Home to one of Thailand's most impressive mosques, Pattani Province is a fantastic place to discover the country's vibrant Muslim culture. You can admire historic Portuguese architecture in Pattani Town, escape to pristine palm-fringed beaches and eat your way through sizzling street-food stalls at the bustling night market.
Things to do in Pattani
Built in the traditional Sumatran style, Matsayit Klang is one of Thailand's largest and most beautiful mosques. It's fronted by a glassy reflection pool and topped by nine soaring green domes. Non-Muslims are welcome to tour the complex outside of prayer times.
The Pattani coastline is wonderfully undeveloped, fringed by sugar-white sand, lush pines and swaying coconut palms. Join local sunseekers at Laem Tachi, a sandy cape accessible only by water taxi. You can bask on the golden beach or relax at waterfront restaurants.
Set on the east bank of the Pattani River, the Old Town showcases the province's multicultural roots. Built by wealthy traders in the 1500s, the grand buildings strung along Th Ruedi are some of Thailand's finest examples of Sino-Portuguese architecture. You can also admire lavish Chinese-style homes on Th Arnoaru.
Bite into tasty Thai street food at the Pattani Night Market, where you'll find grilled seafood, southern-style curries and piles of fried noodles and mango sticky rice. Alternatively, snag a table at Chan Phen Restaurant, a breezy riverside eatery specialising in seafood.
Getting around Pattani
Pattani Town is easy to get around on foot or by using local motorbike taxis. Renting a scooter or motorbike is a great way to explore Pattani Province independently. Buses and minivans depart from the town's western bus station, with services to Bangkok taking around 14 hours.