Nakhon Si Thammarat

Nakhon Si Thammarat is one of southern Thailand's largest and most culturally significant provinces, extending from the Gulf of Thailand coast to the forested Nakhon Si Thammarat mountain range. The provincial capital is an important centre of southern Buddhist history, while local identity is also expressed through nang talung shadow puppetry, southern dance-drama, craft traditions and a distinctive food culture.

Choose a base for the experience you want. Mueang Nakhon Si Thammarat is the cultural core, led by Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan and the city's museums, temples and performing-arts traditions. Lan Saka is the route to Ban Kiriwong and the foothills of Khao Luang National Park. Khanom and Sichon serve the northern Gulf coast, where beaches and wildlife-watching trips require attention to sea conditions and responsible viewing distances. Pak Phanang has a different coastal and river landscape, while Thung Song is a practical rail and road junction for the province's interior.