Surrounded by hills and forest-covered mountains, it is no surprise that parts of Betong already sit at a higher elevation. Further away, nature becomes even more prominent (BETONG THAILAND SITES).
Getting out of Betong Town is not difficult. Even for those who have driven to Betong, it is still practical to hire a tuk-tuk. The drivers know the routes well and can take people to the main sightseeing spots and popular attractions in Betong. They often act as helpful guides, though language might be a small barrier, but communication is still possible through gestures and friendliness.
The ride itself
becomes part of the adventure, winding up the hills with glimpses of lush
greenery along the way. From the hilltops, the views open up to reveal Betong’s
natural beauty, one of the scenic
highlights in southern Thailand.
Attractions in Betong, Thailand
Betong Durians
The number one attraction in Betong is none other than the Piyamit Tunnel. But it’s not just about the tunnel, which is located on a hill within a forested area, about a 15–20-minute drive from Betong Town. Along the way, the uphill ride reveals some of the best nature in southern Thailand. Green, wild, unspoiled, and true to its natural appeal. Durian trees are scattered throughout the forest, some even growing so close to the narrow road.
It is not surprising that durians from these trees are ranked as highly prized. During durian season, people head to this area to buy durians from roadside stalls and small farms, often enjoying them fresh on the spot.
Though there are no official durian plantation tours in Betong, the tuk-tuk ride itself speaks of Betong’s durian heritage and reputation.
Piyamit Tunnel Betong
Piyamit Tunnel
in Betong is a site full of history and untold stories about the communist
struggle, said to be for the freedom of the people. Whether communists should
be honoured or not, innocent lives were lost, and for some, the pain still
remains today. For those who support communists, the tunnel, built in the 1970s,
is a site to pay respect to their heroes. For others, it reflects the harsh
realities of the communist war era (PENANG WAR MUSEUM).
Piyamit Tunnel Betong includes an entrance fee and begins with a walk down a shaded staircase surrounded by nature. At the lower level, displays and exhibits tell the story of the communists and those who lived and worked in the tunnel.
Displays of communist-era uniforms, documents, and photographs trace the history of the guerrilla movement in Betong. The images and papers show how the fighters lived, worked, and organized their underground base.
Historical
Boards
Boards describe how the 1970s tunnel was made purely by hand, using only simple
tools. Written mostly in Thai with brief English translations, they outline the
hardship and determination behind the construction.
Old Daily Tools
Under a small shelter, rusty cooking stoves, iron pots, and household utensils
relate to the daily lives of the communists.
Radio Equipment
Communication devices, including transmitters and receivers, on worn wooden
tables and in glass cases, were used for passing messages between forest camps.
Shrine and
Monument
A concrete red structure outside the tunnel, part of honouring those who once
operated from the Piyamit base.
Underground
Tunnel
Entering the
underground tunnel is done through a guided tour. Inside the narrow
passageways, small living quarters, meeting areas, and storage rooms can be
seen, along with a kitchen area with stoves and utensils. Wooden supports line
the walls, and ventilation holes in the ceiling let in light and air.
The tunnel’s exit opens into the jungle, where a huge 1,000-year-old banyan tree, known as millennium tree stands. Its massive roots spread above and below the ground, making it an iconic sight and a popular spot for sharing on social media.
Millennium Tree, Piyamit Tunnel
Piyamit Tunnel is still operated by former members of the communist party, who provide further insights, including a secret door off-limits to visitors, said to lead even to Malaysia. The guided tour through the underground tunnel is led by a former communist, sharing details that may not be seen but must be heard.
Being in Piyamit Tunnel evokes mixed feelings, whether the communists acted rightly or made life worse for the people.
Sightseeing in Betong, as in other parts of Thailand, naturally includes visiting the temples. Some are easily spotted within Betong town, appearing almost abandoned, yet they remain a sight to behold. Perched on slopes, they provide views of the town and beyond.
Large statues
along roads outside the town, huge monk statues and Buddha statues, are hard to
miss. The temple names can be difficult to read due to Thai-language
signboards.
Temples worth
including:
Wat Phothisatto
Chaomae Kuan Im
Towering
12-metre Guan Yin statue and Chinese-style architecture.
Wat
Phutthathiwat
On a hill with
a golden Srivijaya-style chedi and sacred relics.
Wat Chan Thada
Pracharam
Large reclining
Buddha and tranquil surroundings.
Wat Mala
Prachasan
Traditional
Thai temple architecture.
Phra Mahathat
Chedi Phra Phuttha Thamma Prakat
Impressive
stupa within Wat Phutthathiwat grounds.
Jantarat Temple
Jantarat Temple
stands in an open space, with the temple itself at the center. To reach the
altar, one climbs the stairs. Inside, it reflects a harmony between Buddhist
and Hindu gods, showing the spiritual blend of the region. The temple
highlights the cultural fusion of the Thai-Malay border.
Worshippers
light firecrackers at the entrance to ward off bad luck, sprinkle flowers for
blessings, and perform rituals that keep the temple alive with faith.
Other Things to Do in Betong, Thailand
There are also
other things to do in Betong, which can be included as they are located along
the in-and-out route of Betong Town. Perhaps as quick stops at spots that are
for relaxing and refreshing.
One of them is Namtok
Inthason Waterfall. There is nothing much to do, and it can be really quiet as
it does not draw many people. Yet, the air is fresh, and the smell of pure
water and nature can be smelled and inhaled.
Winter Flower Garden, on the other hand, draws countless tourists. In an open setting, flowers of various colors, sizes, and species fill the space. Hours can be spent in Winter Flower Garden for those who take slow walks and admire. For others, it can be within 10 minutes, for an overview, without walking further.
