Things To Do
in Nakhon Sawan
Nakhon Sawan, often called Pak Nam Pho, sits at the crossroads of the Ping and Nan rivers where they form the Chao Phraya. The city blends traditional Thai life with river markets, temples, and easy access to nature. It serves as a gateway to central Thailand's landscapes and is known for Bueng Boraphet, Thailand's largest freshwater lake.
Visitors can explore historic sites, sample northern-central Thai cuisine, and use it as a base for day trips to nearby natural and cultural attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure by visiting Wat Khiriwong, an ancient temple that offers stunning views of the city. Take your time to appreciate the intricate architecture and the peaceful atmosphere. Afterward, grab a traditional Thai breakfast at a nearby street food stall.
Visit the Nakhon Sawan Market, where you can immerse yourself in local culture and try fresh fruits, snacks, and handmade crafts. Engage with friendly vendors and perhaps pick up some unique souvenirs to take home. Enjoy a refreshing coconut drink while you browse through the vibrant stalls.
End your day with a relaxing stroll along the riverfront park, where you can watch the sunset over the river. Grab dinner at a riverside restaurant and savor authentic Thai dishes as you take in the scenic views. Wrap up the evening with a visit to a local night market for some sweet treats.
Begin with a visit to the King Naresuan Monument, dedicated to the revered king who played a vital role in Thai history. Take photographs and learn about the importance of this landmark. Enjoy breakfast at a café nearby while soaking in the historical ambiance.
Head to the Nakhon Sawan Provincial Museum to delve into the region's history and heritage through fascinating exhibits. The museum's collection offers insights into local customs and traditions. Spend time at the nearby park for some relaxation before continuing your journey.
Seek out a traditional Thai dance performance at a local cultural center, where you can witness the elegance and grace of Thai performing arts. Dine at a local restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine, enjoying dishes unique to the area. End the night with a leisurely walk and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-4 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5 L) | $0.25-0.50 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-2 |
| 🍛Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Convenient riverfront location with easy day trips to nature
- Friendly locals and affordable prices
- Rich birdlife at Bueng Boraphet and easy access to greenspace
- Strong street-food scene and markets
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger Thai cities
- Hot, humid climate can be uncomfortable in peak summer
- Some areas can be crowded and traffic-prone
- "สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ" - Hello (male/female)
- "ขอบคุณ" - Thank you
- "ขอโทษ" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "ราคาเท่าไร" - How much is this?
- "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Nakhon Sawan
Visit one of these nice places.
A marshy lake area famous for birds; ideal for wide-angle landscape and wildlife photography at dawn.
Where the two rivers meet to form the Chao Phraya; perfect for long-exposure river shots and sunset silhouettes.
Colorful market scenes with vendors, boats, and neon reflections at night.
Quiet temple courtyards and ornate gateways offer calm portraits and architectural detail.
Food in Nakhon Sawan
Nakhon Sawan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A bright, tangy shrimp soup with lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal, and chilies; widely available in markets and riverfront eateries.
Must-Try!
Crispy fried fish with a garlicky chili sauce, often served with steamed rice.
A crisp, spicy salad that pairs well with grilled meats and sticky rice; available at street stalls and markets.
Thai fried rice with eggs, vegetables, and a choice of meat or seafood.
Chargrilled chicken served with fragrant sticky rice and dipping sauces, a popular street-food classic.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Market area near the lake offering fresh fish, herbs, snacks, and ready-to-eat dishes; best in the early morning.
Vibrant riverside stalls along the riverfront with grilled seafood, noodle dishes, and desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, shoulders and knees covered, remove shoes when entering temple buildings, and speak softly.
Use the wai (hands pressed together) for greetings; avoid touching heads or pointing with feet.
Ask permission when photographing people in markets or religious sites; be mindful of crowds.
Safety
Tipping in Nakhon Sawan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small tips for good service is common in nicer restaurants.
Cash is widely accepted; many places now accept debit/credit cards and mobile payments, especially in larger restaurants and hotels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry most days; bring sun protection, stay hydrated, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings and late afternoons.
Afternoon showers are common; rain gear helps, and humidity can be high; river levels rise.
Pleasant daytime temperatures and clear skies; ideal for outdoor exploration and photography; evenings can be cool.
Nakhon Sawan at Night
Hiking in Nakhon Sawan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy nature trails around the lake with birdwatching platforms and interpretive signs.
Flat to gentle routes through rice fields and orchards within a short drive of the city.
Airports
How to reach Nakhon Sawan by plane.
Bangkok-based airport; 2.5–3 hours drive from Nakhon Sawan; provides domestic and international flights.
Nearby domestic airport; around 2 hours by road; serves domestic Thai flights.
Regional airport serving Sukhothai and nearby provinces; few flights; about 2.5–3 hours by car from Nakhon Sawan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority residents, primarily ethnic Thai speaking Central Thai and local dialects.
Residents living near Bueng Boraphet and Pak Nam Pho who engage in fishing and commerce.
Visitors from Bangkok and other provinces seeking nature, temples, and markets.
A smaller but growing community of expatriates and retirees.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Thailand’s national sport; local gyms and stadiums offer training and sparring sessions.
Popular pastime with local leagues and parks where residents play on weekends.
Common in community centers and schools; casual games and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nakhon Sawan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for plant-based options on menus; request tofu, mushrooms, or veggie stir-fries; many markets offer fresh fruit and rice dishes as substitutes.