The city of Nakhon Pathom, located in central Thailand, is the capital of the province bearing the same name. Existing since 150 BC, it is remarkably rich in history and ranked among the oldest cities in the Land of Smiles. Its most important monument is the Phra Pathom Chedi. Standing 127 meters tall, it is the world's highest stupa.

Nakhon Pathom is a city near Bangkok. Yet upon arrival, you'll be struck by its tranquility. You might assume it's a sparsely populated village, though it now has over 120,000 residents. There are numerous places to visit and its heritage is exceptionally rich. Nakhon Pathom will certainly appeal to you, especially given the calm and relaxed atmosphere far from mass tourism.

History

The remains of the Mon civilization of Dvaravati shaped the city's history. A stupa discovered in the 4th century was already mentioned in a Buddhist text in 675. It was later covered by a Khmer-style prang in the 11th century before being overtaken by dense vegetation due to the region's tropical climate.

King Rama IV, who was crowned in 1851, regularly visited these ruins when he was a monk. Upon ascending to the throne, he ordered the construction of a larger stupa to replace it.

In 1870, the Phra Pathom was completed after 17 years of construction amid a newly built city called Nakhon Pathom. The first inhabitants came from the neighboring district of Nakhon Chai Si and were ordered to relocate there.

In 1907, King Rama IV erected Sanam Chan Palace to honor the site. Part of this royal residence is currently occupied by the vice-governor of Nakhon Pathom Province, while most serves as a campus for Silpakorn University.

Today

The province's economy has developed significantly in recent years. The region now hosts numerous industrial zones, agricultural centers, university towns, various transportation hubs, and government offices relocated from Bangkok.

Must-See Attractions in the City

Buddhism was introduced to Nakhon Pathom before spreading throughout Thailand. During your visit, you'll discover several sacred sites, as well as places of interest such as museums, theme parks, leisure centers, and more.

The World's Tallest Stupa

Most visitors come to Nakhon Pathom to discover the Phra Pathom Chedi, or the Sacred Chedi of the Beginning. While originally a stupa is defined as an earthen and brick mound containing a relic of Buddha, here it rises to 127 meters in height. It is the largest chedi on earth. Visit this remarkable monument and learn more about its fascinating history spanning several centuries.

The Global Center of Buddhism

Phuttamonthon is a Buddhist park spanning 400 hectares, distinguished by its 16-meter-tall walking Buddha statue. It is located 30 km from Bangkok. You simply cannot miss it!

Sanam Chandra Place

This monument was built in the early 19th century to serve as a retreat and inspiration for the king. It comprises five buildings and sanctuaries, each with its own architectural style and particular influences. Sanam Chandra is a charming park ideal for rest and reconnecting with nature.

The Covered Market

Located between the railway station and the great chedi, this is an easy-to-find spot for shopping and dining.

Surrounding Areas

Outside the city, you'll find several tourist sites such as the floating market at Wat Lam Phaya, Samphran Elephant Ground & Zoo, Wat Samphran with its dragon coiled around 17 stories, Wat Bang Phran, and many more attractions.

Climate

Nakhon Pathom has a savanna climate characterized by pleasant warmth year-round. Temperatures range from 27°C to 33.5°C, with summers being rainy and winters dry.

Rainfall is particularly significant in summer and can average 380.4 mm in the wettest month, October. However, precipitation drops considerably in winter, reaching just 13.1 mm in February, the driest month.

Plan your stay in Nakhon Pathom between November and March to ensure beautiful weather. Sunshine will accompany your days without burning you, and rain will generally be absent.

How to Get to Nakhon Pathom?

To reach Nakhon Pathom from Bangkok, you have several options:

• Bus: Direct buses from Southern Terminal are available from 4:10 AM to 9:30 PM.
• Train: Trains depart from Hua Lampong Station every 30 minutes from 7:30 AM to 12:10 AM to reach Nakhon Pathom.
• Taxi: Taxis are willing to travel to Nakhon Pathom, as the city is only 55 km from the capital.
• Car: Nakhon Pathom is one hour from Bangkok's outskirts. To get there, take Highway 338 at Pinklao toward Buddha Monthon 2 and Nakhon Chai Si. Alternatively, you can take the old Highway 4 (Petchakasem Road). In this case, you'll pass through Aom Noi, Aom Yai, and Sam Phran.
• With Sawa Discovery: Benefit from a private vehicle with driver.

Getting Around the City

Buses and tuk-tuks are abundant in Nakhon Pathom to facilitate your movement throughout the city.