Fortune Dragon Express 2.0 Chartered Train to Hat Yai: A Heartfelt Tribute to Mothers
An unforgettable 5D/3N weekend escape aboard a chartered train direct from KL Sentral/Ipoh to Hat Yai, with shopping, sightseeing, and special moments that warmed every mother’s heart.
Over the recent Wesak long weekend, Golden Century Tour & Travel again made history by organising the Fortune Dragon Express 2.0 Chartered Train to Hat Yai. Following the success of its Fortune Dragon Express 1.0 last year, this tour was a heartfelt holiday designed especially for mothers and their families, in conjunction with Mother’s Day, celebrated on 11th May.
This second edition chartered train to Hat Yai aimed to provide a meaningful short break for children to treat their mums to a well-deserved getaway.
A Midnight Ride Through Peninsular Malaysia
The custom-chartered 11-coach train owned by KTM Berhad departed from KL Sentral at 10.30pm on 8th May 2025.
The train rolled into Ipoh Railway Station around 2am on 9th May, where more passengers joined the journey.
Spirits were high despite the late hour. Perhaps it was the promise of adventure or the novelty of travelling by sleeper train, complete with VIP seat coaches and even a karaoke coach for onboard entertainment.
As dawn approached, the train reached the Padang Besar immigration checkpoint by 7am, and soon after, the 300 passengers were cleared to cross the Malaysia-Thailand border. Thailand, here we come!
At 8.40am, the train departed for Hat Yai, arriving promptly at 9.16am.
Exploring the Serenity of Phatthalung
Upon arrival, guests split into three different tour routes (Phatthalung, Krabi and Songkhla), with our writer assigned to the Phatthalung tour.
Phatthalung is less touristy yet a culturally rich destination, located about two hours ride north of Hat Yai.
First Meal in Thailand: Sam Kuk Talay Noi Restaurant, Phatthalung
Our first proper meal of the trip was at Sam Kuk Talay Noi Restaurant (ร้านอาหารสามกั๊ก ทะเลน้อย), a popular local eatery in Phatthalung known for its hearty portions, tasty Thai dishes, and fair prices.
Situated near the scenic bridge connecting Phatthalung and Songkhla, it’s a convenient stop for travellers. The restaurant’s casual, no-frills atmosphere adds to its charm, creating a feeling that’s authentically local. It’s a simple place that delivers flavour and value in equal measure.
Remember to wrap up your meal with Kanom Sago (sago plus corn in coconut milk) for a sweet taste of Phatthalung. This cherished local dessert blends soft, chewy sago pearls with rich coconut milk and sweet corn, presenting a delightful balance of texture and flavour. Deeply tied to the region’s farming heritage, Kanom Sago is a reflection of Phatthalung’s distinctive culinary roots.
Sam Kuk Talay Noi Restaurant Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/sm7CHTExfPrZPDHeA
Sampao Thai & Wat Khuha Sawan
Our first visits included Sampao Thai, with hillside views, and Wat Khuha Sawan, a peaceful temple complex with sacred caves nestled in limestone cliffs.
Set against the backdrop of Phatthalung’s tranquil scenery, Sampao Thai is a picturesque “theme park” where tradition meets creativity. Taking its name from the old Thai cargo ships known as sampao, this attraction showcases rural life through imaginative installations including a colossal straw King Kong, a ship replica, and quirky sculptures.
Wooden walkways wind through vibrant rice paddies, offering a peaceful stroll and photo-worthy views. Ideal for families, the site features playful elements like ziplines, paddle boats, and a mini petting zoo. A café tucked among the fields offers a relaxing place overlooking the Khao Luang range. Celebrating cultural roots and local innovation, Sampao Thai is a charming escape for travellers seeking authenticity and calm.
Sampao Thai Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qvhA3wuTViXAfuJGA
Wat Khuha Sawan, the oldest royal temple in Phatthalung, Southern Thailand, is a treasured site steeped in history and spirituality. Believed to have origins in the 8th to 10th centuries, it features Srivijaya-era relics and inscriptions from Kings Rama V and Rama VII, reflecting its long-standing royal significance. The temple’s main cave, Tham Khuha Sawan, houses a reclining Buddha and statues adorned with colourful offerings, while Tham Nang Khlot adds a local folklore element.
Visitors can explore Ayutthaya-style chedis and ascend a mossy stairway to enjoy sweeping views of Phatthalung town and its striking Khao Ok Thalu mountain. Surrounded by nature and wildlife, the temple presents a tranquil atmosphere and an authentic glimpse into the region’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
Wat Khuha Sawan Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/aAgcTYSL5PjeCNr27
After that, we checked into The Centris Hotel Phattalung, a cosy and modern property right in the heart of Phatthalung town.
The Centris Hotel Phattalung Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/phjiyFcXErJstKoM6
After a short rest, we had a traditional Thai dinner at Baebthai (แบบไทย), Phatthalung. This is a charming Thai-style restaurant and wellness spot set in a peaceful, greenery-filled setting near Phetkasem Road. It offers over 220 dishes featuring Southern, Central, Northeastern, and Chinese Thai cuisines, with highlights like lotus stem stir-fried with shrimp paste and crab in coconut milk.
Alongside its diverse menu, Baebthai also provides traditional Thai massage and spa services, ensuring a relaxing and yummy stop for visitors seeking both authentic food and rejuvenation in one place.
Thale Noi & the Bamboo Market Experience
The next morning began with a trip to Thale Noi. While the weather was scorching, the adventurous boat ride that lasted more than an hour made it worthwhile.
Thale Noi (or Little Sea), located in Phatthalung, Southern Thailand, is a serene freshwater lake and wetland known for its breathtaking lotus fields and diverse ecosystem. Part of the larger Songkhla Lake system, it is Thailand’s first non-hunting area and a Ramsar Wetland Site, emphasising its global ecological significance. The area is stunning between November and March when the lotus flowers bloom in vibrant pink, attracting over 280 bird species, including migratory birds.
The local community thrives on fishing, lotus harvesting, besides eco-tourism, with the lake playing an important cultural role in Thai Buddhism. Visitors can enjoy boat tours, birdwatching, and photography here. With ongoing conservation efforts, Thale Noi remains a vital and sustainable destination for nature lovers, including responsible travellers.
In short, the blooming pink lotus scattered across the lake, together with migratory birds gliding past, while water buffaloes enjoyed their morning swim, offered moments of quiet wonder. It was a rare glimpse into the harmony with nature that felt both calm and memorable.
Thale Noi Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/SWPnPRCFSLD7cNoy6
Bamboo Market & Thai Lunch
We then visited a charming Pa Phai Sang Suk Bamboo Market, where local artisans and farmers sold fresh produce, pickled delicacies, and handmade goods.
Pa Phai Sang Suk Bamboo Market, situated in Phatthalung’s Khuan Khanun district, is a pioneering eco-market founded in 2017 by environmentalist Ms Kwanjai Klapsuksai. Set within a lush bamboo grove, it embodies sustainable practices, eliminating Styrofoam and plastic in favour of biodegradable materials such as banana leaves and bamboo.
The market provides more than 200 stalls selling organic produce, rare local desserts, and handmade crafts, alongside cultural experiences including traditional music performances and workshops on bamboo crafts. It also plans educational tours on bamboo cultivation and waste management.
By supporting local businesses, generating substantial income, and promoting environmental awareness, the market stands as a vibrant model of sustainable living and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination in Southern Thailand.
Pa Phai Sang Suk Bamboo Market Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jaFXUmBbbv6LMXLLA
Lunch was held at บ่าววี สาขา4, a beloved Thai restaurant. Tung Na Khao Kub Khao Baw Vee (which roughly translates to “Rice Field and Food with Baw Vee”) Branch 4 is a charming Southern Thai restaurant located in Phanang Tung subdistrict, Khuan Khanun District, Phatthalung Province.
This branch is especially popular for its stunning 360-degree rice field views, an awesome backdrop for a relaxing meal in nature. Set right in the middle of the rice fields, the restaurant offers a flawless and breezy open-air environment. It’s a great place to unwind, enjoy traditional Thai food, and take photos with natural backdrops.
The restaurant is known for authentic Southern Thai dishes, such as:
These dishes are cherished for their strong, bold flavours and home-style cooking.
บ่าววี สาขา4 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YumwhL2M8iNbjgvW7
Return to Hat Yai: Shopping and Durian Surprise!
Post-lunch, we returned to Hat Yai and made a pit stop at Makro Hypermarket. With our 150 Baht shopping voucher (redeemable with a minimum 1500 Baht purchase) in hand, everyone eagerly explored the sprawling aisles filled with Thai snacks, household items, and kitchenware, all at unbeatable prices.
To our delight, Makro was running a durian buffet promotion, a tantalising teaser for what’s to come this August for Fortune Dragon Express 3.0.
Golden Crown Grand & Walkabout in Hat Yai
Our hotel in Hat Yai was the centrally located Golden Crown Grand Hotel, mere steps from the bustling Kim Yong Market. As the following day was free-and-easy, the hotel’s location was ideal for self-guided adventures.
Golden Crown Grand Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZKuRqayj2XLjmvpbA
Kim Yong Market, Temples & Clock Tower
We began our Wesak Day morning with breakfast and shopping at Kim Yong Market. From dried seafood to crispy nuts, there was no shortage of goodies. We even made a trip back to the hotel to drop off our shopping haul!
Later, we visited Wat Chue Chang and Wat Thawararam to offer prayers.
Wat Chue Chang, also known as Chi Xiang Yi Temple, is a serene Chinese Buddhist temple in Hat Yai that exemplifies the city’s Thai-Chinese cultural blend. Its architecture is a visual feast: vivid dragon pillars, richly detailed murals, and traditional Chinese rooftops create an atmosphere of sacred artistry.
The temple houses revered figures such as Guan Yu and Avalokitesvara, drawing worshippers seeking peace and merit. Though the upper floors are under renovation, the ground floor is open for offerings and quiet contemplation. Wat Chue Chang stands as both a spiritual haven and a symbol of multicultural harmony.
Wat Chue Chang Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/uMvqrmLX4mE7qHZz6
Wat Thawararam extends a meaningful opportunity for devotees to accumulate merit by donating a coffin for just 300 Baht. This compassionate gesture provides a proper and respectful send-off for those who have passed away without family or financial means.
Rooted in the Buddhist belief of selfless giving, this act of generosity not only honours the deceased but also allows the donor to cultivate merit through kindness and empathy. It reflects a deeper sense of social responsibility, giving dignity in death to the forgotten while nurturing spiritual growth for the living.
Wat Thawararam Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5BVn3v2EPsoqK2aH9
From Wat Thawararam, it was another short stroll to the Hat Yai Clock Tower, a landmark excellent for photos and, of course, more shopping.
A Gala Evening to Honour Mothers
The highlight of the trip was the Mother’s Day Gala Dinner, hosted by Golden Century at the elegant Buri Sriphu Hotel. The event, held on 11th May, was nothing short of spectacular.
Awards for Mothers and Stage Performances
All mothers received a carnation flower and a mini harmonica as keepsakes. Guest-of-Honour Ms Nongyao Jirundorn, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Hat Yai Office, was warmly welcomed. Coincidentally, it was her birthday! A special rendition of the birthday song in English and Cantonese, plus a cake-cutting ceremony for Ms Nongyao added to the celebratory gathering.
Passengers were divided into eight groups (buses). The oldest mother from each bus received a silver-coloured Fuk Luk Sau figurine (福禄寿, also known as the Three Star Gods or Sanxing 三星), symbolising fortune, prosperity, and longevity, kept in a transparent acrylic display box.
A special recognition was given to the oldest mother among all: Madam Tan Soo Tin, aged 88, from Bus B. She was presented with a Fuk Luk Sau in gold, honouring her as the most senior participant of the tour.
Oldest awardee per bus:
Bus A: Yew Poo Chew, 76
Bus B: Tan Soo Tin, 88
Bus C: Tan Lee Cheng, 79
Bus D: Oh Chong Ngo, 78
Bus E: Goon Say Moy, 83
Bus F: Lim Kem Hua, 76
Bus G: Ang Mei Lan, 74
Bus H: Liw Piang Yen, 79
The event was enriched by musical performances led by Mr Chong Ah Kow, Malaysia’s legendary harmonica maestro. His daughter played the accordion, while his protégé, Mr Woon, wowed the crowd with a massive harmonica. To top it off, Mr Chong’s sister, Janet Teo, showcased peonies on Chinese rice paper painting live on stage, which was later gifted to Mr Jimmy Goh, the managing director of Golden Century Tour & Travel. Mr Jimmy graciously presented the painting to Ms Nongyao as her birthday present.
The joyous occasion ended with a thrilling lucky draw. Top prizes included a Bangkok hotel stay and tickets for the upcoming Fortune Dragon Express 3.0 trip. Everyone walked away with a prize or a memory to cherish.
Video: Fortune Dragon Express 2.0 Chartered Train to Hat Yai: A Heartfelt Tribute to Mothers
Journey Home & Onboard Celebrations
On 12th May, we checked out and returned to Hat Yai Junction for our ride home but the journey wasn’t over. On the train, Mr Chong held an impromptu harmonica workshop and performance, filling the event space with music and joy. As it was also his birthday, fellow passengers sang him a birthday song.
By 6.30pm, we arrived in Ipoh, and the train finally reached KL Sentral at 10.30pm, bringing this memorable whirlwind vacation to a hearty conclusion.
Fortune Dragon Express 3.0 ~ Durian Lovers, Rejoice!
Mark your calendar! Fortune Dragon Express 3.0 is rolling out this 7th of August 2025, coinciding with the durian season in Thailand.
Expect a 5D/3N extravaganza featuring:
Don’t miss this fruity adventure. Spots are limited, so reach out to Golden Century Tour & Travel to book your seat on the upcoming Fortune Dragon Express 3.0.
Event: Fortune Dragon Express 2.0 Chartered Train to Hat Yai
Venue: KL Sentral – Ipoh – Hat Yai – Phattalung – Malaysia
Date: 8th – 12th May 2025
![[ETS] Ipoh - KL Sentral - KLIA2 / KLIA (Train Schedule & Fares)](https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_6ZhAAN5xNBU/TSQ91dKJF5I/AAAAAAAAHoQ/u4BhgSe3L84/s400/Ipoh%2BETS%2BLCCT%2BKLIA.jpg "[ETS] Ipoh - KL Sentral - KLIA2 / KLIA (Train Schedule & Fares)")
