Phatthalung

The eastern edge of Phatthalung borders the northern reaches of Songkhla Lake, the largest natural lake in Thailand, including the shallow freshwater Thale Noi wetland which hosts vast colonies of migratory birds and purple lotuses and is designated a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. The province is framed to the west by the Banthat mountain range, whose forested slopes include Khao Pu–Khao Ya National Park. Phatthalung was formerly known by its Malay name Mardelong and became one of twelve royal cities during the Ayutthaya Kingdom in the 14th century. The provincial capital sits between two limestone peaks — Khao Ok Thalu and Khao Hua Taek — which local legend describes as the 'broken chest' and 'torn ear' of a mythical giant. Agriculture, particularly rubber and freshwater fisheries, underpins the local economy alongside growing eco-tourism interest in the Thale Noi bird sanctuary.