Sichon in Nakhon Si Thammarat: An authentic Southern Thailand without mass tourism and close to Krabi – from Si Khit to Wat Chedi is written by The editorial staff, RejsRejsRejs.
Why you should choose Sichon and Nakhon Si Thammarat for your holiday in Thailand
While many Danes flock to the south Thailand for Phuket, Krabi and Koh Samui, a quieter and more authentic Thailand awaits just on the other side of the peninsula. Nakhon Si Thammarat Region and the small coastal town of Sichon offers authentic Thai experiences. Here you can combine unspoiled nature, local culture, beach life and tranquility at a pace that everyone can enjoy.
On the other hand, it is easy to get here.
You can fly directly to Nakhon Si Thammarat airport or to Surat Thani. You can also take the train down the coast or hop on one of the many buses that connect Bangkok with southern Thailand. And from the station or airport it is easy to find a cheap taxi or Grab to your hotel, who can often also arrange pickup.
Beautiful nature without the crowds: Khao Plai Dam and Si Khit Waterfall
Imagine a lush mountain forest with streams and views of the coast, with no other tourists in sight. Khao Plai Dam in Nakhon Si Thammarat is a locally renowned viewpoint and nature reserve where you can hike, take photos and enjoy the silence. The view stretches from the green peaks of the forest to the blue coast.
Closer to Sichon, you’ll find Si Khit Waterfall, a popular weekend getaway for local families. Here you can swim, bring a picnic basket and enjoy the fresh air under the shade of large trees. The water is clear and cold – and the best part is that you rarely share it with anyone other than a single school class or a few kids jumping in with their clothes on.
There is also a semi-difficult – but exciting – hiking route around the Si Khit waterfall.
There are a number of small and large nature reserves in the area, and they are reasonably accessible from some good roads. Remember mosquito spray.
Culture and Spirituality: Wat Chedi and Ai Khai
Thailand's temples are not just beautiful buildings; they are an integral part of everyday life.
At Wat Chedi in Nakhon Si Thammarat, you’ll find both traditional Buddhist architecture and a thriving local community. The temple has become nationally famous for the mythical child spirit Ai Khai, who many Thais believe brings good luck and fulfills wishes. People travel from far and wide to pray, make offerings and pay their respects.
The atmosphere is quite intense and vibrant. There is the smell of incense, the gold leaf shimmers in the sun, and you can hear prayers and the sound of bells. It is one of those experiences where you as a visitor are allowed to watch – as long as you don't stand in the way.
There are a number of temples in the area and they are all open to visitors. Just remember to dress modestly and bring some Thai baht for maintenance.
Boat trips, snorkeling and island life
Along the coast off Sichon are small islands like Pig Island – or Koh Madsum – where you can sail out for a day and enjoy both beach and snorkeling. You might even be lucky enough to see dolphins along the way.
Local fishermen and hotels in Sichon offers short trips to snorkeling spots and secret coves where you can swim in clear water with fish and coral below you. All easily arranged from the beach or by your hotel.
You can also go on a real fishing trip and experience the sea the Thai way – with a sun hat and a leisurely pace. It’s part of the simple everyday life that characterizes both Sichon and the rest of the Nakhon Si Thammarat region.
Local café life and meals by the sea
Although Sichon is a small district, there is a cozy café and food culture that both locals and tourists enjoy.
Here are five places you shouldn't miss:
Located right in the heart of Sichon, 1-2-3 Café is a cozy photo café with a view of the river and tropical plants in the backyard. They serve excellent coffee, homemade cakes and light Thai dishes. It is also a good place to meet local young people who come to work, study or just have fun. The owner is a photographer, so cameras are everywhere in the unusual decor.
KhoomSook is a trendy coffee bar with modern design and specialty coffee in focus. Here you get ice cream, cold brew and tasty brunch dishes in quiet surroundings. An ideal place for lazy mornings and laptop work.
Sichon Cabana Beach Resort has a well-known restaurant and beach bar with direct access to the sea. Here you can enjoy freshly caught seafood, Thai classics and cold beer under the palm trees. The sunset from here is nothing short of magical.
Sichon Seafood is a relaxed and authentic seafood restaurant by the harbor. Serving the catch of the day directly from local boats, everything is prepared with a focus on freshness and flavor. Perfect for both lunch and dinner.
Wang Derm Seafood – Popular with local families and known for its grilled fish, crab curry and other goodies, it’s a classic Thai restaurant where the food speaks for itself and the view of the bay completes the experience.
Additionally, you should experience Ban Plai Thon, the local morning market by the beach. Every morning, fishermen pull their boats up from the sea filled with fresh fish and seafood, just as they have done for hundreds of years.
This morning market is not only good for fresh food, fruit and seafood; you can also find local food like the amazing coconut apple slices Khanom Krok or Pa Thong Go – a Thai doughnut – and 'southern style' chicken. If you can get up early, this charming little market in Sichon is perfect for experiencing the local atmosphere.
Sichon and Nakhon Si Thammarat are a quieter alternative with space to just be on vacation
One of the most appealing things about Sichon and Nakhon Si Thammarat is not something you'll find in a brochure. It's the tranquility. There's no beach party, and no beach promenade with noise and street stalls. In return, you get space, friendly smiles, local life and time to just be. There can certainly be life on the beach and in the water, because there are many local visitors, but it is in small doses.
The distances between experiences in Nakhon Si Thammarat province are short, and many stay in small homestays or resorts with direct beach accessYou can go from mountain views to sea swimming in half an hour, and it all happens at a pace where you have time to take it all in.
Therefore, it is also a good place to try driving a car or scooter, because the traffic is negligible, and what there is is relatively slow.
Here, Thailand still feels like Thailand before mass tourism took hold. And that's exactly why it's a perfect choice for those looking for something authentic and peaceful – especially in Sichon, which has the best of everything. And it's where many families from, for example, Bangkok themselves come when they need to get away from the big city.
Sichon and Nakhon Si Thammarat are definitely not for you who want vibrant nightlife and international hotel chains. But if you are looking for peace, authenticity and presence in beautiful surroundings, this is a part of Thailand that has preserved its own culture. It is in many ways a hidden gem that deserves a little more attention.
Why you should choose Sichon and Nakhon Si Thammarat for your holiday in Thailand
- Authentic nature experiences without the crowds: Discover Khao Plai Dam and Si Khit Waterfall
- Cultural immersion: Visit the Wat Chedi temple and experience local spirituality
- Boat trips and beach life: Sail to Pig Island, snorkeling and fishing trips with the locals
- Local life and good food: Visit the good cafes and seafood restaurants in the town of Sichon
- Quiet and easy vacation: Short distances, slow traffic and lovely resorts on the beach
Did you know: Here are editor Anna's 7 favorite islands in Thailand
7: Koh Mai Thon south of Phuket
6: Koh Lao Lading at Krabi
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