Pathum Thani Travel Guide

Pathum Thani has been recognised as a residential city for over 300 years, with the earliest descendents being from the Mon hill tribe and the city originally being called Sam Khok. The Mon’s enjoyed royal protection and it was not long before they fully established themselves and their city.

During the 19th century, King Rama II visited the city and was met by great crows and many lotus flowers. It was then that the king changed the name of the city to Pathum Thani (the city of many lotuses). Ever since the city received its new name, it has attracted people gifted in the arts such as painters, musicians and writers. It is essentially a rural town in central Thailand but has been home to many national successes in the arts.

Popular attractions include City Pillar Shrine, Wat Bot and Wat Mon. The former is revered by all who reside in the city and dates back many centuries. The latter two are both historic temples which are worth exploring as they contain historic relics and many beautiful frescoes.

Getting There & Away

Pathu Thani is best reached by road from Bangkok. Buses leave from a number of stations around the city and there are regular connections leaving several times every day. Trains leave from Bangkok’s central rail station, with both journeys taking a little over an hour.

Memot attractions

• City Pillar Shrine: this is the most important landmark in the city and has become a symbol of the ancient city. It is a pavilion with four terraces and is where the city pillar can be found. The pavilion is also home to a bronze statue of Vishnu and many sacred objects such as charms and amulets from various temples throughout Pathum Thani.