Located in Yala Province, southern Thailand, right on the Malaysian border, Betong is easy to reach for Malaysians. Unlike famous Thai destinations like Phuket or Krabi, known for their beaches, Betong attracts visitors for strolling through town, tasting authentic Thai street food, shopping, and relaxing with traditional Thai massages.
In recent years, Betong has expanded its sightseeing attractions. While temples remain the main highlight, reflecting Thailand’s spirituality, there are also other interesting places to discover for those willing to venture beyond the town center (ATTRACTIONS IN GEORGE TOWN PENANG).
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How to Travel to Betong, Thailand
Since Betong doesn’t have its own airport,
foreign tourists usually fly into Hat Yai Airport first. From there, Betong can
be reached by direct bus or minivan, taking around 3-4 hours. Private car or
taxi services are also available for a faster and more convenient journey.
For Malaysians, the main route to Betong
is by driving. Starting from Perlis, Kedah, or Penang, drive south and cross
into Thailand to reach the Betong border. At the border, passports and entry
forms are completed for approval. After immigration stamping, the drive
continues into Betong town.
What to Do in Betong, Thailand
Betong town can be chaotic, with traffic
weaving through the streets and people walking around. Tuk-tuks are everywhere
and are the easiest way to get around the town.
Food is a highlight in Betong. Street food stalls and local eateries provide a fair deal for a full Thai meal. Cafes are scattered around the town for a quick snack or drink while taking a break. Street shopping is also part of the experience, though many items can be found elsewhere in Thailand. Bargaining is expected.
One thing not openly spoken about Betong
is that it is a men’s paradise. Visitors can see groups of men walking around,
and for those wanting to booze and make it a night out, there are nightclubs
and bars where music blasts late into the night. The sounds often spill into
the hotels at wee hours, echoing through corridors and doors slamming, making
it clear that Betong never really sleeps.
Betong Mongkollit Tunnel, Thailand’s First Mountain Tunnel in Yala
Betong
Mongkollit Tunnel
Walk around Betong town, and it will automatically lead to a tunnel. With the
name listed on the top, it is made known that this is the Betong Mongkollit
Tunnel. Thailand’s first and largest mountain road tunnel is located right in
the heart of Betong Town.
At 268 metres long, it connects the older part of
town to the newer area. Standing at the side of the road to look at the tunnel
is pretty much the only thing to do. At night however, Betong Mongkolit Tunnel
becomes a vibrant vibe with colourful lighting display, aptly for photos or
short videos.
Walking through the tunnel gives a sense
of the scale and effort involved in connecting different parts of the region.
There is no entry fee, and it is significant as one of Betong’s landmarks.
Wat
Kuan Im Temple, Betong, Thailand
Just a short walk from the tunnel, literally across from it on a small hill, is
Wat Kuan Im Temple. Taking the steps up the road leads to this Chinese-style
temple, which honours the Goddess of Mercy.
The temple is quiet and peaceful,
especially on weekdays when there is almost no one around. A large white statue
of the goddess Guan Yin (Kuan Im), about 12 metres tall, and a pagoda dominate
the temple grounds. There is also an altar for paying respect to the goddess.
From the top of the temple, it’s a breather and offers a nice view of Betong
town.
Wat Kuan Im Temple can be included as part of sightseeing in the town and gives insight into where locals gather to pay homage. This Betong temple is a key highlight among Betong attractions and reflects the cultural side of Betong, Thailand.
Wat
Ki Lo Si Temple, Betong, Thailand
Further away from Betong town, on a hilltop surrounded by nature, is Wat Ki Lo
Si (Kek Lok Si) Temple. Perhaps not one of the top temples in Betong compared
to the more prominent ones, it is quiet and calm. Around 10 am, a gentle breeze
adds to the serene atmosphere.
The temple has a goddess at its center,
small shrines, and bells on one side. Not the grandest, yet well maintained,
and from the edge of the hilltop, there is a mesmerising view of Betong’s hills
and natural surroundings. Slowly watching the sunrise while at the temple
grounds is a moment of calm away from the noise of Betong town.
One of the most popular attractions in Betong is the Betong Hot Spring. On weekends, it’s bustling with tourists. Buses arrive with visitors walking around and dipping their hands and feet in the warm pools.
The hot spring is located in Ban Charo
Parai Village, Tambon Tano Mae Ro, a short drive from Betong town. It sits
within a spacious garden, surrounded by greenery. The natural spring reaches
temperatures of around 80 °C in the hottest spots, hot enough to boil an egg in
about 7 minutes.
The mineral-rich water is believed to have
therapeutic benefits, helping to relieve muscle pain and soothe skin
irritations. Betong Hot Spring is indeed a natural therapy, with free access to
its warm, mineral-rich waters.
