Bangkok City has held the title for years of being the most visited city in the world. With millions of tourists trooping to its multi-cultural attractions, it has become a bustling hotspot.
Although there are vast arrays of destinations in the city, tourists are looking for off-beaten spots to escape the crowd. Thankfully, other provinces, such as neighboring Nonthaburi, are slowly hitting popularity.
Nonthaburi is just an hour of boat ride from Bangkok, making it an ideal alternative. It also boasts of eco-cultural destinations that will surely gratify every traveler’s quest for thrill, fun, and adventure. Among its familiar sights are historic temples, numerous restaurants serving Thai cuisines, colorful ponds, budget-friendly markets, and many more!
Just like in Bangkok, tourists can explore here without breaking the bank. Yep. It’s a cheap destination. But it makes up to an excellent experience.
Here are some of the things you can do there.
Top 10 Best Things to Do in Nonthaburi, Thailand
Visit the Koh Ret Island
Lying along the banks of the beautiful Chao Praya River is Koh Ret Island, one of the most frequented tourist spots in Nonthaburi. Many of the locals here celebrate the Mon culture, and tourists can participate during related activities.
The island has also become known for its weekend market, where locals from different areas congregate to sell various products. Among these are handmade potteries and sculptures which represent the rich culture of the people. The market will also give tourists a rare chance to taste authentic delicacies. Since it’s just near Bangkok, the place makes up for an ideal weekend getaway.
WHERE TO STAY? Best hotels in Nonthaburi.
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Ride Electric Karts at Impact Speed Park
While Nonthaburi is primarily known as a cultural destination, it does offer modern attractions that both locals and tourists love. One of which is the Impact Speed Park, where one can ride on an electric kart. The park promotes sustainability, so its karts make use of eco-friendly electric batteries.
There is also a bar facility and restaurant where tourists can try the specialties of an Australian chef. Other activities to try in the park are Impact Marine and water biking. These make the park favorable for family outings or couple’s getaways. The park is open every day.
WHERE TO STAY? Best hotels in Nonthaburi.
Shop at Central Plaza Westgate
Also called Central Plaza Bangyai, Central Plaza Westgate is one of the modern shopping complexes in Nonthaburi. It boasts of more than 1000 stores and services occupying its six stories. It has a vast parking space that can accommodate more than 7000 vehicles.
Aside from shopping, visitors can also watch cinemas: many locals, especially those from rural areas, troop here to experience modern life. For tourists, however, the place is just ideal for passing the time. But don’t worry; there are traditional markets to check out.
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Stroll on Nonthaburi Market
Modern malls may not be that appealing to tourists, but it’s a different story when talking about traditional markets. One of them is the Nonthaburi Market, which will give tourists an idea of the locals’ culture and livelihood.
What’s unique about the market is that many stalls are selling locally-made products at low prices. These are wonderful souvenirs to buy.
There are also various restaurants selling sumptuous Thai specialties with variations depending on the owner’s province of origin. With only $10, tourists can have their fill here or buy different items. It’s advised that tourists visit during the daytime because the market becomes too crowded at night.
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Meditate at Wat Sangkhathan
Standing on the west banks of the Chao Praya River, one finds the iconic Wat Sangkhathan temple. It is a famous pilgrimage site among Buddhist devotees, while many others come here to meditate because of the peaceful setting.
Visitors coming here can stay for up to seven days so they can make the most out of reflection and inner recollection. The temple has imposing architecture, and inside, one finds wooden sculptures and statues. For tourists with a leaning to introspection, there’s just nothing like it here.
Relish the Beauty of Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat
Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat, an easily recognizable landmark, is also an imposing depiction of the locals’ thriving culture and traditions in Nonthaburi. The building’s impressive architecture in itself is an attraction. It’s a combination of Thai and Chinese designs with distinct towers and columns.
Who would not be drawn at such majestic beauty? Built more than 100 years ago, the temple is now an avenue for passing the Thai culture to the younger generations. Therefore, it’s a great place for understanding the Thai way of life for tourists who are into cultural immersion and exploration.
WHERE TO STAY? Best hotels in Nonthaburi.
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Have Fun at Fantasia Lagoon Water Park
The Fantasia Lagoon Water Park, a new adventure spot, lies in the Bangkae Mall’s terrace. It occupies a vast area that offers different activities, especially for kids and families. Among the things to do here are swimming in large pools, sliding on thrilling platforms, and watching shows at an entertainment zone.
There is also an adjacent amusement park with all sorts of fun for both kids and adults. Although tourists are more likely searching for a local experience, it pays to visit here given the budget-friendly entrance fee and tons of activities.
WHERE TO STAY? Best hotels in Nonthaburi.
Learn Thai Culture at the Museum of Nonthaburi
To learn about the locals’ rich culture, tourists can also check out the Museum of Nonthaburi aside from the temples. It lies at the end of the Chao Phraya River, near the Nonthaburi Pier.
The museum showcases Nonthaburi’s unique art and traditions. It also displays images and structures depicting the history of the province. Tourists will also get the chance to see some of the oldest pots in the country that are well preserved.
Although the museum generally promotes the Thai culture, the materials showcased represent the different ethnic groups composing the Thai population.
Sit on Giant Lilies at Victoria Water Lily Garden
The Victoria Water Lily Garden hosts the biggest species of water lilies, just like those found on the Amazon River. That makes it one of the best places to visit in Nonthaburi, especially for nature lovers. One lily pad can carry an adult person.
Tourists can stand on it and take Instagrammable photos. Are you scared of falling over to the pond? No worries. The caretaker of the garden will pick the right lily pad. Just be honest with your real weight. Standing on one of the lily pads will make tourists feel like they are in the middle of the Amazon jungle.
WHERE TO STAY? Best hotels in Nonthaburi.
Eat on Bamboo Bowls at Nalintara Food and Drink
How does it feel eating meals in a bamboo bowl? Is there a difference with the taste? Well, that’s something that tourists will know when they dine at Nalintara Food and Drink. Instead of plates, the restaurant serves with bamboo bowls to make dining here an authentic Thai experience.
Among the favorite specialties are noodles with Thai spices and ingredients. Tourists can enjoy eating here while gazing at a nearby pond with blooming water lilies.
So there you have some of the best things to do in Nonthaburi. For a more meaningful experience, make sure to include them in your itinerary.
WHERE TO STAY? Best hotels in Nonthaburi.