Chao Mae To Mo Shrine in Sukhirin District represents the spiritual root of faith for the Thai-Chinese community in Thailand’s southern border region. Its origins trace back to the golden age of To Mo Gold Mine before World War II, when Hokkien Chinese migrants traveled across the sea to seek fortune in the thriving mining settlement.

They brought with them a statue of Mazu, the revered Chinese sea goddess, as a spiritual guardian. The deity was worshipped for protection against danger, disease, and hardship within the dense forests and challenging mining environment. Originally, three sister deities (Li, Tan, and Lim clans) were enshrined in a small wooden pavilion at the foot of To Mo Mountain. Miners firmly believed in her divine protection, attributing their safety and success in gold excavation to her blessings.

This shrine in Sukhirin is considered the original sacred site, before the deity was ceremonially relocated in 1952 to a shrine in Sungai Kolok town for easier public access during the decline of mining operations and political uncertainty of that period. Despite this relocation, local residents and descendants of gold miners preserved the original shrine out of deep respect and gratitude.

Although the shrine once faced a period of neglect, restoration efforts began again in 2019 through cooperation between community members and local authorities. Plans were also introduced to develop a “Chao Mae To Mo Park” as a cultural and historical landmark connecting mining heritage with spiritual belief.

Each year, during the third lunar month of the Chinese calendar, a grand celebration is held in honor of the goddess. The event includes traditional religious ceremonies, Chinese opera performances, and community festivities. Devotees from across Thailand and neighboring Malaysia travel to participate.

Surrounded by lush mountains and pristine nature, the shrine offers a peaceful and spiritually uplifting atmosphere. Visiting Chao Mae To Mo Shrine is not only an act of devotion but also a meaningful journey into the historical and cultural roots that shaped the identity of Ban To Mo and Sukhirin.

• By Private Car: From Narathiwat town, take Highway 4055ผ่าน Ra-ngae and Chanae districts toward Sukhirin. Then follow the route to Phukhao Thong Subdistrict (Ban To Mo). The road is fully paved and clearly signposted.

• By Public Transport: Take a van from Narathiwat to Sukhirin. From the district center, hire a local pickup truck or motorcycle taxi to Ban To Mo (approximately 20 kilometers).

• Visit in the early morning to enjoy the cool climate and peaceful forest surroundings.

• Dress respectfully, as the shrine is considered highly sacred.

• Combine your trip with a visit to To Mo Gold Mine Museum and a traditional gold panning experience in the nearby Sai Buri River.

• To witness the vibrant annual festival, check the date of the 23rd day of the 3rd Chinese lunar month (usually falling in April).

Admission Fee:

• Free admission (Donations are welcome).

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 08:30 AM – 04:30 PM.