Interesting places within the public park include: - **Hat Yai Astronomical Observatory**: Located on the Khao Hong Hill, just before reaching the viewpoint at an altitude of 300 meters, this facility is a comprehensive and modern learning center for science and astronomy. Inside, you will find exhibition rooms, a cinema, and a star dome that can inspire the imagination and knowledge of astronomy enthusiasts. It is open daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with an entrance fee of 20 baht per person. For inquiries, call 0 7420 0184. - **Khao Hong Peak**: This small mountain within the park is accessible by a road that allows vehicles and motorcycles to travel to the summit. There is also a tram service from the visitor center to the peak, with a fee of 20 baht per person (if you wish to return via tram, be sure to keep your ticket to show to the staff). At the peak, you will find a large statue of Buddha in the gesture of bestowing blessings, known as “Phra Buddha Mongkol Maharach,” which is the city’s symbol. Standing at 19.90 meters tall, it was erected to celebrate the 72nd birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1999. The area in front of the statue offers a scenic viewpoint overlooking Hat Yai and extends all the way to Songkhla Lake. Tourists often come in the evening to catch a clear view of the sunset. - **Hat Yai Cable Car**: The first cable car in Thailand, situated on Khao Hong, features two cabins that cover a distance of 525 meters in a journey lasting 2.5 minutes, accommodating 8 passengers at a time. This route serves as a pilgrimage pathway to the sacred sites at the peak, including the statue of Phra Buddha Mongkol Maharach and the statue of Phra Phrom. While riding in the cable car, passengers can enjoy stunning views of the Khao Hong mountain range, the city of Hat Yai, and Songkhla Lake. At the cable car station, there are coffee shops and souvenir stalls. The cable car operates from Monday to Thursday from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, and from Friday to Sunday, as well as on public holidays, from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The fees are 100 baht for Thai adults, 50 baht for children, and 50 baht for government officials, students, and military personnel in uniform. For foreigners, the cost is 200 baht for adults and 100 baht for children. For further information, call 0 7421 1898 or 0 7420 0000. In addition, the public park offers grassy areas for relaxation and picnicking amidst beautiful gardens, a reservoir, a suspension bridge, pedal boats for rent, restaurants, and restrooms for visitors. The park is open every day from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. For more details, call 0 7420 0000 or visit the website at www.hatyaipark.com.