Thailand - Songkhla and its Associated Lagoon Settlements

Phang Yang, Pha Kho and Si Yang ancient towns

Sathing Phra ancient town

Fortified Settlement of Singora at Khao Daeng and Laem Son

Songkhla Old Town at Bo Yang

Over thousands of years, several settlements have emerged, evolved, and developed around Songkhla Lake, a coastal lagoon in southern Thailand. It is a natural brackish water lagoon with a complex cultural and ecological system, and the only one in the country. Although labelled a lake, it defies conventional definitions due to its geomorphological character. Situated on the Malay Peninsula in the South of Thailand, this coastal lagoon is known for its distinctive physical appearance that consists of three connecting water bodies stretching from North to South. The southern-most reaches of the lagoon is Thalesap Songkhla, where the lagoon meets the open sea. To the north, the protected wetland of Thale Noi is connected with the upper part of Songkhla Lagoon. The lagoon is flanked by Sankala Khiri and Bantud Mountain Ranges on the west, where there are rich mineral resources including tin and manganese. To the east, the Sathing Phra Peninsula extends 75 kilometres along the coast, a testament to the lagoon's captivating allure. According to geomorphological studies, the peninsula was originally a collection of islands or sand accretions; later fused by the gradual accumulation of sediments. The lagoon’s water is a blend of fresh mountain streams from the west, and the ebb and flow of salty tides from the sea, a delicate balance that has been harnessed over time for more efficient transportation and irrigation systems, still evident today. The fertile natural surroundings of Songkhla Lake fostered the growth of numerous settlements that have thrived in harmony with the lagoon's ecosystem. Over time, these settlements have evolved into unique towns and cities, a testament to the dynamic interplay between humans and the natural environment – the Songkhla lagoon itself. This proposed property, Songkhla and its associated lagoon settlements, consists of four components: 1) Phang Yang, Pha Kho and Si Yang ancient towns including their associated archaeological sites; 2) Sathing Phra ancient town; 3) Fortified settlements of Singora at Khao Daeng and Laem Son; and 4) Songkhla Old Town at Bo Yang.

Source: UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List

I visited the Songkhla National Museum, Songkhla in Southern Thailand. It has a palatial building and garden. Bought a set of museum postcards showing some of museum pieces.