Day 3: Exploring Narathiwat

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"Narathiwat" Welcome to Day 1: The southernmost tip of the axe at Su-ngai Kolok

"Narathiwat" welcomes you: Day 2 - Testing your fitness with whitewater rafting at Khao Thong Mountain

Bang Nara, or Bang Nak, was the original name used by Thai Buddhists to refer to Narathiwat Province. Thai Muslims originally called the area Manara or Manaro.

This morning, we set out to explore the fresh market of Narathiwat.

The bustling market was teeming with people, but what truly stood out was the presence of a large Muslim population. As in other parts of the province, soldiers were stationed to ensure security, adding a unique character to the scene.

There are many strange-looking foods, but I can't name them all.

Fish crackers, a popular souvenir, are available at many shops here.

After walking for a while, we couldn't find anything we liked. (Actually, there were some things. I saw some beautiful durian, which looked very tempting. I wanted to have another one, but I held back.) We asked our friend Sun to take us to a place for breakfast. We really wanted to eat "kai gao and," but it was Sunday, and the shop was probably closed. We drove around several times, but it was already late in the morning, and there was no sign of anyone grilling chicken. 😭😭😭 I was so disappointed. When will I be able to go again?

Following the path, our next destination was a roadside stall serving chicken satay with compressed rice. We stopped at a Muslim curry rice shop.

Another strange-looking dessert.

The last wrap of chicken satay with compressed rice is gone. There's no chicken left to buy more.

A simple home-style rice with curry dish. The taste is decent, and the portion is large and filling.

Let's go out and buy some souvenirs (for ourselves).

A wide variety of fish crackers, making it difficult to choose.

Dried squid hangs all around the shop, a truly dazzling sight.

What to do with all these different brands of incense... 🤔

After buying souvenirs, we took in the morning atmosphere of Narathiwat Yala. It was quiet, with few people around, except for the bustling market area.

Since the opening, there has been speculation about whether Thaksin Ratchaniwet Palace is open to the public. We have investigated and found that it is not open. We were only able to take a picture of the sign outside.

And then it goes back to circling the paper bird roundabout like before. Since that day, it has been circling countless times.

This angle gives off a similar vibe to Si Kao in Trang province.

Next, we stopped by a fishing village, which wasn't particularly interesting. We just took some photos and moved on.

Next, we will embark on a short but steep nature trail at Ao Manao-Khao Tanyong National Park.

Upon disembarking, one is greeted by a menagerie of animals, including goats, chickens, and an abundance of cats, particularly pregnant felines. The area may soon be known as "Cat Bay" rather than "Lemon Bay." According to a local resident, the prevalence of cats is attributed to a religious belief that spaying or neutering cats will prevent descendants.

A park ranger volunteered to guide us on a tour.

I encountered an unidentified tree with dozens of butterflies perched upon it. Notably, none of the surrounding trees were attracting similar attention. This peculiar phenomenon suggests that the tree may possess unique qualities.

The viewpoint offers stunning views. The white sand beach is much cleaner than the one at Narathat Beach.

Despite the arduous trek, leaving you drenched in sweat, this photo opportunity is not to be missed.

And then we walked back down the same way.

It's lunchtime. Let's eat at the Golden Dragon Restaurant.

Many houses in this area are not actually houses for people. Upon closer inspection, you will realize that they are the homes of swiftlets. Some of these houses are even larger than our own.

This restaurant has a great atmosphere and is located by the water. While you wait for your food, you can enjoy the view.

Everything is delicious.

Before leaving the city, we stopped to admire the large Ganesha sculpture, adorned with colorful glass mosaics, which took nine years to complete.

Located nearby is the Koa Leng Ji Shrine.

The small hill in the city is called Khao Mongkol Phiphat.

Leaving the city, we drove along a small road to the village where the Wadi Al-Hussain Mosque, also known as the 300-Year Mosque, is located.

The mosque is constructed from teak wood, with wooden pegs used to join the pieces together. The roof is currently covered with terracotta tiles, replacing the original palm leaves. The interior is still used for religious ceremonies, so entry is prohibited.

The air vent has a beautiful design.

Next, we head to Pa Cho Waterfall, part of the Buddhist-Su-Hai Padi National Park.

This location appears to be a popular tourist destination for local residents, who are predominantly Muslim. The atmosphere is cool and refreshing, making it an ideal spot for a picnic. Visitors can bring their own food and enjoy a relaxing afternoon. Some families even bring large pots of food to share.

Unfortunately, we had to rush to catch our flight, so we could only take a quick look around.

The waterfall is incredibly tall. Notice how small the people in the picture are in comparison.

Initially, we thought we had to return to the airport, but Sun assured us that we would have enough time. He insisted on taking us to see the process of making "gor" boats, but unfortunately, it was closed on Sundays. Instead, we visited Baan Thon Beach.

The pristine white beach we saw from the airplane.

The air here has a slightly salty smell.

Dried yellowstripe scad

And then Sun safely escorted us to the airport.

Our first encounter with Narathiwat left a lasting impression. The delectable cuisine satisfied our palates, leaving us pleasantly full after every meal. While our travels to various locations did not always inspire a sense of complete security, we remain hopeful for the restoration of peace in this region. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to revisit this captivating destination.

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