The Nakhon Si Thammarat region lies between Surat Thani and Krabi. Located in southeastern Thailand, it is considered the country's second-largest province.

Nakhon Si Thammarat is a region brimming with charm, blessed with lush nature that remains far removed from mass tourism. Bordered by over 130 kilometers of coastline, its white-sand beaches are often gloriously deserted, making for a true hidden paradise. The province also shelters forests, caves, and breathtaking waterfalls. An unmissable destination!

History

Around the 3rd century AD, the population in the southern part of the Kra Isthmus, known as "Pan-Pan," organized itself as a city-state. Nakhon Si Thammarat developed below this isthmus.

In the early 5th century, the oldest remains were discovered; Hinduism and Buddhism were introduced.

By the 9th century, two international trading posts established on the southern part of the isthmus brought renown to the region. Notably, Laem Pho, on the eastern coast, and Ko Kho Khao on the western coast. They belonged to a trade network with Indonesia, India, China, and the Middle East.

Between 1238 and 1448, Nakhon Si Thammarat was part of the kingdom of Sukhothai before becoming part of the kingdom of Ayutthaya.

Discovering Nakhon Si Thammarat

Nakhon Si Thammarat is often merely a transit town. Travelers typically don't linger long. The city frequently serves as a transit point between Bangkok and the southern islands. Yet the city, like the province itself, offers intriguing attractions and retains an authentic charm spared from mass tourism.

Southern Thailand's Grandest Temple

During your stay in Nakhon Si Thammarat, don't miss visiting Wat Phra Mahattat Woramahawihan. It is the largest temple in southern Thailand and one of the country's earliest Buddhist monuments. A visit will reveal its secrets and the riches of its history. Its central 78-meter-high pagoda represents the spiritual heart of the region.

Dream Beaches

Nai Phlao Beach, known as Khanom, is rather touristy. It is one of the province's few beaches with accommodations and is gaining popularity. It offers a pleasant seaside atmosphere to its regular visitors, mostly Thai locals alongside a handful of foreigners.

You can also visit Ao Thong Yee Khanom Beach and Nadan Beach. The latter stretches for 9 kilometers and is one of the country's longest beaches. The atmosphere is wonderfully authentic.

South of Khanom, Sichon Beach is renowned for its fishing village.

Baan Laem Homestay

This is a small fishing village nestled deep within mangrove forests. It offers travelers the chance to share the daily life of locals. You can fish and learn to prepare traditional dishes. Alternatively, you can explore by boat or bicycle, or enjoy a mud bath. Composed of 39 minerals, the mud quality here is excellent.

Ban Nang Talung Suchart

Suchart Subsin's house is dedicated to the art of Nang Talung, or shadow puppetry. The complex houses a theater, studio, school for this traditional art form, and a museum. Dozens of puppets are on display.

Caves and Waterfalls

Khao Wang Thong Cave remains the most spectacular to explore. It features stalagmites and stalactites of impressive sizes and shapes.

While you're at it, you can visit the Namtok Krung Ching waterfalls in the Khao Luang National Park. They span 7 levels, with the most famous being Nan Fon Saen Ha.

Thung Song is also a must-visit spot to enjoy the refreshing waters of a river complete with a waterfall and natural pool.

Climate

The climate in Nakhon Si Thammarat is tropical. Throughout the year, the average temperature is 28°C and average rainfall is 2,292 mm. Heat dominates much of the year, accompanied by heavy precipitation during the wet season. However, if you want a rain-free stay, the best time to visit Nakhon Si Thammarat is during the dry season, from January to March. Rainfall is also absent in September.

Getting to Nakhon Si Thammarat

To reach Nakhon Si Thammarat from Bangkok, you can fly from Don Muang Airport. No flights from Suvarnabhumi Airport serve this province.

You can travel by train. Two trains per day offer direct service, though most stop at Thung Song Junction. Take the bus from Sai Tai Mai Southern Bus Terminal located west of the capital. The journey takes approximately twelve hours.

Take a minivan to Khanom. The two towns are only 83 kilometers apart.

With your local travel agency in Thailand, you simply follow your guide and driver to reach Nakhon Si Thammarat.

Getting Around Nakhon Si Thammarat

Exploring the city can be done on foot, by bicycle, or motorcycle if you prefer two wheels. Otherwise, prefer public transportation if you want to connect with locals during your journey.