Khao Tang Kuan is a small hill located in the heart of Songkhla city. It holds importance in terms of history, religion, and urban landscape, and is one of the city’s key viewpoints that uniquely showcases Old Town Songkhla, Songkhla Lake, and the Gulf of Thailand in a single panoramic view.

Historically, Khao Tang Kuan is closely linked to the early settlement of Songkhla on the Laem Son side (Old Songkhla), which was an important trading port during the Ayutthaya and early Rattanakosin periods. At the summit stands Phra That Chedi Luang, believed to enshrine sacred Buddhist relics. It has long served as a spiritual center for locals and a place for religious ceremonies. A major restoration took place during the reign of King Rama IV, helping preserve the chedi and establishing it as a symbolic landmark of the city.

Phra That Chedi Luang features a Thai chedi architectural style influenced by Sri Lankan Buddhist design. The main stupa sits on a raised base and is visible from a distance. The surrounding area serves as both a sacred space and a viewpoint. Locals and visitors often come to pay respect for good fortune, especially during important Buddhist holidays such as Makha Bucha Day and Visakha Bucha Day, when candlelight circumambulation ceremonies are held on the hilltop.

Nearby is Phra Wihan Daeng Pavilion, a historic structure built during the reigns of King Rama IV to King Rama V. It reflects a blend of Thai and Western architectural styles and is distinguished by its red color. The wooden elevated structure preserves traditional craftsmanship and reflects the area’s historical role as both a royal and religious site.

Geographically, Khao Tang Kuan is a small rocky hill formed by coastal uplift in southern Thailand. Although not very high, it stands out prominently from the surrounding urban area. Its geological position allows for a full 360-degree panoramic view, including the “Naga Fountain” area in Songkhla Lake and the iconic Ko Nu and Ko Maeo islands, which are symbolic landmarks of the city.

There are two main ways to reach the summit: climbing the Naga staircase, a concrete stairway with moderate steepness suitable for those who enjoy a more natural hiking experience, or taking the glass cable lift, which provides convenience and scenic views of the city during the ascent. This makes the site popular among tourists.

The atmosphere at the summit is generally more peaceful than in the city below, making it ideal for sunrise and sunset viewing. In the late afternoon, sunlight reflects off Songkhla Lake, creating a golden glow across the landscape—one of the most popular times for photography.

Monkeys are commonly found in the area, so visitors should take care of personal belongings and avoid feeding wildlife to preserve the ecosystem.

Khao Tang Kuan is therefore not only a viewpoint but also a place that combines faith, history, and Songkhla’s natural landscape in one location, making it one of the most important landmarks of the province to this day.

• By car: Drive into Songkhla city, then head toward Samila Beach. Continue along the road beside Songkhla Lake until you reach the Lotus Pond area (Sa Bua), which is a key landmark. Khao Tang Kuan is located nearby.

• It is recommended to visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the best lighting for photography.

• Late afternoon is especially ideal for sunset viewing, offering clear panoramic views of Songkhla Lake and the Gulf of Thailand.

• Be cautious of monkeys around the base and summit; avoid carrying food or visible plastic bags.

• If using the lift, allow extra time on weekends and public holidays due to possible queues.

• Bring drinking water and wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to climb the stairs instead of taking the lift.

Admission Fee:

• Stair access: Free

• Glass lift (round trip): Adults 60 THB / Children 40 THB (subject to change)

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 08:30 AM to 06:00 PM