Thailand

Located on the eastern coast of the Malay Peninsula, Nakhon Si Thammarat, once known as Ligor, is a significant historical, economic, and commercial center in southern Thailand. Let's explore the highlights of this destination.

Getaway to Nakhon Si Thammarat, between pilgrimage and artistic entertainment

The city of Nakhon Si Thammarat boasts over a thousand years of history within its fortifications. Western travelers referred to it as Ligor, while locals affectionately call it Nakhon Si. Regardless of the name, the important thing is to explore its architectural gems and admire its Hindu, Buddhist, and Islamic temples. Nakhon Si Thammarat is the capital of the province of the same name, the second most populous province in southern Thailand. Its allure comes primarily from shadow puppet theater, a traditional form of theater that interprets lyrical poetry with wooden puppets. Combining pilgrimage and artistic experience, Nakhon Si Thammarat is a prime destination for alternative travel in Thailand.

Historical Annals: From the glorious capital of Tambralinga to the modest provincial capital

Nakhon Si Thammarat boasts a prestigious past, having been the capital of Tambralinga, a powerful principality that ruled much of Southeast Asia. Founded over a thousand years ago, it is surrounded by moats and ramparts. Royal chronicles indicate that the foundations of the current city were laid in the 13th century. Its founder was King Sri Thammasok. In addition to its military history, it has a significant religious history. Nakhon Si Thammarat witnessed the early development of Theravada Buddhism.

The Tambralinga kingdom ceased to exist in the 14th century; Ligor came under the control of the Sukhothai kingdom, and later Ayutthaya.

The modern city

With a population of 102,000, Nakhon Si Thammarat is the administrative capital of Nakhon Si Thammarat province. It is located 780 kilometers south of Bangkok. Rice, coconuts, and rubber are the city's main resources. Mining is also active. The growth of tourism is expected to reduce unemployment and fully develop the economy.

Must-see attractions

The city of Nakhon Si Thammarat is home to an exceptional historical and architectural heritage.

City Wall

The wall walk is popular with walkers. The formidable ramparts stretch along Ratchadamnoen Road. They symbolize the power, courage, prosperity, and tumultuous past of the city.

Wat Phra Mahathat

With its majestic white bell-shaped stupa, Wat Phra Maha is the most important temple in Nakhon Si Thammarat. It contributes to the city's architectural heritage. Ancient Buddha statues.

Wat Wang Tawantok

The woodwork is impeccable in this temple from the first half of the 19th century, built by Governor Chao Phraya Nakhon, the son of King Taksin, in memory of his beloved mother. Admire the delicate wood carvings that adorn the stilt buildings. The sanctuary adjoins the West Palace, where Chao Praya's mother lived. Hence the name Wat Wang Tawantok, translated into English as "temple of the west palace."

The National Museum of Nakhon Si Thammarat

After leaving the City Wall, head to the national museum for an artistic interlude. Built in 1974 on the ruins of an ancient temple, the museum houses a collection of Buddhist artwork dating from the Dvaravati and Srivijaya periods to the Rattanakosin period. Children will be delighted as they come face-to-face with miniature and animated Buddhas.

The Nang Talung Museum

If you're intrigued by the performing arts, don't hesitate to visit the Nang Talung Museum. It is dedicated to shadow puppet theater, a folkloric theater that is thriving in the southern provinces of Thailand. After the performance, visit the workshop and admire puppets embodying ghosts, angels, demons, or political figures. The museum is a five-minute walk from Wat Phra Mahathat temple.

Practical information

When to visit Nakhon Si Thammarat?

From January to March, temperatures are mild and moderate, and rainfall is minimal. This is the ideal time to visit Nakhon Si Thammarat. Tourist travel is not recommended in April due to the intense heat.

How to get there?

The city warmly welcomes tourists with land, rail, and air connections. Several airlines (Thai Lion Air, etc.) offer flights to Nakhon Si Thammarat. It's about an hour's flight from Bangkok airport.

You'll Love…

• watching the puppet show.
• exploring the temples.
• capturing photos of the stupa at Wat Phra Mahathat.
• savoring excellent local specialties.