Key Takeaways
Overview
Nakhon Nayok is a small province located close to the capital city of Thailand, often overlooked by tourists who consider it to be insignificant and uninteresting. However, there are those, like myself, who have fallen in love with this hidden gem for its slow-paced lifestyle, friendly locals, beautiful natural landscapes, fresh air, and unique tourist spots. In this article, I will take you on a journey through Nakhon Nayok, exploring its attractions and sharing my personal experiences.
Day 1
Wat Chulabhorn Wanaram
Our first destination on the trip was the bamboo grove at Wat Chulabhorn Wanaram. This serene temple, located in Ban Phrik, Amphoe Ban Na, was built to commemorate the 50th birthday anniversary of Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn. The temple follows the Thai forest tradition and is surrounded by various trees, creating a tranquil atmosphere. The highlight of Wat Chulabhorn Wanaram is the bamboo grove, a 100-meter-long walkway where bamboo on the sides form a stunning green tunnel. This picturesque spot is reminiscent of Japanese tourist attractions and is open to visitors every day, free of charge. I recommend visiting early in the morning to enjoy the grove in solitude.
Lung Pao Kala Noodle
After exploring Wat Chulabhorn Wanaram, we headed to Lung Pao Kala Noodle to satisfy our hunger. This local restaurant is known for its delicious noodles and opens at 9:00 AM. We arrived just before the opening time and managed to secure a table without any wait. The menu offers a variety of dishes, including pork satay and fried snacks. We ordered some beverages, pork satay, and noodles. The seating area behind us provided a unique experience with hanging legs and a view of the fish pond. The food was flavorful, and the chrysanthemum tea was refreshing.
Khun Dan Prakan Chon Dam
After filling our stomachs, we made our way to Khun Dan Prakan Chon Dam. The journey to the dam was scenic, with trees and crops lining the way and towering mountains in the distance. When we arrived, we were greeted by a lush green landscape. To explore the water source at Khlong Kram, we rented a boat from the officers near the parking lot. The boat took us upriver, surrounded by mountains and offering a peaceful retreat in the midst of nature. Our first stop was Khlong Kram, a small stream that serves as the river source. The greenery and clear water made it a paradise for photographers. The boat then took us to Chong Lom Waterfall, where we took a leisurely walk along a 700-meter trail. The sound of the waterfall grew louder as we approached, and we were rewarded with a breathtaking view. The entire journey was a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Song Sao Grilled Chicken
After a full day of sightseeing, we decided to indulge in some local cuisine at Song Sao Grilled Chicken. This restaurant, located in front of Khun Dan Prakan Chon Dam, offers a variety of dishes with grilled chicken being the highlight. We ordered Som Tam Pla Ra (papaya salad with fermented fish) and grilled chicken, which were both packed with flavor. The restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere and delicious food made it a perfect place to unwind after a long day.
Teng Terd Terng Night Market
To end the day on a lively note, we visited the Teng Terd Terng Night Market. This vibrant night market is only open on weekends and public holidays from 5:00 PM to midnight. It offers a wide range of goods, including food, clothing, toys, and miscellaneous items. We strolled through the market, enjoying the bustling atmosphere and exploring the various stalls. The later it got, the livelier the market became, creating a festive ambiance. It was the perfect way to experience the local culture and shop for unique souvenirs.
Day 2
5 Baht Noodle Shop
We started the day with a visit to the 5 Baht Noodle Shop, located in front of Wat Pho. This nostalgic shop brought back childhood memories with its simple yet delicious noodles. The shop opens at 9:00 AM and offers noodles in different sizes. We tried all sizes and also ordered Luak Chim (steamed assortment), which was a delightful addition to our meal. The affordable prices and authentic taste made it a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.
Rong Kluea Market
After breakfast, we made our way to Rong Kluea Market, a second-hand market known for its affordable prices. This covered market is divided into blocks and offers a wide variety of goods, including brassware, porcelain, clothing, and kitchenware. Most of the items are imported from Cambodia, making it a unique shopping experience. We couldn’t resist the temptation and ended up with several shopping bags filled with bargains. The market is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and we recommend visiting on weekdays to avoid the crowds.
Daeng Kaeng Pa
For lunch, we decided to try Daeng Kaeng Pa, a local restaurant located in a small alley on the riverside. This charming wooden house in the Old Nakhon Nayok Market offered a relaxing atmosphere and scenic views. The signature dishes at Daeng Kaeng Pa are Red Curry with Scraped Fish and Spicy Stir-fried Scraped Fish. We also ordered a Thai-styled omelet and rice to complete our meal. The flavors were bold and authentic, and the riverside setting made it a memorable dining experience.
Kaeng Nam Sab Resort
To fully immerse ourselves in nature, we checked into Kaeng Nam Sab Resort for the second night of our trip. This riverside resort offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences, from cozy rooms to larger spaces for families or groups of friends. The resort provides amenities such as water heaters, cable TV, and breakfast. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy activities like rafting, rock climbing, ATV riding, and BB gun shooting. The peaceful surroundings and fresh air made it the perfect retreat from city life.
Day 3
Thung Na Mui Bridge
We started the day with a visit to the Thung Na Mui Bridge, a wooden bridge that stretches through lush green rice fields. Walking on the bridge felt like strolling through a green paradise, with the rice panicles swaying gently beneath our feet. The bridge offers many photo opportunities, and there are food and beverage stalls nearby. We tried sticky rice, Som Tam, and grilled chicken, all of which were delicious and captured the essence of Thai cuisine.
Huai Preu Reservoir
Our final stop was the Huai Preu Reservoir, a picturesque spot with bright blue waters and a clear sky. Surrounded by forests and mountains, this small reservoir offers a peaceful retreat in nature. We took in the picturesque view, enjoying the tranquility and fresh air. It was the perfect way to conclude our trip to Nakhon Nayok.
In conclusion, Nakhon Nayok may be a small province, but it is filled with hidden gems and unique experiences. From the serene bamboo grove at Wat Chulabhorn Wanaram to the adventurous boat trip at Khun Dan Prakan Chon Dam, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The local cuisine, vibrant night market, and scenic natural beauty make Nakhon Nayok a destination worth exploring. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a break from the city, Nakhon Nayok offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
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