English
French
Spanish
ItalianYala
Yala is the southernmost province of Thailand, which shares a border with Malaysia. It is one of three provinces that make up the Deep South, along with Pattani and Narathiwat. The landscape in this province varies greatly; there are mountains as well as forests and coastlines. Yala has a rich culture due to its large Muslim population who are mostly ethnic Malays.
.jpg)
Yala - The southernmost province of Thailand
Because of this, it also shows some Thai-Malay fusion influences. Agriculture – particularly rubber and rice cultivation – drives most of its economy while the tourism industry has been growing rapidly over recent years offering visitors unique cultural experiences they can’t find anywhere else.
Let’s explore this province with Asia King Travel!
In the past, Pattani was the capital of a Malay kingdom that was semi-independent. However, it paid tribute to the Thai kingdoms of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya. When Ayutthaya fell in 1767, Pattani became completely independent until King Rama I brought it back under Siamese control.
In 1909, Siam annexed it as part of an agreement with Britain. Yala used to be part of Pattani along with Narathiwat before they were made separate provinces. A separatist movement has been active in Yala since 2004 when it re-erupted after many years of dormancy.
The urban planning of Yala city is one of its most notable features. It has been ranked 23rd in the world for urban planning.
Yala has also become a “city of learning” with facilities such as TK Park Library that contains books and information from all over the world, and public parks that offer intellectual activities for children and the general public. In Muang district, Discovery Park has a modern learning center, play and fitness areas, outdoor concerts and green spaces for people to relax. Free admission.
TK Park Library in Yala province
On their first trip to Yala, Thai tourists can start by paying homage at Yala City Temple in front of the city hall in Muang district. You will be amazed by the beautiful temple which is highly respected by locals and surrounded by a public park decorated with ornamental plants and trees along with a running track for exercise.
Yala City Temple
For those who love street art, head to Saphan Dam (Black Railway Bridge) spanning Pattani River in Sateng district. This new landmark features street art and performances by local artists, along with colorful “Rainbow Buildings” along the train tracks.
.jpg)
What to do in Yala
Yala is a multicultural city where locals come from different races, religions and cultures. The blend of many cultures has created unique attractions expressed through various tourist destinations
May be you like: Thailand Tours 25 days
Yala’s cuisine is also a reflection of the province’s multicultural roots, blending together Thai, Muslim and Teochew Chinese flavors.
For food enthusiasts, popular places to visit are Anna’s Garden where roti (flat bread), fried chicken and nasi dagang (Malaysian fragrant rice) are served; Kuay Chap Thepwiman that offers Teochew-style noodles; Rice Cafe which serves Southern Thai fusion dishes; and Lae Pha Na Tham restaurant in Na Tham district where guests can enjoy Yala’s traditional jungle cuisine against the backdrop of a towering rock.
What to eat in Yala
Talking about fruits, durian is the signature product of Yala as can be seen from orchards scattered around the province indicating government support for cultivation and research. Saded Nam durian is unique to Yala because this province has steep mountainous terrain and soil rich in minerals and nutrients. Yala durian is known for its firm flesh, peculiar texture and strong taste.
Yala has many different types of accommodations for all kinds of travelers.
In the city of Yala, you can find hotels such as Piyaporn Pavilion Hotel that is known for its modern facilities or Linux Hotel with its contemporary design. These hotels are located in the center which makes it easy to get around and visit attractions or restaurants in the city.
.jpg)
Where to stay in Yala
Betong is a popular town in Yala and there are several options for visitors like Betong Merlin Hotel where rooms are comfortable and equipped with necessary amenities or Garden View Hotel which offers a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views.
If you want to see the natural beauty of Yala, Than To District would be a good choice because Jolly Riverside Resort and Grand View Hotel Than To are located here – they both give access to forest parks and waterfalls.
.jpg)
Best time to visit Yala
Yala, similar to most parts of southern Thailand, has a tropical climate characterized by two seasons: wet and dry. The best time to go to Yala is between January and April when it is sunny, warm and good for outdoor activities as well as sightseeing.
In this predominantly Muslim region, local festivals such as Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr are significant events that offer unique cultural experiences. Traditional Thai festivals like Songkran in mid-April may also be celebrated but with different emphasis. If you want peace or don’t mind getting wet sometimes then visiting during the rainy season could work for you; however heavy rains can disrupt travel plans.
Yala may be reached by a variety of transportation means.
Read more: South Thailand tours
