Understand

The actual border between Thailand and Malaysia is located at Dannok town, 10km south of Sadao town and around 60km from Hat Yai. Previously, Thai immigration formalities were conducted at Sadao town but have since moved to Dannok, just before the border gate. On the Malaysian side, you'll find Bukit Kayu Hitam. This particular road crossing is the busiest between Thailand and Malaysia. Thailand's National Highway 4, which stretches all the way to Bangkok via Hat Yai, and Malaysia's North-South Expressway, connecting to Johor Bahru via Kuala Lumpur, both start from this crossing. It is a popular route for long-distance buses traveling between Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. Sadao town serves as the capital of Sadao district and acts as a junction town for those heading to Padang Besar. Dannok, which was once a small town with a few shops by the highway, has grown rapidly in recent years. It has become a thriving destination fueled by people crossing the border in search of entertainment and shopping. Along both sides of the highway, you'll find lanes filled with karaoke bars, nightclubs, and lively bargirls.

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