Nakhon Nayok

Posted by paul on July 26th, 2009 filed in Travel destinations, Visiting

Located about 105km from Bangkok, Nakhon Nayok is a province that is usually taken for granted by numerous tourists. This destination may provide a peaceful escape from the hectic metropolis.  Nakhon Nayok is renowned for its stunning natural beauty including parks, waterfalls, important historic sites, adventurous outdoor activities, and the variety of delicious fruits.

One of the kingdom’s central provinces, Nakhon Nayok covers some 2,130 square kilometres, bordering Pathum Thani on the west, Prachin Buri on the east Saraburi, Khorat on the north, and Chachoengsao on the south.

Nakhon Nayok’s northern part is situated in a mountain range known as Dong Phaya Yen, a territory belonging to Khao Yai National Park. More than 1,290 meters above sea level, the highest peak is Yod Khao Kiew.

The landscape of the province’s central part is totally different and is home to a rather flat river plain, which was created by the Nakhon Nayok River. The southern part is mainly made out of unfertile acidic soil.

Nakhon Nayok’s history dates back to 900 years. The province was believed to have been founded in the Dvaravati period as some remains found in Ban Dong Lakhon village did indicate this. During King U-Thong’s reign in the Ayutthaya, the town that was an eastern garrison was just an infertile but forested highland named “Village of the rice field”.

Waterfall in Nakhon Nayok

Jungle fever along with unproductive and unfruitful agriculture forced the settlers’ migration to other areas. It wasn’t until the King promised paddy field tax’s exemption that people started moving to settle down here as a community. During that time the destination was named Muang Nayok, literally meaning “Town where the paddy tax was lifted”.