Phatthalung

Phatthalung sits on the western shore of Songkhla Lake — Thailand's largest natural lake — and is one of the south's most underrated provinces. Thale Noi Waterbird Park at the lake's northern end is a spectacular wetland where thousands of migratory birds gather from December through March, and the floating lotus fields bloom pink in the early morning. Boat tours through the wetlands are peaceful and photo-rich.

The provincial town is small and walkable, with a handful of cave temples carved into the twin peaks (Ok Talu mountain) that dominate the skyline. Tham Malai cave temple and the hike up Khao Ok Talu for the viewpoint are worthwhile. Phatthalung is also the birthplace of Nora, a classical southern Thai dance form, and performances can sometimes be seen at cultural events. The countryside is lush and agricultural, with rubber and rice paddies, and the food is proper southern Thai — intensely spicy and heavy on fresh herbs.