DESTINATION OF THE DAY
Nakhon Pathom

Just 50 kilometers west of Bangkok lies Nakhon Pathom, Thailand’s oldest city and the birthplace of Siamese Buddhism. This unassuming province hides layers of history beneath its modern surface—from its golden age as a thriving Dvaravati-era river port to its revival as a royal pet project of King Rama IV. Today, visitors come to marvel at Phra Pathom Chedi, the world’s tallest Buddhist stupa, and wander through living archives of Thailand’s spiritual and architectural evolution.

A Glimpse into the History

From Dvaravati Glory to Abandonment

Nakhon Pathom flourished as a hub of trade and Buddhism during the Dvaravati civilization (6th–11th century), when the Tha Chin River connected it to maritime networks. The city’s strategic location attracted Indian merchants and monks, who introduced Theravada Buddhism and inspired the construction of early religious monuments. However, as waterways shifted and droughts plagued the region, the city was abandoned by the 14th century, its memory preserved only in the ruins of Phra Pathom Chedi—a colossal stupa swallowed by jungle.

A King’s Obsession: Rama IV’s Rediscovery

In the 19th century, King Mongkut (Rama IV)—then a monk—stumbled upon the overgrown ruins of Phra Pathom Chedi and recognized its historical significance. After ascending the throne, he ordered its restoration, encasing the original structure in a new Sri Lankan-style stupa (now standing 127 meters tall). He revived the city by digging Khlong Chedi Bucha, a canal linking the site to Bangkok, and renamed the area “Nakhon Pathom” (“First City”). His son, King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), later shifted the city center back to the stupa after building a railway through the province.

Royal Renaissance & Modern Legacy

King Vajiravudh (Rama VI) cemented Nakhon Pathom’s revival in the early 20th century, constructing Sanam Chandra Palace as his retreat and adding bridges, roads, and the sacred Phra Ruang Rojanarit statue beside the chedi. His efforts transformed the city into a pilgrimage site and open-air museum of Dvaravati and Rattanakosin artistry. Today, the province balances its archaeological treasures—like the Phra Pathom Chedi complex and Museum of Human Imaginations—with vibrant markets and khao lam (bamboo sticky rice), a culinary relic of its riverine past.

Things To Do In Nakhon Pathom

Marvel at the World's Tallest Stupa

See 500+ Vintage Cars & Oddities

Step Into Rama VI's Royal Retreat

Taste Local Treats on the Canal

Tee Off in Tropical Serenity

Other Attractions To Visit

• Wat Samphran, also known as the Dragon Temple, stuns visitors with its surreal 17-story pink tower wrapped by a giant coiled dragon sculpture. This unique Buddhist temple blends Thai and Chinese architectural styles, creating an otherworldly landmark that has become a favorite for photographers. Despite its growing popularity, the temple retains an air of mystery with little known about its origins or symbolic meaning.

• Wat Si Sa Thong holds deep cultural significance as a spiritual hub for Lao communities who settled here after migrating from Vientiane during King Rama I's reign. The temple earned its name "Golden Head" after villagers discovered a golden Buddha head during its construction, considered an auspicious sign. Today, it preserves ancient artifacts and traditions as a historic center for astrology, herbal medicine, and Buddhist studies in Nakhon Pathom.

• Don Wai Floating Market is a century-old riverside market along the Tha Chin River that serves authentic Thai flavors since the reign of King Rama VI. Vendors in wooden boats sell classics like pot-stewed duck and sweet-salty carp fish, while shops like Lim Heng Ki offer traditional Thai desserts. Visitors can browse farm-fresh produce daily or take a scenic river cruise from the market to Pho Kaeo Bridge.

• Thai Film Museum preserves Thailand's cinematic heritage as the country's only state-owned film archive and research center. This unique institution functions as both museum and temple for movie lovers, safeguarding rare films, props, and production artifacts in climate-controlled vaults reminiscent of scripture halls. Visitors can explore exhibitions tracing 100 years of Thai cinema, from vintage posters to modern production techniques, while scholars access its extensive film database for study.

• Wat Lam Phaya Floating Market thrives along the Tha Chin River, where Mon farmers and Chinese traders have mingled since the 1850s. This authentic market offers fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and scenic boat rides past riverside temples and museums. At its heart stands Wat Lam Phaya, home to a revered gold-leaf Buddha and lively annual festivals that draw both devotees and culture seekers.

Best Places To Eat & Drink In Nakhon Pathom

1. Ban Rim Bung Restaurant

   

   For over 20 years, Banrimbung has delighted diners with fresh seafood and classic Thai dishes served over a serene pond. Praised for its lively atmosphere and swift service, this Michelin-recognized spot shines with signature dishes like stir-fried prawns in shrimp oil and crispy seabass with green mango salad. Families love the garden kids’ zone, while evening live music makes waterside dining under the stars unforgettable.

   📍Petchkasem Road Tambon Nong Din Daeng, Nakhon Pathom

2. Volcano Prawn Restaurant

Volcano Prawn Restaurant delivers fiery drama with its signature flaming prawns served under erupting volcano-shaped domes. This spacious, warehouse-style eatery pairs its theatrical seafood presentations with reliable Thai classics like steamed sea bass and efficient service. While the mid-2000s decor shows its age, the outdoor cooling systems ensure comfortable dining even on hot days.

📍885 Phetkasem Road Tambon Sanam Chan, Nakhon Pathom

3. Krua Loong Loy Pa Lan

Krua Loong Loy Pa Lan delivers bold Thai flavors with its wild-sourced specialties like stir-fried boar with chilies and tom yam snakehead fish. This Michelin-recognized spot balances homely vibes with quality cooking, offering both air-conditioned comfort and breezy outdoor seating. While service can be hit-or-miss during rushes, the affordable prices and intense local flavors keep diners returning.

📍1010 Phetkasem Frontage Rd, Tambon Sanam Chan, Mueang Nakhon Pathom District, Nakhon Pathom

4. BaanBusaya Cafe & Restaurant

BaanBusaya serves authentic Thai cuisine using organic homegrown vegetables and natural seasonings, free from pesticides and MSG. Their menu features creative homemade bakery items, traditional desserts, and standout dishes like the rich Paneng Duck Curry. With fresh coffee, local beers, and warm service, it's a must-visit for wholesome dining in Nakhon Pathom.

📍91 Moo 4, Nakhon Pathom 73000 Thailand

5. Hai Phong Vietnamese Restaurant

Hai Phong offers authentic Vietnamese and Thai dishes prepared with fresh ingredients at wallet-friendly prices. This spot earns consistent praise for its flavorful cuisine and clean, welcoming atmosphere. While the food quality shines, be prepared for limited parking options during peak hours.

📍Ratdamri Rd., Phra Pathom Chedi Sub-District, Mueang Nakhon Pathom District, Nakhon Pathom

Classifieds

Robin Hood, Pattaya - Enjoy the best food & drink Pattaya has to offer at the fully airconditioned restaurant on the 2nd road - View the Robin Hood HERE

Scruffy Murphys, Bangkok - A traditional Irish pub in the center of Bangkok, yes please, there’s always a warm welcome, great food & a fantastic menu. Take a look at Scruffy Murphys HERE 

Amber Sauna, Koh Samui - There’s something steamy going on just on the outskirts of Chaweng, enjoy a red hot sauna, healthy steam room or take the plubge in their ice plunge. PS did we mention their delicious menu? See what you’re missing out on HERE

DID YOU KNOW?
You can get your Thai eSim card before you arrive…

Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving you access to 200+ eSIMs (digital SIM cards) globally at affordable prices. You can grab your esim on the go before you arrive to Thailand to save expensive mistakes upon your arrival.