Nonthaburi

Lying in the fertile basin on the Chao Phraya River, Nonthaburi is one of the central provinces of Thailand. Covering an area of 622.3 square kilometers and about only 20 kilometers from Bangkok, Nonthaburi is known for being the land of beautiful old temples, elegant palaces, gorgeous city hall, spectacular royal garden, Koh Kret's famous pottery and delicious durian. Its provincial capital, Nonthaburi, consists of six districts: Muang, Bang Kruai, Pak Kret, Bang Bua Thong, Bang Yai and Sai Noi, is the second largest city in Thailand. Thanks to its strategic location, Nonthaburi has become the centre of trade, commerce, economics, society, transportation and tourism of Thailand.

Nonthaburi was declared a city over 400 years ago when it was a village named Talat Kwan, a famous fruit orchard. During the reign of King Prasat Thong, a canal was dug as a shortcut for the flow of the Chao Phraya River. After the new shortcut was finished, the flow of the river was changed into the new canal which follows to this day. In 1665, King Narai constructed a fortress at the mouth of Om River to let enemies have an easier way to the capital Ayutthaya. The town was then relocated near the fortress.

Nonthaburi is known for abundant fruit and flower plantations with a number of historical temples interspersed surrounding, the Grand Royal Mansion, the spectacular government hall, Koh Kret pottery and tasty temples. A wide range of temples can be found in the region as Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat, Wat Khema Phirataram, Wat Sangkhatan, Chaloam Kanchanaphisel park, the Museum of Anthropology, The Prathom-Nonthaburi Palace, the Horn Museum, etc. More interesting thing, you can admire the beauty of various kinds of flowers in Suan Tan Noi and Suan Thip flower gardens which lies amidst orchards. Besides, you also can watch or buy local products as well as witness the lifestyle in some markets as Wat Saeng Siritham Floating Market and Sai Noi Floating Market where ordinary Thais live, or visit and taste the delightful local fruits in Bang Rak Noi Agricultural Centre, which is very exciting.

Nonthaburi province also stands out for its rich culture with several events and festivals taking place as Mon Songkran Festival (April 13) with caravan and performances of traditional Mon, Nonthaburi Fruits & Fairs (Mid April) with the exhibitions of abundant fruits and flowers, Tham Bun Tak Bat Phra Roi Paet (November) and Mon Classical Dance with invaluable heritage traditional Mon dancing, etc.