Nakhon Pathom

Introduction

Located in central Thailand, Nakhon Pathom serves as the capital of its namesake province. You can explore a landscape defined by significant spiritual landmarks and unique religious sites.

Your visit may bring you to the prominent Phra Pathommachedi or to Wat Song Thammakanlayani. This temple is notable for being the only Bhikkhuni temple in Thailand, offering a space that welcomes women from abroad.

Before you go

Prepare for your visit by understanding the deep historical layers of this inland city. You will find a landscape shaped by shifting coastlines and changing river courses that once dictated where people lived and thrived. The region holds significant archaeological importance, with sites dating back centuries to the Dvaravati period and later influences from the Angkorian Empire.

Your exploration centers on the massive Phra Pathom Chedi, a towering stupa inspired by ancient ruins. You can trace the area's evolution through its architectural landmarks and the infrastructure developed during the reigns of King Rama IV and King Rama V, including canals and railways that redefined the local geography.

You can reach the city by bus from Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal, where government buses depart regularly throughout the day. For a more direct journey, a non-stop minibus service connects Bangkok to the Big C Superstore in Nakhon Pathom; you can request to be dropped off directly in front of Phra Pathom Chedi. From the Big C Superstore, numerous four-wheel and two-wheel taxis are available to transport you to your final destination.

Rail travelers can reach this important rail junction via trains from Bangkok's Hualamphong or Thonburi stations. Trains traveling toward Kanchanaburi and the bridge over the River Kwai stop here, with connections from Thonburi offering a quicker journey. If you prefer to drive from Bangkok, you can choose between the old route of Petchkasem Rd passing through Aom Noi, Aom Yai, and Sam Phran, or a newer route via Route 338 that passes Buddhamonthon and Nakhon Chaisi.

Getting around

Information regarding transportation and local transit options within the area is not currently available.

Where to stay

While many travelers choose to visit Nakhon Pathom as a day trip from Bangkok, you can opt for a slower pace by staying in local accommodations that offer a traditional provincial feel. These hotels provide comfortable stays with amenities like clean baths and refrigerators.

• Choose a room overlooking the chedi at the Nakhon Inn to avoid the noise of a nearby school, or stay at the Whale Hotel if your itinerary focuses on visiting Silpakorn University and Sanam Chan Palace grounds.
• For a light and airy atmosphere with English-speaking staff, the Mitsampant Hotel provides guests with a local map in English.
• The Mitpaisal Hotel offers clean rooms and bathrooms located near the fruit market and the air-con bus station to Bangkok, providing you with a helpful map of regional attractions.
• If you prefer a more expansive estate featuring a golf course, house plots, and a business center, you can stay at The Royal Gems Golf Resort.

Food & drink

Explore a variety of local flavors starting at the night market located on the west side of the pagoda, where numerous hawker stalls offer an array of affordable options. You can also sample traditional treats like Khao Lam, which is sticky rice and coconut milk cooked in bamboo, alongside sweet pomelo and fragrant coconut juice.

For a sit-down meal, you can choose between several establishments along Rajdamnern Road. At Ratchaphreuk, you can dine in a comfortable beer garden with plastic tables and chairs; however, be prepared to navigate the menu without English signage. If you prefer an English menu, Any Order offers clean, affordable Thai dishes, while Yuer Mai provides simple Thai dishes in an air-conditioned setting.

What to see and do

Explore the spiritual landmarks of Nakhon Pathom, starting with Phra Pathom Chedi, a massive brick stupa and the province's official symbol. You can walk through the inner courtyard to admire a large golden Buddha and explore various smaller temple halls nearby. For those seeking a different atmosphere, Wat Sisathong features a giant statue of Phra Rahu, where worshippers offer black-colored items to seek good fortune. Nearby, you can visit Wat Samphran, a tall pink cylindrical building wrapped in a red-and-green dragon sculpture.

Experience the royal history at Sanam Chan Palace, which features several distinct architectural styles including European and traditional Thai halls. The grounds include a memorial to a beloved dog named Ya-Le and an adjacent university campus where you can find local food near a lake or visit a student market on Wednesdays. Other notable sites include the ancient artifacts of Neun Wat Phra Ngam, which hosts a street market on weekends, and the lifelike wax figures at the Thai Human Imagery Museum. You can also wander through the Misiem Yip Intsoi Arts Garden to see various masterpieces or visit the Don Whai Market to experience an atmosphere reminiscent of the King Rama VI period.

Day one, you can travel from Bangkok via the rail network or by road. If you choose to travel by train, you can depart from Hualamphong or Thonburi stations. Alternatively, you can take a bus from the Southern Bus Terminal or travel along Petchkasem Rd, Aom Noi, Aom Yai, and Sam Phran.

Day two, explore the historical sites of Nakhon Pathom. You can visit the large Phra Pathommachedi, which features Dvaravati architecture, or see the work associated with King Rama IV at Wat Song Thammakanlayani.

Day three, you can continue your journey toward other regions such as Kanchanaburi and the River Kwai. You can also visit Buddhamonthon or travel toward Nakhon Chaisi.