Old Town at the Foot of Khao Daeng Hill (Ancient Town)

The Ancient Town is an adventure for archaeology enthusiasts. Opposite the harbor, Khao Daeng Hill is in the shape of a lion and represents the name of the province, "Songkhla" derived from "Singora", the Hindi word for lion. Originally, there was a settlement at the foot of the hill on the other side of Songkhla Lake from the present provincial capital. After being defeated by King Narai of Ayutthaya, the settlement was burned to the ground. Later Songkhla moved across the harbor to its present site. Set amid scenic views of Songkhla Lake are the ruins of a fort which are among the oldest structural remains. Along the path at the foot of Khao Daeng Hill are the cemetery of the founder, Suleiman, and early members of "Na Songkla" family. Suleiman was responsible for Songkhla's commercial prominence. Just south of Suleiman's grave there is a Dutch graveyard, an evidence of Dutch presence in 17th century.

Near the Ancient Town and just across the river from the fresh market in the municipal town is a fishing village situated along the edge of the lake. Visitors to the village can absorb the authentic ways of life and locally traditional culture of Muslim Thais.

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