About Nakhon Sawan
Nakhon Sawan, literally 'heavenly city', lies about 240 km north of Bangkok at the confluence of the Ping and Nan, which together form the Chao Phraya. With about 90,000 inhabitants it is one of the larger cities in the lower north. The city is a junction between the centre and the north and is often used as a stopover. The Chinese New Year festival with dragons and parades is well known. Near the city lies Bueng Boraphet, a large freshwater lake that is important for birds and attracts many water birds especially in the cool season. Wat Khiri Wong on the hill offers views of the rivers. Nakhon Sawan suits anyone on the road north who wants to see a calm city with rivers and birds.
Best time to visit (indicative)
Best from November to February: cool and dry, with chilly mornings in the hills. From February to April smoke and haze from agricultural burning can limit visibility; June to October is the rainy season, green and quiet. Weather varies from year to year; this is a guideline based on the climate.
Getting there
From Bangkok by bus or train (about 4 to 5 hours); the town lies on the route to Phitsanulok and Chiang Mai. Distances and travel times are rounded estimates.
Things to do in Nakhon Sawan
- Meeting of the rivers The point where the Ping and the Nan form the Chao Phraya.
- Bueng Boraphet A large freshwater lake with many waterbirds, especially in the cool season.
- Chinese New Year A big festival with dragons and parades in town.
- Wat Khiri Wong A hilltop temple with views over the rivers.
Nakhon Sawan on the map
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