Southern Thailand Through My Lens: A Photo Guide
When people think of Southern Thailand, they see beaches and islands before the culture. Fair. The landscape is insanely stunning, after all.
But having Pad Thai at a beach club and leaving it at that would be such a waste on your trip. I’m speaking as a Thai person. Southern Thailand has so much more to offer you than that!
Among things that have mesmerized me there was seeing a wild elephant swimming in the lake. Finding a neon-pink dragonfly in a hidden watershed was another. I don’t want you to miss out on those either.
This photo-forward guide to Southern Thailand takes you through beach caves in Krabi, jungle mornings in Khao Sok, and Phuket’s unique yet delicious cuisine, all through my lens as a local traveler.
Before You Start Exploring Southern Thailand
Of course, the Thai beaches and islands are stunning, but they don’t mean much without the Thai culture.
True to the culture and history nerd that I am, I will walk you through a bit of the South’s background first. I’ll also share some photos that reflect the culture, as well as the beautiful landscapes.
⏳ Planning last minute? Here’s everything you’ll need! 💡
- This local eSIM lets you stay connected on your own number
- Must-have Apps: Grab, Papago AI Translator, Google Maps
- Checklist: Grab my FREE Thailand E-Checklist to help you plan!
Best Hotel in Krabi: Sea Seeker (⭐️ Rating 8.5)
Best Hotel in Phuket: The Memory at On On (⭐️ Rating 9.3)
👍 Recommended Activities in Southern Thailand:
The Forgotten Kingdom of Tambralinga
Most of Southern Thailand belonged to an ancient kingdom called Tambralinga, which included Malaysia and the island of Sumatra, Indonesia.
Although not mentioned much in Thai history classes, this kingdom was much older than Siam’s Sukhothai Kingdom. It stood from around the 3rd century to its decline in the late 13th century, when it fell under the Sukhothai rule.
Southern vs. Northern Thai Culture
If you pay attention to the culture there, especially in Phuket, you will notice a stark difference from the rest of Thailand. Even the southern traditional clothing shares more similarities with those of Malaysia and Indonesia, with a pleasant amount of Thai details mixed in.
The dialect also sounds very different from any other. I can confidently say that I understand more Spanish or Korean than I do the southern Thai dialect. Yup, imagine that…
Now that your curiosity is on the rise, let’s dive in!
Photo Diary: Beaches and Islands of Southern Thailand
Below are my favorite photos from the coolest places in Southern Thailand, in no particular order. I hope they make you move up your trip sooner! 😉
Khao Sok National Park: Floating Resorts and Wildlife Moments
Khao Sok National Park is the most underrated Southern destination in my opinion.
You can never go wrong with a night or two in a floating resort here. Maybe you’ll get lucky and spot some wild elephants swimming in the lake like I did!
We found a wild elephant on our tour to Khao Sok National Park! After waiting for 20 minutes, this little(?) guy came out of hiding for a swim in the lake.
Phuket: Cafes, Culture, and Food
A wall of Polaroids inside the Bookhemain coffee shop in Phuket Old Town, where the real foodies can never stop finding good hole-in-the-wall places to eat.
The more cultural side of Phuket: The photogenic pink marble stupa of Wat Chalong and the Big Buddha.
Forget the beach clubs! Enjoy more serene walks like in these two photos above, closer to Phuket Town
Promthep Cape: Where the Palms Bend with the Wind
I love the weird shape these palm trees take on Promthep Cape. Goes to show how strong the wind is!
Baan Nam Rad: Clear Water and Pink Dragonflies
The most bizarre (and gorgeous) dragonfly I’ve seen to date, taken during a day tour to Pa Ton Nam, Baan Nam Rad.
The surreal paradise inside Pa Ton Nam, Baan Nam Rad in Surat Thani.
Koh Hong: Better Than the Phi Phi Islands (Yes, I said That)
My favorite island in Krabi, Koh Hong. If you love the viewpoints but hate the crowds on Phi Phi, this one is much better.
Railay’s Phra Nang Beach: Epic Caves on the Beach
Looking up and looking out on Phra Nang Beach of Railay Peninsula.
Ao Nang Night Market: Great Fire Show, Better Food
Ao Nang Landmark Night Market always delivers when it comes to performances, fire shows included!
Lastly, one of the most calming shots I got on Ao Nang Beach in Krabi. Love me some cotton candy sky!
Southern Thai Cuisine: Dishes You Can’t Miss
Among the spicy dishes of Thai cuisine, the southern ones take the cake.
The heavy use of chilis, pepper, and herbs characterizes the southern flavor. The local dishes from Phuket, in particular, are unique, thanks to their blend of Thai, Chinese, Malay, and European heritage.
The diversity of cuisines in Phuket: From left to right, Burmese breakfast, fusion Tubo (Bubur Cha Cha), and Thai rice porridge at Go Benz.
Southern Thailand Guides to Get Your Started
Ready to plan a trip now? Check out these other blog posts I have on Southern Thailand!
For more ideas, check my Thailand Immersive Travel page.
Helpful Travel Tips for Thailand
All visitors need to fill out a Digital Arrival Card no longer than 3 days before their trip to Thailand. And if applicable, a visa.
- Make sure you protect your trip with a travel insurance.
- Get this eSIM for local data without giving up your number.
- Must-have Apps: Grab, Papago AI Translator, Google Maps
Learn the dos and don’ts in Thai culture and some local phrases before arriving.
Don’t forget to always have cash on hand. The smaller the notes, the better!
Grab My Thailand E-Checklist
To make sure you don’t leave anything important out of your preparations, I’ve made a digital checklist to help you get ready. I leave 2 pages blank for you to customize your own checklist, too!
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