Songkhla Old Town — Attraction in Songkhla Province

Songkhla Old Town.

My recent trip to Thailand has given me a new interest, as the old town before reaching Hatyai, Songkhla Old Town, offers an interesting blend of history and contemporary art, making it a delightful and unique destination for culture enthusiasts.

I started my journey from Hatyai using their local transport, which cost me only a fraction. The journey took about an hour. Upon arriving, I started to wander its quiet, colorful street structures and wooden houses right in the center of town. These well-preserved shophouses create a picturesque backdrop.

Then comes the interesting part of my visit: seeing the truly stunning murals scattered throughout the town. In every corner and on every street you walk, there are plenty of these picturesque murals depicting the life of the people in this town. These aren't just random graffiti; they are sophisticated works that beautifully integrate with the town's architecture. The paintings often depict nostalgic scenes of local life and folklore and nature, adding a layer of magical realism to the historic environment. Each corner turned reveals a new surprise, transforming the area into an open-air gallery. More than just visual feasts, these murals create a thoughtful dialogue between the past and present. I also visited the old railway station of Songkhla Old Town, a rewarding experience hopping into the past, perfect for a leisurely day of exploration and photography. I can imagine the time spent here is worth every second of it. I asked myself, if people can live here for centuries, spending a few hours here won't cost me...

It is relaxing to take a walk along the narrow streets and small alleys of this old town. Old Songkhla Town, to us, is a charming heritage enclave consisting of old Chinese-style shophouses. What a delight to discover artistic mural pieces on street corners and unexpected places...

While some of the buildings have been turned into colourful cafes, they still maintain their traditional charms. As we strolled along, we had the opportunity to observe and admire the unique architecture of a bygone era. Plentiful decorative lush green plants in pots in front of most shophouses add to the overall artistic feeling of this place.

The old town is located near to the sea. There is even a harbour nearby. Ban Nakhon Nai Museum with free admission is also located in the vicinity. There are numerous Chinese temples as well as a mosque in this town,...

Songkhla Old Town is a must-visit for history and architecture lovers. Wander streets lined with colorful Sino-Thai shophouses, each a photo opportunity. Admire the grand Old Town Gate and learn about the town's rich heritage at informative kiosks (available in English!).

Don't miss hidden alleys decorated with street art, a unique blend of old and new. Cool off with a delicious local coffee at a charming cafe, and savor authentic Southern Thai cuisine. While some streets can get crowded with cars, the overall vibe is friendly and authentic.

For a fascinating cultural experience, head to...