Nakhon Pathom recognized for cultural tourism

Nakhon Pathom Governor Adisak Thep-art said that in order to make the province better known, various local organizations join hands each year in organizing "Nakhon Pathom Food and Fruits Fair.” Apart from publicizing local food and agricultural products, the fair also aims to upgrade the standards of community products for higher value, in response to the Government’s policy.

In 2017, the week-long fair will be held from 28 January to 3 February, during the Chinese New Year celebration, within the grounds of Phra Pathom Chedi, or the Great Pagoda, in Mueang district. More than 30 famous food shops will take part in the fair.

A fruit center will be arranged for visitors to taste many varieties of fruit grown in Nakhon Pathom. Visitors will also be provided with information about Nakhon Pathom at the tourism and cultural center to be set up at the fair.

Major cash crops in this province include rice, sugar cane, fruits, vegetables, and decorative plants. Since the province is well-known for pomelo, it is sometimes referred to as the "sweet pomelo town.” Nakhon Pathom boasts many historical and cultural sites. Since it lies on the outskirts of Bangkok, the province is often visited by both local and international tourists who seek a day trip or a break from the mega-city of Bangkok.

Nakhon Pathom is famous for Phra Pathom Chedi, the Great Pagoda, which is one of the tallest Buddhist monuments in the world. Standing 127 meters high and shimmering like gold in the sunshine, the huge pagoda attracts visitors from far and near.

The Sanam Chan Palace is another interesting attraction, which consists of Thai-style houses made of teak. It was constructed at the command of King Vajiravudh, Rama VI, in 1907 when he was the Crown Prince. Valuable art objects are displayed in this old palace, which reflects the finesse of traditional Thai architecture.

The Rose Garden is a famous place of interest, offering such activities as an elephant show and traditional Thai dancing. It covers a large area of beautifully landscaped gardens of roses and orchids. Another place of interest is the Thai Human Imagery Museum, often referred to as a "wax museum.” It houses look-alike-and-alive sculptures. In fact, it is not an ordinary wax museum, as all sculptures there are made of fiber-glass.

Nakhon Pathom has set a vision to become a center of agricultural production at international standards and a safe tourism destination.