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Nakhon Sawan, often called the “Gateway to the North,” is a hidden gem in Thailand that blends natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant local life. Nestled where the Ping and Nan rivers merge to form the Chao Phraya River, things to do in Nakhon Sawan include exploring its ancient temples, bustling markets and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or someone looking to explore Thailand’s rich traditions, Nakhon Sawan has something for you. From golden pagodas to sunflower fields and monkey-filled mountains, this charming province promises a unique and unforgettable experience for every traveller.
14 Best Things To Do In Nakhon Sawan
Here is a list of the 14 best things to do in Nakhon Sawan offering temples, nature, and cultural sites in this charming city.
1. Visit Wat Khiriwong
Photo: George Best Thai / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Perched atop a scenic hill, Wat Khiriwong is one of Nakhon Sawan’s most revered Buddhist temples. The temple is known for its stunning golden pagoda, which gleams under the sun and is visible from various points in the city. The peaceful atmosphere and intricate architecture make it an ideal place for spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts. Visitors can explore beautifully adorned Buddha statues, traditional murals, and the temple’s prayer halls. The real highlight of Wat Khiriwong is the breathtaking panoramic view of Nakhon Sawan from the summit.
Location: 356, 1, Pak Nam Pho Sub-district, Mueang Nakhon Sawan District, Nakhon Sawan 60000, Thailand
Highlights: Golden pagoda, panoramic city views, serene ambience
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2. Stroll Through Paradise Park
Photo: Underwaterbuffalo / Wikimedia Commons
Paradise Park, located in Pak Nam Pho, is a serene public space that beautifully blends culture with natural beauty. At the heart of the park stands a majestic dragon statue, symbolizing strength and prosperity, which reflects the deep-rooted Chinese influence in Nakhon Sawan. Visitors can take leisurely walks through lush gardens, admire the intricate Guan Yin shrine, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. The park is particularly enchanting in the evening when it is illuminated, creating a picturesque setting for an evening stroll. It’s a perfect spot to unwind while enjoying a blend of Thai and Chinese heritage.
Location: M4XC+5VC, Takhian Luean, Amphoe Mueang Nakhon Sawan, Chang Wat Nakhon Sawan 60000, Thailand
Highlights: Dragon statue, Guan Yin shrine, picturesque gardens
3. Experience Chum Saeng Market
Photo: mohigan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Chum Saeng Market offers visitors a nostalgic journey into Thailand’s past with its old-world charm and lively atmosphere. The market is lined with traditional wooden shophouses, giving it a distinctive historical feel. Vendors sell a variety of goods, including handmade crafts, fresh produce, and authentic Thai snacks. The aroma of street food fills the air as locals gather to enjoy delicacies like grilled meats, sticky rice, and fresh tropical fruits. Walking through the bustling lanes is one of the best things to do in Nakhon Sawan at night to experience the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Location: ตลาดเก่า Chum Saeng, Chum Saeng District, Nakhon Sawan 60120, Thailand
Highlights: Traditional architecture, local delicacies, vibrant atmosphere
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4. Engage At Engineer Sheep Farm
Photo: 雨 空 / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Engineer Sheep Farm is a charming attraction for families and animal lovers seeking a fun, interactive experience. Located within a picturesque rural setting, the farm allows visitors to feed and interact with friendly sheep, goats, and horses. A unique feature of the farm is its bamboo bridge, which extends over lush green rice fields, providing a scenic walking experience. The peaceful surroundings make it an excellent spot for relaxation, photography, and quality family time. Children, in particular, enjoy feeding the animals, while adults appreciate the farm’s natural beauty.
Location: Klang Daet, ตะเคียนเลื่อน Nakhon Sawan 60000, Thailand
Highlights: Animal feeding, scenic bamboo bridge, picturesque landscapes
5. Wander Through Thung Por Thueng
Photo: Basile Morin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Thung Por Thueng is a breathtaking natural attraction known for its vast fields of bright yellow sun hemp flowers. Stretching as far as the eye can see, these vibrant fields create a mesmerizing scene against the backdrop of towering mountains. Nature lovers and photographers flock to this location to capture its beauty, especially during the blooming season. The peaceful surroundings make it an ideal place and one of the gorgeous things to see in Nakhon Sawan. Local farmers cultivate the sun hemp plants to enrich the soil, adding to the region’s sustainable farming practices.
Location: Tak Fa District, Nakhon Sawan Province
Highlights: Expansive flower fields, mountain vistas, serene ambience
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6. Climb Khao No – Khao Kaew
Photo: Chainwit / Wikimedia Commons
For those seeking adventure, the twin limestone peaks of Khao No and Khao Kaew offer an exhilarating hiking experience in Nakhon Sawan. The climb is steep and challenging, but the breathtaking panoramic views from the top make the effort worthwhile. Along the way, hikers encounter a colony of playful monkeys that inhabit the mountain, adding a unique charm to the trek. Visitors should be cautious with food and belongings, as the monkeys can be quite mischievous. The surrounding landscape is a mix of lush greenery and dramatic rock formations, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
Location: WVRG+MP7, Tambon Ban Daen, Amphoe Banphot Phisai, Chang Wat Nakhon Sawan 60180, Thailand
Highlights: Challenging hikes, stunning vistas, resident monkey population
7. Explore Pao Tung Farm
Photo: Rajeshodayanchal / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Pao Tung Farm is a picturesque destination that attracts visitors with its vast fields of golden sunflowers in full bloom. The farm transforms into a stunning sea of yellow between December and January, providing a perfect setting for leisurely walks and breathtaking photography. The fresh air and vibrant landscape make it a popular spot for couples, families, and nature lovers. Apart from sunflowers, the farm features other seasonal blooms, adding variety to the scenery. There is also an on-site café offering local refreshments, including sunflower seed-based treats and herbal drinks.
Location: CF36+4XM, Phunok Yung, Tak Fa District, Nakhon Sawan 60190, Thailand
Highlights: Expansive sunflower fields, scenic photo spots, on-site café
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8. Discover Bueng Boraphet
Photo: JJ Harrison / Wikimedia Commons
Bueng Boraphet, Thailand’s largest freshwater swamp and lake, spans approximately 224 square kilometres across Mueang Nakhon Sawan, Tha Tako, and Chum Saeng districts. It is a paradise for birdwatchers, particularly between November and February when thousands of migratory birds arrive. The lake is home to over 200 species of birds, including herons, egrets, and rare purple swamphens. Visitors can embark on guided boat tours to explore the wetland ecosystem, spot wildlife, and visit floating lotus fields. The on-site aquarium showcases native aquatic life, offering an educational experience for children and nature enthusiasts.
Location: Mueang Nakhon Sawan, Nakhon Sawan
Highlights: Birdwatching opportunities, boat tours, on-site aquarium, and the historical raft palace
9. Experience The Chao Mae Thapthim Shrine
Photo: Supanut Arunoprayote / Wikimedia Commons
If you are wondering about what to do in Nakhon Sawan, think no more. Chao Pho Thepharak-Chao Mae Thapthim Shrine is a revered spiritual site located along the Chao Phraya River, opposite the bustling Pak Nam Pho Market. The temple complex features striking Chinese architectural elements, intricate carvings, and vibrant red-and-gold decorations. Devotees come to pay their respects and participate in traditional ceremonies that honour deities associated with protection and prosperity. The shrine is particularly lively during Chinese New Year, with colourful performances, dragon dances, and fireworks.
Location: ต.นครสวรรค์ออก (แควใหญ่ 469 อ.เมือง Chang Wat Nakhon Sawan 60000, Thailand
Highlights: Traditional Chinese architecture, cultural ceremonies, and riverside views
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10. Climb The Nakhon Sawan Observation Tower
Photo: Supanut Arunoprayote / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the city’s most iconic spots, the Nakhon Sawan Observation Tower offers a sweeping 360-degree vistas. This view is of where the four major rivers converge to form the Chao Phraya. Rising above Sawan Park, it’s especially stunning at sunset when golden light blankets the landscape. Inside, you’ll find educational displays, telescopes, and even a café to relax in. It’s a peaceful escape above the bustle, one of the best places for Nakhon Sawan nightlife. It’s a perfect introduction to the city’s geography and charm.
Location: P49F+6CG, Pak Nam Pho Sub-district, Mueang Nakhon Sawan District, Nakhon Sawan 60000, Thailand
Highlights: Panoramic views of Nakhon Sawan
11. Explore Wat Woranat Banphot
Photo: Pk pongpaka / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Perched atop a small hill, Wat Woranat Banphot is a tranquil temple that rewards visitors with panoramic views and a calming atmosphere. The climb might get your legs working, but the serene golden Buddha and forested setting are well worth the effort. Locals often visit to meditate, while visitors come to soak in the peaceful energy and the visual poetry of Nakhon Sawan from above. Visiting this temple is one of the best things to do in Thailand, an experience both grounding and uplifting.
Location: 188, Tumvitee, Tambon Pak Nam Pho, Amphoe Mueang Nakhon Sawan, Chang Wat Nakhon Sawan 60000, Thailand
Highlights: Hilltop temple, city views, spiritual serenity
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12. Admire The Architecture Of Wat Krieng Krai Klang
Photo: Basile Morin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Right by the riverbank, Wat Krieng Krai Klang is a unique blend of sacred serenity and wild curiosity. It’s a home to both beautiful temple structures and a community of cheeky monkeys. The vibrant murals, and intricate gold accents feel especially vivid against the surrounding greenery. While you’re admiring the craftsmanship, keep an eye on the local primate residents. These creatures are known to make unexpected appearances. It’s a playful yet peaceful spot that gives temple-hopping a unique twist.
Location: P5PQ+R3J, Kriangkrai, Mueang Nakhon Sawan District, Nakhon Sawan 60000, Thailand
Highlights: Riverside temple, intricate carvings, peaceful setting
13. Discover Bo Ya Cave
Photo: Nedian91 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Hidden in the forested hills, Bo Ya Cave offers a spiritual adventure with a touch of mystery. Reached by a steep stairway of nearly a thousand steps, the journey up is part of the experience, lined with trees, shrines, and chirping of birds. Inside, the cave glows with soft light illuminating sacred relics and meditation spaces. It’s both physically and spiritually relaxing. If you’re up for a bit of a hike, the rewards here lie in the calm, the views, and the sense of timeless solitude.
Location: Hin Kon Village, Tambon Nong Krot, Amphoe Mueang Nakhon Sawan
Highlights: Limestone cave, Buddha statues, tranquil surroundings
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14. Explore Chan Sen Ancient City And Museum
Photo: Mr Atsadang Katwibun / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Step back into Thailand’s Dvaravati era at Chan Sen Ancient City and Museum. It is a quiet archaeological site often overlooked by mainstream travellers. Here, ruins, relics, and reconstructed buildings tell stories of an ancient settlement. The museum adds depth with artifacts and displays that bring the past to life. Surrounded by peaceful countryside, it’s a fascinating place for history buffs and culture lovers. Exploring this museum is one of the best things to do in Nakhon Sawan with family. It’s not just about stones and statues but about walking through history, slowly and curiously.
Location: 4F94+MQF, Tambon Chan Sen, Amphoe Takhli, Chang Wat, Nakhon Sawan 60260, Thailand
Highlights: Archaeological site, prehistoric relics, cultural exhibits
Nakhon Sawan is more than just a stopover; it’s a destination brimming with adventure, serenity, and cultural wonders. Whether you’ve climbed limestone peaks, wandered through vibrant flower fields, explored historic shrines, or marvelled at migratory birds, the things to do in Nakhon Sawan leave a lasting impression. Plan a trip with TripXL and discover a world of beauty and tradition waiting to be explored.
Cover Photo: Chainwit. / Wikimedia Commons
