Things To Do
in Nakhon Sawan

Nakhon Sawan is a picturesque province located in the central region of Thailand, known for its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The city sits at the confluence of the Ping and Nan rivers, offering stunning views and numerous outdoor activities. It's a gateway to the northern provinces and is famous for its vibrant festivals, particularly the annual Nakhon Sawan Food Festival.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and local hospitality in this charming destination.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Wat Khiriwong, an iconic temple known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Head to the Nakhon Sawan Cultural Center to learn about the local history and culture through exhibits and artifacts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant while watching the sunset over the river.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Take an early morning boat trip along the Nan River to see local wildlife and enjoy the scenic views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Khao Nor Khao Kaew Forest Park for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the area.

evening
:

Experience local nightlife by visiting a night market, sampling street food, and enjoying live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Noodles$1.50
🍺Local Beer$2.00
🍽️Restaurant Meal$5.00
🚌Bus Fare$0.50
🏨Hotel Night$30.00

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and variety of local attractions.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living and delicious local cuisine.
  • Limited English proficiency among locals may pose communication challenges.
  • Public transportation options can be limited outside city center.
  • The rainy season can disrupt travel plans due to heavy rains.
  • "สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ" - Hello
  • "ขอบคุณครับ/ค่ะ" - Thank you
  • "ช่วยหน่อยได้ไหมครับ/ค่ะ" - Can you help me?
  • "ห้องน้ำอยู่ไหนครับ/ค่ะ" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "ราคาเท่าไหร่ครับ/ค่ะ" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Nakhon Sawan

Visit one of these nice places.

Wat Khiriwong

This temple is not only architecturally stunning but also offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect photography spot.

Nan River

Capture the serene beauty of the river, especially during sunset when the colors reflect beautifully on the water.

Khao Nor Khao Kaew

The forest park provides breathtaking views and unique rock formations that are ideal for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nakhon Sawan

Nakhon Sawan's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Thai flavors and local specialties that reflect its rich agricultural heritage.

Nakhon Sawan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Khao Soi

A creamy coconut curry noodle soup that's a regional favorite, topped with crispy noodles and served with lime and pickled vegetables.

Must-Try!

Nam Prik Noom

A flavorful green chili dip served with fresh vegetables and sticky rice, perfect for sharing.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nakhon Sawan Night Market

A bustling market that comes alive in the evening, offering a variety of street food, local snacks, and handicrafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nakhon Sawan experiences a tropical climate with three main seasons: a dry cool season from November to February, a hot season from March to May, and a rainy season from June to October. The dry season is characterized by cooler temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making it pleasant for outdoor activities. The hot season can see temperatures soar above 35°C (95°F), while the rainy season brings heavy downpours and humidity, often leading to cooler evenings.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for the Monks

Always show respect to monks; women should not touch them or sit beside them.

Removing Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes and temples.

Wai Greeting

A traditional greeting where you place your palms together and bow slightly; it is polite to return this gesture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nakhon Sawan is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping valuables secure. It's advisable to drink bottled water and be cautious with street food to avoid stomach issues. Always have local emergency numbers handy and be aware of your surroundings.

Tipping in Nakhon Sawan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; leaving small change at restaurants is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but many places accept credit cards; ensure you have enough cash for markets and street vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November - February)

Expect cooler temperatures and less humidity, making it the ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Hot Season (March - May)

Temperatures can soar, so stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon.

Rainy Season (June - October)

Frequent rain showers can occur, so be prepared with waterproof gear and check the weather forecast before planning outdoor excursions.

Nightlife Guide

Nakhon Sawan at Night

Nakhon Sawan's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, featuring night markets, local bars, and occasional live music events. The Nakhon Sawan Night Market is a popular spot, bustling with food stalls, local crafts, and entertainment options. Many restaurants along the riverside offer evening dining with beautiful views, while small bars provide a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy drinks with friends.

Hiking in Nakhon Sawan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Khao Nor Khao Kaew Trail

This trail provides a moderate hike through beautiful forested areas and leads to a viewpoint with stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Phu Toey National Park

Located nearby, this national park offers various hiking trails that showcase unique flora and fauna, with opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Airports

How to reach Nakhon Sawan by plane.

Phitsanulok Airport (PHS)

Approximately 90 km from Nakhon Sawan, this airport offers domestic flights to major Thai cities and serves as a convenient entry point for visitors.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nakhon Sawan is fairly walkable in the city center, with many attractions, shops, and restaurants within walking distance. Sidewalks are available, though some areas may be less developed. It's advisable to plan your walking routes, especially if visiting rural areas, as distances can vary significantly.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Thai Citizens

The majority of the population is Thai, with a rich blend of cultural traditions and practices.

Local Ethnic Groups

Various ethnic groups, including the Mon and Khmer, contribute to the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Muay Thai

This traditional martial art is popular in the region, with many local gyms offering classes for both tourists and locals.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played and followed in Nakhon Sawan, with local teams engaging in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nakhon Sawan can be moderate, especially during peak hours. The city is relatively small, making it easy to navigate by car or motorbike. Public transportation options include songthaews (shared taxis) and tuk-tuks, which are convenient for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nakhon Sawan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to specify your dietary needs in Thai.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Nakhon Sawan is reasonable, with several hospitals and clinics available. Public hospitals provide affordable care, while private hospitals offer a higher standard of service for a fee. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses in case of emergencies.

Discover Thailand

Read more in our Thailand 2025 Travel Guide.

Thailand Travel Guide