Sitting quietly in Southern Thailand, Nakhon Si Thammarat province is a captivating destination that showcases some of Thailand’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Its lush green hills and pristine coastline make it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Often referred to as ‘the green lungs of Thailand’, Nakhon Si Thammarat has remained relatively undiscovered, catering primarily to savvy international travellers and locals. However, this is changing. A harmonious collaboration between the public and private sectors, combined with improved transportation infrastructure, is set to reveal this ecological paradise to the world.
The excitement is palpable as a state-of-the-art international terminal at Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport nears completion, scheduled for inauguration by the end of 2023. This marks a new era of accessibility, with direct flights from Singapore, Taiwan, China, and Malaysia in the pipeline.
Sichon’s coastline in Nakhon Si Thammarat is bordered by coconut groves, with Khao Luang Mountain rising in the background.//Photo : Delivering Asia Communications
Discussions about the Samui Bridge project, connecting the resort island with the mainland at Surat Thani and Nakhon Si Thammarat, are also underway, aligning with the broader Southern Economic Corridor initiative.
In collaboration with the provincial governor’s office, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is working to promote tourism with a focus on nature and community.
“Our province is a natural treasure trove, with 200 kilometres of mountains, 200 kilometres of pristine beaches, and an atmosphere that rejuvenates the soul. We look forward to nurturing the medical and wellness sector, capitalizing on our natural heritage,” says Nakhon Si Thammarat’s Governor, Apinan Phuakphong.
Pitsinee Tatniyom, TAT’s Director for Nakhon Si Thammarat, emphasizes that the province offers an unparalleled nature retreat.
“In an era where reconnecting with nature is highly valued, Nakhon Si Thammarat provides a sanctuary for both locals and global travellers. It’s an opportunity to detoxify, recalibrate, and embrace the serene beauty of nature,” adds Pitsinee Tatniyom.
The private sector has enthusiastically embraced this call, with specialized tour operators creating captivating itineraries for Nakhon Si Thammarat. For example, Tarzan Adventure offers a thrilling dragon’s back-style trekking experience that immerses adventurers in Khao Luang National Park. This journey includes mountain crests, lush jungles, rejuvenating natural hot springs, cascading waterfalls, and valleys shrouded in ethereal mist.
A captivating sunrise over Khao Luang, Thailand’s second-highest peak, standing at 1,780 metres.//Photo : Delivering Asia Communications
For those seeking a more immersive experience, multi-day adventures abound. Ascend to the pinnacle of Khao Luang, which at 1,780 metres is Thailand’s second-highest peak. This national park encompasses the enchanting 1.7-kilometre-long Hong Cave, the mesmerizing 19-tier Karom Waterfall, the crystalline waters of Klong Nam Sai, and a landscape adorned with meandering rivers and captivating rock formations.
This pristine terrain, home to 300 orchid varieties, 340 bird species, and charismatic creatures like leopards, tapirs, and porcupines, offers an unparalleled canvas for wildlife and landscape enthusiasts.
For those who prefer not to rough it in a tent on top of a mountain, Ban Khiriwong is an excellent alternative. Nestled along the river at the eastern foot of Khao Luang Mountain, this village is known as the best ozone area in Thailand. Visitors can enjoy the hospitality of friendly locals, explore hilly farmland, and stroll through tropical fruit orchards. Activities like rafting, outdoor swimming, and cycling around the village are also available.
To the east of Khao Luang lies Sichon, an idyllic beach in Nakhon Si Thammarat, praised by Lonely Planet as one of Thailand’s top 10 beaches.
Local fishing boats along the idyllic shore of Sichon Beach in Nakhon Si Thammarat//Photo : Delivering Asia Communications
Unlike other developed beach destinations, Sichon maintains its own unique community life. Here, Buddhists pay their respects in ancient temples, fishermen haul their catches from emerald green waters, farmers harvest coconuts from towering palms, and artisans skilfully craft materials using natural dyes derived from local fruits.
The idyllic Sichon beach in Nakhon Si Thammarat, praised by Lonely Planet as one of Thailand’s top 10 beaches. //Photo : Delivering Asia Communications
Despite its off-the-beaten-path charm, Sichon is only a 40-minute drive from the new international airport.
Just an hour’s flight from bustling Bangkok, with the allure of the renowned Samui island visible offshore, Nakhon Si Thammarat has shed its remote image. It now stands as an accessible sanctuary, ready to be explored. With a wealth of natural wonders awaiting intrepid travellers, ‘the green lungs of Thailand’ is poised to inspire a new generation of explorers in the kingdom’s thriving tourism landscape.
By Thai PBS World Feature Desk
