Nonthaburi and Ko Kret Island
The Waterfront Museum
The town of Nonthaburi is located just a short distance north of Bangkok, yet not many tourists ever seem to get to visit this rather pleasant place. I wonder why. Perhaps it's possible that no effective marketing has ever been in place to attract new visitors. Or is it because the town is so well known for that famous smelly durian fruit that many tourist want to avoid. Surly not. Nonetheless the town does offer a refreshing alternative to the chaos and pollution of the capital. There are a number of other good reasons why you should endeavor to give this town a try, one of which it to capture a large slice (no not necessary the fruit) of the peaceful provincial life and pleasant atmosphere that prevails here. The town is only about ten kilometres or six miles from the outskirts of Bangkok and although easily accessible by road, the best way to reach the town is via the
Chao Phraya River.
A riverboat cruise is great way to avoid the notoriously congested traffic too. There are a fair number of riverboat express piers around the river in which to hitch a ride. Try find one nearest to where you're staying.
The Central Clock Tower
Exploring NonthaburiRiver Boat Ride on the Chao PhrayaThe leisurely journey takes a little less than an hour and offers several interesting sights along the way. The first of which is the Royal Boat House near Wat Sam Phraya Pier where some of the royal barges are kept. The best ones are housed at the Royal Barge Museum in Thonburi which is well worth a visit should you have plenty of time in Bangkok. It would have to be on another occasion though.Once you pass the Krung Thon Bridge on the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River, you'll notice a small community of rice barges. In fact you'll probably see quite a few of these barges pass you by on the river. As you approach the pier at Nonthaburi you'll be able to see the half-submerged of temple of Wat Khian.
Pottery for sale on Ko Kret Island
Exploring Ko Kret IslandRiver Boat Ride along the Khlong OmSpend some quality time strolling around the town and admire the local sites and sounds. You'll find it a lot less stressful than that of Bangkok city. Then pause for a bite to eat at one of the local eateries around the colourful and lively market at the riverside pier. And since you are here, don't forget to take special note of all the unusual durian fruit decorations on the promenade's lamp-posts too.Thereafter take a slow-paced boat cruise from the pier along the Khlong Om. The journey will take you through durian plantations past local riverside houses towards the tiny river island of Ko Kret. Accessible only by boat, the island is home to a community of craftsmen famous for their distinctive pottery style.
Chedi at Wat Chalerm Phrakiet
Exploring Wat Chalerm PhrakietOn the West Bank of the Chao PhrayaOne of the more worthwhile excursion you may want to try, is a river boat ride to Wat Chalerm Phrakiet. The temple was built in the 19th century by Rama III as a gift for his mother and occupies the site of a 17th century fortress on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River.The most striking features at Wat Chalerm Phrakiet are the superb details seen on the doors, gables and windows frames of the bot. They are all so intricately crafted with many of them containing exquisite porcelain tile-work. Just behind the temple is a golden chedi which was later added by Rama IV. Also around the grounds you will find some Chinese-style statues including one of Santa Claus.
Wat Chalerm Phrakiet
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