La Ong Rung Waterfall
(Rainbow Waterfall) is situated on the boundary between Amphoe Than To and
Amphoe Betong, about 90 kms. on the Yala-Betong Road from Amphoe Muang.
Turn right onto a dirt road at about 40 kms. before reaching Amphoe
Betong, and go for another 100 metres. The slippery trek that runs along
the stream from the waterfall calls for precaution. During the rainy
season, the waterfall produces the effect of a rainbow, hence the name.
Namtok Than To is
situated in Tambon Tham Talu, on the Yala-Betong Road (Highway 410),
turn right at the 47-48-km marker and continue for about one km. It is a
large waterfall with cascading water running through seven levels, with
pools at each level suitable for swimming. The surrounding forest is
lush with many interesting species, including Si Yala (Saraca
thaipingensis
Cantley ex Prain) with yellow blooms in February.
Sakai Village
at Moo 3,
Tambon Ban Rae, is about 80 kms. on the road to Betong. The Sakai , an
ancient nomad tribe whose existence was based on hunting and gathering,
were experts on herbal plants and used darts for hunting. Their
dwellings were originally made of bamboo, with thatch roof. Recently,
the Department of Social Work has developed the village by segregating
the Sakai in one area and introduced rubber planting for their
occupation. The Department also asked the Princess Mother for the naming
of the group with the family name of “Si Than To”. At present, there are
a few of the Sakai left at this village since the rest of the group has
moved to other areas.
