Nature and Culture in the South

This adventure tour leads you deep into the south of Thailand, far from the usual tourist routes. Discover the untouched natural beauty of Phattalung and Nakhon Sri Thammarat, two provinces rich in culture and biodiversity. Highlights include a tranquil boat ride across Thale Noi lake, where thousands of pink water lilies bloom across the water, early morning fishing trips with local communities, visits to hidden waterfalls and mystical cave temples, and the breathtaking mountain landscapes of Baan Kiriwong, one of Thailand’s most scenic eco-villages.

Begin your southern Thailand journey with an early morning flight from Bangkok to

Hat Yai, followed by a scenic 90-minute drive to Ko Mak, a peaceful village nestled between rice fields and coastal wetlands. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the local community before settling into your homestay. Spend the afternoon exploring the traditional fishing village, where you’ll join in daily activities and learn how to craft fishing nets and fish traps using age-old techniques. In the evening, enjoy a home-cooked dinner with your host family and experience authentic southern Thai hospitality during your overnight stay.

After breakfast, take a peaceful boat ride across Songkhla Lake, where you’ll observe local fishermen at work and enjoy time for bird watching in one of Thailand’s richest wetland ecosystems. By mid-morning, bid farewell to your host family and begin the 90-minute drive toward Phatthalung town and the nearby community of Lamnai. Along the way, stop for lunch at a local restaurant and visit a traditional shadow puppet workshop to learn about this centuries-old art form. Upon arrival in Lamnai, meet your new hosts and check into the community lodge. After settling in, head to Khao Kram Waterfall for a refreshing swim and a natural fish spa experience. Dinner and overnight at the lodge complete a day rich in culture, nature and local connection.

Rise early and take a short drive to a scenic viewpoint, where you’ll enjoy freshly brewed local coffee as the sun rises over the forested hills of southern Thailand. Afterwards, visit a nearby village learning centre to discover the process of rubber production and try your hand at rubber tapping, a traditional skill still practiced in the region. Return to the lodge for breakfast before heading out to explore a cave temple, where stories of living stone and lost Chinese treasure add a layer of mystery to the natural surroundings. You’ll also witness the making of local snacks, a glimpse into the culinary heritage of the community.

After freshening up at the lodge, say goodbye to your hosts and begin the journey to Thale Noi Waterfowl Reserve, one of the largest and most ecologically rich wetland reserves in Southeast Asia. Along the way, stop at a local handicraft centre to see the creation of traditional Pons drums, enjoy lunch at a roadside restaurant, and take in the rhythm of rural life. Upon arrival at Thale Noi, check into a lakeside resort offering peaceful views and a connection to nature. Dinner and overnight at the resort.

Note: Guests preferring urban comfort may opt for a hotel in Phatthalung town.

Rise early and take a short drive to a lakeside viewpoint, where the sun rises over the tranquil waters of Thale Noi, illuminating the stilted fishing platforms known as yor yak that dot the horizon. Afterwards, embark on a boat trip through the Thale Noi Waterfowl Reserve, home to more than 180 species of resident and migratory birds nesting among lotus flowers, reeds and wetland grasses. Watch water buffaloes as they wade and swim through the lake’s shallow waters, a serene glimpse into local life.

After the boat trip, enjoy breakfast at a nearby coffee shop before browsing for souvenirs in one of the many workshops preserving the tradition of krajud weaving—a craft using long, durable wetland grass to make mats, baskets, hats and other handmade items. By late morning, travel along a scenic mountain road to Lake Hua Nam Sai, where you’ll enjoy bamboo rafting and lunch at the Wang Hon Rafting Camp. Continue to Nakhon Sri Thammarat, stopping to visit the ancient city wall that still marks the historic heart of the province. Dinner is served at Baan Laem village, followed by an overnight stay at a local resort.

Rise early and join the local fishermen as they head out onto the ocean in their boats, offering a rare glimpse into the rhythms of coastal life. Enjoy a simple breakfast on board as the sun rises over the water. After returning to shore, treat yourself to a natural mud spa—a soothing experience drawn from the mineral-rich coastline. Back at the resort, take a shower and check out before beginning the two-hour drive to Kiriwong, a village known for its mountain scenery and eco-friendly lifestyle.

Upon arrival, check in at the resort and take time to relax before lunch is served. In the afternoon, set off by bicycle to explore local handicraft shops, where villagers produce mangosteen soap and natural clothes dyes using traditional methods. Before returning to the resort, enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear mountain river. The day ends with a starlight dinner by the riverbank, surrounded by nature and the quiet charm of Kiriwong.

After breakfast, set off for Prom Luk Waterfall, stopping en route to visit a local workshop where a traditional medicinal mushroom tonic is produced using age-old herbal techniques. Upon arrival at the waterfall, enjoy a refreshing bathe in its cool, forest-fed waters before heading to a nearby noodle shop for a delicious local lunch.

In the afternoon, explore three culturally significant temples, where you’ll learn about the life and teachings of Por Tangklai Wachasit, a revered monk whose legacy continues to shape the Buddhist Way of Life in southern Thailand. Afterwards, check in to Khao Men Resort, a peaceful retreat nestled in nature. Take time to relax before enjoying a sunset dinner on the resort’s terrace, surrounded by mountain views and the gentle sounds of the evening.

After breakfast, take a stroll through the local market near the station, soaking in the morning buzz and browsing fresh produce, handmade goods and regional specialties. Pause for coffee and snacks at a charming old Chinese coffee shop, where vintage décor and traditional brews offer a nostalgic taste of southern Thai culture. Afterwards, begin your onward journey to your next destination.

Travel options include a train or flight from Nakhon Sri Thammarat, or a scenic drive to the beaches of Khanom or Don Sak, where you can catch the ferry to Koh Samui. Alternatively, continue across the peninsula to explore the coastal gems of Phang-Nga, Phuket or Krabi, each offering its own blend of nature, culture and seaside charm.

• Accommodation in guesthouse and homestay as mentioned in the programme
• Activities as specified in the programme
• Local  English-speaking guide
• Meals as mentioned in the programme
• All entrance fees for visits included in the programme
• Domestic flight as mentioned

• Services excluded:
• Additional soft drinks/alcohol
• Personal expenses
• Tips for guide and driver
• International flights
• Travel insurance

For our confidential prices or additional information about any of our services,

please contact us at:  info@nutty-adventures.com 

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