A Captivating Destination: Unveiling the Allure of Nakhon Si Thammarat

Nakhon Si Thammarat, a province in southern Thailand, consistently ranks as the most frequently checked-in location on Facebook among its residents. This intriguing phenomenon has sparked curiosity among locals, who wonder what makes this province so captivating. Why do people return time and again, drawn to the same familiar places with unwavering enthusiasm?

To unravel this mystery, we delve into the unique charm of Nakhon Si Thammarat, exploring its diverse offerings that entice visitors to return. From its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes to its delectable cuisine and warm hospitality, Nakhon Si Thammarat presents a tapestry of experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Cultural Tapestry:

Nakhon Si Thammarat boasts a rich history dating back centuries, evident in its numerous ancient temples and historical sites. Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan, a magnificent Buddhist temple complex, stands as a testament to the province's spiritual significance. Its intricate architecture and serene atmosphere offer a glimpse into the region's deep-rooted religious traditions.

Natural Splendor:

Beyond its cultural treasures, Nakhon Si Thammarat is blessed with breathtaking natural beauty. The pristine beaches of Khanom, with their soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, provide a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. The lush rainforests of Khao Luang National Park offer opportunities for adventure and exploration, while the cascading waterfalls of Krung Ching Waterfall enchant visitors with their raw power and scenic splendor.

Culinary Delights:

The culinary scene in Nakhon Si Thammarat is a symphony of flavors, tantalizing the taste buds with its unique blend of spices and fresh ingredients. From the fiery curries and aromatic stir-fries to the sweet and refreshing desserts, the province's cuisine offers a culinary journey that satisfies every palate.

Warm Hospitality:

The people of Nakhon Si Thammarat are renowned for their warm hospitality, welcoming visitors with open arms and genuine smiles. Their friendly nature and willingness to help create a welcoming atmosphere that makes visitors feel at home.

The Allure of Familiarity:

While the diverse attractions of Nakhon Si Thammarat undoubtedly play a significant role in its allure, the repeated visits to familiar places suggest a deeper connection. The comfort and sense of belonging that these familiar spaces provide can be a powerful draw, offering a respite from the uncertainties of daily life.

Conclusion:

Nakhon Si Thammarat's captivating charm lies in its harmonious blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, culinary delights, and warm hospitality. These elements combine to create an unforgettable experience that keeps visitors returning time and again, drawn to the familiar yet ever-enchanting embrace of this captivating province.

Our trips to Nakhon Si Thammarat are typically low-key and unplanned. We prioritize relaxation, mental rejuvenation, and quiet enjoyment of our surroundings. Even a short 2-day, 1-night stay can significantly recharge our batteries.

This is probably why we enjoy visiting Nakhon Si Thammarat.

After landing, I always make a beeline for Kopi, the coffee shop next to the provincial hall. There, I savor a strong iced tea with tissue roti, slurp down piping hot bak kut teh, and indulge in a plate of spicy stir-fried curry rice.

After a visit to the Kopi shop, take a leisurely stroll through the Walking Street in front of Wat Phra That, a new tourist attraction in Nakhon Si Thammarat. Open every Saturday from late afternoon until late at night, this market offers a variety of local food, traditional dishes, and charming southern-style clothing and accessories.

For those who have purchased items but do not wish to walk around while eating, bamboo benches are provided for them to sit and enjoy their food. Alternatively, visitors can stroll around while enjoying their purchases, watching local performances and traditional games.

One of the charming aspects of this place is that almost every shop on the walking street has a garbage bag placed in front with a sign that says "We accept garbage disposal." You don't even have to buy anything from the shop to dispose of your trash. We think this is a great idea, as it helps reduce the amount of garbage littering the streets after closing time.

After a satisfying meal, it's time to find a place to relax and unwind. If you're visiting the city of Nakhon Si Thammarat and want a homestay experience close to nature and local communities, most people choose to stay in the Khao Kiri Wong area of Lan Saka district. However, we recommend driving a little further, about 30 kilometers, to explore other options.

The next stop is the Phrom Lok community in Phrom Khiri district, where the atmosphere is almost indistinguishable from Khao Wong. The natural surroundings, the community, and the people all contribute to a charming, simple, and peaceful atmosphere.

Most accommodations in the Phrom Lok community are homestays at affordable prices. We decided to stay at a charming homestay called Baan Yai Ra Homestay. This newly opened homestay is located on the way to Phrom Lok Waterfall. Importantly, Yai Ra, the owner of the homestay, is kind and takes care of us like family. Moreover, Yai Ra's cooking skills are truly exceptional.

The accommodations at Baan Yai Homestay offer a variety of options, including spacious houses with air conditioning and private bathrooms. Despite being a homestay, the accommodations are comfortable and convenient.

For those seeking a more immersive experience with nature, there are small cabins or tents available with separate bathroom and shower facilities. A spacious lawn provides the perfect setting for gatherings with friends, especially for enjoying a barbecue under the cool evening sky.

This is our room, the Green House, a spacious accommodation.
The highlight of the bedroom here is the view of the trees outside when you open the curtains, making it a relaxing sight.
The soft bed makes it even harder to get up.

A view of Khao Luang Mountain from Baan Yai Ra Homestay.
Especially after the rain, you can see the mist floating around without having to wait for the winter.
We like this kind of atmosphere in the countryside. It feels refreshing.
We can breathe in the smell of the soil, the smell of the grass, and it feels refreshing to the lungs. I wonder if other people feel the same way.

A Morning at Baan Yai Homestay: Alms, Bikes, and Market Delights

Nestled in the heart of a charming village, Baan Yai Homestay offers a glimpse into the authentic Thai way of life. Your day begins with a serene sunrise, the perfect time to participate in the age-old tradition of alms-giving right outside the homestay.

As the sun climbs higher, hop on a bicycle and embark on a leisurely ride to the bustling Talad Nok Tha. This vibrant market is a must-visit, overflowing with an array of local delicacies. From savory street food to fresh produce, the market offers a sensory feast. Even a short stroll through its aisles will leave you with both hands full of delicious finds.

Padah, an ancient dessert from Nakhon Si Thammarat, resembles a donut but with a filling of spices and mashed banana. Its unique spicy-sweet flavor pairs well with coffee or tea.

Cashew nuts with sugar syrup are delicious, but they can be quite sticky.

When visiting the city of Nakhon Si Thammarat, be sure to indulge in the local delicacy, sataw beans. These unique beans offer a distinct flavor and aroma that will leave you wanting more.

A spicy start to the day with Southern Thai fish curry noodles, served with a variety of vegetables. Delicious!

Pickled gooseberry has a sweet and savory taste, but in our opinion, pickled star fruit is the clear winner when paired with rice noodles.

Take a break from eating and enjoy the view at the back of Baan Yai Homestay, right by the Promlok Waterfall stream.

The fresh air, a good book, and the sound of flowing water are sure to lull you into a peaceful slumber.

If you're feeling adventurous, change into your swimsuit and take a dip in the stream behind Baan Yai Homestay. It's just as fun as swimming in the Promlok Waterfall, but with the added benefit of privacy and tranquility.

The afternoon sun was not too hot, so it was a perfect time to find something fun to do. We decided to grab our bikes and explore the village.

Most of the houses along the road were surrounded by fruit orchards. If we had come during August or September, we would have been able to feast on mangosteen, durian, and rambutans until our bellies were full.

While cycling, we stopped to greet and chat with the locals. This truly allowed us to experience the warmth and friendliness of the people here.

Wandering along the path, we eventually arrived at Wang Pla Ngae, a stream originating from Phrom Lok Waterfall. This particular stream flows directly behind Baan Yai Homestay. What makes this location truly special is the presence of the Pla Ngae fish. We observed local residents relaxing under the shade of trees, enjoying delicious food such as grilled chicken and papaya salad, while children gleefully jumped and played in the refreshing water.

To reach the Promlok community in Phrom Khiri district, adventurous travelers can take a local "songthaew" (shared taxi) from the walking street in Nakhon Si Thammarat city. Inform the driver to drop you off at the "Si Yaek Talat Nok Tha" intersection. The fare is approximately 30-40 baht per person. Alternatively, you can arrange for your homestay host to pick you up or rent a car and drive yourself. The distance from the city center is about 20 kilometers.

For those who want to relax and enjoy the view of Khao Luang mountain with affordable accommodation, Baan Yai Ra Homestay is a great option. You can contact them at 08 9140 2038 or visit their Facebook page: Baan Yai Ra Homestay.