TH · Songkhla · 7.01°N 100.47°E

hat yai

The classic road trip north: Hat Yai fried chicken, night markets and shopping.

Best time
Any time of year; the heaviest rain falls from October to December.
How long
2–3 days
Getting there
About an hour's drive from the Bukit Kayu Hitam border, or about 1 hour 15 minutes' flight from KL.
TH · Songkhlahat yai7.01°N 100.47°Egowherelah.com
Dear group chat,The classic road trip north: Hat Yai fried chicken, night markets and shopping.— gowherelahTo: whoever’s drivingHat YaiTH, Songkhla

Southern Thailand's biggest city and the classic road trip from northern Malaysia: shopping, markets and food at friendly prices.

Makan

  1. Hat Yai fried chickenCrispy chicken topped with fried shallots, with sticky rice.
  2. Dim sum breakfastHat Yai's dim sum houses are a morning tradition.
  3. Night market foodGrilled skewers, seafood and Thai desserts.

Things to do

  1. Kim Yong MarketThe city's busiest market for snacks, dried goods and bargains.
  2. Khlong Hae floating marketFood sold from boats on weekend evenings.
  3. Hat Yai Municipal ParkA cable car up the hill to a Guanyin statue and city views.
  4. SongkhlaA day trip to Samila Beach and its mermaid statue.

Where to stay

In the city centre near the markets.

Good to know

  • Driving across needs your car's papers and Thai insurance. Sort them before the border.
  • Bring your passport and allow extra time at the border on weekends.

Last checked October 2026. Things change, so check opening times, fees and transport before you go.