Travel advice: For the provinces of Yala, Narathiwat and Pattani the Dutch travel advice (as of 15 October 2026) uses colour code orange: only travel there if necessary. Read the current travel advice (NederlandWereldwijd, Dutch) ↗
Border town: Border rules, opening hours and visa conditions can change. Check current information and the travel advice before you cross a border.
About Pattani
Pattani is the capital of the province of the same name on the southern Gulf coast and a city with a strong Malay-Muslim character. In the past Pattani was an important trading kingdom, which is still visible in the culture. The sixteenth-century Krue Se Mosque, left unfinished, is one of the best-known monuments. The Chinese shrine of Chao Mae Lim Ko Niao draws many pilgrims. On the coast lie fishing villages and long beaches, and the colourful fishing boats are typical. Pattani lies in an area where tensions have existed for years, so check the current travel advice of your government and local sources beforehand. Visitors to the region see another side of Thailand, with its own language, food and customs. The nearest major airport is in Hat Yai, roughly 100 km away. Dress modestly in mosques and do not photograph people without asking first.
Best time to visit (indicative)
Indicative: the driest period runs roughly from February to April. The wettest months are about October to December, with frequent heavy showers. Always consult current travel advice for this region. Weather varies from year to year; this is a guideline based on the climate.
Getting there
From Hat Yai by bus or minivan (about 2 to 2.5 hours); there is no airport of its own. Check travel advice beforehand. Distances and travel times are rounded estimates.
Things to do in Pattani
- Krue Se Mosque A sixteenth-century mosque left unfinished, a historic monument.
- Chao Mae Lim Ko Niao shrine A Chinese shrine that draws many pilgrims.
- Fishing boats Colourful fishing boats along the coast and in villages.
- Malay-Muslim culture Its own language, food and customs in and around the city.
