Top 20 Must-Visit Locations in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand

This detailed list provides a comprehensive guide to the top 20 must-visit locations in Nakhon Si Thammarat, ensuring tourists can make the most of their visit.

1. Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan

  • Description: A revered Buddhist temple with a towering white chedi.

  • Importance: Home to a sacred Buddha relic; key pilgrimage site.

  • Details: Open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM. Modest dress required. Entry fee applies.

2. Khao Luang National Park

  • Description: A lush park featuring Thailand's highest peak in the south.

  • Importance: Ideal for hiking, bird-watching, and exploring waterfalls.

  • Details: Best visited during the dry season. Entry fee required.

3. Tha Phae Waterfall

  • Description: A picturesque waterfall within Khao Luang National Park.

  • Importance: Popular for picnicking and cooling off in natural pools.

  • Details: Accessible via park trails. Bring water and snacks.

4. Nakhon Si Thammarat National Museum

  • Description: Museum showcasing local history, art, and archaeology.

  • Importance: Provides deep insights into the region's cultural heritage.

  • Details: Open Wednesday to Sunday, 9 AM to 4 PM. Entry fee applies.

5. Shadow Puppet Museum (Suchart Subsin’s House)

  • Description: A museum dedicated to the traditional art of shadow puppetry.

  • Importance: Preserves the ancient art form of 'Nang Talung.'

  • Details: Open daily, 9 AM to 5 PM. Demonstrations available. Entry fee applies.

6. BaanTanKhun

  • Description: A traditional Thai house and cultural center.

  • Importance: Offers cultural workshops and local crafts.

  • Details: Open daily, 9 AM to 5 PM. Entry fee applies.

7. Thung Song Market

  • Description: A bustling market known for fresh produce and local food.

  • Importance: Experience authentic local cuisine and shopping.

  • Details: Best visited in the morning. Bring cash.

8. Pak Phanang Market

  • Description: A vibrant market offering seafood and traditional goods.

  • Importance: Great for sampling local delicacies and buying souvenirs.

  • Details: Open daily. Best in early morning.

9. Kiriwong Village

  • Description: An eco-tourism village at the foot of Khao Luang Mountain.

  • Importance: Known for scenic views and community-based tourism.

  • Details: Best visited during the dry season. Homestay options available.

10. Nakhon Si Thammarat City Pillar Shrine

  • Description: A shrine dedicated to the city's guardian spirits.

  • Importance: Important cultural and religious site.

  • Details: Open daily. Free entry. Respectful attire required.

11. Hae Pha Khuen That Festival

  • Description: Annual festival celebrating Buddha’s relic.

  • Importance: Features parades, traditional performances, and religious ceremonies.

  • Details: Held every February. Check local schedules for exact dates.

12. Khun Thale Park

  • Description: A serene park with a lake, ideal for relaxation.

  • Importance: Offers boating, picnicking, and exercise areas.

  • Details: Open daily. Free entry. Bring snacks and water.

13. Wat That Noi

  • Description: A temple built in honor of a revered monk.

  • Importance: Known for its peaceful atmosphere and spiritual significance.

  • Details: Open daily. Respectful attire required.

14. Chinatown (Kuan Yin Shrine)

  • Description: A historic area with Chinese temples and shops.

  • Importance: Reflects the cultural diversity of the city.

  • Details: Best visited during Chinese New Year. Free entry.

15. Phra Phutthasihing


  • Description: A sacred Buddha image housed in a beautiful temple.

  • Importance: Attracts both pilgrims and tourists.

  • Details: Open daily. Donations appreciated.

16. Nang Talung Theatre

  • Description: Traditional shadow puppet theatre.

  • Importance: Preserves the art of traditional storytelling.

  • Details: Performances scheduled weekly. Check local listings for times.


19. Talumphuk Cape

  • Description: A scenic cape known for its stunning beaches and bird-watching.

  • Importance: Ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

  • Details: Best visited during the cooler months. Bring water and snacks.

20. Roti Krob Restaurant

  • Description: A popular restaurant known for its delicious roti.

  • Importance: A must-visit for food enthusiasts.

  • Details: Open daily. Located in the city center.