Stays in Nakhon Si Thammarat

The city's cultural identity is also expressed in its traditional arts, such as shadow puppetry (nang talung) and the distinctive Nakhon Si Thammarat style of Buddhist art. The old town area, with its city pillar shrine and remnants of the ancient city wall, offers a glimpse into its past. Modern Nakhon Si Thammarat is a lively provincial capital with markets, museums, and a growing number of hotels to suit different budgets. Most visitors come to explore the temple, experience the local culture, and use the city as a base for trips to nearby natural attractions like Khao Luang National Park and the beaches of Khanom.

Where to stay in Nakhon Si Thammarat

Old Town (around Wat Phra Mahathat). This is the historic heart of the city, where you can stay within walking distance of Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan and the city pillar shrine. It's ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in the local culture and explore the old shophouse streets.

City Centre (near the train station and main roads). The area around the train station and along Ratchadamnoen Road offers convenient access to markets, restaurants, and government offices. Many of the city's larger hotels are located here, making it a practical base for business and leisure travellers.

Thung Song Road area. This area, a bit north of the old town, is home to several mid-range and budget hotels, as well as shopping centres and local eateries. It provides easy access to the city's main arterial roads for those travelling by car.

Getting there and around

Nakhon Si Thammarat is served by Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport, with regular flights from Bangkok. The city also has a railway station on the Southern Line, with trains connecting to Bangkok and other southern provinces. By road, it is about 780 kilometres from Bangkok via Highway 4 and Highway 41. Once in the city, songthaews (shared pickup trucks) and motorbike taxis are the main forms of public transport; taxis are limited. Many visitors rent a car or motorbike to explore the province, including Khao Luang National Park and the coast.

When to go

The best time to visit Nakhon Si Thammarat is during the cool season, from November to February, when the weather is relatively dry and temperatures are milder. The rainy season runs from May to October, with September and October often seeing the heaviest rainfall. The annual Hae Pha Khuen That festival, held at Wat Phra Mahathat in February, is a major event that attracts many pilgrims and visitors.

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