Frequently Asked Questions About Nonthaburi

1. What is the best time to visit Nonthaburi?

2. What are the top attractions in Nonthaburi?

• Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Worawihan: A beautiful temple with intricate details and stunning architecture
• Khao Yai Da: A scenic viewpoint offering a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside
• Koh Kret: A river island famous for its unique pottery and traditional lifestyles of Mon people
• Wat Sangkhathan: A temple with the largest reclining Buddha statue in Thailand

3. How do I get to Nonthaburi?

• By car: You can drive to Nonthaburi from Bangkok via the Ratchaphruek Road, which takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
• By taxi: Taxis are readily available in Bangkok and will cost you around THB 200-300 from the city center to Nonthaburi.
• By bus: There are regular bus services from Bangkok’s northern bus terminal (Mo Chit) to Nonthaburi. The journey time is about 45 minutes, and the fare is around THB 20-30.
• By boat: You can take the Chao Phraya Express Boat from Bangkok to Nonthaburi, which is a scenic way to travel. The boats operate every day from 6 AM to 7 PM.

4. What are the accommodation options in Nonthaburi?

• Novotel Bangkok IMPACT: A luxurious hotel that is ideal for business and leisure travelers
• Bed by Cruise at Samakkhi-Tivanont: A modern hotel offering affordable rooms with a stylish design
• Ibis Bangkok IMPACT: A contemporary hotel close to the IMPACT Arena exhibition and convention center
• MAMBA and Baan Aranya Serviced Apartment: A serviced apartment with an outdoor pool, fitness center, and a restaurant

5. What are some of the famous food in Nonthaburi?

• Khao Kluk Kapi: A rice dish mixed with shrimp paste, green mango, and fried pork
• Boat noodle: A soup noodle dish with a variety of ingredients like pork, beef, and spices.
• Moo Yang Kao Niew: Grilled pork with sticky rice and a spicy dip
• Salapao Nonthaburi: A Chinese-style steamed bun stuffed with a variety of fillings like pork, scallion, and vegetables

Conclusion

Insider’s Guide to Nonthaburi

Welcome to Nonthaburi, located just outside of Bangkok and known as the “City of Culture”. As an insider who has lived here for years, I can tell you that there’s more to Nonthaburi than just its famous landmarks. In this guide, I’ll be sharing some hidden gems, local cuisines, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path attractions that you’ll surely love.

Local Attractions

While many tourists flock to Nonthaburi’s famous landmarks such as the Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat and the Nonthaburi Pier, there are also some lesser-known spots that are worth a visit. The Bang Kwan Cultural Museum, for instance, houses a vast collection of Lanna art and antiques that will take you back in time. The Ko Kret Island, situated in the Chao Phraya River, offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, and is home to a friendly community of artisans who make traditional pottery.

Dining Spots

Nonthaburi is known for its delectable local cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the neighboring city of Ayutthaya. A must-try dish is the “Khao pad nam phrik long ruea”, a spicy rice dish topped with a tangy fish sauce, which can be found in many street food stalls. Another local delicacy is the “Kanom Jean Nam Ngiao”, a mouth-watering noodle soup made with pork and tomatoes.

If you want to indulge in a sit-down meal, head over to the Riverside Terrace restaurant, which offers not only great food but also a stunning view of the Chao Phraya River. Dive into the flavors of Nonthaburi and enjoy the warm hospitality that comes with it.

Cultural Experiences

The rich cultural heritage of Nonthaburi can be seen in its many festivals and traditions. During the Buddhist Lent, which falls between July and October, Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat hosts a beautiful boat procession that symbolizes the Buddha’s journey from heaven to earth. Another unique cultural experience worth exploring is the Thewet Flower Market, which has been around for over two centuries and is the largest flower market in Bangkok.

If art and music are more your thing, then you’ll love Immense Art & Music Studio, a contemporary art space that features live music shows and art exhibitions by local and international artists.

Local History

Nonthaburi has a rich history that dates back to the Ayutthaya period. One interesting story involves the city’s name, which means “the city of nonaus” in Thai. According to legend, a group of nonaus, a type of bird, once descended on the city and inspired King Taksin to name it as such.

Another noteworthy piece of history is the Tha Nam Non Market, the city’s oldest market that dates back to the 1500s. The market offers a glimpse into traditional Thai life and is an excellent place to shop for local handicrafts.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a truly unique experience, visit the Baan Mai Chai Pani, a small village located in the middle of the bustling city that has preserved its traditional Thai way of life. Here you’ll find thatched-roof houses, local craftsmen and artisans, and a sense of community that’s difficult to come by in modern cities.

Another exciting activity is taking the Nonthaburi Canal tour, which offers a different perspective of the city’s daily life. You’ll cruise through the canal and witness the locals going about their day, whether it’s fishing, farming, or even washing their clothes in the river.

In conclusion, Nonthaburi is a surprising and enchanting city that is rich in history, culture, and hospitality. I hope this insider’s guide has encouraged you to discover the city beyond its famous landmarks and explore the hidden gems that make it truly unique.