'''Nonthaburi city''' (???????) is the provincial capital of Nonthaburi Province.
'''''The land of elegant palaces, magnificent royal garden, Koh Kret_fs famous pottery, notably old and beautiful temples, delicious durian and gorgeous city hall.'''''
The long history of Nonthaburi dated back 400 years to the era of Ayutthaya Kingdom. Firstly known as Tambon Ban Talad Khwan and noted for its fertile soil and plentiful water where a lot of orchards nest along side the Chao Phraya River, this tambon has been promoted to Nonthaburi City in 1549 under the reign of King Mahajakrapat.
In 1665, King Narai the Great had noticed that the river has changed its own route and it might consequently have a negative effect to the city_fs security. Hence, the fortifications have been established at the delta of Om River where the city pillar has been built as the symbol of the new foundation of Nonthaburi. At the time of Rattanakosin Kingdom, King Mongkut has had Nonthaburi moved to the entrance of Bang Sue Canal in Tambon Ban Talad Khwan where later in the reign of King Chulalongkorn, the city hall has been founded and lasted till 1928. In the same year, King Pokklao has initiated the idea of building a new city hall at Rajawitthayalai Ban Bang Khwan, Tambon Bang Tanowsri on Pracharaj I road along side the Chao Phraya River which nowadays belongs to the Ministry of Interior Affairs. The building, constructed in a European style, has become one of the ancient remains of Thailand while the current city hall is situated on Rattanathibet Road.
The province comprises 6 amphoe:- Bang Bua Thong, Bang Kruai, Bang Yai, Mueang Nonthaburi, Pak Kret, and Sai Noi.
'''Borders'''
'''By Car''' #Phibun Songkhram Road, between the foot of Rama VI Bridge and Sri Phon Sawan Theatre intersection # Pracharaj I Road, between the city hall and Sri Phon Sawan Theatre intersection #Tiwanon Road, between Wat Lanna Bun triangle and Patumthani Pier #Ngamwongwan Road, between Kae Lai intersection and Kasetsart University intersection #Nonthaburi I Road, between the city hall and Tiwanon Road #Chaengwattana Road, between Pak Kret intersection and Lak Si intersection #Bang Kruai-Sai Noi Road, between Rama VI Bridge and Amphoe Sai Noi #Bang Bua Thong-Taling Chan Road, between Bang Bua Thong-Taling Chan intersections #Bang Bua Thong-Suphan Buri Road, between Bang Bua Thong-Suphan Buri intersections #Krungthep-Nonthaburi Road, between Tao Pun triangle and Wat Lanna Bun triangle #Rattanathibet Road, between Kae Lai intersection and Bang Bua Thong-Taling Chan Road
'''By Bus'''
From Bangkok to Nonthaburi, there are several buses run by the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA)
#Number/Line 69 (Victory Monument ? Sanambin Nam) #Number 104 (Victory Monument ? Pak Kret) #Number 24 (Victory Monument-Prachaniwej 3) #Number 63 (Victory Monument-Nonthaburi) #Number 66 (Southern Bus Terminal-Prachaniwej) #Number 30 (Southern Bus Terminal -Nonthaburi) #Number 70 (Sanam Luang-Prachaniwej) #Number 203 (Sanam Luang-Nonthaburi) #Number 33 (Sanam Luang-Pathum Thani) #Number 64 (Sanam Luang-Samsen-Nonthaburi Road) #Number 90 (Yan Sinkha Phahonyothin-Bang Phun Pier) #Number 134 (Yan Sinkha Phahonyothin-Amphoe Bang Bua Thong) #Number 114 (Lam Luk Ka intersection-Nonthaburi) #Number 117 (Huai Khwang-Wat Khema) #Number 127 (Krungthon Bridge Amphoe Bang Bua Thong) #Number 128 (Krungthon Bridge-Bang Yai) #Number 32 (Wat Pho-Pak Kret) #Number 51 (Bang Pho Pier-Pak Kret) #Number 52 (Bang Sue railway station-Pak Kret) #Number 65 (Tha Tian ? Wat Pak Nam) #Number 97 (Monk Hospital-Nonthaburi)
'''By Ferry'''
There are also daily express boats or Chao Phraya express boats between Wat Ratcha Singh Khon Pier, Amphoe Yanawa and Wat Toei Pier, Amphoe Pak Kret District from 6 am. to 6 pm., leaving the pier every 20 minutes For more information, please contact Chao Phraya Express Boat Co. Ltd. Tel: 0 2222 5330 or 0 2225 3003 or 0 2623 6001-3 or www.chaophrayaboat.co.th
'''Wat Khemaphirataram Rajaworawiharn'''
is situated on the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River, in Tambon Suan Yai, _eWat Khema_f was built in the early Ayutthaya period. It was renovated in the reign of King Rama II and IV of the Rattanakosin period and was considered as a royal monastery. Since then, the temple has been renamed _eWat Khemaphirataram Rajaworawiharn_f. The major attractions at Wat Khema are its big pagoda enshrining the lord Buddha_fs relics and the Buddha_fs image of the Ayutthaya period as well as Tamnak Daeng Building, and Phra Thinang Monthian Hall.
''How to get there:'' The easiest way is to go there by bus. For more information about the bus_fs line, please call 184. Taking the minibus Rewadi-Wat Pak Nam is also a good option. Another possibility is the ferry. Take the Chao Praya Express boat then get down at Nonth Pier and then make connection with the bus number 203.
'''Wat Sangkhatan'''
This monastery in Tambon Bang Phai possibly named Wat Sarikho in the late Ayutthaya period was built in Ceylonese Style by skillful craftsmen. The most notable spots of this temple are the glass Ubosot and the boat-shaped monk cells in a pleasantly shady area that tranquility is absolutely accessible. For more information, please call 0 2447 0799.
''How to get there''
'''Wat Chotikaram'''
Constructed in 1807 in Tambon Bang Phai, Wat Chotikaram_fs old name was Wat Sam Chin. The most beautiful spot of this monastery is Viharn Song Rong where not only the walls, but also floor and ceiling are covered with splendid mural paintings.
''How to get there'': Use the same direction of Wat Sangkhatan. It is easy to go there by following the signs of direction.
'''Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Worawiharn This royal monastery in Soi Chalerm Phra Kiat 15''',
Built in 1847 by order of King Rama III, was dedicated to his majesty the king_fs grandparents and mother. Located in a very peaceful and shady area, the temple has completely reflected King Rama III_fs most favorite style that combines Chinese art in constructing the monastery. Therefore, the main shrine hall or Ubosot is decorated with beautiful stucco using Chinese porcelains on the gable and door as well as window frames at the outside while gorgeous mural paintings ornament perfectly inside the edifice. The temple_fs biggest Buddha image made from Bronze named _ePhraphuttamahalokaphinanthapatima_f is enshrined in the Ubosot. Other buildings such as Phra Wiharn Luang, Wiharn Sila Khao, Phra Chedi or pagoda in Ceylonese form, Kan Parian Luang which is a hall for sermons in a mixture of Thai and Chinese architecture are also considered as the remarkable sites of this monastery.
'''Kanchanaphisek Park (Utthayan Chalerm Phra kiat)'''
This 40 acres public park commemorates King Bhumibhol or King Rama IX_fs golden jubilee. Not only Kanchanaphisek Park offers tranquility for those who look for a pleasantly shady place to rest and relax, but it is also home to various plants and aquatic animals. Opened daily free of charge from 5.30 am. to 6.30 pm. The most remarkable building in the park is _eWimansarannawamin_f constructed in Thai style in the middle of the pond. At the end of this pond locates the governor_fs original official residence behind of which there is a reserved orchard full of durians, mangoes, mangos teens, jackfruits and etc.
''How to get there:''
'''Wat Prasat'''
King Narai the Great of the Ayutthaya period has had this monastery built in Mon style. The Ubosot_fs wall is finely decorated with the paintings of the Ayutthaya period which remains nowadays Nonthaburi_fs oldest mural paintings. Besides, the hall of sermons houses a beautiful pulpit dating back the Ayutthaya era as well. It is hence totally worth for a visit of archaeological studies. ''How to get there:''
'''Bang Yai-Tha Nam near Wat Chalerm Phra Kiat'''
The Museum of Anthropology Being Thailand_fs first museum of the natural history, this museum situated behind the old city hall was established in 1961. The exhibition of the history of earth, plants, animals and human being is on the first floor while the display on antiques, Buddha images and willow ware, for instance, is on the second floor. The opening time is from 8.30 am. to 4.30 pm. (closed on Sunday, Monday and the national holidays) Free of charge. The museum serves also as Nonthaburi_fs public library. ''How to get there:''
'''Wat Chompuweg'''
This monastery is located in Tambon Tha Sai, on Sanam Bin Nam-Nonthaburi Road. The temple_fs old name was Chompuwiweg because of its location on a tranquil hill. Built in the late Ayutthaya era by Mon in 1757, Wat Chompuweg still has the beautiful mural paintings in the Wiharn and Ubosot, as well as the Mon style pagodas constructed by Mon monks in 1917. ''How to get there:''
'''Wat Tamnak Tai'''
Another ancient temple is situated in Tambon Tha Sai on Sanam Bin Nam Road. According to the history, prior to the construction of this monastery, this area used to serve as King Krung Thonburi_fs temporary royal pavilion. It is assumed that the Wiharn and the belfry were constructed in 1824 in the period of King Rama III.
'''The Prathom-Nonthaburi Palace'''
Built in a mixture of Thai and European in 1919, this palace has belonged to Prince Juthathuttharadilok, a son of King Chulalongkorn. At the first place, this palace found its location in Bangkok till 1984 then was moved to Nonthaburi. Within the same compound, there is another palace where a gilded hall places a more than 100-year-old harp of Prince Juthathutharadilok. For more details, please call 0 2589 7173.
'''Museum and the Thai Traditional Medical Training Centre'''
This museum is located in the Ministry of Public Health on Tiwanon Road. The building of three storeys is remarkably built in traditional Thai style designed by a national artist. The second floor serves as an exhibition hall divided into 7 rooms of the history and evolution of Thai traditional medical profession, traditional medical philosophy as well as Thai traditional medicines.
In the basement area, there are meeting rooms, library, and bookstore. The natural products and healthy food can be shopped on the first floor of the museum which is also the location of the Thai Medical Profession Healthy Centre, Thai Traditional Medical Remedy and Herbal Sauna and Thai Massage Service with the possibility of being member. Opened daily from 8.30 am. to 4.30 pm. Healthy and Treatment Massage for B.200., Feet Massage for B.150. For more details, please contact 0 2590 2606. What_fs more, the museum, which is surrounded by a garden of thousand kinds of herbs, sells herbal food, clean and clear from toxic vegetables and herbal medicines. For those who are interested in taking courses in Thai traditional medical profession, body or feet massage can apply to the Institute of Thai Medical Profession Healthy Centre for a certification of the Ministry of Public Health. For more information, please call 0 2591 0598-9.
''How to get there:''
'''Wat Chonprathanrangsarid'''
A big pleasantly shady temple in Tambon Bang Talad is famous for its Lan Phai Anek Prasong considered as a center for Buddhists to attend the religious ceremonies as well as listening to sermons from the abbot every Sundays and Holy days.
Sri Nakarin_fs Park A park named after his majesty King Rama IX_fs mother. With an area of about 41 acres, it is a huge public park where an enormous pond is surrounded by various plants making the place shady and peaceful for relaxation. Opened daily to public.
''How to get there;'' From Pak Kret Pier, take Tiwanon Road, turn right at the first intersection and carry on around 2 kms.
'''Montri Tramote_fs house or Ban Som Song Saeng'''
This house on Tiwanon 3 Road, Soi Phichayanan 2, Tambon Talad Khwan belongs to Kru Montri Tramote, notable Thai musician who lived during the reign of King Rama V until King Rama IX. Acclaimed as a national artist in 1985, he composed more than 200 songs including the most famous one called _eSom Song Saeng_f. The house is opened to the public for a study on a simple way of living of Kru Montri Tramote who had applied the buddhist virtues and non-materialism to his life. This warmly pleasant house is still lived by his descendants. But in the same compound, an area is served as an exhibition of Kru Montri Tramote_fs biography, works and the whole original copies of his songs including the one firstly composed at the age of 20 and the last one written when he was 91 years old. Nowadays, the house is also opened as a Thai musical school every weekend. Besides, on second Sunday of February every year there will be a ceremony of showing respect to Thai musical teachers which is free of charge.
''How to get there:'' By bus- number 32, 33. For more information, please contact 0 2968 9498 press 0 or 0 2527 5257.
'''The Horn Museum'''
A great collection of horns as well as antiques is displayed in this private museum located at 27/8 Mu 6, Pracharaj Rd., Tambon Talad Khwan. Inside the museum, there is an exhibition of horns and antiques dating back 100 years to 16 million years ago, particularly the horns of the herbivore and cannibal in Thailand. The most distinguished horn is the 2-metre-long mammoth_fs ivory found in the northeastern part of Thailand. Opened on weekend from 9 am. to 4 pm. The admission fee for adult is 100 baht and 50 baht for children. For more details, please call 0 2526 2681, 0 2968 5956 Fax. 0 2526 5741.
'''The Lame animals Aid Foundation (fostered by Luangta Maha Bua)'''
Being nowadays a home of 800 dogs and 150 cats, the foundation situated at 15/1 Mu 1, Soi Phramahakarun, Tiwanon Rd. is pleased to accept any kind of donations such as money, newspapers, rice and etc. Besides, there are also several projects, for example; _eTo extend the cats & dogs lives, it takes only one bath per day!_f, _eI want Daddy and Mommy Project_f. What_fs more, on every last Sunday of April, the annual fair where an auction of the stars_f belongings and the show of dog stars will be held. For more details, please contact 0 2584 4896, 0 2961 5625 Fax. 0 2961 5305.
'''Wat Ku'''
This Mon style temple located on the bank of the Chao Phraya River in Tambon Bang Pud was constructed in the Thonburi period. Inside the old chapel, the walls are finely decorated with paintings in Mon style. The temple is known as the area where the shipwreck of King Rama V_fs queen took place. Therefore, a palace has been built to commemorate her death. Her body was temporarily placed in the monastery before Lying-in-State in Bangkok. The ship was salvaged later and kept in the dock near Wiharn_fs edifice enshrining a big reclining buddha. There is also a pavilion constructed as another remembrance to her death imitating Phra Thi Nang Aisawanthippaya Asna in Bang Pa In Palace.
''How to get there:''
'''Wat Saeng Siritham Floating Market'''
A floating market on Rattanathibet-Tha It Market Road, Tambon Tha It intends to promote the local products from the vicinity of the temple as well as from Ko Kret. This floating market is a wonderful place for relaxation not far from Bangkok. Opened on weekend and national holidays from 6 am. to 5 pm. For more information, call 0 2962 5391, 0 2584 4778.
'''Ko Kret'''
This tiny island has reached its prosperous time since the Ayutthaya era. Therefore, most of the temples were established in the Ayutthaya style. Lived by the descendants of the Mon people who have had a permission to install here during the reign of King Krungthonburi, Ko Kret was also the destination of another wave of Mon immigrants in the period of King Rama II. The favorite transportation of the islands are bicycles and motorbikes.
'''''Interesting sites on Ko Kret'''''
'''Wat Poramaiyikawat'''
This old monastery located in Ko Kret and constructed in Mon style architecture is the only place where Mon sacred scriptures are kept. A wooden castle lying the former abbot Mon coffin clearly seen at the temple_fs pier is considered to be a perfect landmark. King Rama V who has had the Ubosot decorated with imported Italian materials according to his majesty_fs the most favorite style has, by the way, initiated the praying in Mon at this monastery in order to continue the Mon tradition. In the Ubosot is the location of the principle Buddha image whose face was considered by King Rama V to be very charming and lively as if it was real. Another main attraction of the temple is a Mon style marble carved pagoda enshrining the Lord Buddha_fs relics. In addition, this pagoda is a replica of Phra Tat Chedi Mutao in Hongsawadi, Myanmar.
'''Phra Wiharn'''
This is the venue where the 9.5 metres long reclining Buddha of the late Ayutthaya period is enshrined. The edifice_fs outside is decorated with King Rama V_fs emblem. Nonthaburi_fs Buddha image named _ePhra Nonthamunin_f enshrined here behind Phra Wiharn was formed in the late Ayutthaya period. Besides, a charming marble Buddha image offered to King Rama V by a Burmese named Sang Sew Sun is placed in front of the Viharn. Opened daily from 9 am. to 4 pm.
'''Wat Poramaiyikawat Museum'''
The museum displays various interesting items such as votive tablets, crystal ware, porcelains including _ehem_f, a master piece of art made by Colonel Chatwat Ngamniyom. Some say that Hem must be created by Mon who had an inspiration from the coffin of the Lord Buddha. Dried remain will be put in the normal hem coffin but the hem of monks is different with a tiny window where the body can be seen from outside. Opening time is Monday to Friday from 1 pm.?4 pm. and 9 am.- 4.30 pm. on weekend. For more information, please call 0 2584 5120.
'''Wat Sao Tong Thong'''
This long-dated temple used to be called _eWat Suan Mak_f is the site of Amphoe Pak Kret_fs first primary school. Behind the chapel, the tallest pagoda of Pak Kret was constructed in the Ayutthaya style. Inside the chapel, the gorgeous ceiling paintings finely decorate the edifice. Another name of the temple in Mon is _ePia Arlart_f.
'''Wat Phai Lom'''
This monastery built in the late Ayutthaya period and called by Mon people _ePia To_f has a charming chapel.
'''Wat ChimphliSutthawat'''
The temple has a beautiful small chapel that remains nowadays in a very good condition absolutely worth for visiting.
'''Kwan Aman Considered as the Mon Cultural Centre'''
This pottery museum is notable for its large collection of the distinctive ancient Mon design ceramics. Mon people have always been skillful in pottery since their settlement in the delta of Irawadi River. Later, at the time of Mon_fs installation to Thailand during the Thonburi era, pottery has become since then Nonthaburi_fs oldest handicraft and symbol with the notably beautiful characteristic Mon design. Opened every day from 9 am. to 5 pm. For more information, please call 0 2584 5086, 0 2583 4134.
'''The Dessert Canal (Khlong khanom wan):'''
The local people living in the compound of the dessert canal as well as other canals around Ko Kret earn their living by selling several traditional Thai home-made desserts and sweets. Tourists can also enjoy the show on how to make Thai desserts and shopping all the sweetmeats as souvenirs from Khlong Khanom Wan. ''How to get there:''
Take the ferry at Wat Sanam Nua (not far from Pak Kret Pier) or Wat Klang Kret Pier where the boat will be on service from 5 am. to 9.30 pm.
Sample of Ko Kret Tour
#Take the ferry from Wat Sanam Nua to Wat Poramaiyikawat Pier to worship Nonthaburi_fs Buddha image then take a look around Rama V Museum. #Walk from Wat Poramaiyikawat to Mu 6 and Mu 7, enjoy the walking tour and the shopping of various style of pottery then visit the museum of Kwan Aman Pottery #Drifting along the river from Wat Sao Thong Thong Pier to Ko Wat Yai Sawang Arom in Tambon Om Kret. Feed the fish in front of the temple. In addition, various kinds of aquatic animals are reserved in this area. Before leaving, don_ft forget to taste the Sweet-Scented Coconuts which are on sale here. #Go downstream to the south then turn right to Khlong Bang Bua Thong or Khlong Khanom Wan admiring the beautiful scenery of the Dessert Village and shopping sweetmeats as souvenirs #Drifting back to the mouth of the canal where the chimney of the first brick kiln of Thailand can been seen. Pass Ban Kret Trakan then head north for Wat Chim Phli Pier and shop for agricultural products. Carry on with the walking tour starting from Wat Chim Phli to the Assembly of Pottery Craft. Take a look at the demonstration of how to make a pottery and end the tour with shopping for porcelains before getting back to Wat Klang Kret by ferry.
The boat will be leaving the pier every single hour from 9 am. to 5 pm. for the tour of Ko Kret. The ticket fare is 50 Baht per person. There is also the possibility of renting a boat at the price of 500-4,000 Baht depending on the distance and the size of the boat. It will take around 1 hour and a half for the whole trip. For more information, please contact Wat Poramaiyikawat Pier at 0 2584 5012.
'''Wat Chalo'''
Established in the reign of King Barommagot of Ayutthaya period in the form of argosy, the temple is famous for its notably world_fs biggest sworn-boat chapel. For more details, please contact 0 2447 5121, 0 2883 9277
'''Wat Pho Bang O'''
Situated on Bang Kruai-Sai Noi Road, Tambon Wat Chalo, this monastery dating back the Ayutthaya period has been restored in the reign of King Rama III. Noted for its charming combination of Ayutthaya and Rattanakosin architecture, the temple is totally worth for visiting. For more information, call 0 2447 5831
''How to get there:''
'''Wat Sak Noi'''
This is an abandoned temple around 700 metres from Wat Pho Bang O. There_fs only the ruin of a more than 100-year-old Wiharn left. For more details please contact the abbot of Wat Pho Bang O at 0 2447 5831
'''Wat Phleng'''
Another deserted temple, is located on the bank of Khlong Wat Sak Yai. According to the edifice_fs style, this monastery should have been established in the reign of King Narai the Great of the Ayutthaya period. The ancient remains of Wat Phleng that still can be observed are the enormous heart-shaped stones that mark the boundary of the temple and the tiny belfry.
'''Wat Suan Kaew'''
This is renowned for the Suan Kaew Foundation for the social development and the quality of living improvement of the impoverished persons such as Rom Pho Kaeo Project, Nursing Home Project, Nursery Day Care Project as well as supermarket.
Opened on weekday from 10 am. to 4.30 pm. and weekend from 9 am. to 4.30 pm. Closed on Wednesday. Tel. 0 2595 1945-7, 0 2595 1444 Fax. 0 2595 1222; for donations, call 0 2921 5602-4 or www.suankaew.or.th.
''How to get there:'' Cross Phra Nang Klao Bridge and go straight on to the second traffic light. Then turn left and carry on around 2 kms. to find the temple. Another option is to take the ferry from Nonthaburi Pier to Bang Sri Mueang Pier, then take the minibus to the temple. The fare rate is 8 Bath/person.
'''Wat Amphawan'''
Established in the late Ayutthaya period, Wat Amphawan is famous for the sacred scriptures hall surrounded by water, which represents the most perfect Thai architecture.
''How to get there:''
'''Wat Seni Wong in Tambon Nong Prao Ngam'''
This is a pleasant temple surrounded by several big shady trees and abundant with aquatic animals. The monastery has been built uniquely with the combination of Thai-Chinese-Mon architecture. Besides, Mon style has also been used when establishing _eChedi Som Prathana_f or _ethe wish came true Chedi_f enshrining the Lord Buddha_fs relics.
'''Sai Noi Floating Market'''
Travelling to the market by boat along a canal to see how some ordinary Thais live and enjoy the variety of food, fruits and plants offered for sales with reasonable price.
Opened only on weekend from 8 am. to 5 pm. The tour of Wat Sai Yai and Coconut farm by boat accompanied by local youth guides is also proposed from 9.30 am. to 4 pm.
''How to get there;''
'''Wat Sai Yai'''
(Close to Tambon Sai Noi Municipal Office) 65 Ban Sai Yai, Sai Noi-Ton Chueak Road, the monastery built in 1867 enshrines nowadays a golden Buddha image.
'''Local and Souvenirs'''
Khlong Phra Udom Agricultural Group of Housewives Mu 1, Khlong Phra Udom, Amphoe Pak Kret sells dried banana, deep fried banana, tamarind in sugar and herbal shampoo Tel. 0 2960 0033 (supported by the Office of Pak Kret Provincial Agriculture Tel. 0 2960 0033)
'''Useful Calls'''
'''RESTAURANTS'''
''Room rates in this document can be changed, please contact the hotels before any reservation''
'''What to do and not to do on the tour of monasteries, museums and ancient remains'''