Road Trip in Narathiwat

Road Trip in Narathiwat: A Local's Perspective

This Road Trip in Narathiwat combines three separate journeys to the region, excluding Sukhirin and Tak Bai. The trip begins anew in Pattani, where we enlist the help of a local guide to showcase the hidden gems of Narathiwat.

The Journey Begins at Pa Jor Waterfall

Our journey commences at Pa Jor Waterfall, nestled within the Budo-Su-ngai Padi National Park. This expansive park encompasses territories across seven districts: Bacho, Rueso, Yi-ngo, Cho-airong, Ra-ngae, Sukhirin (Narathiwat Province), Raman (Yala Province), and Kapho (Pattani Province). Characterized by a rugged, mountainous landscape, the park serves as a vital source of water and boasts a diverse array of valuable flora, including the iconic bungsur palm and the golden leaf tree. Its natural splendor is further accentuated by numerous breathtaking waterfalls, solidifying its status as the 95th national park in Thailand.

No text provided for translation.

After descending from the waterfall, we ordered tea and enjoyed nasi dagang, a dish we had purchased in Pattani.

Leaving Yudo-Suhai Padi National Park, we headed towards the Hala-Bala Wildlife Sanctuary in Waeng District. Many people might be confused about whether it's called Yala or Narathiwat. We were confused too, but now it's clear, and we've been to both sides.

The Hala-Bala Wildlife Sanctuary encompasses two distinct forest areas: the Hala Forest, located in Betong District, Yala Province, and Jehna District, Narathiwat Province, and the Bala Forest, situated in Waeng District and Sukhirin District, Narathiwat Province. Although these two forests are not contiguous, they were jointly designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1996 through a proclamation published in the Royal Gazette.

The term "Bala" originates from the word "Balah," meaning "escaped" or "released," referring to an elephant that fled into the forest on the Waeng district side. "Hala" signifies "migration," alluding to people who migrated from Pattani town in the past and settled in communities around the forest's edge. Residents of Waeng district refer to the area as "Bala-Hala," while those in Betong district call it "Hala-Bala."

We hiked through the nature trail and then went to Sirindhorn Waterfall. We went up to play in the middle of the forest above. When you come with a local, there are always secret spots. The water is very clear and cool.

The sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

No text provided for translation.

We immersed ourselves in the cool water, thoroughly enjoying the surrounding natural sounds. We are completely enamored with this place.

No text provided for translation.

It's time to visit the 300-year-old mosque.

The 300-year-old mosque (Masjid Wadi Al-Hussain or Masjid Taloh Manoh), an ancient mosque in Taloh Manoh village, was once a center for the production of handwritten Qur'ans. According to historical records, Wan Hussein As-Sanawi, an immigrant from Ban Sanoy Yanya, Pattani Province, built the mosque in 1624 CE. The original roof was made of palm leaves, which was later replaced with clay tiles. The villagers of Taloh Manoh still use the mosque regularly for religious ceremonies.

The most remarkable feature of the 300-year-old mosque is its unique architectural style, which differs from typical mosques. It consists of two connected buildings constructed entirely of teak wood, using wooden pegs instead of nails. The building's design blends indigenous Thai elements with Chinese and Malay influences, creating a harmonious aesthetic. The most prominent feature is the base supporting the gable above the roof on the first floor. The minaret, resembling a Chinese pavilion, is situated on the roof of the rear section. The walls are made of whole wooden panels with pierced windows, while the ventilation openings are carved with intricate patterns of leaves, flowers, and Chinese motifs.

Generally, only the exterior is open to the public. To visit the interior, permission must be obtained from the village imam's desk.

Location: Ban Ta Lo Manoh, Lubo Sawo Subdistrict, approximately 25 kilometers from Narathiwat Province. Follow Highway 42 and turn at Ban Bu Ra Ngo.

Fortunately, we were granted permission to enter and take photographs. The entrance to the 300-year-old mosque has a strict rule: non-Muslims must always request permission and show respect for the site. It is truly a magnificent mosque, and the surrounding community is equally welcoming.

The provided text is empty. There is nothing to translate.

Please provide the text you want me to translate.

Upon exiting the mosque, I was greeted by the sight of beautiful roadside flowers.

A mosque beautifully decorated with plastic bags, future boards, paper, fabric, and straw ropes.

Passing the hornbill roundabout, the symbol of Waeng District.

And finally, the road trip ends at Su-ngai Kolok.

One side of Sungai Kolok train station is lined with barbershops. It's a fun town, and next time I'll have to stay here for a night. Before returning to Pattani, I stopped for coffee at Hong Huad. Every menu item at this coffee shop includes cinnamon, but if you don't like it, just tell them to leave it out. I was fine with it, so I enjoyed it.

There is no text to translate. Please provide the text you want me to translate.

No text provided for translation.

Follow other travel trips at:

Page: Solo backpacking travel

IG: prapat / Solo backpacking travel