precarious side trail located opposite the seated Buddha which is the path to ascend to the peak. In all honesty, I would not have done it if I were alone. The path just looked too risky for me to undertake in my slippers.

However, I was in luck that day and met an experienced guide who offered to guide me on the ascend. Initially, I was suspicious of the offer and also still uncertain about my cheap slippers. However, all caution and suspicion were overcome by curiosity and excitement after the guide showed me multiple photos of successful ascents he had guided – including children, women in dresses, and at night time!

He was clearly experienced and guided me on each foothold and handhold. After 5 minutes of rock climbing, rope pulling, and some balancing acts, we reached the peak and soaked in the panoramic view of the Phatthalung town. The Thailand flag at the peak makes for a photograph opportunity too!

Beware though, I was stung by some insect at the top which hurt dearly at the point of contact. Might be a good idea to put on some repellants.

Panoramic views from peak of Khao Ok Talu

2. Chilling out at a cafe on a rainy day

If you are caught in the rain like me, there is a cosy little cafe with great views overlooking a green pasture here. They have power plugs available for use there too. For me, I took the time to update my diary of the happenings during my travels.

View from cafe in Railway track in Phatthalung

3. Khuha Sawan Cave

Well, my day hadn’t actually started from Khao Ok Talu. I arrived in Phatthalung on a train at 7 am and found a hotel on Google after I reached. To my surprise, they were kind enough to let me check in then and there and didn’t charge me extra for it! The balcony had a pretty good view as well and could be a nice place to relax and recover from travel fatigue.

The first sight I visited that day was in fact the Khuha Sawa Cave, given its proximity to the hotel. The Khuha Sawan Cave, located in the compounds of Wat Khuha Sawan, is one of the ancient monuments of Phatthalung and a testament to the rich history of the place. Inside the cave, there are numerous Buddha images, including one reclining Buddha image, as well as inscriptions from the Thai Kings. If you come from a place where caves are not that common, it can also be a chance to marvel at nature’s wonders.

Admission to the temple and the cave is free and they are open during the day. Beware, however, that there are a couple of unfriendly dogs in the compound who will bark angrily at you.

4. Train Station Night Market

It was easy and convenient to find food in Phatthalung, especially during nighttime when the bustling train station night market opened for business. From small bites to desserts to rice dishes to healthy dinner boxes, there is something for everyone in this compact food paradise. I especially liked how local it felt – without the tide of tourists found in other markets.

Last but not least, the journey I started but turned back on

The guide I met at Khao Ok Talu recommended Wat Khao Daeng Tawan Tok to me – it is a mountain with a cave temple, located 3.9 km away from the train station and 3.5km away from Khao Ok Talu. Check out the Google map locations here and here. From the reviews on Google, they look super cool and worth visiting!

I had only one day and set off to this cave temple after my visit to Khao Ok Talu. However, it started raining on my walk there and I had to find a rest stop along the way (i.e. the cafe mentioned earlier) to wait out the rain.

When I finally reached the foot of the mountain, it was already past 5 pm. I was aware of the time and hurried up the flight of metal staircases hoping to do a speedy tour of the sight. I reached the end of the staircases which was joined by a dirt trail with dense vegetation. Cautious, I took a few steps on the slightly damp grass, wondering if it was time to turn back. Then, I saw it – a coiled brown snake on the ground! I had such a scare I immediately turned back for life.

Whilst I hadn’t seen the beauty and all that Wat Khao Daeng Tawan Tok has to offer, the walk there was relaxing and could make for a nice stroll. On my walk back, a local even stopped to offer me a ride! What a gem.