Thale Noi Waterbird Sanctuary Travel Guide

Located in Songkhla Province, in southern Thailand, this bird sanctuary is the largest in Thailand and should be visited if you are traveling in the area. The sanctuary supports over 200 different species, 100 of which are waterfowl.

Between the months of January and April, the sanctuary sees many migrant birds making their way here from colder climates. Remember to bring your binoculars and you will learn the real meaning of the words ‘bird spotting’. It is a rare sight, not seen anywhere else in the country and can be enjoyed by the entire family.

The best way to enjoy the bird life is to hire a boat and go out onto the lake nearby where there are many viewing platforms. There are also many traditional houses on stilts along the lake’s shores where families have lived for many generations. Thale Noioffers a beautiful experience where you will be completely at one with nature.

Getting There & Away

The best way to reach Thale Noiis to arrive in Songkhla by bus or train and then take a taxi or songtaew to the sanctuary. Journeys to Songkhla from Bangkok take about 15 hours by bus or you can fly to Hat Yai Airport, which has connection with the Thai capital (1 hour, 15 minutes), Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.