Often overlooked in favour of Thailand’s more famous beach destinations, Nakhon Si Thammarat offers travellers a fascinating blend of history, culture, mountains, and coastline. Stretching from the Gulf of Thailand to the forested peaks of southern Thailand’s highest mountains, Nakhon Si Thammarat province offers a side of the country that feels authentic and uncrowded.
Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, relaxing on the quiet beaches of Khanom, or discovering local traditions in rural communities, Nakhon Si Thammarat is a delight. This is a destination that rewards discerning travellers who are seeking another side of Southern Thailand beyond the better-known tourist destinations.
Discover the historic heart of Southern Thailand
The provincial capital, Nakhon Si Thammarat City, is one of Thailand’s oldest and most historically significant settlements. Known locally as ‘Nakhon Si’, the city has a history spanning more than 1,500 years and was once an influential centre of trade and culture in the region. Throughout its long history, merchants from Europe, China, India, Sri Lanka, and other parts of Southeast Asia passed through this important maritime hub.
Today, the city remains one of southern Thailand’s cultural treasures. Walking through the old town reveals traces of its past, including sections of the ancient city walls, traditional shop houses, and markets selling locally made handicrafts. Visitors can also browse workshops and stores producing the province’s renowned nielloware jewellery, a traditional metalworking craft practised here for generations.
Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan
The city’s most celebrated landmark is Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan, one of the most important Buddhist temples in southern Thailand. The temple complex is dominated by a striking white chedi rising approximately 77 metres into the sky and surrounded by numerous smaller stupas.
The temple is believed to house sacred relics of the Buddha and attracts pilgrims from across Thailand year-round. During important Buddhist festivals, particularly Makha Bucha and Visakha Bucha, thousands of devotees gather to participate in ceremonies that include wrapping cloth around the main chedi in a colourful display of faith and devotion.
The tradition of Nang Talung
Nakhon Si Thammarat is widely regarded as the spiritual home of nang talung, the traditional shadow puppet theatre that has entertained audiences in southern Thailand for centuries. One of the best places to learn about this unique art form is the shadow puppet museum established by National Artist Suchart Subsin. The collection showcases intricately carved puppets and provides insight into a performance tradition that remains an important part of local cultural identity.
Experience community life at Ban Khiri Wong
Nestled at the foot of Khao Luang, southern Thailand’s highest mountain, Ban Khiri Wong is often cited as one of the country’s leading examples of community-based tourism. Surrounded by lush greenery, fruit orchards, and mountain scenery, the village offers visitors an opportunity to experience local life while supporting sustainable tourism initiatives.
Visitors can explore cycling routes, sample local produce, stay in homestays, and learn about traditional crafts while enjoying the cooler climate created by the nearby mountains.
Relax on the beaches of Khanom
For many visitors, the greatest surprise in Nakhon Si Thammarat is the district of Khanom. Located on the Gulf Coast, just across the water from Ko Samui, Khanom feels worlds apart from its famous island neighbour.
Instead of crowded beaches and large-scale tourism development, visitors find long stretches of golden sand, swaying coconut palms, and a relaxed atmosphere that encourages people to slow down and unwind.
The coastline is dotted with quiet bays and beaches where it is still possible to take long walks without encountering many other people. Resorts and restaurants are generally low-rise and unobtrusive, helping preserve the area’s peaceful character.
Khanom is particularly appealing to travellers seeking a quieter beach holiday and those who prefer nature and simplicity over nightlife and large tourist crowds.
Spot the famous pink dolphins
One of Khanom’s best-known attractions is the chance to see the area’s rare pink dolphins. These distinctive and rare dolphins are frequently spotted in the waters off the coast and have become an iconic symbol of the district.
Local boat operators offer excursions to search for the dolphins while also visiting nearby islands and coastal viewpoints. As with all wildlife encounters, sightings cannot be guaranteed and depend on sea conditions and the animals’ movements.
Exploring the coast
Although Khanom’s relative isolation is part of its appeal, it also means public transport options are limited. Renting a car or motorbike (if you are a fully insured and experienced rider) offers the greatest flexibility to explore the various beaches, viewpoints, waterfalls, and local restaurants scattered throughout the district.
Where to stay in Khanom
Accommodation in Khanom ranges from simple beachfront bungalows to boutique resorts overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. While the area cannot match the volume of accommodation available on Ko Samui, visitors will find a good selection of comfortable places to stay, often at excellent value. Many properties are located directly on the beach, allowing guests to enjoy sea views and easy access to the sand. Popular options include:
Day trips and nearby attractions
Nakhon Si Thammarat’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring other highlights of southern Thailand. Travellers heading west towards neighbouring Surat Thani province can reach the spectacular landscapes of Khao Sok National Park, famous for its limestone cliffs, rainforest, and wildlife.
The emerald waters of Cheow Lan Lake and Ratchaprapha Dam are approximately 90 minutes by road from Khanom and make an excellent day trip. Visitors with more time may wish to spend a night immersed in the rainforest scenery and outdoor activities available in the area.
Getting there
Nakhon Si Thammarat is served by regular domestic flights from Bangkok to Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport, which is located approximately 16 kilometres north of the city centre.
Travellers heading directly to Khanom can fly into either Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport or Surat Thani Airport. Both airports are around 90 minutes away by road, with taxis and private transfers readily available.
If you prefer train travel, there is an overnight sleeper service from Bangkok to Nakhon Si Thammarat with the city’s railway station handily located near the centre of town.
(Photo: Nach-Noth / Shutterstock)
For visitors looking to discover a more traditional side of southern Thailand, Nakhon Si Thammarat offers a rewarding combination of heritage, nature, and coastal beauty that remains largely untouched by mass tourism.
