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Our Guide to Nonthaburi Here’s why this province should be a must-visit destination

Our Guide to Nonthaburi: Here’s why this province should be a must-visit destination!

| Last Updated: May 2024

Bangkok may steal the spotlight most of the time when it comes to being the first destination for tourists, but nestled right beside it is a hidden gem: Nonthaburi! 

This vibrant province often gets overshadowed by its big-city neighbor, but that’s exactly what makes it so charming. We always love bringing our friends who are first-time visitors in Thailand to Nonthaburi. 

Here, we can all escape the hustle and bustle and dive into a world of cultural delights, historical sites, and durian heaven (if you’re an adventurous eater)—and it’s so easy to get to from Bangkok! 

So, let’s get right to it! We’re so excited to share this travel guide so you don’t miss out on anything awesome when you visit Nonthaburi! 

Things to Know

Currency: Thai Baht
(Check the current exchange rate)

Language: Thai (Central Thai)

Calling Code: (+66)

Nearest Airport: Suvarnabhumi Airport (46.8 km)

Best Time to Visit Nonthaburi

Nonthaburi is best to visit between December and February if you like to explore the city without worrying about bad weather conditions. These months experience optimal weather conditions, so expect little to no rain and a cool temperature all day.

This way, you can stroll around the city center and explore its attractions to the fullest from morning until late.

How to Get to Nonthaburi

Rental Car: Nonthaburi borders Bangkok so it’s easy to reach via car. You can get there via the Phracha Chuen Road and Ngamwongwan Road.

Tourists must submit a driver’s license and an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Bangkok or Nonthaburi. As it’s faster, cars can get you to the province from Bangkok in less than 30 minutes.

Bus: If you don’t mind the 45-minute commute, riding a bus is the cheapest way to reach Nonthaburi from Bangkok. For only 10 baht, you can board the buses at the Khok Wua Intersection to Nonthaburi Market.

Train: Nonthaburi is also connected to Bangkok via the MRT Subway’s Purple Line. Train tokens are available for purchase at every MRT station, and cost between 15 and 50 baht depending on which station you’re going to.

Boat: There are also boats in the Chao Phraya River that run trips between Bangkok and Nonthaburi. You can find them at the numerous ports along the river, so they’re difficult to miss.

What to See and Do in Nonthaburi

Learn about history at the Museum of Nonthaburi

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Address: Bang Kraso Subdistrict, Mueang Nonthaburi District

Operating Hours: 

  • 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Weekdays)
  • 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Weekends)

Contact Number: +66 84 775 2262

Admission Cost: Free

The Museum of Nonthaburi is a great place to start for tourists visiting Nonthaburi’s city center. It has a lot of infographic displays and artifacts featuring the city’s history dating back to the Ayutthaya period.

Even the museum building has a rich history behind it. In fact, it used to be the King’s College building (1910 – 1925) which became the City Hall of Nonthaburi (1925 – 1992) and the Ministry of Interior’s training center (1992 – 2008).

That’s why the Museum of Nonthaburi attracts tourists who find its vintage-looking architecture fascinating.

Find inner peace at Wat Sangkhathan

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Address: 100 1, Bang Phai, Mueang Nonthaburi District

Operating Hours: 6 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Daily)

Contact Number: +66 2 496 1240

Website: http://www.watsanghathan.com/

Admission Cost: Free

Wat Sangkhathan is the place to be if you want to escape the buzzing city center. It’s one of the more peaceful spots in Nonthaburi which makes it ideal for tourists looking for a place to relax or meditate.

Aside from that, this tree-lined temple is also known for its intricate carved wood architecture, statues, and designs. Wat Sangkhathan’s glass-walled meditation hall, in particular, is a must-see.

These glass panels allow outside light to give the meditation hall interior a bluish hue and an enchanting vibe. Moreover, each panel is adorned with illustrations of Lord Buddha’s past lives.

Stroll around Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Worawihan

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Address: 86 หมู่ที่ 3 Wat Chaloem Phrakiat Alley, Bang Si Muang, Mueang Nonthaburi District

Operating Hours: 24/7

Contact Number: +66 2 881 6323

Website: https://www.facebook.com/WatChalermprakiatWorawihan/

Admission Cost: Free

If you enjoy taking photos or looking at temple architecture, this is the place to go. Wat Chaloem Phra Kita Worawihan features a stunning ivory white pillared stupa adorned with numerous intricate gold carvings.

It’s also one of Nonthaburi’s more unique temples since it combines Thai and Chinese architectural styles. Since this temple has a park-esque setting, it attracts locals and tourists who like strolling around its tree-lined complex.

In fact, it’s even a popular place for birdwatching since birds are frequently seen flying over the structures and trees within the temple grounds. It even has a pier where visitors go to feed fish.

Eat your fill at the Sai Noi Floating Market

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Address: 79 ม.1 คลองขวาง Sai Noi, Sai Noi District

Operating Hours: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Weekends)

Contact Number: +66 90 974 0709

Admission Cost: Free

This floating weekend market in Nonthaburi is a must-visit for hardcore foodies. It’s a food haven, so expect plenty of street food options from the score of local vendors in this market.

That means you’re covered for affordable street food, local specialties, Thai snacks, and fresh produce. A particular dish to look out for is khanom chin. It’s a Northern-style rice noodle dish that may be served with coconut milk, fish sauce, or chili-based broth.

Finding a place that makes good khanom chin can be difficult, so going here gives you a chance to sample this classic dish.

Look for good deals at the Owl Market

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Address: 14, 87 ถนน เลี่ยงเมือง Tambon Bang Kraso, Mueang Nonthaburi District

Operating Hours: 5 p.m. – 12 a.m. (Daily)

Contact Number: +66 80 434 9999

Website: https://www.facebook.com/taradnokhook/

Admission Cost: Free

Nonthaburi’s Owl Market is a trendy night market where you can find all kinds of things: food, clothes, accessories, trinkets, fresh produce, and furnishings. That makes it ideal if you’re looking for a one-stop shop.

This night market also has plenty of establishments like cafes, bars, hair salons, and buffets. Best of all, it has a lively atmosphere and colorful shops, so it’s fun to explore even if you don’t plan on buying anything.

Race your way through IMPACT Speed Park’s go-kart track

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Address: 121 M.6 Banmai Sub-district, Pak Kret District

Operating Hours: 

  • 2 p.m. – 10 p.m. (Weekdays)
  • 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. (Weekends)

Contact Number: +66 2 055 8900

Website: http://www.impactspeedpark.com/

Admission Cost: Free

If you’re looking for an exciting place to take your family or friends, there’s IMPACT Speed Park. This place is perfect if you love high-speed races with electric or gasoline-powered go-karts. 

But that’s not all—they change their track’s layout every two months, so you can always look forward to a different racing experience. IMPACT Speed Park has three go-kart categories: Kiddie (300 baht), Adult (350 baht), and Adult 40 km/h (650 baht).

Though on the pricier side, the high-speed go-karts are definitely worth it, especially if you want to feel your adrenaline rush.

Admire the architecture at Wat Borom Racha Kanchanapisek Anusorn

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Address: Thetsaban 9 Road, Sano Loi, Bang Bua Thong District

Operating Hours: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Daily)

Contact Number: +66 2 571 1155

Website: https://www.facebook.com/Wat.Boromracha.Temple/

Admission Cost: Free

This Chinese Buddhist temple is arguably one of the most beautiful temples in Nonthaburi. Wat Borom Racha Kanchanapisek Anusorn is packed with oriental-style motifs, so expect to see guardian lion statues, dragon carvings, lanterns, and more.

Even its collection of over a hundred Buddha images is nothing to scoff at. The golden Thousand-armed Guanyin, in particular, is worth checking out. 

Guanyin is the Goddess of Mercy, so expect to find plenty of locals praying to her statue during your visit.

Hop between lily pads at Suan Malai Victoria Water Lily Agrotourism

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Address: 66/1, หมู่ 4 Amphur 1 Bang Bua Thong – Suphan Buri Road, Lahan, Bang Bua Thong District

Operating Hours: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Thursday – Tuesday)

Contact Number: +66 89 057 2289

Website: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057450999431

Admission Cost: 20 baht

Suan Malai Victoria Water Lily Agrotourism is one of the more unique attractions in Nonthaburi. This museum-esque botanical garden is well-known for its gorgeous lily pad-filled ponds.

The lily pads are also massive so you can hop on them for some excellent photo opportunities. Just know that these lily pads can only carry you if you weigh between 50 to 60 kilograms.

Take traditional pottery lessons at Ko Kret

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Address: Ko Kret, Pak Kret District

Operating Hours: 24/7

Admission Cost: Free

A visit to Ko Kret is necessary when you’re vacationing in Nonthaburi, after all, it only costs 3 baht to cross the river going there. This artificial island along the Chao Phraya River is a Mon settlement known for its traditional clay pots and other earthenware.

For an interesting activity, try booking a pottery-making tour or class if you want to make one yourself.

Tour Tooney Toy Museum

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Address: Srisaman 8 Alley, Tambon Ban Mai, Pak Kret District

Operating Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Weekends)

Contact Number: +66 86 337 0136

Website: https://www.facebook.com/TooneyMuseum

Admission Cost: 150 baht (Adults), 100 baht (Kids)

For kids and the kids at heart, this toy museum is definitely one of the more fun places to explore in Nonthaburi. It has numerous exhibits, so expect to see thousands of dolls, action figures, and model kits of popular cartoon characters on display.

Tooney Toy Museum also has a dedicated play area for kids—an ideal weekend hangout spot for families! They also have an on-site cafe if you need a quick caffeine fix. What more can you ask for?

Where to Eat in Nonthaburi

Thammachadocha

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Address: 44 2, Sala Klang, Bang Kruai District

Operating Hours: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Daily)

Contact Number: +66 87 026 0999

Website: https://www.facebook.com/thammachadocha/

Prices: ฿฿

This alfresco Thai restaurant is arguably Nonthatburi’s most serene and picturesque food place. Its shady garden dining area is full of trees, shrubbery, and potted plants which gives it a relaxing vibe.

There’s also a small lotus pond area, so it feels like you’re dining next to a beautiful lake. Food-wise, Thammachadocha serves traditional Thai dishes like papaya salad, green curry, stir-fried veggies, deep-fried fish with herb sauce, and more.

Our favorite was the deep-fried sea bass with fish sauce and spicy pork soup. The fish tasted fresh and was sliced nicely for easy consumption while the pork soup had a strong authentic flavor which is perfect for local taste buds.

Suan Thip

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Address: 17, 9 Sukkhaprachasan 2, Bang Phut Sub-district, Pak Kret District

Operating Hours: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Daily)

Contact Number: +66 2 583 3748

Website: https://www.facebook.com/SuanThip/

Prices: ฿฿

Suan Thip is a Thai restaurant along the Chao Phraya River that offers a stunning garden dining area and a beautiful river view. Its garden has a cute fountain, an artificial lotus pond, and numerous flower beds which makes it ideal for romantic date nights.

Aside from that, they only serve authentic Thai dishes, so it’s perfect if you want a genuine local food experience. Their standout dish is the stir-fried crispy catfish in curry.

It has dry curry paste and fresh kaffir lime leaves which gives it extra spiciness and a hint of acidity. It’s worth mentioning that this dish is one of the reasons they got one Michelin star. 

Breeze Café & Bar

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Address: IMPACT Lakeside, Breeze Café & Bar, Popular Road, Ban Mai, Pak Kret District

Operating Hours: 11:30 a.m. – 12 a.m. (Daily)

Contact Number: +66 2 0331851

Website: https://www.facebook.com/breezecafe.bar

Prices: ฿฿ – ฿฿฿

If you want the ultimate lakeside dining experience, go to Breeze Café & Bar. Aside from its romantic outdoor dining area and stunning lake view, this place also offers private cruise dinner packages.

That makes it the perfect dinner date experience to share with your boo. With this, you can dine on Thai, Asian, and Western cuisines while enjoying Nonthaburi’s colorful city lights.

The seafood fanatics on our team particularly adored their grilled seafood set meals. It’s a massive seafood platter jam-packed with grilled cockles, tiger prawns, oysters, blue crab, squid, shrimp, and more.

Where to Stay in Nonthaburi

Nonthaburi Palace Hotel

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Address: 219 Sanambin Nam Road, Suan Yai, Mueang Nonthaburi District

Operating Hours: 11:30 a.m. (Check-in) & 2 p.m. (Check-out)

Contact Number: +66 2 969 0168

Website: http://www.nonthaburipalace.com/

Prices: ฿

This unpretentious hotel is perfect if you’re looking for budget-friendly rooms and an excellent location close to the Chao Phraya River. Nonthaburi Palace Hotel is also within walking distance from the Owl Market, so it’s great if you enjoy shopping.

Moreover, it has charming and vintage-looking interiors which make you feel like you’re back in the 90s. 

Malizon Hotel & Residences

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Address: 56 Soi Krungtepnon 4, Talat Kwan, Amphoe Mueang Nonthaburi

Operating Hours: 11 p.m. (Check-in) & 8 a.m. (Check-out)

Contact Number: +66 2 052 5499

Website: https://www.malizon.com/

Prices: ฿

Malizon Hotel & Residences is a budget-friendly hotel near the border of Nonthaburi and Bangkok. That makes it ideal for travelers who enjoy going back and forth between these neighboring cities.

This hotel has modern minimalist rooms and suites with efficient room-space designs. That means you can get a suite with a living room, working space, and a fully decked-out kitchen.

Oakwood Suites Tiwanon Bangkok

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Address: 229 Thanon Krungthep-Nonthaburi, Bang Khen Sub-District, Bangkok 

Operating Hours: 2 p.m. (Check-in) & 12 p.m. (Check-out)

Contact Number: +662 149 9450

Website: https://oakwoodsuitestiwanon.com-bangkok.com/en/

Prices: ฿฿

This luxury hotel is a solid option since it’s close to Bangkok. That means you can easily get to the capital city while staying close to the attractions in Nonthaburi.

Oakwood Suites Tiwanon Bangkok is well-known for its stylish modern rooms with stunning city views, minibars, and kitchens. This hotel also has an elegant outdoor pool, a full-service gym, and an on-site bar and restaurant.

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