Nestled serenely along the shores of Songkhla Lake in southern Thailand, lies Pak Pra Village—a hidden gem within Phatthalung province. Revered for its striking array of colossal lift nets that elegantly grace the lake’s surface, Pak Pra offers voyagers a tranquil sanctuary immersed in local fishing traditions and natural splendor.
As the sun ascends over the horizon, visitors are greeted with a mesmerizing spectacle—the towering lift nets cast against the vibrant canvas of the sky. This enchanting vista serves as an entrancing preamble to the timeless allure of Pak Pra Village.
For generations, the communities surrounding Songkhla Lake have relied upon fishing as a cornerstone of their livelihoods, and Pak Pra stands as a testament to this enduring tradition. Here, fishermen deftly employ traditional lift nets, ingeniously crafted to ensnare fish from the water with effortless grace. The sight of these nets, with their square frames supported by bamboo structures, lends an unmistakable charm to the village’s age-old fishing practices.
Despite the profusion of lift nets in Pak Pra, their numbers are meticulously managed, with each lineage within the community entrusted with a designated allotment. This longstanding accord among villagers ensures a harmonious equilibrium between fishing endeavors and environmental stewardship.
Travellers seeking immersion in the tranquil beauty of Songkhla Lake will find an array of accommodations in Pak Pra Village to suit their preferences. From snug homestays to eco-conscious resorts, each option seamlessly melds into the breathtaking surroundings, offering guests an idyllic retreat amidst nature’s grandeur.
A sojourn in Pak Pra Village invites endless avenues for exploration. Guests can partake in serene boat excursions, observing local fishermen ply their trade in the soft morning light. A leisurely amble through verdant riverside forests or a glide along the water’s edge affords encounters with indigenous wildlife, from placid water buffaloes grazing in lush grasslands to the captivating calls of avian denizens.
Moreover, visitors can embark on extended boat odysseys, venturing into the nearby sea to marvel at the region’s diverse ecosystems. From Pak Pra, one can voyage to the adjacent sea—a freshwater lake spanning over 6,800 acres and internationally acclaimed as Thailand’s inaugural Ramsar site. Here, a rich tapestry of rice fields, mangrove forests, lotus ponds, and habitats teeming with wildlife awaits exploration. Birdwatching enthusiasts will delight in spotting over 280 avian species, both resident and migratory, including herons, kingfishers, and warblers.
Cruising the waterways reveals Pak Pra’s breathtaking panorama. Majestic trees line the path, while verdant hillsides resound with the melodic chorus of various bird species. Nature’s symphony unfolds as herons gracefully perch on branches and red-winged blackbirds flit across the azure expanse.
From the boat’s vantage point, glimpses of the Rama VIII Bridge—a tribute to His Majesty’s 80th reign anniversary—or the Ekkachai Bridge, Thailand’s longest lake-spanning structure, offer panoramic views of the lake and its tranquil inhabitants.
For intrepid travellers seeking an authentic Thai odyssey, Pak Pra Village beckons as an unmissable destination. Embark on a journey to this serene sanctuary and uncover the timeless charm of Songkhla Lake’s storied shores.
FOOD & TRAVEL
No place says salted fish like Tak Bai
Throughout Asia, salted fish has garnered the nickname “poor man’s food” due to its intense saltiness, which enhances the flavor of simple rice-based dishes and ensures there’s enough to go around for the whole family. However, the salted threadfin from Tak Bai in Narathiwat province, Thailand, defies this humble reputation.
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THINGS TO DO
1. Drive across the Rama VIII Bridge, celebrating His Majesty’s 80th reign anniversary, and savour the picturesque sea views along the 5-kilometre stretch.
2. Stay at a charming homestay or a serene lakeside resort in Pak Pra village to catch the breathtaking sunrise over Songkhla Lake.
3. Cruise along the lake waters to marvel at the towering lift nets, a signature sight, and witness the timeless lifestyle of the local villagers.
4. Take in the tranquil scene of water buffaloes peacefully grazing in the lush grass fields by the lake’s edge.
5. Embark on an extended boat journey, linking to the nearby sea, and marvel at the graceful water birds amidst the crimson lotus fields.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
Location: Pak Pra Village is situated in Phanang Tung Sub-district, Khuan Khanun District, Phatthalung Province, just 20 kilometres away from Phatthalung City.
Boat Tours: Enjoy boat tours on Songkhla Lake near Pak Pra Village for THB 700 per trip. Explore further to the nearby sea from Pak Pra Village for THB 1,200 per trip. Prices are subject to change depending on the season, and reservations are recommended, especially during peak times.
Contact: For reservations and inquiries, contact Ban Ton Lamphu, a riverfront cottage at +66 81 907 2249.
WHERE TO STAY
Baan Ton Lamphu, nestled in Pak Pra, is an eco-lodge positioned along the tranquil shores of Songkhla Lake, amidst picturesque rural landscapes. Here, guests are treated to a delightful traditional buffet breakfast, crafted with fresh organic produce sourced from local farms. Additionally, the lodge offers a unique experience with a designated boat docking area, perfect for witnessing the breathtaking sunrise and immersing oneself in the serene beauty of the flooded expanses of Songkhla Lake.
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