Archaeological findings show Nakhon Pathom to be home to the first Buddhist civilisations in Thailand, hence Nakhon Pathom translates as First City. The city is centred round the site of the discovery at Phra Pathom Chedi.
Nakhon Pathom is completely off the tourist track and chances of bumping into other tourists is slim. This makes for a great place to escape city bustle and to find local Thai life and Buddhist culture. It is very close to Bangkok (within Bangkok metropolitan area) and is easy to reach.
Things to Do in Nakhon Pathom
Phra Pathom Chedi: Home to the World’s Tallest Stupa and central to life and culture in Nakhon Pathom.
Street Markets: The central area surrounding Phra Pathom Chedi has plenty of street food during the day and hosts night markets in the evening.
Travel from Bangkok to Nakhon Pathom
Minibus: Vans leave Bangkok’s Victory Monument area from 7am onwards. Journey takes roughly 1 hour arriving at the city’s Big C Shopping Centre.
Bus: Public buses leave Bangkok’s Southern Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) regularly throughout the day.
Getting Around: Arriving at Big C or at central locations you will find tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis. These are the only convenient options for transport in the area.
Accommodation: Not a great selection. For affordable luxury convenient to Nakhon Pathom City Centre is the Silverwoods Hotel.
