NAKHON SI THAMMARAT
Nakhon Si Thammarat is a diverse southern Thai province known for its rich history, cultural sites, and natural beauty, including ancient temples, lush jungles with waterfalls, and undeveloped beaches. Key attractions include the historic city center with its temples, the Khanom district for pink dolphin spotting and caves, and the Kiriwong village. The province also offers opportunities to experience local life, from traditional coffee shops to regional cuisine
POPULAR ATTRACTIONS:
- Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan
- Sanam Na Muang Public Park
- The National Museum of Nakhon Si Thammarat
- Kiriwong Village
- Tharian Night Market
- Princess Mother 84 (Thung Tha Lat).
- Old City Wall, Nakhon Si Thammarat
- Tal Lat Open Zoo
- Bannang Thalung Suchart Subsin
- Nakhon Si Thammarat Stadium
- Wat Chedi (Ai Khai)
- Wat That Noi
- Khao Luang National Park
- Suan Ta San
- Phrom Lok Waterfall
- Khiriwong bridge, Tha Dee canal
- Wat Khao Khun Phanom
- Wat Yang Yai
- Nai Phlao Beach
- Krung Ching Waterfall
- Khao Phlai Dam
POPULAR MARKETS:
- Nakhon Si Thammarat Municipal Market (Talaat Sod – Thetsaban Fresh Market): A large fresh market located on Thanon Pak Nakhon that opens early in the morning.
- Lat Na Phrathat: An evening market known for its cultural performances and traditional atmosphere. Cultural Demonstration, Handicraft, and Food. Vendors wear traditional costumes, and there are live music and cultural performances.
- Phrathat Night Market: A market with food, handmade crafts, and live performances of folk songs and arts.
- Tharian Night Market: A flea and street market.
- Khanom Walking Street: A walking street market.
CULTURAL & CULINARY EXPERIENCES:
- Temples and history: Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan: A historic and sacred temple, considered the city’s crowning jewel, with a striking 77-meter chedi.
- Nakhon Si Thammarat National Museum: Showcases the province’s history with exhibits on artifacts, sculptures, and textiles.
- Wat Chedi (Chicken Temple): A temple where visitors can participate in traditions like floating candles based on their birth day.
- Ban Tan Khun and Baan Khiri Wong: Visit these local communities for a glimpse into rural life and award-winning community tourism.
- Nang Talung (Shadow Puppets): Experience this centuries-old art form, which is a performance art the region is famed for.
- Visit the Ban Nang Talung Shadow Puppet Museum: See the traditional puppets at the home of National Artist Suchart Subsin.
- Nakhon Si Thammarat Walking Street and Phrathat Night Market: Experience the local vibe and food culture.
- Explore old city walls: Walk along Tha Chang Road to find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and nielloware jewellery.
- Attend a local wedding: For those lucky enough to be invited, it offers a deep dive into local traditions.
- Southern Thai cuisine: Sample intensely flavorful curries and pungent dishes that are characteristic of southern Thai food. Try the unique local roti flatbreads. Taste dishes that creatively use local ingredients, like lotus leaf-wrapped rice.
- Market and street food: Nakhon Si Thammarat morning market: Enjoy the local morning market scene.
- Street food and cafes: Sample Street food and relax in cool cafes, especially along Tha Chang Road.
- Seafood: Enjoy a local seafood lunch at a market like Kwamsuok Chao Lay Market.
- Coconut sugar: Visit a coconut plantation in Pakpoon to see how coconut sugar is made.
- Coffee: Visit old coffee shops like the one dating back to 1942 to try famous local coffee.
- Mangrove cruises: Cruise through mangrove forests, such as the “Amazon Tunnels” near Pakphun.
WHY VISIT:
Nakhon Si Thammarat to experience an authentic, less-touristy side of Thailand with a mix of cultural sites, natural beauty, and local charm. It’s a great destination for seeing ancient temples like Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan, exploring unique landscapes including waterfalls and beaches in areas like Khanom, and experiencing local traditions such as the art of nǎng tàlung shadow puppetry. The province also offers a taste of local life through its regional cuisine and friendly atmosphere.
HOW TO GET THERE:
From the Phuket to Nakhon Si Thammarat, you can take a Car or Bus.
BEST TIME TO VISIT:
December–February: This is the most recommended time for a visit. Expect sunny days and cooler evenings, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
March–May: This time of year, is hot, so be prepared with light, breathable clothing and sun protection. It can be a good time for beach holidays but can be oppressive in cities.
June–November: This period considered the least favorable time to visit due to heavy rainfall. Outside of these peak months, rain often occurs in short, heavy downpours.