Nakhon Sawan Travel Guide: Explore the Gateway to Northern Thailand

May 24, 2025

Known as “Pak Nam Pho”, Nakhon Sawan is where Thailand’s great rivers converge. Often overlooked by tourists, this peaceful province serves as the gateway between central and northern Thailand. With sweeping river views, sacred hilltop temples, vibrant Chinese heritage, and Thailand’s largest freshwater lake—Nakhon Sawan rewards travellers who veer off the beaten path.

Top Places to Visit in Nakhon Sawan

Paradise Park & Chong Kaeo Pagoda
Climb this hilltop park for panoramic views of the town and where the Ping and Nan rivers merge to form the Chao Phraya River. A golden pagoda crowns the summit, glowing at sunrise and sunset.
Bueng Boraphet
Thailand’s largest freshwater swamp and a paradise for birdwatchers. Spot rare waterfowl, take a boat ride, or explore the on-site wildlife sanctuary and nature museum.
Dechatiwong Bridge
A scenic crossing over the Nan River and one of Nakhon Sawan’s iconic landmarks—great for evening walks and golden hour photos.
Pak Nam Pho Dragon Museum
A colourful ode to Chinese-Thai culture, this museum features a massive dragon statue, traditional architecture, and exhibits celebrating the town’s heritage—especially lively during Chinese New Year.
Sawan Park
Locals flock here to jog, paddle boat, or picnic around the lake. At night, the park lights up with street vendors and community events.

Temples to Explore

Wat Khiriwong
Set on a hill with sweeping 360-degree views, this peaceful temple complex features a towering golden chedi, serene gardens, and crisp mountain air.
Wat Photharam
A tranquil spot with a large reclining Buddha statue and a spiritual stillness. Ideal for quiet reflection or light photography without the tourist crowds.
Wat Woranat Banphot (Wat Khao Kop)
An ancient temple with hilltop pagodas, Wat Khao Kop offers stunning views over the rivers and countryside below.

Nightlife in Nakhon Sawan

Nakhon Sawan’s nightlife is modest but charming:

Big C Plaza Night Market
Not a club scene, but the place to be at dusk. Expect street food, live acoustic music, clothing stalls, and buzzing local energy.
Riverside Bars
Small bars and restaurants line the riverside, offering beers, Thai food, and live music in a relaxed, scenic setting.
DD Bar & Bistro
Trendy by local standards, this bar features live bands, casual cocktails, and a youthful vibe. Occasionally screens major sports games too.

National Parks Near Nakhon Sawan

Mae Wong National Park
Dense forest, hidden waterfalls, and the chance to spot tigers and elephants. Great for trekkers and nature lovers, especially on the Kamphaeng Phet side.
Khao Nor–Khao Kaew
Steep limestone peaks ideal for hiking, photography, and birdwatching. Explore hilltop shrines, caves, and panoramic viewpoints.
Mae Ping River Basin
A scenic riverside escape with tranquil trails and riverside retreats. Great for kayaking, photography, or a slow picnic.

Sports Bars & Entertainment

The Sport Café & Bar
Popular during football season. A good spot to watch Premier League games with local beers and simple pub fare.
DD Bar & Bistro
Doubles as a casual sports-viewing venue during tournaments or big matches.

No Beaches, But There’s Water Everywhere

While Nakhon Sawan is landlocked, its lakes and rivers more than make up for it:

Boat rides on Bueng Boraphet
Sunset walks along the Nan River
Riverside cycling or dining

Where to Stay: Hostels to Resorts

P.A. Thani Hotel
A solid mid-range stay with river views, clean rooms, and a central location.
Baan Mai Hom Resort
Near Bueng Boraphet—ideal for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Quiet, green, and peaceful.
Grand Hill Resort and Spa
A more luxurious choice with spa, pool, fitness centre, and hillside views.
Sabai Hotel
Budget-friendly with everything you need for a comfortable short stay.

Getting Around Nakhon Sawan

Buses & Minivans
The bus terminal offers regular services to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phitsanulok, and more.
Trains
Nakhon Sawan is on the Northern Line, linking Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Great for scenic, laid-back travel.
Songthaews & Tuk-Tuks
Cheap and efficient for getting around town or to nearby attractions.
Motorbike/Bicycle Rentals
Rent two wheels to explore Bueng Boraphet, the riverside, or temple-studded backroads at your own pace.

Things to Do

Boat Tours on Bueng Boraphet
Cruise the lake and see migratory birds, rare fish, and floating plants. Early morning is best for sightings and cool air.
Trekking in Mae Wong National Park
Explore waterfalls, wildlife, and deep forest. Multi-day treks are available with guides.
Cycling the Chao Phraya
Rent a bike and follow the river, stopping at temples, markets, and peaceful village lanes.
Birdwatching
Over 150 bird species make Bueng Boraphet a national hotspot for ornithologists and photographers alike.

Muay Thai in Nakhon Sawan

Local Muay Thai Gyms
Several community gyms offer authentic Thai boxing training—ideal for beginners or experienced fighters.
Festival Fights
During local events or New Year celebrations, catch live Muay Thai bouts at community fairs. Ask your hotel or local gym for info.

Fun Facts About Nakhon Sawan

Origin of the Chao Phraya River: The Ping and Nan Rivers converge here to form Thailand’s most important waterway.
Dragon Capital: Home to some of Thailand’s most impressive Chinese New Year celebrations, with towering dragons, parades, and fireworks.
Birdwatcher’s Paradise: Bueng Boraphet is one of Thailand’s premier destinations for migratory and native birdlife.

Travel Tips

When to Visit
November to February offers the best weather for trekking, birdwatching, and riverside relaxation.
Festivals
Chinese New Year is huge here—don’t miss the dragon processions and cultural shows.
Temple Etiquette
Cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering. Be respectful and avoid loud conversation inside temple buildings.

Final Thoughts

Nakhon Sawan is where rivers meet, cultures merge, and serenity thrives. It’s a province of natural beauty, spiritual highs, and underrated adventures. Whether you’re gliding across a lake, trekking into misty hills, or watching dragons dance during a lunar festival—this is a place where Thailand slows down and speaks to the soul.

Have you discovered the dragon of Pak Nam Pho?

Share your story in the comments.

Planning your trip soon? Bookmark this guide and tag your travel partner.

Our most-viewed blogs are turned into YouTube videos—so like, share, and subscribe to catch more real Thailand content each week.