Khao Nam Khang Tunnel
Explore a 3-story historical tunnel system, a former hideout of Malaysian Communist fighters, nestled in a scenic national park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Khao Nam Khang Tunnel
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a 3-story historical tunnel system, a former hideout of Malaysian Communist fighters, nestled in a scenic national park.
"A unique experience about an hour drive from Hat Yai, offering real Thailand history."
🎟️ Ticket & Entry Fees
Foreigner tickets are 150 baht, including a movie and museum access. Toilet fee is 3 baht. :ticket:
⬆️ Entrance Strategy
Enter via the stairs (approx. 108 steps) and exit through the tunnel. Don't enter from below! :arrow_up:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Multi-Level Tunnel System
Inside the tunnel
Explore a unique 3-story tunnel system, a former hideout for Malaysian Communist Party members. Discover multiple exits and a fascinating underground world.
Historical Briefing and Museum
Entrance area
Gain context with a historical briefing and a short film before your exploration, complemented by a mini-museum showcasing artifacts.
Scenic Jungle Setting
Surrounding national park
Nestled within a beautiful national park, the approach to the tunnel offers a glimpse of Thailand's lush natural landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Journey Through History
Navigating to the Tunnel
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🎟️ Ticket & Entry Fees
Foreigner tickets are 150 baht, including a movie and museum access. Toilet fee is 3 baht. :ticket:
⬆️ Entrance Strategy
Enter via the stairs (approx. 108 steps) and exit through the tunnel. Don't enter from below! :arrow_up:
🗺️ Navigation is Key
Use Google Maps for directions as signage is limited. The tunnel is at the end of the road past the national park. :iphone:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for climbing stairs and exploring the tunnel. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Ticket & Entry Fees
Foreigner tickets are 150 baht, including a movie and museum access. Toilet fee is 3 baht. :ticket:
⬆️ Entrance Strategy
Enter via the stairs (approx. 108 steps) and exit through the tunnel. Don't enter from below! :arrow_up:
🗺️ Navigation is Key
Use Google Maps for directions as signage is limited. The tunnel is at the end of the road past the national park. :iphone:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for climbing stairs and exploring the tunnel. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially if visiting during warmer months. Coffee is available for purchase. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Khao Nam Khang Tunnel for its unique historical significance, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Malaysian Communist fighters. The well-maintained site, friendly staff, and engaging historical briefing are frequently highlighted. However, the challenging road conditions and the physical effort required to enter the tunnel are noted drawbacks.
"Excellent place to visit for some real Thailand history about the Malaysian Communist fighters in the jungle cave system. All the staff here are friendly and helpful. You are give a map to follow the tunnel system"
Jake
"This place holds very interesting history of communist party. Good place to learn Malaysia and Thailand history."
Elango Suresh
"A unique experience about an hour drive from Hat Yai. Nestled in the beautiful national park you will find the Kao Nam Kuang Historical tunnels. Tickets cost 80 baht for Thai and 150 baht for foreigners, which included a quaint movie experience and access to the mini museum and tunnels. Very friendly staff and an interesting stop to visit."
Jay Thompson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The tunnel is about an hour's drive from Hat Yai. Be prepared for some roadworks and potentially unpaved sections. Using Google Maps is highly recommended for navigation as signage can be scarce. The site is located at the end of the road, past the national park entrance.
Finding the tunnel can be a bit tricky due to limited signage. It's best to rely on GPS navigation like Google Maps. You'll pass the national park entrance first, and the tunnel is further down the road.
Some parts of the road leading to Khao Nam Khang Tunnel may be under construction or unpaved, so drive with caution.
Public transport options are limited. It is generally recommended to travel by private car or hire a taxi for easier access.
Yes, there is parking available at the site for visitors arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for foreigners is 150 baht per person, which includes a historical movie and access to the mini-museum and tunnels. Thai nationals have a lower fee.
Your ticket typically includes a briefing, a historical video presentation, access to the mini-museum, and the exploration of the tunnel system.
There is a small fee for using the toilets, usually around 3 baht per person.
Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check for the most current information before your visit.
Tickets are typically purchased on-site upon arrival. There's no indication of a need to buy tickets in advance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors are advised to enter the tunnel via the stairs (approximately 108 steps) and follow the arrows through the system. Exiting via the tunnel is recommended over entering from below.
The entrance to the tunnel requires climbing about 108 steps, making it challenging for those with significant mobility issues.
The tunnel was built by members of the Malayan Communist Party when they fled from Malaysia to southern Thailand. It served as a hideout and operational base.
The tunnel is well-maintained and considered safe for exploration. Follow the marked paths and heed any instructions provided.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the stairs and uneven terrain within the tunnel. Light clothing is also recommended.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
There are limited food options on-site, but coffee and drinks are available for purchase. It's a good idea to bring snacks or plan to eat before or after your visit.
Bringing your own water and snacks is generally permitted, especially to stay hydrated during your exploration.
Dining options are scarce directly at the tunnel. You'll find more choices in nearby towns like Hat Yai.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the tunnel, but be mindful of others and avoid using flash if it might disturb the atmosphere or other visitors.
The entrance and exit points with the surrounding jungle offer scenic views. Inside the tunnel, focus on capturing the unique structure and historical feel.
The lighting inside the tunnel can be dim, so a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod might be helpful for capturing clear shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific play areas, the unique environment of the tunnel and the surrounding natural park can be captivating. The well-maintained facilities, including clean toilets, are a plus for families. It's a good opportunity to teach children about a less-discussed aspect of Thai and Malaysian history in a hands-on way.
🚶 History Buffs & Curious Explorers
Explorers will appreciate the unique structure of the 3-story tunnel with its multiple exits. The journey to the site, though requiring navigation, adds to the sense of discovery. The well-preserved nature of the tunnel and the informative context provided by the staff make for a truly immersive historical experience.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
The tunnel itself provides a unique point of interest along your journey. It's a great stop to break up a longer drive and experience something different. Remember to have a reliable vehicle and be prepared for the unpaved sections of the road.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance of Khao Nam Khang Tunnel
Understanding the context of the Malayan Emergency and the party's presence in the region is key to appreciating the tunnel's importance. The site provides a unique educational opportunity to learn about this complex period of Thai and Malaysian history. The friendly staff and well-maintained facilities enhance the visitor experience, making it an accessible yet profound historical exploration.
While less popular than some other attractions, Khao Nam Khang Tunnel offers a compelling and authentic historical experience for those interested in the region's past. It's a place where history comes alive, allowing visitors to walk through the very spaces once occupied by those who shaped a significant chapter in Southeast Asian history.
Navigating the Journey and Site
Upon arrival, visitors will find the site well-maintained, with clean toilets and helpful staff. A key aspect of the visit involves a physical element: climbing approximately 108 steps to enter the tunnel. It's recommended to ascend these stairs in the open air and then proceed through the tunnel system, exiting via the designated path. Comfortable footwear is essential for this part of the experience.
While the tunnel itself is the main draw, the surrounding national park setting adds to the overall appeal. The drive, though potentially bumpy, takes you through beautiful natural landscapes. Visitors can purchase coffee and drinks on-site, but it's wise to bring your own water and snacks for the exploration.
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