Nonthaburi Travel Guide: Riverside Retreats, Durian Orchards, and Hidden History Just Outside Bangkok
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Just north of Bangkok, Nonthaburi offers a refreshing escape from the capital’s chaos—without straying far from the action. This underrated province blends laid-back charm, ancient temples, floating markets, and lush orchards, all cradled along the Chao Phraya River.
For travellers seeking a quieter base with easy access to Bangkok’s buzz, Nonthaburi delivers the perfect balance of old-school Thai culture and modern convenience.
Top Attractions in Nonthaburi
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Koh Kret Island
A car-free, culture-rich island in the middle of the Chao Phraya River. Explore traditional Mon pottery workshops, local temples, and riverside markets. Rent a bike or walk its shaded trails and discover a lifestyle unchanged for generations. -
Nonthaburi Riverside & Pier
Watch the riverboats glide by or enjoy seafood and grilled river prawns at riverside restaurants. Great for boat tours, sunset views, and people-watching. -
Nonthaburi Museum
Housed in the restored old provincial hall, this museum traces the history of Nonthaburi, from royal heritage to local crafts like fruit carving and ceramics. -
Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Worawihan
A riverside royal temple with striking gardens and peaceful pavilions. Perfect for quiet meditation or photography in the late afternoon light.
Must-Visit Temples
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Wat Boromracha Kanchanapisek Anusorn (Wat Leng Noei Yi 2)
One of Thailand’s most stunning Chinese-style temples, with red pillars, golden dragons, and intricate artwork. Located in Bang Bua Thong, it’s a spiritual and architectural standout. -
Wat Sangkhathan
A hidden forest temple popular for meditation. Its unique stilted buildings over ponds and shady paths make it one of Nonthaburi’s most peaceful corners. -
Wat Khema Phirataram
Dating back to the Ayutthaya era, this serene riverside temple is known for its murals and is a beloved spiritual site for locals.
Nightlife in Nonthaburi
Though calmer than Bangkok, Nonthaburi has a growing nightlife scene:
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The Walk Ratchaphruek
A lifestyle mall with chill bars, rooftop dining, and live acoustic music—great for date nights or laid-back evenings with friends. -
Rattanathibet Road
Lined with Thai-style bars, lounges, and karaokes. It’s the go-to strip for a local night out with music, drinks, and casual vibes. -
Karaoke Bars
Popular among locals, these small bars offer private rooms and cold beers—ideal for groups looking for a fun (and slightly off-key) night.
Need more action? Bangkok’s nightlife is only a short taxi or train ride away.
Parks & Green Spaces
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Suan Thonburirom Park
A large public park with lakes, jogging tracks, and shady picnic spots. Perfect for a morning walk or a family afternoon. -
Chaloem Kanchanaphisek Park
Well-kept and riverside, this peaceful escape offers bridges, pavilions, and trails popular with locals for tai chi and cycling.
Where to Watch Live Sports
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The Sportsman Bar
Catch football, rugby, and UFC matches with a cold pint and some pub grub. A reliable expat-friendly hangout. -
Beer Republic (near Nonthaburi Pier)
A solid selection of craft beers, Thai fusion food, and big screens showing major sports matches. Ideal for weekend games.
No Beaches, But Close Enough
Nonthaburi is landlocked, but:
- It sits along the Chao Phraya River, perfect for boat rides and riverside chill-outs.
- Pattaya and Hua Hin are 2–3 hours away by car or bus, making them accessible for weekend beach breaks.
Accommodation Options
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Ibis Bangkok IMPACT
Modern, budget-friendly, and ideal if you’re attending concerts or expos at IMPACT Arena. -
Buddy Oriental Riverside Hotel
A romantic, colonial-style riverside hotel with elegant decor and top-notch river views. -
Ruen Pruksa Boutique Resort
Traditional Thai teakwood bungalows in a garden setting—perfect for couples or digital nomads needing a quiet space. -
Guesthouses near Koh Kret & the Pier
Great options for backpackers and short-stay visitors looking for low-cost, local-style accommodation.
Getting Around Nonthaburi
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MRT Purple Line (Bang Yai–Bang Sue)
Connects you straight to Bangkok. The Nonthaburi Civic Center and Bang Yai stations are your main transit hubs. -
Chao Phraya Express Boat
For scenic, traffic-free travel to Bangkok. Hop on from Nonthaburi Pier for riverside sightseeing. -
Buses & Minivans
Easy travel to surrounding provinces and major Bangkok districts. -
Taxis & Tuk-Tuks
Widely available and affordable for shorter trips around town or to temples and markets.
Top Activities in Nonthaburi
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Cycle Around Koh Kret
Flat roads, shaded lanes, and quiet pathways make this a top activity. Stop at Mon temples, snack on kanom (sweets), and try pottery painting. -
Explore Local Markets
Pak Kret Market and Nonthaburi Market are great for fresh produce, street food, and local textiles. Night markets pop up throughout the week. -
River Cruises
Short boat tours along the Chao Phraya River offer sunset views, temple stops, and glimpses into daily river life. -
Visit a Durian Orchard
Nonthaburi durian is legendary. Tour family-run orchards during harvest season (April–June) and sample some of Thailand’s most expensive fruit.
Muay Thai in Nonthaburi
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Nonthaburi Boxing Stadium
Catch authentic Muay Thai fights in a local setting—less touristy, more gritty. Fights happen weekly. -
Local Muay Thai Gyms
Train with real fighters. Many gyms welcome foreigners of all skill levels. Try a drop-in session or book a week of training. -
IMPACT Arena Events
Major Muay Thai events and international bouts sometimes take place here. Check listings if you’re visiting during a fight weekend.
Fun Facts About Nonthaburi
- Durian Royalty: Nonthaburi durians are the most expensive in Thailand, sometimes fetching over 10,000 baht per fruit.
- Mon Heritage: Koh Kret and surrounding areas are home to the Mon people, an ethnic group known for pottery, food, and unique festivals.
- Historic Depth: The province dates back to the Ayutthaya period, and many temples still retain original structures and murals from centuries past.
Travel Tips
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Best Time to Visit
November to February is dry and cooler—great for boat tours, temple visits, and cycling. April–June is durian season. -
Temple Etiquette
Cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering temple buildings, and avoid loud behaviour in sacred areas. -
Local Dishes to Try
Don’t leave without trying som tam, grilled river prawns, and Mon desserts from Koh Kret’s weekend markets.
Final Thoughts
Nonthaburi is more than Bangkok’s neighbour—it’s a province with a soul of its own. Whether you’re cycling past pottery shops on Koh Kret, catching a riverside sunset over grilled prawns, or experiencing local Muay Thai, Nonthaburi delivers a laid-back, culturally rich adventure just minutes from the capital.
Have you explored Nonthaburi?
Tell us your favourite temple, orchard, or riverside spot in the comments.
Planning a visit soon? Bookmark this guide and send it to your travel mates!
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