Nonthaburi Travel Guide

Explore the best tourist attractions, activities, local culture, food, and more with this comprehensive travel guide to Nonthaburi, Thailand.


Introduction to Nonthaburi

Nonthaburi is a beautiful city located in Central Thailand, situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Boasting a rich history and breathtaking natural beauty, Nonthaburi is a must-visit destination for travelers to Thailand. Known as the “city of culture” in Thailand, Nonthaburi offers a unique blend of traditional and modern attractions that appeal to all types of travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Nonthaburi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Wat Sangkhathan: This historic temple is one of the most important cultural landmarks in Nonthaburi. Built in the early 18th century, it boasts a unique blend of Thai and Chinese architectural styles.

  2. Nonthaburi Provincial Museum: This museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of Nonthaburi. It houses a collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that showcase the city’s rich history.

  3. Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Worawihan: This beautiful temple features stunning murals and intricate carvings that highlight the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Natural Attractions of Nonthaburi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Ko Kret Island: This peaceful, scenic island is a great spot for a day trip. Visitors can explore the island’s picturesque neighborhoods, enjoy local cuisine, and admire traditional pottery-making.

  2. Suan Suntree: A gorgeous park with lush greenery, serene lakes, joggers’ trails, and facilities for children makes this a perfect spot for a picnic or evening stroll.

  3. Bang Kruai Floating Market: Enjoy a traditional Thai experience here with different food options, eclectic shops, and freshwater fish.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nonthaburi

If you’re looking for an active way to explore Nonthaburi’s incredible scenery, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to choose from. Here are a few popular choices:

  1. Chao Phraya River Trail: Experience the mesmerizing landscapes of the city with this well-planned trail across the river.

  2. Suan Suntree Park Trail: With a pleasant path in the midst of green trees, the park trail is a great option for an early morning jog or bike ride.

  3. Koh Kret Island Trail: The island’s cycling trail offers an immersive look into the traditional lifestyle of Nonthaburi.

Best Things to Do in Nonthaburi: Activities and Tours

  1. Visit the Ancient City: Take a tour of Mueang Boran, an outdoor museum that features replicas of Thailand’s most famous landmarks.

  2. Join a Cooking Class: Discover Thai cuisine with a hands-on cooking class and learn how to make classic dishes with a local chef.

  3. Experience the Local Culture: Attend the annual Chao Phraya River Festival, which takes place in November and celebrates the region’s unique cultural traditions.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nonthaburi

Day 1: Explore the city and its temples, including Wat Sangkhathan.

Day 2: Spend the day on Koh Kret Island, admiring traditional pottery-making and rice-cultivating.

Day 3: Take a stroll in Suan Suntree and learn about local flora and fauna.

Day 4: Visit the Nonthaburi Provincial Museum and other cultural hotspots.

Day 5: Experience unique Thai cuisine and take a cooking class with a local chef.

Day 6: Enjoy a hiking or biking excursion with scenic views of the Chao Phraya River.

Day 7: End your trip by shopping for souvenirs and local products at Bang Kruai Floating Market.

Food and Drink Scene of Nonthaburi

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Khao Soi: a creamy curry noodle soup topped with crispy egg noodles, best savored from a street-side stall.

  2. Tom Yum Gung: a bold, spicy, and sour shrimp soup, perfect for warming up on a rainy day.

  3. Kanom Jeen Nam Ngiao: noodles immersed in a spicy red pork tomato soup and topped with plenty of herbs and crunchy vegetables.

Local Beverages

  1. Cha Yen: Thai Iced Tea with full-cream milk and pandan leaf

  2. Singha and Chang Beer are widely popular, and you can’t go wrong with any of the local brews.

  3. Nom Yeow: a sweet, creamy coconut milk that’s a local favorite.

Where to Stay in Nonthaburi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Mida Hotel Ngamwongwan: Featuring modern amenities, this hotel provides stunning city views, with a blend of Thai and international restaurants.

  2. NK Home: An intimate bed and breakfast with pleasant outdoor seating and city transportation.

  3. Vineyard Resort: A collection of luxurious villas, cozy bungalows and serene gardens.

What to Buy in Nonthaburi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Traditional Pottery on Koh Kret island – Beautiful hand-crafted urns, vases, and tea sets.

  2. Homeware and textiles – Bedspreads, pillow covers, and other home decor items woven with the signature northern colors and patterns.

  3. Spa products and beauty package – Local off-the-shelf beauty products available countrywide.

Local Culture and Customs of Nonthaburi

Nonthaburi is heavily steeped in Buddhism, and the locals take their religious customs and practices seriously. Visitors should dress modestly when visiting temples and be respectful of the customs, including removing shoes, and speaking softly.

Best Time to Visit Nonthaburi

The best time to visit Nonthaburi is between November and February, when the weather is dry and the temperatures are lovely. While you can visit all-year-round, the rains can be quite severe and temperatures exhausting.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nonthaburi

Do:

  1. Use local transportation: Taxis, tuk-tuks, and motorcycles, and buses are available all over Nonthaburi.

  2. Sample traditional cuisine: Food is an essential part of Thailand’s culture, and local cuisine offers exciting tastes of regional tradition.

  3. Engage with the locals: Thai people are generally friendly and hospitable, so take advantage of opportunities to get to know them.

Don’t:

  1. Over-Tip: You need not tip at restaurants, but if you want to, keep it below 10%.

  2. Disrespect the King: showing disrespect to the Thai king might land you in big trouble.

  3. Dress inappropriately in temples: Revealing clothing or shoes should be avoided when visiting temples.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nonthaburi

Nonthaburi is a relatively safe city, but you should always take basic safety precautions, including avoiding late-night rides and remaining conscious of your belongings.

Health in Nonthaburi

Medical facilities here are top-notch, along with quality local pharmacies over-the-counter medication.

Getting to Nonthaburi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nonthaburi

Suvarnabhumi International Airport is the primary airport in Bangkok, with flights from all major cities across the globe.

Bus Stations Near Nonthaburi

Bangkok Northern Bus Terminal is the most convenient place for provincial travelers.

Other Options

Find one of the many private bus operators or hire a taxi to get around surrounding regions affordably.

How to Get Around in Nonthaburi

Tuk-tuks, motorcycle taxis, taxis, and buses are available and easy to locate. The local rideshare app Grab works here too, and you can use it instead of a taxi.

Where to Go Next from Nonthaburi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Ayutthaya offers an exceptional view of Thailand’s old city, with a significant ancient monastery and temple ruins worth exploring.

  2. Koh Samet, a stunning paradise and also a part of Rayong Province.

  3. Let Pattaya take you by the storm with its beaches, bars, interactive attractions, and more.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nonthaburi is a magnificent city that offers a mix of culture, history, natural beauty, and entertainment. With its plethora of sights and experiences, there are limitless reasons why one should visit and spend ample time exploring this stunning city. Let this tour guide aid your journey towards discovering the splendor of Nonthaburi.

Chao Phraya Express Boat Map Chao Phraya Express Boat Map