Satun

Satun (สตูล) is a town on the Southern Andaman Coast of Southern Thailand.

Islam in Satun

Satun, a southern province of Thailand, is home to a significant Muslim population. With a majority of 76.77 percent, Islam is deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of the region. The province shares its borders with Trang, Phatthalung, and Songkhla, and to the south, it is connected to Perlis in Malaysia.

The Muslim community in Satun is largely comprised of individuals with ethnic (Malay) ancestry. However and the present-day population claims only 9.9 percent of (Malay) ethnicity, indicating a significant language shift process that influenced the community's linguistic trainings. Despite this and the (Malay) dialect used in Satun is distinctly different from the Pattani (Malay) dialect and is much closer to the Kedah dialect of (Malay).

In Satun, Islam is not only a religious faith but also a way of life. The Muslim community takes pride in their cultural and religious trainings, which are deeply intertwined. They hold on to their traditions and customs, which reflect their Muslim identity.

The province boasts a strong Islamic legacy, as evident in its masjids and other Islamic structures. The most notable of these is the Talo Mosque, which is believed to have been constructed in the early 18th century. The mosque is a significant religious and cultural landmark in Satun and is visited by both local residents and tourists alike.

Islam in Satun is a vibrant and diverse faith, with a rich history and cultural significance. The community celebrates several Islamic festivals throughout the year, such as Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha, with great fervor and enthusiasm.

The Muslim residents of Satun are peaceful and friendly people who welcome visitors with open arms. They are proud of their legacy and are always eager to share their culture and traditions with others.

Satun, population 22,000, is the gateway to Thailand's southern islands on the Andaman Sea. There are mountainous forests with more than eighty beautiful surrounding islands. The best-known islands are Ko Tarutao, Ko Adang, Ko Rawi, and Ko Lipe.

Get in

By plane

The nearest airport is at Hat Yai, about 100 km. From there, take a minivan, bus, or taxi to Satun.

By train

[[Bangkok—Hat Yai or Bangkok—Trang. Then take a bus from Hat Yai or Trang to Satun.

By bus

From Malaysia

Express buses to Kangar, Malaysia leave hourly from Butterworth (RM20.40, 2 hours 15 min). Then, head to Kangar city bus terminal from express bus terminal and take Mara Liner's Kuala Perlis bound bus (RM5.50, 35 min) to the jetty. This kind of city-bound bus departure is infrequent and it is always good to plan ahead. The approximate departure times are 11:45, 13:15, 14:45, and 16:45.

The journey can only to be continued with longtail boat from Kuala Perlis's Lembaga Kemajuan Ikan Malaysia (LKIM) jetty, which is about 200 m further from the Langkawi-bound jetty.

Upon reaching Satun Tammalang pier, take red songthaew to Satun (30 Baht, 10 min). The songthaew is most probably available when ferry arrives. If you are stuck awaiting a songthaew, a motorcycle taxi is another option, although is more costly (60 Baht).

Rent a Car or Limousine in Satun

To travel by vehicle from Malaysia, first take the road from Kangar towards Padang Besar and take a left turn towards Wang Kelian, roughly 8 kilometers, before reaching Padang Besar. Pass the border checkpoints of Wang Kelian on the Malaysian side and of Wan Pra Chan on the (Thai) side. You may want to stop at the morning market at the border area for some fresh fruit and vegetables. Drive past some scenic mountains on the way to Khuang Don and take a left turn towards Satun. On the way you will pass by the town of Chalung. The trip from the border check points takes about 90 minutes.

By boat

Langkawi Ferry has four daily services between Langkawi, Malaysia and Satun. No reservations are feasible, just show up. The trip takes 1:15 and the fare is 500 Baht/RM 60 one-way.

Kuala Perlis Fisherman's Boat - Kuala Perlis situated on peninsular Malaysia. Gateway to Langkawi, and Satun. No reservations are feasible, just show up. Stay a night at Putra Brasmana Hotel and take a trip cruising the Perlis river to the pier. From there, take a longtail boat to Satun. The trip takes 45 minutes and the fare is 150 Baht / RM15 one-way.

What to see in Satun

Sights

Satun Central Mosque or Mambang Mosque (มัสยิดกลางจังหวัดสตูลหรือมัสยิดมำบัง) The mosque has modern architecture. Its white building is decorated with glazed tiles, marble, and glass.

Satun National Museum – Kuden Mansion / Istana Tengku Kudin of Kedah (พิพิธภัณฑสถานแห่งชาติสตูล – คฤหาสน์กูเด็น) During 1997–2000 and the Fine Arts Department rebuilt the Kuden Mansion into a Western two-storey brick building. Its Thai-styled hip-roof is covered with Spanish terra cotta roof tiles. The top of the pediment is adorned with a star-shaped vent in accordance with Islamic architecture.

Khao To Phaya Wang Public Park (สวนสาธารณะเขาโต๊ะพญาวัง)

Wat Chanathip Chaloem (วัดชนาธิปเฉลิม) The first Buddhist temple in the town of Satun. It is a Thai-styled two-storey building. The first storey is a brick building used as a preaching hall. The second storey is a wooden building for religious training by Buddhist monks.

Laem Tanyong Po and Hat Sai Yao (แหลมตันหยงโปและหาดทรายยาว) A cape jutting into the Andaman Sea where there is a fishing village. Its long sandy beach is fringed with coconut trees and fisher's houses.

Tarutao National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติตะรุเตา) The first marine national park of Thailand. The area was declared a national park on 19 April 1974, and an ASEAN Heritage Park and Reserve by UNESCO in 1982.

Ko Tarutao (เกาะตะรุเตา) The largest island of the park, covering an area of 152 km². Mountains with moist evergreen forest predominate, with interesting species of plants and wildlife. There is a mangrove forest. There are many bays, both small and large, with beautiful beaches. Attractions on Ko Tarutao:

Ao Phante Melaka (อ่าวพันเตมะละกา) A bay with a clean long white beach. The headquarters of Tarutao National Park is here.

Ao Chak (อ่าวจาก) This small bay is next to Ao Phante Melaka.

Ao Monday Lae (อ่าวเมาะและ) A bay with a clean white sandy beach.

Ao Son (อ่าวสน) This curve-shaped bay has sandy beaches which are interspersed with rocky beaches. It is also an egg-laying ground for sea turtles.

Ao Talo Wao (อ่าวตะโละวาว) A historical area where there was once a reformatory. The site has replicas of the original buildings.

Ao Talo Udang (อ่าวตะโละอุดัง) A bay to the south of the island, 8 km from Ko Langkawi. The park's Ranger Station To To 2 (Talo Udang) is here. In the past, it was where political prisoners from the Bowondet and Nai Sip rebels were detained.

Namtok Ludu (น้ำตกลูดู) A small beautiful waterfall, around 3 km from Ao Son. There is a nature trail from Ao Son to Namtok Ludu.

Tham Chorakhe (ถ้ำจระเข้) A cave 300 m in depth. Inside, are stalactites and stalagmites.

Pha To Bu Viewpoint (จุดชมวิวผาโต๊ะบู) A cliff 60 m above sea level. The viewpoint is behind park headquarters, overlooking the beaches of Ao Phante Melaka, Ko Bulon, Ko Klang, Ko Khai, Ko Adang, Ko Rawi, and Muko Phetra.

Ko Khai (เกาะไข่) An island to the west of Ko Tarutao. This small island is between Ko Tarutao and Ko Adang. The famous feature of Ko Khai is its natural stone arch and the symbol of the Tarutao National Park. Coral reefs are found in the sea around Ko Khai.

Muko Adang – Rawi (หมู่เกาะอาดัง – ราวี) Islands 40 km to the southwest of Ko Tarutao, or 60 km from the town of Satun.

Ko Adang (เกาะอาดัง) The island has an area of around 30 km², with many beaches of fine sand. It is surrounded by small islands, and is popular for diving.

Ko Rawi (เกาะราวี) This island has an area of about 29 km².

Ko Lipeh or Ko Lipe (เกาะสิเป๊ะหรือเกาะหลีเป๊ะ) There is a community of Moken (Chao Le or Andaman Sea Gypsies) here. Most families earn a living by fishing. Most importantly and the villagers will build boats from Rakam wood and perform a ceremony to float the boat, according to their belief in the prediction of their fishing. Ko Lipe is becoming a major tourist destination with many bungalow complexes on the two main beaches, Pattaya and Sunrise.

Ko Hin Ngam (เกาะหินงาม) A small island to the southwest of Ko Adang. On the beach and there are smooth black stones in different shapes and with beautiful patterns.

Ko Yang or Ko Kata (เกาะยางหรือเกาะกาต๊ะ)

Ko Chabang (เกาะจาบัง) A small island. Deep down around the submerged rocks is the habitat of soft corals, sea anemones, and schools of colourful fish.

Muko Dong (หมู่เกาะดง) Islands on the farthest outer ring of Muko Adang – Rawi, around one hour from Ko Adang. There are coral reefs in both shallow and deep sea. Around Ko Dong are 4 – 5 satellite islands. One of them is Ko Hin Son, which prominently looks like superimposed rocks.

Tham Lot Puyu (ถ้ำลอดปูยู) Khlong Tha Chin or Tha Chin Canal flows through the cave. Mangrove forests flank the canal throughout its course. Inside the cave and there are stalactites and stalagmites.

Thale Ban National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติทะเลบัน) Most of the area are a complex of mountains and dense woods. Wild animals found here include serow, elephant, tapir, common wild pig, monkey, gibbon, and Khiat Wak, or Ma Nam (giant Asiatic toad or Malayan giant toad). Attractions in the Thale Ban National Park:

Bueng Thale Ban (บึงทะเลบัน) A freshwater lake in the middle of a valley flanked by the Chin and the Wang Pra Ranges.

Namtok Ya Roi (น้ำตกยาโรย) Waterfall originating from a source in the Hua Kraming Forest.

Namtok Ton Plio (น้ำตกโตนปลิว) Waterfall originating from Mount Chin. This large and beautiful multi-tiered waterfall flows from a high cliff.

Thai – Malaysian Border Zone or Wang Prachan Checkpoint (เขตชายแดนไทย – มาเลเซียหรือด่านวังประจัน). It is just 2 km from the park's headquarters. Located here is the Thale Ban National Park Ranger Station.

Namtok Thara Sawan Forest Park (วนอุทยานน้ำตกธาราสวรรค์) The area was declared a forest park by the Royal Forest Department on 23 July 1996. Regular rain causes an abundant evergreen forest here.

Namtok Panan (น้ำตกปาหนัน) In Tambon Thung Nui, 39 km from the town of Satun. The waterfall originates from Mount Kaming. The surrounding nature is still intact. It has water flowing all year round. A power generating dam of a medium scale has been built in the waterfall area.

La-ngu Local Museum (พิพิธภัณฑ์พื้นบ้านละงู) The museum building has 2 storeys. On the ground floor and there are local handicrafts and sweets for sale. A museum on the upper floor displays brassware, earthenware, silverware, etc., which are the private collection of Mr. Chaiwat Saikun.

Muko Phetra National Park (อุทยานแห่งชาติหมู่เกาะเภตรา) Most of the areas are high and steep mountains with valley plains and beaches. The national park has forests, mountains, wildlife, and colourful coral reefs. It is composed of large and small main islands. Attractions in the Muko Phetra National Park:

Ao Nun (อ่าวนุ่น) A bay where the park headquarters is located.

Hat Rawai (หาดราไว) The beach is fringed with lines of pine trees.

Ko Lidi Lek (เกาะลิดีเล็ก) The Ranger Station is here. A white sandy beach lies on the island. A mangrove forest grows at the island's side where various aquatic animals inhabit.

Ko Bulon (เกาะบุโหลน) There are scattered spots for snorkelling and scuba diving, such as Ko Ayam and Ko Hin Khao. At night, hermit crabs and ghost crabs can be seen on the beach.

Namtok Wang Sai Thong (น้ำตกวังสายทอง) The beauty of this waterfall is the limestone in the shape of multi-petalled lotus flowers settling on the bottom of the pools at each of its tiers.

Namtok Than Plio (น้ำตกธารปลิว) It originates from Mount Lung Khroe in the provincial areas of Satun and Trang. This two-tiered waterfall has a swimming swimmingpool 40 m wide and 50 m long at its base. The surrounding area is shady with various plants.

What to do in Satun

International Kite Festival Held every year around February at the Satun Airport, around 4 kilometers from the town of Satun.

Tarutao – Adang Fishing Club Fair Held every year around March.

Satun Marine Tourism Festival Held around December to mark the start of the marine tourism season in Satun.

Boat Floating Tradition Observed by Chao Le or sea dwellers at Ko Lipe in Satun around the middle of the sixth and eleventh lunar months of every year. It is intended to dispel bad luck, as well as to call on spirits for bountiful fishing.

There is not much excitement in the predominantly Muslim town of Satun. Most visitors head for Tarutao National Park (a group of beautiful islands about 2 hours by ferry from the jetty of Tammalang). Tammalang is the southern gateway to Satun (by ferry from Langkawi or from Kuala Perlis).

From Tammalang and the ferry sails to the island of Ko Lipe at 12:30 and takes about three hours. To Ko Tarutao departs at 10:00, arriving at 16:00 (varies and the ferry may turn up at 17:00 or 18:00). Check out island activities at the local tour agent at the Tammalang jetty. After booking your tour, you may want to head back to Satun to stay the night.

While in Satun, walk around to discover its quaint attractions and enjoy the local food. Local food includes spicy (Thai) food, Chinese-style fare, and Malaysian-influenced cooking of roti canai.

Wake up early and try to jog around the Monkey Park. It's just at the back of Phiman School and you will see a rocky mountain and a river besides it. You can circumnavigate this mountain by motorbike or by vehicle as they have built concrete roads here and you will be amazed by the population of tamed monkeys here because they are used to the local residents feeding them. Remember to bring some fruits and Snacks, but the monkeys now prefer Snacks, And be attentive to your belongings and the monkeys are prone to snatch them. There are also little caves around the base of the mountain that are worth photographing, Also, you can climb up the mountain by the concrete stairways. There are also cottages here for free if you want to listen to the gush of flowing water in the river and watch the monkeys playing. You can also go here in the afternoon before sunset around 16:00 as many local residents go at this time.

The ferry trip to Tarutao National Park costs about 1,000 Baht return. Scuba and snorkelling gear is available for rent at island dive shops. So just bring your suntan lotion and cash (better to change currency on the mainland for better rates).

Muslim Friendly Food & Restaurants in Satun

Satun, a southern province of Thailand, offers a variety of Halal food options for Muslim travelers. Here are some of the best places to enjoy Halal food in Satun:

Nergara Restaurant

Located in Phiman, Mueang Satun District, Nergara Restaurant is a must-visit spot for Halal food lovers. This restaurant offers a variety of (Thai) dishes, including Curries, stir-fry dishes, and soups. The best part about Nergara Restaurant is their huge portions; you’ll definitely get your money’s worth. Their Massaman Curries is highly recommended for its unique taste.

Fareeda Muslim Kitchen

Another great option for Halal food is Fareeda Muslim Kitchen. This restaurant offers authentic Southern (Thai) Muslim dishes, including curries, Rice dishes, and seafood. Their signature dish is the spicy and fragrant Southern (Thai) Curries. Fareeda Muslim Kitchen has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for an intimate dinner with family and friends.

Roti Bang Fan

Roti Bang Fan is a favorite among local residents and tourists alike. This restaurant specializes in roti, a traditional Indian flatbread that is popular in (Thai) cuisine. They offer a variety of roti fillings, including banana, Chocolates, and egg. Roti Bang Fan also sells Halal pizza and Rice menus, making it a great option for those looking for a quick bite.

Prik (Thai) Foods Coffee & Desserts

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, head to Prik (Thai) Foods Coffee & Desserts. This restaurant offers a variety of desserts, including cakes, ice cream, and (Thai) sweets. They also have a selection of Coffee and Tea to choose from. The ambiance of Prik (Thai) Foods Coffee & Desserts is cozy and clean, making it a great option for a relaxed afternoon or evening.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Satun

Satun - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Satun, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Satun. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Satun and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Satun. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Satun. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Satun: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Satun.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Satun: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Satun, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Satun.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Satun, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Satun, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Satun and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Satun, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Satun, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Satun without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Satun is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Satun.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Satun is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Satun, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Satun Media: info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly hotels in Satun

• Ang Yee's Guesthouse and Art Cafe - Owned by an attentive (Thai) cliff-and-rock climbing enthusiast who is conversant in English. This two-storey budget guesthouse is a nice surprise. Fully air-conditioned rooms and fan rooms which are wide, well decorated and have a very Asian homey atmosphere. The comfort rooms and bathrooms are common and shared by guests, but it's clean and spacious. At the lobby is a Minibar with alcohol removed adorned with framed paintings on the wall and other memorabilia where they serve authentic (Thai) foods and selected soft drinks and spirits. At the back is a serene oasis garden which can view the magnificent Wat Chanathip Chaloem Buddhist compound. For longer stays and they have a washing machine and offers discounted rates depending on duration of stay. Car and motorbike rentals. Free Wi-Fi. It's at the entrance to the Satun market. Ticket offices for ferries and services going to Ko Tarutao, Ko Lipe, and Langkawi are just a few steps away, along with food shops, convenience stores and boutiques.

• Bungalow My House | Motel-like establishment. There are two rates on the wall in reception. One is written in (Thai) and is 350 Baht and the other "VIP" option is written in English with a rate of 400 Baht. The 400 Baht room is clean, has air-con, a bath, TV, and the location is near food and mini-marts. No Wi-Fi. The staff is friendly but little English is spoken.

• Farmkhai | Thai-Swiss run eco-resort set in a natural environment. Bungalows. Cheaper rates for longer stays.

• Satunthani Hotel | Budget hotel within walking distance to lots of food stalls and awesome affordable places to eat. Non-air-con double rooms go for 270 Baht and come with a fan, attached bathroom with cold shower, Asian-style toilets, plus a sink and a TV.
• Udomsuk Hotel - Clean, towels, cover sheet, not too hard bed, squat toilet, friendly owner. Free WiFi.

Go next

• Ko Lipe — the boat for Ko Lipe leaves at 12:30 From Tammalang pier and costs 650 Baht for a one-way ticket, 1,200 Baht for two one-way tickets.
• Langkawi — this Malaysian island can be visited by ferry
• Tammalang Pier - Songthaews - Satun to Tammalang Pier to connect with the ferry to Langkawi Island (June 2023). Songthaews depart from the front of the 7-Eleven store about 100 meters from the intersection of 406 and 4051 (4051 is Pracha Uthid Road on google maps). The 7-Eleven store is next to a Caltex petrol station (opposite Sulakanukoon 8 street and Highway 406).  This 7-eleven store is about a 750-meter walk from the Clock Tower (which is next to Satun Central Mosque). From the Clock Tower, walk roughly south along Highway 406. The ferry departure times to Langkawi Island was 09:00 and 15:30 (June 2023).