Yala
is the southernmost Province of Thailand situated on the Country’s
border with Malaysia on the Malay Peninsula. The province was before
a region under the semi-autonomous Pattani Kingdom which was under
the Sukhothai Kingdom. The Province has a population of about 500,000
people.
The City of Yala situated in Amphoe Mueang Yala is the administrative
capital of the Province. The City is home to an estimated 65,000
people. Islam is the main religion in Yala Province and is widely
practiced by majority of the population. Buddhism is the only
other major religion here. The province is situated about 800
km from Bangkok City. Yala is served by a small mainly domestic
airport and a railway line linking it to Bangkok and other major
cities in the country.
Tourism and travel:
Violence and armed conflict over the last two years have hampered
government efforts to promote Yala as a tourist destination.
Militants fighting for a breakaway republic have increased the
number of attacks on government installations and civilians especially
in remote areas of the province. The conflict has resulted in
casualties on both sides and has also affected civilians caught
up in the crossfire. Detailed travel advice should be sought
before visiting the region.
Attractions:
Yala plays host to a number of cultural festivals each year
such as; the ASEAN Barred Ground Dove festival which features
a dove-cooing competition and the Yala Cultural festival which
celebrates local indigenous art, music and religion.
