Top Things to Do in Betong, Thailand

Betong, in Yala Province, southern Thailand, is surrounded by hills and forest-covered mountains. That’s why certain places in town are at higher levels. As you travel further to visit temples and other attractions, many are located on hilltops. If you’ve hired a tuk-tuk, a common mode of transport in Thailand, the ride takes you up and down winding hill slopes. It’s a great way to enjoy the jungle scenery, and the ride itself can feel like a small adventure (WHAT TO SEE & DO IN BETONG THAILAND).

Durian Plantations

Betong is known for its durians, and during the fruit season, many visitors come to taste and buy them from roadside stalls or small farms. It’s one of the experiences to try while sightseeing in the area. There may not be official plantation tours, but riding a tuk-tuk through the winding hill roads gives you a view of durian trees along the way. It adds a nice local touch to your trip.

Durian trees seen along the uphill tuk-tuk ride in Betong.

 

Namtok Inthason Waterfall
If you travel further out from Betong Town, you may spot waterfalls, one of them is Namtok Inthason Waterfall. It’s a quiet stop, suitable for a short break and a moment of natural therapy, just watching and listening to the water cascading down. It can be very quiet during off-peak days or weekdays. Stay aware of your surroundings while enjoying the peaceful view, which will take around 10 to 15 minutes (PLACES TO VISIT IN PENANG MALAYSIA).

A quiet stop at Namtok Inthason Waterfall, Betong.

 

Winter Flower Garden
Winter Flower Garden is a popular stop that often brings in busloads of tourists. The area is quite large and filled with different types of flowers and plants. But to be honest, there isn’t much that will keep you there for long. A short walk around is usually enough before moving on to the next spot (ISTANBUL TURKEY SIGHTSEEING).

Betong’s Temples
Just like in many parts of Thailand, temples are easy to spot in Betong. Some are small, while others can be seen from the roadside, especially the statues. One noticeable example is a huge stone monk statue within a temple compound. The challenge is that most temple names and signs are in Thai, so it can be hard to know which temple you’re looking at. Still, spending some time at these temples can be meaningful.

Jantarat Temple
Jantarat Temple follows Thai traditions and has its own unique feel. You’ll need to climb a staircase at the entrance, where you’ll find various statues of gods. What makes this temple stand out is the mix of shrines, not just Buddha, but also Hindu gods like Shiva and Ganesha. Visitors often buy firecrackers to light at the gate, a local ritual said to drive away bad luck. There are also flower-sprinkling ceremonies held in Jantarat Temple for good fortune.

Shrines and deities of Buddhist and Hindu Gods in Jantarat Temple, Betong.

 

Piyamit Tunnel

No sightseeing in Betong is complete without visiting the Piyamit Tunnel. Attracting visitors throughout the year, the walk begins after purchasing your ticket at the entrance. A shaded jungle path and a series of steps lead you to displays showing how life was for the communist fighters. There’s even a secret door, which is off-limits to visitors, and a small museum with artifacts from the communist era.

Shaded nature trail leading to Piyamit Tunnel in Betong.

A guided tour takes you into the tunnel itself. It’s narrow and dim, with just enough space for two people to walk side by side. Inside, you’ll see how the communist fighters lived underground - where they ate, slept, and possibly even raised families.

Inside the narrow Piyamit Tunnel, a wartime hideout in Betong.

 

At the end of the tunnel, you exit into the jungle. A short walk will bring you to the Piyamit Millennium Tree, a massive tree with roots spreading across the ground. From there, you continue walking before looping back to the entrance.