Nonthaburi

Nonthaburi, a small city near the capital full of charm along the Chao Phraya River

If you ask me, mr.hotsia, where I like to stroll when working in Bangkok, the simple answer is “Nonthaburi.” This province is almost inseparable from Bangkok because it is adjacent, with the Chao Phraya River flowing through as a major artery. Walking along the river in downtown Nonthaburi feels like escaping the hustle of the capital and experiencing the atmosphere of an old community with a simple and warm way of life.

Nonthaburi is not just Nonthaburi City, Nonthaburi Municipality, or Pak Kret that everyone knows. There are many interesting districts such as Bang Kruai, Bang Yai, Bang Bua Thong, Sai Noi, and Pak Kret, each with its own charm. I had the chance to drive through Bang Bua Thong on my way back from Suphanburi on my latest trip. The atmosphere here reminds me of communities that still maintain traditional lifestyles, even though they are just a stone's throw from the capital.

Strolling along the Chao Phraya River, Nonthaburi

The Chao Phraya River is not only beautiful in Bangkok. Nonthaburi also offers many interesting riverside walking paths and restaurants, including fresh seafood and local eateries I have visited many times. The evening atmosphere with soft sunlight reflecting on the water and a cool breeze is incredibly relaxing. I recommend chilling at Nonthaburi Pier or the old market area in downtown Nonthaburi to see both traditional fishing lifestyles and bustling fresh markets.

Enjoying Delicious Food in Nonthaburi with Mon Kanom Krok and Local Dishes

One of the delicious treats I never miss when visiting Nonthaburi is “Mon Kanom Krok,” an ancient dessert found only in the Mon community of Ko Kret Subdistrict, Pak Kret District. Mon Kanom Krok is made from soaked raw glutinous rice cooked in a kanom krok pan. The filling is a mixture of grated mature coconut, sugar, and roasted sesame seeds, blended until fragrant, sweet, and creamy. I have also shared stories about the Khmer version of kanom krok in Kampong Khhnang.This clipand their “Kanom Kruk” is very similar. It is interesting that kanom krok has roots in this region dating back to the Ayutthaya period.

Additionally, Nonthaburi has many other local foods such as stir-fried holy basil at a famous shop in Bang Yai that I have tried, or boat noodles at a nearby Rangsit shop, which many people mention inthis clipThe rustic shop atmosphere and authentic Thai flavors remind me of the local delicacies not to be missed when visiting this area.

Old Markets and Classic Lifestyles

Nonthaburi has many old markets I enjoy strolling through, such as Nonthaburi Pier Market or Bang Kruai Market. Here you can see locals bargaining for fresh produce, local foods, and daily necessities. I like observing the simple, unhurried lifestyle of the people. Although the area is just a short distance from Bangkok, the feeling is completely different.

Transportation and Convenience

Traveling in Nonthaburi is very convenient. I like driving my own car or using public transport connected from Bangkok, whether by bus or the Purple Line MRT, which makes visiting Nonthaburi much easier. You can also take passenger boats at various piers to enjoy the Chao Phraya River atmosphere from a different perspective.

Summary of Impressions from mr.hotsia

For me, Nonthaburi is a city full of discoveries and stories, with a riverside atmosphere along the Chao Phraya, old community lifestyles, and delicious local foods hard to find in big cities. I, mr.hotsia, invite friends looking for a getaway near the capital, away from the hustle, to experience the charm of Nonthaburi at least once. I guarantee you will fall in love just like I did.