Understand

Immerse yourself in the captivating story of Hat Yai, a bustling city built on tourism. Originally a small village called Khok Su-Met Choon, this vibrant city flourished when a Hakka Chinese man named Mr. Khun Niphat Chinnakorn invested in railway lines from Nakhon Si Thammarat to Pattani. The village was renamed Hat Yai and has since grown from a mere four inhabitants in 1922 to over 380,000 people today. Hat Yai may not be the capital of the province, but it is the thriving hub for investment and business in the region. The city attracts tourists from neighboring countries, offering an array of tourism-related businesses, including hotels, markets, massage parlors, and even a floating market (though not entirely authentic). It is the perfect spot for a memorable transit and capturing stunning photos. One cannot indulge in Hat Yai's vibrant atmosphere without exploring its diverse culinary delights. Make sure to try the mouthwatering fried chicken, best enjoyed with sticky rice and Thai chili sauce. These tantalizing flavors are a testament to the region's culinary prowess. While Hat Yai is a dynamic tourist destination, it is important to be aware of the potential for scams that may target foreigners. This issue extends beyond Hat Yai and is a country-wide concern. Some locals may try to overcharge tourists in downtown areas or for visits to attractions slightly outside the city. It is always beneficial to have some understanding of the local language, be it Thai or Malay, to navigate such situations.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Pad Thai: Pad Thai is a signature Thai dish consisting of stir-fried rice noodles with a uniquely balanced blend of sweet, sour, salty, and tangy flavors. It typically includes shrimp or chicken (though can be prepared with tofu for a vegetarian version), scrambled eggs, bean sprouts, and is garnished with crushed peanuts, lime wedges, and fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions. The dish is served with a side of som tam (green papaya salad) and mango sticky rice for a complete meal.

Tom Yum Goong: This spicy and aromatic soup is a beloved Thai classic that features a fragrant broth made from stock, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, galangal, lime juice, fish sauce, and chili paste. It's packed with succulent prawns, mushrooms, tomatoes, and other vegetables, with optional additions like snakehead fish or even chicken. The dish is often garnished with fresh cilantro and a sprinkling of pepper.

Mango Sticky Rice: This iconic Thai dessert is a delightful combination of sweet, creamy mango and glutinous rice. The sticky rice is cooked in coconut milk and sugar until it achieves a chewy texture, then served alongside ripe, juicy mango slices. The dish is sometimes garnished with toasted coconut flakes or sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor. It's typically enjoyed during the mango season (May to September) as a sumptuous, refreshing treat.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing