Things To Do
in Pattani

Pattani is a vibrant town located in southern Thailand, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. It serves as a melting pot of Thai, Malay, and Islamic cultures, making it unique in the region. The town is a gateway to beautiful beaches, lush forests, and historical sites that reflect its diverse history.

Despite facing challenges, Pattani remains a place of warmth and hospitality, inviting travelers to explore its hidden gems.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day at the Pattani Central Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Thailand, to admire its stunning architecture. Then, visit the Pattani Cultural Center to learn about the region's rich history and traditions.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, followed by a stroll through the vibrant Pattani Market, where you can shop for handicrafts and local produce.

evening
:

Head to the waterfront for a seafood dinner while watching the sunset, followed by a visit to a local café for traditional Thai desserts.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a trip to the beautiful Sai Buri Beach for some sunbathing or swimming in the clear waters. Enjoy breakfast at a beachside café.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby Khao Kha National Park for a hike through lush rainforest trails. Look for local wildlife and enjoy the serene environment.

evening
:

Return to Pattani town for dinner at a traditional restaurant, and then visit a local market to experience the nightlife with live music and local performances.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$3 - $5
🚌Bus fare$0.50
🍵Cup of coffee$1 - $2
🛍️Souvenir shopping$5 - $20
🏨Night in a budget hotel$15 - $30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and diversity.
  • Delicious and unique local cuisine.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Occasional political unrest in the region.
  • Language barriers may be challenging for some travelers.
  • "สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ" - Hello
  • "ขอบคุณ" - Thank you
  • "ราคาเท่าไหร่" - How much is this?
  • "ห้องน้ำอยู่ไหน" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "ช่วยด้วย!" - Help!

Places to Visit in Pattani

Visit one of these nice places.

Pattani Central Mosque

An architectural marvel with stunning domes and intricate details, perfect for capturing the essence of Pattani.

Sai Buri Beach

With its golden sands and turquoise waters, this beach offers beautiful sunset photography opportunities.

Khao Kha National Park

Capture the breathtaking landscapes and diverse flora and fauna of this lush national park.

Culinary Guide

Food in Pattani

Pattani offers a delightful culinary experience, with a blend of Thai and Malay influences reflected in its dishes. Street food is abundant, and local markets provide a lively atmosphere where you can sample authentic flavors.

Pattani Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Kerabu

A traditional rice dish served with herbs, vegetables, and grilled fish, famous in the region.

Must-Try!

Khao Mok Gai

Thai-style chicken biryani, flavored with spices and served with a side of sauce.

Roti

A crispy, flaky flatbread often filled with sweet or savory ingredients.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pattani Night Market

A bustling market where you can find a variety of local street food, snacks, and drinks.

Pattani Central Market

A daytime market offering fresh produce, spices, and ready-to-eat local dishes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Pattani experiences a tropical climate, characterized by a distinct wet and dry season. The dry season (November to February) is warm and pleasant, while the hot season (March to May) can be quite humid and hot. The rainy season (June to October) brings heavy rainfall, especially in September and October, but it also contributes to the region's lush greenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

When visiting religious sites, wear respectful clothing that covers shoulders and knees.

Remove Shoes

Always remove shoes when entering homes and places of worship.

Respect Local Customs

Be mindful of cultural practices, especially during prayer times and local festivals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Pattani is generally safe for tourists; however, travelers should stay informed about local conditions and avoid areas with reported unrest. It's advisable to respect local customs and avoid sensitive topics related to politics and religion. Always keep personal belongings secure and be cautious in crowded areas.

Tipping in Pattani

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Practices

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but it's best to carry cash for local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November - February)

This is the best time to visit, with cool and pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities.

Hot Season (March - May)

Expect high temperatures and humidity; it's advisable to stay hydrated and take breaks from the sun.

Rainy Season (June - October)

Frequent rains can disrupt travel plans, but the landscapes are lush and vibrant.

Festivals (Various Dates)

Participating in local festivals such as Eid and Songkran can provide unique cultural experiences.

Nightlife Guide

Pattani at Night

Pattani's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to major tourist destinations. The town features a few local bars and cafes that offer live music and a relaxed atmosphere. Night markets come alive in the evenings, providing opportunities to sample street food and mingle with locals.

Hiking in Pattani

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Khao Kha Trail

A beginner-friendly hiking trail that takes you through lush forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking at Bukit Tuku

A more challenging hike with rewarding panoramic views, ideal for experienced hikers looking for adventure.

Airports

How to reach Pattani by plane.

Pattani Airport

Located approximately 20 kilometers from the city center, Pattani Airport offers domestic flights connecting to Bangkok and other southern cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Pattani is moderately walkable, with most attractions and local markets located within walking distance of each other in the town center. However, sidewalks can be uneven, and some areas lack pedestrian crossings, so caution is advised when walking near traffic.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Thai Muslims

The majority of Pattani's population is Muslim, which influences local customs, cuisine, and festivals.

Thai Buddhists

There is a smaller Buddhist community in Pattani, contributing to the region's cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

Traditional Thai boxing is popular in Pattani, with local schools offering classes and training.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played, with local teams and informal matches taking place in parks and fields.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Pattani is generally light, with most roads being manageable. Public transportation options include songthaews (shared taxis) and tuk-tuks, which are convenient for getting around town. Renting a motorbike is also a popular option for exploring the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Pattani.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many dishes can be adapted to vegetarian, but it's best to communicate your needs clearly.

Halal

Most food in Pattani is halal, but ensure to check with vendors if you're unsure.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Pattani include local clinics and hospitals that provide basic medical services. Major hospitals are available in larger cities like Hat Yai, but for emergencies, Pattani offers adequate services. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide