Located on the eastern Malay Peninsula, the ancient town of Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand (often simply called Nakon), dates from the seventh-century Srivijayan period. For centuries, Nakon served as an important trading link between Thailand and the rest of the world. Today, those outside influences can be seen in the area's cuisine, temples and architecture.
Visit Wat Mahathat and a small but interesting museum devoted to the Srivijayan period. Monks live in separate quarters across the street. There are beaches nearby, and it's a nice place to walk around. The town, 375 mi/600 km south of Bangkok, sees very little foreign tourism, and for many visitors that adds to its charm.
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