Things To Do
in Narathiwat
Narathiwat is a province in southern Thailand known for its cultural diversity and rich history. It is home to a mix of Thai, Malay, and Chinese communities, creating a unique blend of traditions and customs. The province is surrounded by lush forests and scenic landscapes, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching.
Narathiwat is also known for its delicious cuisine, with a variety of traditional dishes that reflect its multicultural influences.
- "Sawasdee" - Hello
- "Khop khun" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Narathiwat Central Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Thailand. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take in the beautiful architecture.
Head to the Narathiwat Heritage Trail where you can learn about the rich local culture and history. Stop by local eateries to savor traditional southern Thai dishes.
Stroll along the riverfront and witness the sunset painting the sky with vibrant colors. Indulge in street food from local vendors for a true culinary experience.
Visit the Budo-Su-ngai Padi National Park for a morning hike among lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Capture photos of the breathtaking landscapes and serene waterfalls.
Enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic spot within the park. Spend your afternoon exploring the various trails and possibly spotting endemic species.
Return to Narathiwat town and unwind at a local café. Reflect on your nature adventures while sipping on a refreshing drink.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with a blend of Malay and Thai influences.
- Stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and beaches.
- Culinary diversity with unique local dishes and flavors.
- Less touristy, allowing for a more authentic and tranquil experience.
- Strong sense of community and local traditions.
- Higher levels of crime and violence due to ongoing insurgency issues.
- Limited infrastructure and facilities compared to other tourist destinations.
- Language barriers, as Malay is more commonly spoken than Thai.
- Potential safety concerns for foreign travelers.
- Restricted access to certain areas due to military presence.
Best Activities in Narathiwat
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a boat tour along the scenic Bang Nara River and take in the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Hike through the lush jungle and visit the picturesque waterfalls in Budo-Su-Ngai Padi National Park for a memorable outdoor adventure.
Unwind and soak up the sun at the peaceful Ao Manao Beach, known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful coastline.
Tours
Uncover the best of Narathiwat with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Narathiwat
Visit one of these nice places.
Beautiful beach with clear water and stunning views
Scenic beach with picturesque views and photo opportunities
Panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape from the pagoda
Food in Narathiwat
Narathiwat Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant, mildly spicy curry with tender chunks of beef or chicken, often enjoyed with a side of roti, a type of flatbread. One can savour this dish at Khrua Mai Samui Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A traditional fish dish prepared with a rich coconut-based sauce, flavored with turmeric, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves. It can be relished at Payang Seafood Restaurant.
Lace-like crepes served with a light chicken or lamb curry, offering a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. Try this dish at Tasek Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Narathiwat better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this bustling market, known for its array of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local snacks like Kuih Patani (fish cakes) and Murtabak (stuffed pancakes).
A vibrant night market offering an abundance of street food options, from grilled seafood to spicy salads and noodle dishes, providing a true taste of local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Narathiwat, it is important to greet others with a 'wai' (placing palms together at chest level) as a sign of respect. Politeness and humility are highly valued in interactions.
Showing respect for Buddhism, the predominant religion in Narathiwat, is crucial. This includes removing shoes before entering temples and refraining from inappropriate behavior or dress around religious sites.
Respecting the social hierarchy and addressing individuals using appropriate titles or honorifics, especially towards elders, is essential in Narathiwat.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Narathiwat with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Narathiwat
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Narathiwat, Thailand is not a common practice. It is not expected at restaurants, hotels, or for most services. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip may be appreciated.
In Narathiwat, Thailand, cash is the predominant form of payment. Credit cards are accepted in large hotels and some international restaurants, but it is advisable to have cash on hand for most transactions. ATMs are widely available for withdrawing cash.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Narathiwat.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with cool and dry weather, perfect for outdoor exploration and sightseeing.
Expect hot and humid weather, ideal for beach activities and water sports.
Expect heavy rain and occasional storms, suitable for experiencing lush green landscapes and local festivals.
Narathiwat at Night
Hiking in Narathiwat
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A forested national park that offers various trekking trails and scenic views, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
Known for its lush mountains and diverse wildlife, this national park provides several hiking routes for adventurers.
Located near Betong, this park features nature trails that allow hikers to explore beautiful landscapes and unique flora.
A park known for its caves and mountain trails, perfect for those looking for both hiking and exploration.
A lesser-known hiking spot that offers a relatively untouched environment with serene trails and natural beauty.
Aiports
How to reach Narathiwat by plane.
Located in Kota Bharu, Malaysia, this airport serves as a major gateway for the northeastern region of Malaysia and is approximately 90 kilometers from Narathiwat.
Situated in Hat Yai, Thailand, this airport is around 120 kilometers from Narathiwat and serves as a regional international airport with connections to various destinations.
Located in Malaysia, this airport is about 150 kilometers from Narathiwat and is one of the major airports in the northern region of Malaysia.
Located in Bangkok, Thailand, this is the main international airport serving the Bangkok metropolitan area, approximately 960 kilometers from Narathiwat.
The main airport serving Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, it is approximately 1,050 kilometers from Narathiwat and offers extensive international flight connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Narathiwat, comprising the majority of the population, known for their unique culture and language.
A significant minority in the region, primarily consisting of ethnic Thais who practice Buddhism.
Includes small communities of various ethnic groups such as Chinese, indigenous peoples, and others, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Narathiwat, with many local teams and enthusiasts participating in matches and tournaments.
Muay Thai, the traditional martial art of Thailand, is widely practiced in Narathiwat, with local gyms offering training and competitions.
Sepak Takraw, a sport native to Southeast Asia that combines elements of football and volleyball, is popular among the youth in Narathiwat.
Takraw is often played in local communities, drawing attention for its skill and agility, making it a favored pastime.
Basketball has gained popularity in urban areas of Narathiwat, with many schools and communities having teams and tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Narathiwat.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Narathiwat's cuisine predominantly features meat and seafood, several eateries offer delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as stir-fried vegetables, tofu-based curries, and fresh fruit smoothies.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy dishes like grilled seafood, salads, and fruit-based desserts, and can communicate their dietary needs to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.