Things to Do in Nakhon Sawan: Paknampho, Bueng Boraphet and Khao Kob

Songkran.com Team
November 14, 2026

Nakhon Sawan is where the Ping and Nan rivers meet to form the Chao Phraya, the river that flows on through Ayutthaya and Bangkok. The meeting point, Paknampho, gave the town its everyday name and its big Chinese community, whose New Year parade is one of the most famous in Thailand. Just east of town lies Bueng Boraphet, the country’s largest freshwater wetland, full of lotus and water birds.

Getting there: Nakhon Sawan is about 240 km north of Bangkok, around 3 hours by car on Highway 32 and Highway 1. Trains on the Northern Line stop at Nakhon Sawan station (Nong Pling), and buses run often from Mo Chit. Many people stop here on the way to Chiang Mai.

Top things to do in Nakhon Sawan

1. Paknampho, source of the Chao Phraya

Stand by the riverbank where the clear Ping and the darker Nan meet; on some days you can see the two colours side by side. The riverside park has viewpoints and sculptures. Map

2. Bueng Boraphet

Thailand’s largest freshwater swamp, with boat trips through lotus fields, fishing villages and a bird park. Early morning in the cool season is best for birdwatching. Map

3. Khao Kob and Wat Woranat Banphot

A hill in the middle of town topped by an old temple and a chedi; climb the steps or drive up for a view over Nakhon Sawan and the rivers. Map

4. Sawan Park (Uttayan Sawan)

A large city park around a lake, popular for evening walks, jogging and family outings. Map

5. Chao Pho–Chao Mae Paknampho shrine

The shrine at the heart of the Chinese New Year festival, close to the river. Map

6. Mae Wong National Park

Forest, waterfalls and mountain views on the western edge of the province, shared with Kamphaeng Phet. Map

7. Koei Chai, Chum Saeng

A riverside area remembered as the place where King Taksin was wounded in battle in 1768. Combine it with the old riverside town of Chum Saeng. Map

Suggested itinerary

Day 1: Paknampho riverside → Chao Pho–Chao Mae Paknampho shrine → lunch in the old market area → Khao Kob for sunset → dinner in town.

Day 2: Early boat trip on Bueng Boraphet → Sawan Park → continue north to Kamphaeng Phet or west to Uthai Thani.

Festivals and annual events

Paknampho Chinese New Year – around Chinese New Year (6 February in 2027), with about twelve days of celebrations, lion and dragon dances, and the grand procession of the Chao Pho–Chao Mae Paknampho deities through town.
Songkran – mid-April, with water fun in town and temple ceremonies. See also Chai Nat and Uthai Thani nearby.
Lotus season at Bueng Boraphet – the lake is at its prettiest roughly from the rainy season into the early cool season.

Dates change each year, so check with the province or TAT before you travel.

On King Naresuan’s trail

Naresuan chased the King of Chiang Mai’s retreating army as far as Nakhon Sawan: The Battle of Ban Sa Ket: Routing the King of Chiang Mai’s Army. Read the full story with maps on our King Naresuan trail site.

On King Taksin’s trail

King Taksin’s campaigns passed through this province: the Phitsanulok campaign, when Taksin was shot at Koei Chai · The campaign against Chao Phra Fang. The full story with maps is on our King Taksin trail site (in Thai).

Travel tips

Book hotels early for Chinese New Year; the town fills up.
Bring a hat and water for Bueng Boraphet boat trips.
Dress modestly at temples and shrines.

FAQ

Where does the Chao Phraya River start?

At Paknampho in Nakhon Sawan, where the Ping and Nan rivers meet.

When is the Paknampho Chinese New Year festival?

Around Chinese New Year each year; the grand procession is the highlight.

Is Bueng Boraphet worth visiting?

Yes, especially early in the morning for lotus and birds.

How long should I stay?

One night is enough for the main sights.