HatYai Municipal Park: Your Complete 2025 Guide to Cable Car, Buddha & More
Experience the breathtaking views from HatYai Municipal Park’s famous standing Buddha
Welcome to HatYai City Municipal Park (สวนสาธารณะเทศบาลนครหาดใหญ่), one of Southern Thailand’s most beloved attractions. With its iconic cable car, majestic standing Buddha, and panoramic city views, this 1-square-kilometer park offers an unforgettable experience for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. This comprehensive 2025 guide covers everything you need to know for your visit.
Why Visit HatYai Municipal Park?
Ranking as one of Hat Yai’s top attractions with over 6,492 reviews, the hatyai city municipal park combines natural beauty, cultural significance, and recreational activities in one stunning location. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enrichment, family fun, or simply the best views in town, this park delivers an exceptional experience.
Quick Facts: Hat Yai Municipal Park
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM Daily |
| Entrance Fee | 20 THB (Free for children under 3) |
| Cable Car Cost | 50 THB per person (round trip) |
| Park Size | 1 square kilometer |
| Location | Kanjanavanich Rd, Tambon Kho Hong, Hat Yai |
| Contact | +66 74 211 898 |
Main Attractions at HatYai Municipal Park
1. Cable Car to Standing Buddha
The iconic cable car offers stunning views on the way to the majestic standing Buddha
The cable car hat yai city experience is the park’s main highlight. For just 50 THB, enjoy a scenic ride to the top of Kho Hong Mountain where the magnificent Phra Phutthamongkol Maharat (Standing Buddha) statue awaits.
What to Expect:
- Duration: 5-7 minute ride each way
- Capacity: 4-6 people per cabin
- Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
2. Phra Phutthamongkol Maharat (Standing Buddha)
The majestic 25-meter golden Buddha statue offers panoramic views of Hat Yai
This majestic golden Buddha statue stands at 25 meters tall, offering not just spiritual significance but also the best panoramic views of Hat Yai city. The viewpoint platform provides incredible photo opportunities, especially during sunset.
3. Astronomy Observatory & Science Center
PSU Planetarium and Science Center offers educational exhibits and stargazing
The park features a modern 4-zone science center complete with:
- Astronomy theater with digital planetarium shows
- Interactive science exhibitions
- Educational programs for children
- Evening stargazing sessions (seasonal)
4. HatYai Municipal Park Aviary and Walking Trails
Beautiful walking trails and aviary wind through the park’s lush landscape
Explore the park’s natural side through its well-maintained walking paths and the walk-through aviary. The hatyai city municipal park playground area makes it particularly family-friendly.
5. Dragon Head Tunnel Viewpoint
The unique Dragon Head Tunnel offers another spectacular viewpoint in the park
This unique architectural feature provides another fantastic photo opportunity and viewpoint overlooking the city. The dragon head structure frames the cityscape beautifully.
10 Fun Activities at Hat Yai Municipal Park
Based on Agoda’s recommendations and visitor experiences, here are the top activities to enjoy:
🚡 Cable Car Adventure
Take the scenic cable car ride for breathtaking city views
🙏 Buddha Viewpoint
Visit the golden Buddha statue for spiritual reflection and photos
🚶 Walking Trails
Explore the park’s extensive network of scenic walking paths
🐦 Aviary Visit
Walk through the bird aviary and enjoy close encounters with local species
🔭 Science Center
Discover interactive exhibits at the PSU Planetarium and Science Center
👶 Playground Fun
Let children enjoy the modern, safe playground equipment
🧺 Picnic Areas
Relax with family and friends in designated picnic spots
🏃 Fitness Jogging
Join locals for morning or evening exercise on the running tracks
🌅 Sunset Viewing
Watch spectacular sunsets from the Buddha viewpoint
📸 Photography Tour
Capture stunning shots of the Standing Buddha, Dragon Head Tunnel, cable car, and panoramic city views – perfect for Instagram!
2025 Prices & Practical Information
Entrance Fees
| Ticket Type | Price (THB) |
|---|---|
| Adult Entrance | 20 |
| Child (3-12 years) | 10 |
| Cable Car Round Trip | 50 |
| Parking Fee | Free |
Best Time to Visit
🌅 Early Morning
5:00 AM – 8:00 AM
Perfect for jogging and enjoying cool temperatures with local fitness enthusiasts. Best for photography with soft morning light.
🌞 Late Afternoon
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Ideal for cable car rides and sunset views from the Buddha statue. Avoid the midday heat and capture golden hour photos.
🌙 Evening
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Beautiful city lights and cooler temperatures for leisurely walks. The park is beautifully illuminated in the evenings.
How to Get to Hat Yai Municipal Park
From Hat Yai City Center
The park is easily accessible from anywhere in Hat Yai:
- Taxi: 15-20 minutes from city center (approx. 100-150 THB)
- Songthaew: Shared pickup trucks (approx. 20-30 THB per person)
- Grab/Taxi App: Most convenient option for direct transport
- Rental Car/Scooter: Ample parking available at the park
From Malaysia
Traveling from Malaysia? Check our complete guide on how to get from Malaysia to Hat Yai for detailed transportation options.
Nearby Hotels & Accommodation
Stay close to the HatYai city municipality park with these recommended hotels:
Lee Gardens Plaza Hotel
15-minute drive to the park. Excellent city views and shopping access.
Visitor Tips for Best Experience
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The park has considerable walking areas and hills. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring all attractions.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially if visiting during daytime hours. Multiple vendors available throughout the park.
📸 Camera Ready
Don’t forget your camera! The views from the Buddha statue and Dragon Head Tunnel are spectacular.
⛅ Check Weather
Cable car may close during heavy rain. Visit on clear days for best views and photo opportunities.
🕒 Avoid Weekends
For quieter experience, visit on weekdays. Weekends attract larger crowds, especially in the afternoon.
🙏 Respect Local Customs
Dress modestly when visiting Buddha statue. Shoulders and knees should be covered as a sign of respect.
Family Activities at Hat Yai Municipal Park
The hatyai city municipal park playground and family-friendly facilities make it perfect for visitors with children:
- Children’s Playground: Modern, safe equipment for different age groups
- Pedal Boating: Enjoy boating on the park’s lake (seasonal)
- Picnic Areas: Designated spots perfect for family picnics
- Food Vendors: Local snacks and drinks available throughout park
- Educational Exhibits: Science center perfect for curious young minds
Accessibility Information
Hat Yai Municipal Park offers good accessibility for most visitors:
- Wheelchair Access: Main paths are paved and accessible
- Cable Car Accessibility: Staff can assist with wheelchair boarding
- Restrooms: Accessible facilities available near main entrance
- Parking: Designated accessible parking spots near entrance
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Protect your Hat Yai adventure with comprehensive travel insurance that covers activities and medical emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The park is open daily from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The cable car operates from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. These hours may vary during public holidays or special events.
The cable car costs 50 THB per person for a round trip. Children under 3 years old typically ride for free when accompanied by paying adults.
Yes, the park is suitable for elderly visitors. The cable car provides easy access to the top, and main paths are paved and relatively flat. Benches are available throughout for resting.
Weekday mornings (Monday-Thursday) between 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM are least crowded. Evenings are popular with locals, while weekends attract the largest crowds.
Yes, multiple food vendors and drink stalls are located throughout the park, offering local snacks, fresh coconuts, and cold beverages at reasonable prices.
Explore More of Hat Yai
After visiting Hat Yai Municipal Park, discover other amazing attractions in the area:
Start Planning Your Visit!
Now that you have all the essential information for visiting Hat Yai City Municipal Park (สวนสาธารณะเทศบาลนครหาดใหญ่), it’s time to start planning your adventure. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enrichment at the standing Buddha, family fun at the playground, or simply the best views in Hat Yai, this park offers an unforgettable Southern Thailand experience.
Book your Hat Yai accommodation today and get ready to explore one of Thailand’s most beautiful urban parks!
