Thailand Guides - Nakhon Si Thammarat

Located on the shore facing the Gulf of Thailand, Nakhon Si Thammarat sits on the highest elevation of southern Thailand. The terrain is rugged with forested mountains, mostly in the Khao Luang national park. Thus, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure trips.

Overview

Nakhon Si Thammarat was once the centre of Buddhism in southern Thailand during the Srivijaya period in the 3rd century. The evidence is shown in many temples in the city. It is not much of the beach destination - the nicest beaches are Hat Sichon and Hat Kahnom. However, its pristine and rough jungles will please trekkers and nature lovers who like to explore Thailand's lush and beautiful wilderness.

Attractions

Situated at the city centre, Wat Phra Mahathat is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Southern Thailand. The 3rd century temple contains several Ceylonese style shrines. The tallest one stands at 160 feet and houses Buddha relics brought from Sri Lanka about 1,700 years ago.

Phra Buddha Sihing is an old Buddha image revered by most Thai Buddhists. It is enshrined in a Buddhist chapel near the city hall. Phra Isuan and Phra Narai Shrines are remnants of Hinduism in the province. The shrines have a display of the replicas of bronze Hindu god statues whose original copies are kept in Nakhon Si Thammarat National Museum.

Ban Nang Talung Suchart Subsin on Srithammasok Road is a house-converted museum that exhibits farming tools and traditional southern style puppets. Also in town, Nakhon Si Thammarat National Museum shows a collection of religious artifacts, pottery, Chinese ceramics and household tools found in the southern peninsula.