12 Best Authentic Cultural Experiences You Can’t Miss in Southern Thailand

Table of Contents

December 5, 2024

When planning a visit to Southern Thailand, most people focus on finding the perfect beach destination. But soft sand and clear water aren’t the only attractions the region offers—it’s also rich in history and tradition.

After spending a month traveling along the Andaman Coast, I looked for unique ways to connect with the local community and learn about Thai culture. From visiting temples and exploring vibrant night markets to learning about local traditions and supporting animal shelters. There are many authentic cultural activities that will enrich your trip and create unforgettable memories.

Read on to discover what to do and where to find the best cultural activities in Southern Thai towns and islands!

Wooden houses in Pak Nam fisherman village in Krabi Town

1. Visit Local Temples and Shrines for a Spiritual Experience

Southern Thailand is home to a variety of spiritual and religious sites, including Buddhist, Muslim, and Chinese places of worship. These sacred locations reflect the region’s rich history, shaped by the influence of different cultures over the years.

Visiting these destinations offers a chance to admire traditional Thai architecture and learn about local customs. Watching local people pray or make offerings provides a unique insight into their daily lives and beliefs. Beyond their cultural and historical significance, temples are also peaceful sanctuaries where you can escape the busy streets and beaches of Southern Thailand.

While some temples are easily accessible in town centers or along major roads, others might require a bit of exploration. If you’re riding a scooter through the countryside, keep an eye out for small shrines and cemeteries built in unexpected places.

One of the most iconic sights in Thailand is Buddhist monks dressed in bright orange robes. If you meet them, feel free to make a small donation or politely ask about their traditions and philosophy. Monks are often happy to share their knowledge.

Here are some remarkable places of worship to visit in Southern Thailand:

Wat Tham Sua (Tiger Cave Temple) in Krabi

Wat Tham Sua, or the Tiger Cave Temple, is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in Southern Thailand. It’s actually a large temple complex, named after tiger paw prints found in a cave. This place is not only important for local worship but also a favorite spot for visitors.

There are two main areas to explore: the shrines on the ground level and the ones at the top of a mountain. To reach the top, you’ll need to climb over 1,200 steps, but the amazing views from the top make it worth the effort. You can see the beautiful green Krabi landscape stretching out in all directions.

If you plan to climb, avoid going in the middle of the day when it’s very hot, bring water with you, and take breaks when needed. Also, watch out for monkeys—they live in the area and love stealing food or small items!

Besides the temples, you’ll find jungle trails and smaller shrines hidden inside the caves and near the monks huts. It’s a peaceful and interesting destination to spend a few hours, combining nature, culture, and spirituality.

Wat Kaew Korawaram in Krabi Town

The White Temple, or Wat Kaew Korawaram, is a beautiful complex located near the center of Krabi Town. It’s easy to find and stands out built on a hill and with white walls and detailed carvings. The temple looks almost like a fairytale castle from a distance.

There are a few buildings in the complex, and the inside of the main temple is decorated with red and gold artwork. These colorful designs tell stories from Buddhist teachings. The temple is peaceful and not hard to visit, so it’s a great spot if you’re exploring Krabi Town.

Wat Chalong in Phuket

Wat Chalong is one of the most well-known temples in Phuket. It’s a large complex with many colorful shrines and golden Buddha statues. The beautiful designs and detailed decorations make it a great example of traditional Thai architecture.

This temple was originally built to honor two respected monks from the 19th century, who were known for helping the local people. It’s also home to a sacred Buddha relic and paintings that show the life of Buddha.

Wat Chalong is very popular with both locals and tourists. Whether you’re interested in its history, want to admire its beauty, or simply enjoy a peaceful place, this temple is definitely worth a visit.

Chinese and Thai Buddhist Temples in Koh Lanta Old Town

Koh Lanta Old Town is a fascinating place where history and culture come together. Once a bustling trading port, the area has been influenced by many cultures, including Chinese and Thai. This blend is reflected in the shrines and temples scattered around the town.

Maha Katyayana Shrine, although hidden between traditional wooden buildings, is hard to miss with its bright red walls and intricate dragon sculptures guarding the entrance. This shrine showcases the Chinese influence in the area and is a small but picturesque place to visit, as it’s built right by the seashore.

Nearby, on the opposite side of the street, you’ll find another Chinese shrine, easily recognizable by its vivid red color. This shrine is a popular spot for locals who come to pray and make offerings.

Uniquely positioned in the middle of a roundabout, you’ll also find the Kromluang Chumphon Khetudomsak Shrine, which showcases traditional Thai architecture.

Just a 10-minute walk from the Old Town, you’ll discover a quiet Thai Buddhist temple. This temple is less known and located in a more secluded spot. It’s also a home to monkeys, so be mindful of your belongings while enjoying the serene atmosphere.

Phra Nang (Princess Cave) in Railay Beach

Railay Beach, famous for its dramatic limestone cliffs and popular among climbers, is also home to a unique shrine called the Phra Nang Cave (Princess Cave). This shrine is dedicated to fertility and holds spiritual significance for local community. Expect to see colorful offerings, left by people seeking blessings. While the cave is spiritual in nature, it’s also a tourist hotspot, so it can get quite crowded.

Small Shrines and Temples on the Southern Islands

The biggest and most beautiful temples are usually found in larger towns like Krabi Town or Phuket. However, smaller islands and rural areas also have plenty of places of worship, although less impressive. On islands like Koh Phi Phi, Koh Mook and Koh Lanta, you’ll often see tiny shrines built along the roads.

On Koh Lipe, there is a peaceful forest cared for by Buddhist monks, where you’ll find small temples, statues, and paintings on rocks. Surrounded by trees, it’s a quiet place to visit, and not very popular with tourists.

Mosques Across Southern Thailand

Southern Thailand has a large Muslim community, though many tourists may not know this. On most islands along the Andaman Coast, you’ll notice small mosques, which play an important role for the local people. Seeing different types of religious buildings shows how different communities live together peacefully in Southern Thailand.

Golden buddha sitting statue at the Tiger Cave temple near Krabi town

2. Explore the Charm of a Historic Old Towns

Southern Thailand has been evolving for centuries, with its old towns serving as trade hubs along the Strait of Malacca in the Andaman Sea. Many of these places still have traces of their historical roots, including traditional buildings influenced by various cultures. These charming destinations are definitely worth visiting for a glimpse into the region’s past.

Koh Lanta Old Town

Located on the quieter east side of Koh Lanta, the Old Town is full of history and local culture. It’s a peaceful place to explore, perfect for a walk along the pier and seashore.

As you wander, you’ll notice unique sights like giant lobster sculptures and colorful temples and shrines. The standout charm of the town lies in its wooden stilt houses, located by the walking street where you will find many restaurants and local shops. Despite being a popular spot for tourists, Koh Lanta Old Town still has an authentic, local vibe.

Phuket Old Town

Phuket Old Town is larger and more vibrant than Koh Lanta’s, with streets full of character and history. The area is famous for its tall, colorful buildings designed in Sino-Portuguese style, reflecting the town’s rich heritage from its tin mining boom era.

The Old Town is filled with interesting spots, including museums, temples, shrines, and delightful coffee shops. Some mansions have been restored to their former glory and are open to visitors.

If you’re exploring Phuket Old Town, don’t miss Dibuk Road, known for its textile and art shops, perfect for finding unique, local items. Thalang Road, a wide and busy street that transforms into a lively market every Sunday. Phang Nga Road and Soi Romanee, streets lined with charming shops, old-style buildings, and cafés.

Traditional wooden houses, restauants and tourists at Walking street on Koh Lanta Old Town

3. Taste Authentic Thai Cuisine

Thai food is famous around the world, and there’s no better way to experience its authentic flavors than by trying street food and eating at local restaurants. Southern Thailand has its own unique cuisine that’s definitely worth exploring.

The food here is rich in flavors, with a variety of curries, fried rice dishes, and plenty of fresh seafood. As someone who doesn’t eat meat, I particularly enjoyed the fresh seafood options available almost everywhere in Southern Thailand—and I was never disappointed.

Where to Try Local Thai Food

The best places to experience authentic Thai cuisine are hawker food stalls and small local restaurants. In Southern Thailand, you can find these spots in busy areas like Chao Fah Park Pier in Krabi Town or hidden between the busy streets near Tonsai Pier on Koh Phi Phi.

These places may not have big signs or fancy decorations; instead, they are a collection of small stalls with steaming pots and sizzling grills lined up next to each other.

While these spots might not fit the image of traditional “street food” since many have basic seating with metal or plastic chairs, they are perfect for enjoying a quick and delicious meal. To find the best food, follow the locals—they know where to go for the tastiest dishes.

If you’re looking for famous street food snacks like skewers or Thai milk tea, you won’t have to look far. These snacks are easy to find in touristic areas. For the best selection of street food, visit a night market, where you’ll find an endless variety of dishes to try.

Buying from hawker stalls can feel a bit challenging if there’s no English menu, but don’t worry. Most sellers speak enough basic English to help you choose your dish. They are used to tourists and happy to guide you. If you’re unsure, just point to what looks good or ask for a recommendation—you’re likely to end up with something delicious!

Local Favorites to Try

Som Tam (Papaya Salad): A refreshing and quite spicy salad made with shredded green papaya, lime juice, chilies, and peanuts.
Moo Ping (Grilled Pork Skewers): Juicy pork skewers marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, grilled to perfection.
Khanom Buang (Crispy Thai Crepes): Thin, crispy crepes filled with coconut cream or shredded coconut, sometimes also with savory options like egg and minced pork.
Khanom Krok (Coconut Pancakes): Bite-sized pancakes made with coconut milk, crispy on the outside and soft inside.
Panang Curry: A rich and creamy curry with a hint of sweetness, often made with meat, seafood, or tofu.

Other Must-Try Dishes

Mango Sticky Rice: A classic Thai dessert made with ripe mango slices, sticky rice, and sweet coconut milk.
Pad Thai and Green Curry: Perfect for those who prefer less spicy dishes, these are Thai cuisine staples that are always satisfying.
Milk Tea: Available in a variety of flavors, this sweet, creamy drink is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Snacks from 7-Eleven: Thailand’s convenience stores are full of unique snacks, from toasties to chips in quirky flavors you won’t find elsewhere.
Fresh Coconut: Hydrating and refreshing, fresh coconuts are sold everywhere, especially near the beach and make a perfect drink on a hot day.
Fresh fruit from local vendors: mangosteen, pomelo, mango, durian, rambutan, longan, lychee, salak (snake fruit), rose apple, tamarind, guava, jackfruit, pineapple, papaya, passion fruit, custard apple (sugar apple), dragon fruit, starfruit, and watermelon.

On the table Papaya salad, soup, padthai and drinks at Koh Lipe

4. Experience Vibrant Local Night Markets

A trip to a night market is a must when visiting Thailand. These destinations are more than just a place to get street food snacks—they’re full of energy and culture, offering food, shopping, and entertainment all in one spot. You’ll find everything from clothes and shoes to handmade souvenirs and sometimes even flea market items.

Many of the bigger night markets will also have live performances, with singers, musicians, and other artists. They’re a great way to experience the lively local atmosphere.

Tips for Visiting Night Markets

Arrive Early: Night markets get busier as the evening goes on, and the best food often sells out quickly. Most markets wrap up by 10 PM, so plan to arrive early for the best experience (and most food options).
Bring Cash: Most vendors don’t accept cards, so make sure to have enough cash for your food and shopping.
Expect Crowds: Popular markets, especially on weekends, can get crowded, so be ready for a very busy environment.

Best Night Markets in Southern Thailand

Krabi’s Weekend Night Market

Held every Friday to Sunday in Krabi Town, this market starts in the late afternoon and is one of the busiest in Southern Thailand. It’s packed with vendors selling street food, clothes, souvenirs, and handmade crafts.

In the heart of the market, there’s usually a scene with live music to enjoy while you browse around. The mix of tasty food, unique shopping, and lively entertainment makes it a must-visit spot if you are planning a perfect Krabi itinerary.

Phuket’s Naka Weekend Market

The biggest and most lively market in Phuket, the Naka Weekend Market is a weekend favorite. You’ll find endless stalls offering street food, souvenirs, crafts, and more.

Popular treats to try include grilled squid and roti pancakes, alongside other street food classics. And if you need a break, you can even get a foot massage there. Just keep in mind that this market is huge and can get very crowded, so be prepared to navigate through the crowds.

The Sunday Street Market (Phuket Old Town)

Phuket Old Town’s Sunday Street Market is a lively and colorful event that takes over Thalang Road every Sunday afternoon. On other days, Thalang Road is a busy street, but on Sundays, it transforms into a huge street market full of food stalls, shopping, and live performances.

The market is a great place to see local artists showcasing their crafts, from handmade jewelry to unique souvenirs. It’s also a perfect opportunity to experience Phuket Old Town at night, with its buildings lit up beautifully.

While the market is vibrant and exciting, it’s a popular spot for tourists and can get very crowded. If you want to avoid the rush, consider arriving early to enjoy the atmosphere at a slower pace.

Koh Lanta Old Town Weekend Market and Walking Street

This market near the Ban Si Raya Pier (fishermen’s pier) in Koh Lanta Old Town isn’t a typical night market but is just as lively. On weekends, the area comes alive with food and craft stalls. It’s also a central spot for local celebrations and community events. If there’s something big happening on the island, this is the place to be.

For a more traditional night market vibe, head to Koh Lanta Old Town Walking Street during high season. During the day, it’s lined with restaurants and shops, but in the evening, street food hawkers set up, creating a buzzing, delicious scene.

5. Join a Traditional Thai Festival

Festivals and national holidays are a wonderful way to experience Thai culture. Many travelers plan their trips to coincide with these unique celebrations. If you happen to visit during a Thai holiday or festival, don’t miss the opportunity to join in and witness the rich traditions that make Thai culture so special.

Songkran (Thai New Year)

When: April
Where: Nationwide

Songkran, celebrated in mid-April, is one of Thailand’s most famous festivals and has been recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage. It’s a joyful, nationwide event famous for water fights that symbolize cleansing, renewal, and the start of the new year.

This tradition has deep cultural roots. The word “Songkran” refers to the sun entering the Aries constellation, signifying the start of a new cycle. It is not only water fights, but also a time for families to reunite and pay respects to their ancestors.

Other customs popular during Songkran include bathing Buddha images, playing traditional games, feasting and enjoying music.

Loy Krathong

When: November (dates vary depending on the lunar calendar)
Where: Nationwide

Loy Krathong, known as the “Festival of Lights,” is one of Thailand’s most beautiful and special celebrations. During the festival, people release small floating offerings called krathongs onto rivers, lakes, or the sea. These krathongs are made with candles, flowers, and sometimes a personal offerings, symbolizing gratitude and hopes for the future.

The festival is held to honor the water goddess and ask for blessings for the year ahead. It’s a magical time when the water glows with thousands of floating lights, creating a peaceful and stunning sight.

Laanta Lanta Festival

When: Early March
Where: Koh Lanta Old Town

If you’re visiting Koh Lanta in early March, you might catch the Laanta Lanta Festival, a vibrant local celebration held in Koh Lanta Old Town. This festival showcases the island’s diverse ethnic groups, including Thai, Chinese, and Muslim communities.

The streets come alive with colorful decorations, parades, traditional clothing, music, and performances. Local artists sell handmade crafts, and you can try many authentic dishes from different cultures. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming to everyone.

Phuket Old Town Festival

When: February
Where: Phuket Old Town

The Phuket Old Town Festival is a vibrant celebration that takes over the streets of Old Town in February. During this event the area transforms with colorful decorations, dance and theater performances, and plenty of live music.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of local food, and browse the crafts and artworks of talented local artists. The festival is a wonderful mix of culture, art, and community spirit, making it a must-see if you’re in Phuket during this time.

Chinese New Year

When: January or February (dates vary depending on the lunar calendar)
Where: Nationwide

While not an official holiday in Thailand, Chinese New Year is widely celebrated, especially in areas with strong Chinese heritage and bigger towns like Phuket and Krabi Town.

During this time, you’ll see streets and temples adorned with festive red decorations, including lanterns and banners. Temples are busier than usual, with families making offerings and praying for good fortune.

Expect lively celebrations and delicious Chinese-inspired treats in markets and shops. It’s a festive and colorful time that showcases another layer of Thailand’s rich cultural diversity.

People visiting tiger cave temple during chinese new year, colorful decorations

6. Explore Fishermen Villages and Learn About the Urak Lawoi Community

Southern Thailand is home to traditional fishermen villages that showcase the region’s rich coastal culture. Among these communities are the Urak Lawoi people, an indigenous group with a long history of living close to the sea.

The Urak Lawoi, meaning “People of the Sea,” are also known in Thailand as Chao Leh or Chao Naam, which translate to “sea gypsies.” Historically, they were a semi-nomadic Indo-Malay group that settled in the Andaman Sea region long before the arrival of the Thais.

Their language, a unique blend of Malay and Thai influences, reflects their long history of interaction with different cultures. Traditionally animistic in their beliefs, many Urak Lawoi have since adopted Islam or Buddhism.

The Urak Lawoi lifestyle was once deeply tied to fishing and foraging. Their villages are often located along the coast, with wooden houses on stilts and fishing boats lining the shores. This peaceful way of life offers visitors a glimpse into a slower, more traditional way of living.

However, as tourism and urbanization increase in Southern Thailand, their traditional practices and heritage are gradually disappearing. Today, Urak Lawoi (after being resettled) live on several southern islands, including Koh Lipe, Koh Mook, Koh Lanta, Phuket, Koh Bulon, and the Phi Phi Islands.

Visit places like the Koh Lanta Community Museum to learn more about their history, or stop by Plaew Hon Sai Cemetery on Koh Lanta, a historic site tied to their ancestors. Booking a fishing trip with them is a great way to support their community and learn about their skills.

As tourism grows, the Urak Lawoi’s heritage is under threat. By visiting respectfully, you help keep their traditions alive while enjoying a unique cultural experience.

Houses on stilts in Pak Nam fisherman village in Krabi Town

7. Take a Thai Cooking Classes

Thai cuisine is loved worldwide, and learning to cook it can be a fun and rewarding experience. In Southern Thailand, many cooking schools offer hands-on classes where you can make popular dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, and Green Curry.

These classes often start with a trip to a local market to pick fresh ingredients. You’ll learn about Thai herbs and spices and how to use them in your cooking. Some schools also provide recipe books so you can recreate the dishes at home.

And after cooking, you’ll obviously have a chance to enjoy the meal you’ve prepared!

To find cooking classes, consider visiting areas like Koh Lanta, Phuket, Krabi Town, and Ao Nang. These destinations have well-established schools that cater to tourists.

8. Support Local Animal Shelters

Supporting animal shelters in Southern Thailand is a wonderful way to make a difference while exploring the region. Shelters like Lanta Animal Welfare dedicate themselves to rescuing and caring for homeless and injured cats and dogs, not only on Koh Lanta but also on nearby islands.

Lanta Animal Welfare shelter functions as a rescue center, clinic, and adoption facility, providing vital help to animals in need. Visitors can join a tour to learn about the shelter’s mission, see the daily work involved, and even spend time playing with the cats.

Beyond the tour, you can support their efforts by shopping at their store, making a donation, or considering adoption. If you decide to adopt, the shelter will assist with all the formalities to bring your new furry friend home. Volunteering is another impactful way to contribute and help animals directly.

Visiting a shelter can be heartwarming and educational, but it’s important to be prepared to see animals that have suffered greatly. If you’re sensitive to such sights, consider supporting the shelter through donations or other means instead.

Your support not only helps animals in need but also spreads awareness about preventing cruelty and ending animal suffering.

If you’re visiting Phuket, you can also support Bodhi Dog Rescue and Shelter, another organization doing incredible work to help animals in the region. Every bit of help counts in making a difference for these animals.

White cat laying on the ground in Koh Lanta animal shelter

9. Watch a Professional Muay Thai Fight

Muay Thai, or Thai boxing, is Thailand’s national sport and a must-see cultural experience. Watching a live Muay Thai match is thrilling, as you’ll witness the unmatched skill, strength, and discipline of the fighters. The matches are not just about the sport; they are steeped in tradition, with ceremonial music and rituals that make the event feel like a performance.

If you’re in Southern Thailand, many stadiums host professional fights regularly. Some popular venues include Bangla Boxing Stadium in Patong, Phuket; Koh Lanta Stadium, Ao Nang Stadium and Krabi International Boxing Stadium.

If you will get inspired by the sport, many stadiums also offer training sessions for beginners. And in some places you will even find sport camps, giving you a chance to try this dynamic martial art.

10. Stay Overnight with a Local Family

A homestay is one of the most authentic ways to connect with Southern Thailand’s local communities. By staying with a real family, you can join in their daily activities, like preparing traditional meals, helping care for animals, or even learning how to grow local produce.

Many families are happy to share their knowledge, and you might get the chance to go fishing and learn their unique techniques firsthand. It’s a great way to see how locals live, appreciate their traditions, and create meaningful connections during your trip.

Where to Go: Consider visiting Koh Por, a small island accessible from Koh Lanta.

11. Spot Unique Sculptures in Popular Locations

Southern Thailand is full of quirky sculptures that add character to its towns and islands. Look out for the giant blue lobster, a huge crab statue, and oversized fruit sculptures in gardens. These fun landmarks are usually found in popular tourist destinations, so you’re likely to come across them while exploring. Keep an eye out—they’re great for unique photos!

Blue lobster statue near the Pier at Koh Lanta Old Town

12. Relax with a Traditional Thai Massage

No visit to Thailand is complete without experiencing a traditional Thai massage. This ancient practice combines acupressure, yoga-like stretches, and gentle massage techniques to relax your muscles, improve circulation, and rejuvenate your body and mind.

On the beaches of Southern Thailand, it’s easy to find local therapists offering relaxing foot massages with the lovely sound of waves in the background.

For a more comprehensive experience (and a bit more painful), look for massage parlors located in towns and tourist areas. These parlors typically offer a range of options, from full-body Thai massages to oil massages and aromatherapy.

Final Thoughts

Southern Thailand is more than just stunning beaches and turquoise waters—it’s a region rich in culture, history, and unique experiences. From exploring beautiful temples and trying vibrant street food to supporting local communities and participating in traditional festivals, there’s so much to discover beyond the usual tourist trail.

So, take your time, explore with an open mind, to find out everything Southern Thailand has to offer!