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Rediscovering History at the Khao Nam Khang Historical Tunnel

Tucked away in the mountainous terrain of Songkhla Province in Southern Thailand, a 1.5-hour drive from Hat Yai City, the Khao Nam Khang Historical Tunnel is a captivating reminder of a tumultuous chapter in the region’s past. Found near Ban Piyamit 5 at Tambon Klongkwang, Natawee District, this historic site lies approximately four kilometres from the verdant Khao Nam Khang National Park, presenting visitors with a unique blend of history and natural beauty.

Khao Nam Khang Historical Tunnel monument
Khao Nam Khang Historical Tunnel monument
Khao Nam Khang Historical Tunnel arch
Khao Nam Khang Historical Tunnel arch
Khao Nam Khang Historical Tunnel souvenirs
Khao Nam Khang Historical Tunnel souvenirs
donations are welcome
donations are welcome
Khao Nam Khang Historical Tunnel wall mural
Khao Nam Khang Historical Tunnel wall mural

Origins and Construction
The Khao Nam Khang Historical Tunnel was meticulously dug out over two years by members of the 8th Detachment of the Communist Party of Malaya (CPM), also known as the Malayan Communist Party (MCP), in the late 1970s. The tunnels served as an essential hideout during their guerrilla conflict against British and Malaysian forces. Initially, the tunnels were accessible from three entrances. However, over time, the tunnel system was expanded to feature 16 entrances and three levels, interconnected by stairs. Inside, the tunnel was structured to support the daily lives of the fighters, with spaces allocated for sleeping, cooking, meetings, communication, and even medical emergencies.

Capt. Leong Yee Sing
Capt. Leong Yee Sing
Capt. Leong Yee Sing
Capt. Leong Yee Sing
a briefing by Capt. Leong Yee Sing
a briefing by Capt. Leong Yee Sing
video presentation
video presentation

Beyond the tunnel itself, the complex housed various outdoor amenities, such as a basketball court, communal kitchens, and living quarters, making it a self-sufficient hideout during its operational years. These features reflected the ingenuity and resilience of the CMP members, who created a sanctuary in the depths of the mountains during one of Southeast Asia’s most trying political periods.

visit to the historical museum
visit to the historical museum
weapons on display
weapons on display
old photographs for a visual history
old photographs for a visual history
comrades of the past
comrades of the past
storage for guns
storage for guns

From Conflict to Tourism
After the peace agreement between the CPM and the Malaysian government was signed in 1989, the once-crucial tunnel fell into disrepair. Recognising its historical significance, former CPM members Capt. Leong Yee Sing and Mr. Pang Min Sang spearheaded restoration efforts in 1995, with a focus on preserving the site as an educational and tourist destination.

honouring CPM's fallen soldiers
honouring CPM’s fallen soldiers
stairway to the tunnels
stairway to the tunnels
a steep ascent of the stairs
a steep ascent of the stairs
outdoor cooking shed
outdoor cooking shed

The tunnels were officially opened to the public on 22nd March, 1997. Spanning roughly 1,000 metres in length, the intricate network of tunnels had become a place for visitors to explore and reflect on the region’s history. The complex consisted numerous chambers, each serving different purposes during the conflict, from sleeping quarters to a kitchen, signals office, emergency room, and even a shooting range. Visitors can learn more about the site’s history through a video presentation, and also a modest museum.

outdoor cooking shed
outdoor cooking shed
underground tunnel to nowhere
underground tunnel to nowhere
conference hall
conference hall

Immersing in the Past
A trip to the Khao Nam Khang Historical Tunnel offers a deeply immersive experience, allowing visitors to delve into the lives of inhabitants who once took refuge in the mountains. The dimly lit passageways and narrow corridors evoke a sense of the secrecy and urgency that defined the tunnel’s original purpose. Visitors are guided through rooms where daily life took place such as sleeping quarters, cooking areas, plus meeting rooms, providing a window into the harsh yet resilient existence of the guerrilla fighters.

basketball court
basketball court
wedding hall
wedding hall
signage: tunnel by this way
signage: tunnel by this way

Located within the stunning Khao Nam Khang National Park, the tunnels are surrounded by serene natural beauty. Towering trees, lush greenery, and winding mountain trails create a peaceful contrast to the dark history of the site, providing travellers an opportunity to reflect on the quietude of nature.

tunnel entrance
tunnel entrance
the tunnel wall
the tunnel wall
motorbike area
motorbike area
emergency room
emergency room

Amenities and Facilities
In recent years, the tunnel complex has expanded to accommodate growing numbers of visitors. Food stalls and souvenir shops have been established near the entrance, offering refreshments and mementos.

Khao Nam Khang Historical Tunnel Restaurant

Additionally, a small herbal remedy kiosk reflects local traditions and health practices. Modern amenities, including clean restrooms, ensure a comfortable experience for visitors. Plans are underway to further enhance the site with accommodation, allowing tourists to extend their stay and fully enjoy the surrounding area.

carvings on the wall
carvings on the wall
kitchen
kitchen
printing room
printing room
shooting range
shooting range
telegram counter
telegram counter

Conclusion
The Khao Nam Khang Historical Tunnel is more than just a tourist attraction. It is a living memory of the region’s political struggles, and a tribute to the resilience of those who lived through the challenges. Visitors will find themselves immersed in a world where history and nature intersect, leaving with a greater understanding of the past and an appreciation for the peace that now graces this once-hidden tunnel. This journey into the heart of Songkhla is a must for Asian history enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to explore Southern Thailand’s rich cultural tapestry.

stairways in the tunnel
stairways in the tunnel
a visitor exits from the tunnel complex
a visitor exits from the tunnel complex
compound within Khao Nam Khang Historical Tunnel
compound within Khao Nam Khang Historical Tunnel
Chinese zodiac garden decoration
Chinese zodiac garden decoration

Note:
This visit to Khao Nam Khang Historical Tunnel was made possible by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, as an extension of our rail adventure from KL Sentral (Malaysia) on board the Fortune Dragon Express direct chartered train to Hat Yai City (Thailand), organised by premier travel agency based in Ipoh, Golden Century Tour & Travel. With much appreciation.

Khao Nam Khang Historical Tunnel
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/X4BPVWrzXxJhJBsTA

With love

2 thoughts on “Rediscovering History at the Khao Nam Khang Historical Tunnel

  1. Hi Emily, thanks for the wonderful account of visiting the tunnels. I have a question. Is it possible to visit without personal transport? In other words, is it possible to arrange for a driver at Sadao? Many thanks

  2. Hi Ryan,

    Apparently, there are many private drivers in Sadao, although I do not have any contact.
    Alternatively, get your hotel concierge to call for a taxi.

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