Thailand
The region of Nakhon Si Thammarat is situated on the line between Surat Thani and Krabi. Located in the southeast of Thailand, it is considered the country's second largest province.
Nakhon Si Thammarat is a charming region with lush nature still far from mass tourism. It is bordered by over 130 km of coastline, and its often deserted white sandy beaches are a true hidden paradise. The province also boasts forests, caves, and breathtaking waterfalls. It's definitely worth exploring!
History
Around the 3rd century AD, the population in the southern part of the Kra Isthmus, nicknamed "Pan-Pan," organized themselves into a city-state. Nakhon Si Thammarat was below this isthmus.
In the early 5th century, the oldest remains were discovered; Hinduism and Buddhism were introduced.
In the 9th century, two international trading sites established on the southern part of the isthmus brought fame to the region. Particularly, Laem Pho on the eastern coast, and Ko Kho Khao on the western coast. They were part of a trading network with Indonesia, India, China, and the Middle East.
Between 1238 and 1448, Nakhon Si Thammarat was part of the Sukhothai Kingdom before belonging to the Ayutthaya Kingdom.
Exploring Nakhon Si Thammarat
Nakhon Si Thammarat is often a transit city. Travelers usually don't linger there. Nakhon Si Thammarat often serves as a transit point between Bangkok and the southern islands. However, the city, like the province, offers some sights to discover and still enjoys an authentic charm spared from mass tourism.
The largest temple in southern Thailand
During your stay in Nakhon Si Thammarat, don't forget to visit Wat Phra Mahattat Woramahawihan temple. It is the largest temple in southern Thailand and one of the earliest Buddhist monuments in the country. Visiting it will unveil its secrets and the riches of its history. Its central pagoda, 78 meters high, represents the spiritual heart of the region.
Dream beaches
Nai Phlao Beach, known as Khanom, is rather touristy. It is one of the few beaches in the province with accommodations and is starting to make a name for itself. It offers a very pleasant beach atmosphere to the few regulars, mainly Thais but also some foreigners.
You can also visit Ao Thong Yee Khanom Beach and Nadan Beach. Nadan Beach stretches for 9 km and is one of the longest beaches in the country. The atmosphere there is authentically delightful.
To the south of Khanom, Sichon Beach is famous for its fishing village.
Baan Laem Homestay
This is a small fishing village in the heart of mangrove forests. It offers travelers the opportunity to share the daily life of the locals. You can fish and learn to cook local dishes. Alternatively, you can go boating or biking, or even take a mud bath. Composed of 39 minerals, the mud quality is excellent.
Ban Nang Talung Suchart
Suchart Subsin's house is dedicated to the art of Nang Talung or shadow puppets. The complex includes a theater, a studio, a school for this traditional art, and a museum. Dozens of puppets are on display there.
Caves and Waterfalls
Khao Wang Thong Cave remains the most spectacular to explore. It houses impressive stalagmites and stalactites of various sizes and shapes.
You can also visit Namtok Krung Ching Waterfalls in Khao Luang National Park. It spans 7 levels, and the most famous is Nan Fon Saen Ha.
Thung Song is also a must-visit for enjoying the freshness of a river with its waterfall and natural pool.
The climate
The climate in Nakhon Si Thammarat is tropical. Throughout the year, the average temperature is 28°C, and the average precipitation is 2,292 mm. Heat dominates most of the time, accompanied by heavy rainfall during the wet season. However, if you want to have a rain-free stay, the best time to visit Nakhon Si Thammarat is during the dry season, from January to March. Rain is also absent in September.
How to get to Nakhon Si Thammarat?
To get to Nakhon Si Thammarat from Bangkok, you can take a plane from Don Muang Airport. No flights from Suvarnabhumi Airport serve this province.
It is possible to come by train. Two trains per day provide direct travel, but most stop at Thung Song Junction. Take the bus from the Sai Tai Mai southern bus terminal located west of the capital. The journey takes about twelve hours.
Hop on a minivan to Khanom. The two cities are only 83 km apart.
With your local travel agency in Thailand, you only need to follow your guide and driver to get to Nakhon Si Thammarat.
Getting around in Nakhon Si Thammarat
You can explore the city on foot, by bicycle, or by motorbike if you prefer two wheels. Otherwise, opt for public transport if you want to get acquainted with the locals during your trip.
