From Waterfalls to Forest Temples: New Places to Explore in the South
When people think of southern Thailand, they often picture beaches and islands. But beyond the coast lies a quieter world — full of new places to explore in the South. From lush waterfalls to peaceful forest temples, these hidden gems offer a slower, more meaningful way to travel. Waterfalls That Feel Alive Southern Thailand has many waterfalls, and the best part is—most are still natural and unspoiled. No loud music, no big parking lots, just the sound of water and trees. One great spot is Ngao Waterfall in Ranong. Just a short drive from town, you’ll find a large waterfall flowing all year round. There’s a short trail to walk, and cool mist in the air makes it feel refreshing even on hot days. Another peaceful place is Vibhavadi Waterfall in Surat Thani. It’s smaller and less visited, perfect if you’re someone who enjoys quiet corners to sit, read, or simply breathe in fresh forest air. Forest Temples Full of Calm Temples in southern forests offer something different from the glittering temples in big cities. Here, you’ll find simplicity, shade, and silence. Take Suan Mokkh Forest Monastery in Chaiya, Surat Thani. Founded by a respected monk, this temple blends nature, art, and meditation. You can walk quiet paths, rest under trees, and read teachings carved in stone. Another special place is Wat Tham Kaew Pha Ong in Nakhon Si Thammarat. It sits on a small hill, and you’ll need to walk up a little—but once there, you’ll see forest views and hear only the wind and birds. Monks live here in peaceful surroundings, and visitors are welcome to explore quietly and respectfully. The Beauty of the Journey What makes this kind of travel so special isn’t just the destination—but what happens along the way. You might stop at a roadside stall selling grilled bananas, meet a local farmer picking fruit, or get a smile and wave from school kids on a village road. In places like Phato (Chumphon) or Ban Na (Surat Thani), life moves slower. You’ll see coconut plantations, small markets, and people who still take time to chat. It’s the kind of travel that feels personal. Simple Tips for a Forest + Waterfall Trip You Don’t Have to Choose Between Forest and Sea One of the best things about the South is that you don’t have to pick between the mountains and the ocean. In some areas, you can visit a waterfall in the morning and be at the beach by afternoon. For example, after spending the morning at Ngao Waterfall in Ranong, you can head straight to the pier and hop on a boat to explore the islands. 🚤 You can book a custom sea trip at loveandaman.com 📷 Or follow us for more real experiences on Facebook Travel That Feels Right This kind of travel isn’t about checklists or selfies. It’s about feeling more connected — to nature, to people, and to yourself. If you’re ready for a trip that’s calm, real, and full of small joys, the waterfalls and forest temples of southern Thailand are waiting.
Coffee Trails in the South: A Slow and Lovely Trip
In southern Thailand, coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s a journey. Beyond the beaches and bustling cities, small farms and cozy cafés quietly brew something special. If you enjoy slow mornings, scenic drives, and meaningful conversations, exploring the coffee trails in the South might just be your perfect kind of adventure. A Different Side of Southern Thailand Most people picture turquoise water and longtail boats when they think of southern Thailand. However, inland—where mist rolls over the mountains and cool breezes stir the trees—another world waits. In provinces like Chumphon, Nakhon Si Thammarat, and Ranong, highland communities grow, roast, and serve coffee with pride. These aren’t fast-paced tourist spots. Instead, they’re peaceful villages, family-run farms, and roadside cafés where time slows down and smiles come easy. From Farm to Cup—The Southern Way Thailand’s coffee culture continues to grow, especially in the North. However, the South is carving out its own path—offering single-origin beans, community-based roasters, and cafés with character. In many places, you can sip drip coffee brewed with beans that local farmers harvested just a few kilometers away. Sometimes, the farmers prepare your cup themselves. They happily explain how they grow the coffee, what kind of soil they use, and why their beans taste unique. As a result, your experience becomes more than a casual drink—it becomes a story in a cup. The beauty of these coffee trails doesn’t lie only in the flavor. It also comes from the people, their passion, and their connection to the land. Where to Go: Hidden Coffee Spots in the South If you want to follow the trail, here are some peaceful places to explore: ☕️ Khao Kho Coffee Village – Chumphon Not to be confused with the mountain town up north, this lesser-known village in Chumphon offers misty mornings, panoramic views, and Arabica plantations surrounded by forest. ☕️ Laem Son & Ban Bang Rin – Ranong Ranong’s cool mountain air creates perfect coffee-growing conditions. You can visit small cafés along the hillsides where locals brew coffee with care and joy. ☕️ Kiriwong Village – Nakhon Si Thammarat Often called one of the cleanest villages in Thailand, Kiriwong blends slow village life with scenic walking trails and community-run cafés that support sustainability. What Makes Coffee Travel So Special? Unlike a quick city café visit, coffee trails invite you to pause and stay present. You drive along winding roads. You chat with farmers. You see how long it takes to dry the beans under the sun. Furthermore, you notice every small detail—how someone grinds their beans, how they pour with care, and how proud they feel when guests enjoy their brew. These trails don’t just offer caffeine—they offer connection. In fact, they teach you to appreciate where your coffee comes from and who brings it to life. More Than a Drink—It’s a Connection A warm cup of coffee brings people together. Across the South, villagers welcome you not with signs or slogans, but with real hospitality. Even without speaking the same language, you can bond over a shared love for coffee. As you travel, you’ll discover that coffee isn’t just something to drink. Rather, it’s a way to understand people and place more deeply. Make It a Coastal & Coffee Combo Many of these mountain coffee stops sit only a few hours from the Andaman Sea. Therefore, you can wake up in the hills, enjoy a hand-brewed cup, and reach the coast by noon. 🛥️ Want to match your calm coffee mornings with a peaceful sea journey?You can plan your own slow and scenic charter at loveandaman.com—designed for travelers who enjoy thoughtful experiences, both inland and offshore. For more traveler stories and route ideas, visit our Facebook page