Mount Khao Ok Talu (khao means mountain in Thai) lies less than a kilometer beyond Phatthalung Station. It's clearly visible from many points in the city. Climbing this imposing limestone peak, which rises to within 250 meters of the landscape, offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. A short walk up the stairs leads to a fork in the path. To the left is the colonnade of a temple, while to the right, steps lead to the summit and the famous hole through which many visitors photograph the city. I chose the left path to visit the beautiful forest temple, Wat Sukha Watdi, which also serves as a meditation center. The place is quite new, but incredibly peaceful and surrounded by nature. The path behind the main hall leads to a seated Buddha statue. The walk there is very pleasant and offers many beautiful views along the way. Allow at least 1 hour and 30 minutes for the round trip. Since I was a bit pressed for time, I wasn't able to climb all the way to the top of the limestone peak after returning to the fork in the stairs. You can decide for yourself whether you want to do both or take the time for both, but I really like the temple and the path leading there.

Those who prefer a quieter atmosphere can simply visit the Khuha Sawan Mountain View Park and enjoy the beautiful view with the mountain in the background.

From Phatthalung train station, it is about a 15-minute walk to the start of the stairs that lead to the summit of the mountain or to the forest temple.

How to get there

How do you get to Khao Ok Talu? From Phatthalung Station, it's about a 15-minute walk to the start of the stairs leading to the mountain's summit or the Forest Temple.