Nakhon Pathom
Nakhon Pathom is the oldest city in Thailand and the capital of the Nakhon Pathom province. The name Nakhon Pathon means “first city” and some historical researches show that the city dates from 3rd century BC. According to some historians Nakhon Pathom was the first city to possess influences of Buddhism and Indian civilizations. It is located 56 km /35 miles/ from Bangkok and the province nowadays covers an area of 2,150 square km /840 square miles/.
In the past Nakhon Pathom was on the banks of Chao Phraya river but a change in the course of the river made the people to leave the city for centuries until the reign of King Rama IX who resumed the life in the city. It is believed that Nakhon Pathom was a centre of civilization in ancient times. The city and the province of Nakhon Pathom are very good choice for historical tourism. Also Nakhon Pathom is renowned for its variety of fruits and famous dishes.
