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Unwind and Explore: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Nakhon Phanom

| Last Updated: August 2024

Nakhon Phanom is a hidden gem in northeastern Thailand that’s ready to steal your heart. Imagine a place where history buffs, adventure seekers, and chill-out enthusiasts all find their happy place—yep, that’s Nakhon Phanom.

As you stroll around, you’ll meet the friendliest locals and soak in a vibe so laid-back, it practically begs you to unwind. Think stunning views, delicious food, and a sunset over the Mekong that’s Instagram gold. 

Ready for a travel experience that’s as unique as you are? Pack those bags, leave the tourist traps behind, and get ready to fall head over heels for this charming Thai treasure. You’ll be wondering why you didn’t visit sooner!

Best Time to Go 

One of the best times to visit Nakhon Phanom is during the Illuminated Boat Procession (Lai Ruea Fai), a vibrant festival originating from northeastern Thailand. 

Last year, the festival took place from October 20th to 30th, marking the end of the Buddhist Rains Retreat, also known as Buddhist Lent. The exact dates for this year haven’t been announced yet, but planning your visit around this time can offer a unique and memorable experience. 

The festival features beautifully illuminated boats, cultural performances, and a festive atmosphere that showcases the rich traditions of the region.

Things to Know 

Currency: Thai Baht (THB)
(Check the current exchange rate)

Language: Thai, English

Calling Code: +66

Connectivity: Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels and cafes. Consider getting a local SIM card for convenient internet access on the go.

Ports and Rivers: Nakhon Phanom is situated along the Mekong River, which serves as a natural border with Laos. The river plays a significant role in local transport and trade. 

Be cautious around riverbanks and ports, especially during the rainy season when water levels can rise rapidly.

How to Get around Nakhon Phanom

Getting around Nakhon Phanom is easy and convenient, thanks to a variety of transportation options. Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate the city and its surroundings.

  • By Bike: Nakhon Phanom is a bike-friendly city with scenic routes and minimal traffic. Renting a bike is a great way to explore the town and its surroundings at your own pace.
  • By Tuk-Tuk: Tuk-tuks are a convenient and affordable mode of transport for short distances. They are widely available and can be hailed on the street or hired for specific trips.
  • By Car: Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore Nakhon Phanom and its surrounding areas. There are several rental agencies in town, and driving conditions are generally good.
  • By Bus: Local buses and songthaews (shared taxis) are available to get around the city and to nearby attractions. They are cost-effective but may not adhere to strict schedules.
  • By Boat: Given its location along the Mekong River, boat trips can be a scenic and enjoyable way to explore the area. Check for local tours that offer river cruises and transportation to specific destinations.
  • On Foot: For exploring the town center and its immediate surroundings, walking is a pleasant and practical option. Many of the main attractions, markets, and eateries are within walking distance of each other.

Where to Stay 

Boondara Boutique Hotel

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Address: 306/7 Nittayo Rd, Nong Yat, Mueang Nakhon Phanom District

Contact number: +6642530946

Pricing: ฿

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Boondara Boutique Hotel is charming, with a friendly reception and a fantastic coffee shop next door. The vibe is cozy, with plenty of parking and clean, reasonably quiet rooms. Breakfast is alright, but could use more options, and the staff are super polite and helpful. 

Located right opposite Makro Supercenter, the hotel is new and has rooms equipped with a flat-screen TV and an electric kettle.

Fortune River View Nakhon Phanom

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Address: That Phanom 9, Nai Mueang Road, Mueang Nakhon Phanom District,

Contact number: +6642522333

Pricing:  ฿

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Fortune River View in Nakhon Phanom is awesome, with friendly staff and spotless rooms. The location is spot-on, right by the main road and close to loads of great restaurants. 

The riverside setting, clean pool, and surprisingly good food and drinks are a treat. The buffet breakfast has a nice variety, and the rooms come with comfy beds, great views, and solid wifi.

NP Residence

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Address: Nai Mueang, Mueang Nakhon Phanom District,

Contact number: +6642513500

Pricing: ฿ 

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NP Residence is impressive with huge, super clean rooms and fantastic showers. Morning coffee at the reception is a real perk, and parking is easy with bike rentals for some fun exploring. 

The location is great, near tasty food spots, the river, and the walking street. The friendly staff, spotless place, good aircon, and Wi-Fi make it really comfortable.

R Photo Hotel

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Address: 234 9 Nai Mueang, Mueang Nakhon Phanom District

Contact number: +66624324444

Pricing: ฿ 

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R Photo Hotel has these modern, spacious rooms with comfy beds and clean bathrooms. It’s a bit out of the city center, but the sleek design and good price make up for it. 

The bright rooms are cheery, and the service is top-notch. For a stylish stay without the downtown hustle, R Photo Hotel is a great choice.

41 Studio

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Address: 226/1 Nittayo Rd, Nong Yat, Mueang Nakhon Phanom District

Contact number: +66815928464

Pricing: ฿

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41 Studio offers free bikes to explore the area and super comfy beds. The location is handy for catching buses and getting to the airport, with food stands close by.

It’s a bit of a walk to the river markets, but the clean, stylish decor and 24/7 front desk are reassuring. The simple menu and free 24-hour coffee bar are perfect, with friendly staff and a great owner making it a comfy stay.

Where to Eat 

Add Face de’cafe

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Address: FF37+5G, Phon Sawan, Phon Sawan District

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday – 11 AM to 12 AM

Contact number: 

Pricing: ฿

Add Face de’cafe has a great vibe with live music and delicious food. The staff are super kind and even laughed at our jokes, making the atmosphere welcoming and fun. 

The chic interior design makes you feel like you’re dining in style without spending too much. It’s definitely a spot to enjoy tasty food, good vibes, and a bit of live entertainment.

คิดเช่นโขง Kitchen Kong

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Address: 22/8 Adunyathan Alley Road, Nai Mueang, Mueang Nakhon Phanom District

Opening hours: Daily 11 AM to 10 PM

Contact number: +66859247898

Pricing: ฿

Website

Kitchen Kong is a lively spot with excellent food and friendly, efficient service. The atmosphere is perfect for relaxed dining, with options to sit indoors or outdoors. 

The menu has a great selection of Thai dishes, all delicious, and the staff ensure you have everything you need. It’s a fantastic place to enjoy tasty Thai food in a welcoming setting

Khun Daeng Food Park

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Address: 29/3 Moo 7, Non Tan Subdistrict, Tha Uthen District

Opening hours: 

  • Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 10 PM
  • Sunday – 10 AM to 10 PM

Contact number: +66847855008

Pricing: ฿

Khun Daeng Food Park offers tasty food and a wide variety of dishes that satisfy everyone. Located in a rural area, parking is easy and stress-free. The prices are reasonable, and the food is consistently delicious. 

With a clean environment, speedy service, and even a banquet room for group gatherings, it’s a top spot for enjoying great food without breaking the bank.

River Bar & Restaurant

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Address: Nai Mueang, Mueang Nakhon Phanom District

Opening hours: Daily 11 AM to 11:30 PM

Contact number: +6642522999

Pricing: ฿

River Bar & Restaurant has a lively atmosphere with great music and a wide variety of delicious dishes. The service is attentive and friendly, and the prices are reasonable, making it a solid choice for casual dining. 

The ambiance is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the evening, with live singers adding to the vibrant atmosphere. It’s a great place to unwind or catch up with friends over good food and music.

What to Do

Visit Wat Phra That Phanom

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Address: 183, 13 Village No. 13 Chayangkun Rd, That Phanom

Opening hours: Daily 6 AM to 8 PM

Contact number: +66945435888

Fee: 

Website

Wat Phra That Phanom is a stunning temple and one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Thailand. The temple is believed to house a relic of the Buddha, attracting both locals and tourists. 

The intricate architecture and serene atmosphere make it a must-see. It’s a great place to experience local culture and spirituality.

Stroll Along the Mekong River

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The promenade along the Mekong River offers beautiful views, especially during sunrise and sunset. You can enjoy a leisurely walk, watch boats go by, or relax on one of the benches. 

Plus, the area is dotted with food stalls, so you can grab a snack while taking in the scenery.

Explore the Former Governor’s Residence Museum

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Address: Sunthorn Wichit Road, Nai Mueang Subdistrict

Opening hours: 

  • Monday and Tuesday – Closed
  • Wednesday to Sunday – 9 AM to 4:30 PM

Contact number: +6642511574

Former Governor’s Residence Museum in Nakhon Phanom is a cool spot to check out the region’s history. This beautifully preserved colonial-era building, once home to the provincial governor, now showcases antique furniture, old photos, and artifacts.

The house itself is a gem, with wooden floors, high ceilings, and spacious verandas. The lush gardens around it are perfect for a stroll. The exhibits have signs in both Thai and English, so you can easily follow along. 

Check Out the Indochina Market

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Address: CQ2Q+MF4 Indochina Market Nai Mueang

Opening hours: Daily 8 AM to 6 PM

The Indochina Market is a bustling spot for shopping, offering a wide range of goods from Thailand and neighboring countries. You can find everything from clothing and accessories to local handicrafts and food. 

It’s a perfect place to pick up souvenirs and experience local market culture.

Take a Bike Ride Around Town

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Nakhon Phanom is a bike-friendly city with scenic routes and minimal traffic. Renting a bike and exploring the town at your own pace is a fantastic way to see the sights. Don’t miss the chance to ride along the Mekong River and through charming local neighborhoods.

Visit Ho Chi Minh’s House

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Address: Village No. 5 48 Nong Yat, Mueang Nakhon Phanom District

Opening hours: Daily 8 AM to 6 PM

Contact number: +6642503527

Fee: None, but donation is encouraged

Ho Chi Minh’s House is a small museum dedicated to the Vietnamese revolutionary leader, who lived in Nakhon Phanom for a period. 

The museum offers a glimpse into his life and the connections between Thailand and Vietnam. It’s an interesting stop for history buffs.

Visit Phu Langka National Park

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Address: X4MR+V3W, Phai Lom, Ban Phaeng District

Opening hours: Daily 8 AM to 4 PM

Contact number: +6642530766

Fee: 

  • Adult – 200 THB
  • Children – 100 THB

Website

Phu Langka National Park is a natural gem offering stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and breathtaking views. The park is known for its picturesque mountains, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. 

Here, you can explore the scenic trails, visit waterfalls, and enjoy panoramic vistas from the viewpoints. It’s a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Nakhon Phanom’s natural surroundings.

Where  to Shop

7-Eleven

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Address: HHFX+FXW, Tha Uthen, Tha Uthen District

Opening hours: Open 24 hours

Contact number: https://www.7eleven.co.th/

Website

Popping into 7-Eleven is always a breeze; it’s like a treasure hunt for snacks and essentials! The store layout is super organized, so even in a rush, you can quickly grab what you need. 

They’ve got a solid range of snacks, drinks, and quick meal options, making it easy to stock up or grab a bite. The staff are usually friendly and quick at the checkout, so you’re in and out in no time.

Big C Supercenter Nakhon Phanom

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Address: 9/2 Bypass Rte Rd, Nong Yat, Mueang Nakhon Phanom District

Opening hours: daily 9 AM to 9 PM

Contact number: +6642532717

Website

Big C Supercenter in Nakhon Phanom is quite the spot, with a huge variety of food and an awesome range of bread loaves. Prices are fair, and the quality is good across the board. 

You can eat, catch a movie, and entertain the kids all under one roof. Parking is easy, and the place is accessible, making it a mini city for all your shopping needs.

Lotus’s Nakhonphanom

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Address: 335/2 Nittayo Rd, Nai Mueang, Mueang Nakhon Phanom District

Opening hours: Daily 8 AM to 9 PM

Contact number: +66988639275

Website

Lotus’s Nakhonphanom is like a one-stop-shop extravaganza with everything under one roof—food, technology, and more. The massive supermarket is perfect for when you’re hungry or need to upgrade your gadgets. 

It’s super convenient and easy to navigate, with a variety of products to cater to every need. 

Amway Thailand Nakhon Phanom

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Address: 99 Si Thep, Nai Mueang, Muang

Opening hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 10:30 AM to 8 PM
  • Saturday to Sunday – 10:30 AM to 5 PM

Contact number: +6642513402

Website

Amway Thailand in Nakhon Phanom offers a pretty interesting shopping experience. The staff are not just helpful but also friendly and knowledgeable about their products. 

They guide you through a variety of items, from skincare to supplements, making it easy to find what you need. The shop is well-organized, and the laid-back yet efficient vibe makes for a smooth and enjoyable visit.

What to Expect from Nakhon Phanom’s Weather

Nakhon Phanom experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by three distinct seasons: hot, rainy, and cool.

Hot Season (March to May): The hot season in Nakhon Phanom sees temperatures soaring up to 35°C (95°F) or higher. This period is marked by clear skies and intense heat, making it essential to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. 

Outdoor activities are best enjoyed in the early morning or late afternoon when the heat is less intense.

Rainy Season (June to October): During the rainy season, Nakhon Phanom receives heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. Temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), providing some relief from the scorching heat. 

The lush, green landscapes are a highlight of this season, but be prepared for sudden downpours and ensure you have waterproof gear if you plan to explore.

Cool Season (November to February): The cool season is the most pleasant time to visit Nakhon Phanom, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). The weather is mild and comfortable, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. 

This season also features clear skies and minimal rainfall, offering perfect conditions for enjoying the scenic beauty of the region.

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