Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Nakhon Si Thammarat – Temples, Nature & Culture

1.Khanom Beach

Khanom Beach which is on the Gulf of Thailand in Nakhon Si Thammarat province, gives guests a quiet break from some of Thailand’s popular beaches. Because of its clean beaches, history and colorful local traditions, Khanom offers travelers a special mixture of culture and nature.

Beautiful and Prominent Landmarks
The Thai island of Khanom has many beautiful beaches such as Hat Nadan, Hat Nai Phlao and Hat Nai Praet, all great places to relax and enjoy a swim. Morning tours on calm days give visitors the chance to spot the elusive pink dolphins, referred to by experts as Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins.
Nature lovers will find many ecosystems, including beaches and limestone islands, at the Hat Khanom–Mu Ko Thale Tai National Park, where they can kayak, visit caves and watch the wildlife.

How the building has contributed to the story and development of the city
During the Ayutthaya era, around eight hundred years ago, Khanom—originally Muang Tranom—was established and played a key role in navigation, seafaring and Buddhist arts . The town has been shaped through many years by different cultures and traditions.
Coral Pagoda (Chedi Pakarang) is a major cultural site found in Wat Chan Thattaram. Local people believe the pagoda was raised by pilgrims who couldn’t reach their destination because of a sea storm, so they built the Chedi on Khao That mountain using the gold relics they had.
It is believed that Wat Kradangnga was constructed in the Ayutthaya period. Inside the temple you can see beautiful murals about Lord Buddha and a grand Buddha statue from the same century .

2.Phra Mahathat Woramaha Wiharn

Known as Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan, this temple in Nakhon Si Thammarat is a major Buddhist site that holds great importance for the country’s history. For the past 1,500 years, it has placed the region at the center of its spirituality and culture.

• Historical Overview
• Originally, the temple grew out of the famous port state Tambralinga in the 5th century CE. It is said that Prince Thanakuman and Princess Hem Chala introduced to the area a relic of the Buddha in 291 CE and erected a small pagoda at Hat Sai Kaew. Soon after, King Sri Dhammasokaraja chose the early 13th century to replace the previous temple and keep the significant relic.
• The main stupa, Phra Borommathat Chedi, follows the examples of Sri Lankan Buddhist temples, being shaped like a bell. Since it stands at 55.78 meters, many Buddhists believe that the building enshrines a tooth of the Buddha, making it a valuable place for pilgrimage.

• Architectural Significance
• You can see mixed architectural influences at Wat Phra Mahathat which demonstrates how cultures in South and Southeast Asia have influenced each other. Among the temple complex’s many structures are the Wihan Bodhi-Lanka and a cloister which surround a Bodhi tree thought to be a distant descendant of the Buddha’s enlightenment tree.
• The temple reveals how traditions from India, Sri Lanka, Java and the Mon influence were brought and adapted through Theravada Buddhism in Southeast Asia.

Official Visit Details

• Ratchadamnoen Road is the address in Tambon Nai Mueang, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
• Available Daily between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
• There is no cost to attend.

3.Wat Chedi

Ai Khai, a young boy’s spirit, is what made the Wat Chedi (Ai Khai) in Sichon District, Nakhon Si Thammarat, famous across the country. Visitors notice the temple for its countless statues of roosters, representing what the faithful have wished for and feel in gratitude.

Historical Background
Ai Khai’s legend exists since the era of Ayutthaya. According to people in the area, Ai Khai was a young follower of the well-regarded monk Luang Pu Thuat. Luang Pu Thuat told Ai Khai to safeguard a treasure trove at the site that became Wat Chedi. It is said that because Ai Khai passed away when he was young, his spirit chose to keep watching over the temple and help those in need. In 1983, a wooden statue was made to symbolize Ai Khai and special ceremonies brought the spirit into the statue.

Changes to Both Culture and the Economy
More people visiting Wat Chedi because of the Ai Khai legend has boosted both tourism and the local economy. Because the temple welcomes so many tourists, businesses around it have increased, including those selling rooster figures, works by local craftsmen and street food. All these visitors have made the area into a thriving cultural center, where religion and social growth mix.

• During the week, the city is quieter, but the liveliest time to see it is during special festivals.
• Chalong Subdistrict, Sichon District, Nakhon Si Thammarat is its location.

4.Kiriwong village

Because of its natural beauty and rich culture, Kiriwong Village, found in the Lan Saka District of Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, is well known in Thailand. Laying in the shadows of Khao Luang, the tallest mountain in southern Thailand, this village is known by its gentle atmosphere, thick forests, abundant clear streams and calm life.

• Historical Significance
• Since its founding over 200 years ago, Kiriwong was called “Bann Khun” because it is built at the summit of a hill. The temple, Khiriwong, was built which gave the village the name House within the circle of the mountain.
• During the 1970s, the Communist Party of Thailand was very active in Kiriwong. In addition, the village has suffered from floods and from the destructive Typhoon Gay in 1988. Then, the dedicated community concentrated on sustainable ways to live and ecotourism which proved their commitment to taking care of the environment.

• The best months to see the best views and harvest are July, August and September.

5.Laem Prathap

At the northern edge of Thong Nian Bay in Khanom District, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Laem Prathap impresses with its simple coastal scenery and draws visitors seeking to see the unusual pink dolphins.

• Seeing Pink Dolphins is a Really Uncommon Experience
• About 50 pink dolphins, referred to as Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins locally, live around Laem Prathap and Ao Kwang Phao. You can often see these dolphins near fishers’ boats, mostly in the early hours when their prey of small fish, prawns and sea grass is more common.
• People visiting the region can join dolphin-watching tours from fishing boats organized by the Laem Prathap Eco-tourism Society. Every two-hour journey costs 1,000 baht and fits six travelers in the vehicle.

• Cultural Significance
• Laem Prathap is a historic village that has always depended on traditional fishing for a living. Legend tells us that King Taksin the Great spent a night at this temple on his way to Nakhon Si Thammarat. A monument to mark his visit can be seen in the village.
• A specialty product from the community, known as “kapi,” is often purchased by tourists as a souvenir.

• If you want to see dolphins, make a point of being at the waterfront between 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM.
• Tours take about 2 hours and generally cost 1,000 baht per boat.

6.Nakhon Si Thammarat National Museum

Established in 1974, the Nakhon Si Thammarat National Museum shows the rich cultural heritage found in this region. The museum is found on Ratchadamnoen Road in Nakhon Si Thammarat city where Wat Suan Luang Tawan Ok used to be.

Historical Background
To preserve objects found during digs in the region, an archaeological museum was formed. Significant finds in the 1960s such as pagoda remains from Mueang District, show that the area played a key role in history. For this reason, the Thai government provided money to establish an institution designed specifically for caring for and displaying these objects.

Architectural Significance
The museum shows traditional Thai design, highlighted by finely carved woodwork, tall roofs and plenty of ventilation. The architecture of southern Thailand is maintained in this design and visitors can have a better time too.

• Ratchadamnoen Road, Mueang District, Nakhon Si Thammarat.
• Visiting Hours: Wednesday till Sunday, 9 AM to 4 PM.
• Entrance is free; if you would like a tour, one is available on request.

7.Sichon Beach

Sichon Beach in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Thailand, is beloved for its calm atmosphere, clear sea and beautiful white sand. Among Thailand’s top 10 beaches, as chosen by Lonely Planet, Khao Lak is famous for its diverse nature and strong cultural background.

There is a lot to see in the natural world, as well as unique marine life.
Sichon Beach is famous for having amazing blue and green waters and sand so fine it shimmers. Pods of pink dolphins and other species of coastal wildlife live in the area and there are environmental programs to make sure the area does not suffer from overexploitation.

• Cultural Significance
• Aside from its wonderful scenery, Sichon Beach is filled with cultural heritage. There are still traditional fishing communities in the region where classic ways of doing things are practiced. Wat Chedi Ai Khai Temple and the Khao Ka Ancient Ruins explain some of the area’s interesting past.
• The Infinity Rich spiritual tourism route created by Walailak University pairs eight top attractions in Sichon District and stresses the importance of sacred rituals.

8.Tham Khao Wang Thong

In Khanom District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Thailand, you will find Tham Khao Wang Thong, an impressive limestone cave. Its famous delicate formations and relation to culture attract visitors who find a combination of excitement and thought.

• The geological and natural features of a region are its natural elements.
• Inside the caves are various rooms, all of them decorated over time with stalactites and stalagmites. The outlines of the rocks usually remind people of normal things, for example pagodas, dinosaurs, custard apples or even fried eggs. About 3,200 square meters are covered by the largest chamber, giving guests lots of room to explore it. Out here in the cave, getting around tests your fitness with tasks like climbing and squeezing through tight spots which is exciting.

• The Meaning of Culture and Religion
• Apart from being beautiful, Tham Khao Wang Thong has importance in both cultural and spiritual terms. Local visitors may recognize the rock formations within as depicting their main gods, including the Chinese goddess Guan Yin. Their beliefs turn the cave into a spiritual spot, as well as a fascinating natural place.

• The Center is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM .
• Place: Located within 77 kilometers of Nakhon Si Thammarat city. From Khanom District, continue on the road to Don Sak and follow the signs to the cave .
• There are local guides at the beginning of the cave who are important for your safety and understanding of what you see. They give visitors a view of the cave’s prior and current features. Though donations aren’t required, it’s welcomed if you pay around 200 THB.

9.Khanom’s Saturday Night, Walking Street Night Market

In the town of Khanom in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Khanom’s Saturday Night Walking Street Market is a regular, lively market. The market is held Saturdays on the main street of Ban Ton, 4 kilometers north of Khanom town center and is open from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with most people there just after 6:30 PM. There is a bustling mood, making it possible for both locals and tourists to sample traditional Thai dishes, look at crafts and shop for local items. The market mainly serves local people, but it gives visitors a real taste of the region’s cuisine.

• Why It Matters in Culture and Society
• Besides selling goods, the Saturday Night Walking Street Market brings people together and allows for cultural learning. Thai food vendors at the market display their skills by serving up specialties with the unique flavors of Southern Thailand. Also on sale are handmade goods and textiles which reflect the traditions of this region. Held every week, it boosts the local economy and unites residents and visitors who enjoy the same cultural event.

Culinary Highlights
Food is what draws many to the market and there are plenty of stalls selling all kinds of Southern Thai specialties. Guests can taste various dishes, like curries, fish grilled on an open fire and khanom la, a sweet made of rice flour and egg yolk, as a festival dessert at Sat Thai. What you eat here will nourish your taste buds and offer a taste of the region’s tradition.

• The site is in Ban Ton, found approximately 4 km north of Khanom.
• Time of Operation: Every Saturday, between 5:00 PM and 9:00 PM.
• Visiting the market between 6:30 and 7:00 p.m. helps you enjoy it at its best.

10.Nai Phlao Beach

Wonderful Nature and Peace
Nearly 4 kilometers of gleaming crescent-shaped shoreline, with mountains on each side,define the beach at Nai Phlao. With white sand and shining turquoise waters, the beach is perfect for both swimming and taking it easy. Visitors who want peace and quiet, as well as beautiful natural surroundings, will find it here.

• Credits to Local Beliefs and Traditions
• For many years, Nai Phlao Beach played a key role in trade for the seafaring kingdom of Nakhon Si Thammarat. At present, the culture stays alive through events like the annual sand whiting fish festival celebrated in July, as well as other traditions. Here you can find fishing competitions and ancient traditions such as monkeys picking coconuts, that show how much the people here depend on the sea.
• At this time of year, from February through March, people gather shrimp that end up on the beach which is then turned into shrimp paste, an essential dish in the province.

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