The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the provincial governor’s office of Nakhon Si Thammarat have both confirmed plans to increase tourism promotion to the destination. The Southern Thai province of Nakhon Si Thammarat is full of natural wonders. From the jungle-clad hills to the sands of the coast, this region is home to some of Thailand’s most diverse landscapes. It has aptly been nicknamed “the green lungs of Thailand.”
Although Nakhon Si Thammarat has remained a well-kept secret, attracting only Thai residents and intrepid “in the know” international visitors, all that is about to change. A combination of public sector promotion, private sector innovation and enhanced transport infrastructure is set to open up this destination to the world.
A new international terminal is due to launch at Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport before the end of 2023, with direct flights expected from Singapore, Taiwan, China and Malaysia. The Samui Bridge project is also in discussion as part of the wider Southern Economic Corridor project.
This call-to-action has been heeded by the private sector, and specialist tour operators have unveiled new itineraries for Nakhon Si Thammarat. For instance, Tarzan Adventure recently launched a "dragon’s back-style" trekking program that takes visitors on a journey into Khao Luang National Park, including mountain ridges, jungles, hot springs, waterfalls, valleys and canyons. Multi-day adventures are also available, including the chance to scale the 5,840-foot Khao Luang, Thailand’s second highest peak. The 220-square-mile national park is also home to the mile-long Hong Cave, the 19-tier Karom Waterfall, the crystalline waters of Klong Nam Sai, as well as numerous rivers and rock formations. It is also home to 300 types of orchid, 340 species of bird and large mammals such as leopards, tapirs and porcupines, making it an ideal option for wildlife and landscape photography.
Just a short drive from the national park is Sichon Beach. This will be the location of Urasaya, a new residential and hospitality development that will promote eco-conscious, locally inspired tourism.
Just an hour’s flight from Bangkok and with the popular tourist island of Koh Samui visible offshore, Nakhon Si Thammarat is easily accessible and waiting to be discovered.
For more information, visit www.tourismthailand.org.
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