The capital city of Changwat province, Pathum Thani is the place which bears the history of the famous Kingdom of Ayutthaya. During the time of the Burmese war, a tribe named Mon had arrived from Myanmar. On their request, King Narai the Great gave shelter to this tribe and arranged their stay in the Sam Khok village. During the rule of King Taksin and King Rama II, the Mon tribe received the protection of the kings. King Rama II himself visited the Sam Khok town, which had overwhelmed the tribe. Much to the king’s pleasure, the Mon tribe offered him lotus flowers while visiting his palace. Thus, King Rama II gave the Sam Khok town the name Prathum Thani or The Town of Lotus. Gradually, the town became known as Pathum Thani. Today, this city is part of the greater Bangkok area. Located on the bank of the Chao Phraya River, it offers endless treats to its visitors.
Read on to learn more about the best things to do in Pathum Thani:
1. Splurge on fun items at Rangsit Night Market
One of the things Thailand is popular for is the fun-filled night markets. Pathum Thani is certainly no stranger to it. Rangsit Night Market offers all you can imagine at a reasonable price! From mind-blowing food to unique fashion finds, you’re not going to leave empty-handed. If you’re a sucker for street food and handmade delicacies, your belly’s going to thank you later.
This attraction in Rangsit is one of the first of its kind in the area and is a go-to for locals and tourists alike.
Rangsit Night Market
Address: 189 Rangsit - Nakhon Nayok Rd, Tambon Prachathipat, Thanyaburi District, Pathum Thani 12130, Thailand
Website: Rangsit Night Market
2. Have a feast at Chokchai Steakhouse
When you’re craving that charred edges and juicy, marbly cuts of steak, the place to get your fix is Chokchai Steakhouse Rangsit. This premier steakhouse offers the comfort of world-class steak in an upscale setting. Whet your appetite with a serving of their signature Chokchai cold country salad or dinner rolls and then feast on the sinful, dry-aged premium steaks like filet mignon, prime rib, or T-bone. For other main courses, they also serve fish steaks, pasta, sausages, and so much more!
Chokchai Steakhouse Rangsit
Address: 294 Vibhavadi Rangsit Rd, Khu Khot, Lam Luk Ka District, Pathum Thani 12130, Thailand
Website: Chokchai Steakhouse
Opening hours: 10am - 9pm (daily)
3. Party all night at Zodiac
Looking to end your day with a band? Why not take your friends out for a wild night out at Zodiac? This nightclub in Rangsit offers electric entertainment and a high-energy dance floor with a good selection of drinks to liven up the party even more. If your nights in Pathum Thani is starting to feel quiet and you need a boost and a big pick-me-up activity, you certainly won’t be disappointed coming to Zodiac. With heart-thumping EDM music and dance remixes, you’re bound to have an unforgettable night!
Zodiac
Address: XJPP+WX6, Prachathipat, Thanyaburi District, Pathum Thani 12130, Thailand
Opening hours: Sun: 24 hours (closed from Mon - Sat)
4. The Lotus Museum
Because Pathum Thani was originally known as The Town of Lotus, it is natural for visitors to see varieties of lotus flowers here. The Lotus Museum is a research and learning centre dedicated to the lotus flower. The Lotus Museum is located on the campus of Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi. While visiting the museum, you should not miss the lotus garden. The garden is a treat for nature lovers, as a wide variety of lotus flowers bloom here.
Lotus Museum
Address: Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi, 39 Mu 1 Rangsit - Nakhon Nayok Road, Tambon Khlong Hok, Amphoe Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani 12110
Website: Lotus Museum
5. A trip around the City Pillar Shrine
One of the fun Pathum Thani activities is visiting the City Pillar Shrine. It is made of a very special wood from the golden shower tree or Chaiyaphruek tree. Inside the tower resides a four-handed statue of God Narayana and a bronze statue of Lord Vishnu. The City Pillar Shrine is an important landmark of the city as well as a renowned religious spot.
City Pillar Shrine
Address: Bang Prok, Mueang Pathum Thani District, Pathum Thani 12000, Thailand
Website: City Pillar Shrine
6. A trip to the historic temple Wat Puetudom
Previously known as Wat Rat Sattaram, the name of this temple changed to Wat Puetudom, after its surrounding greenery and flowers. The temple was built in 1874. The land that Wat Puetudom sits on was donated by a gentleman named Mae Saeng Eiawwattana. During the reign of King Rama V, this temple was a very famous one. Today the temple is one of Thailand’s lesser known attractions.
Wat Puetudom
Address: 25/5 Moo 9 Tambon Lam Sai, Lam Luk Ka District, Pathum Thani Province 12150
Website: Wat Puetudom
7. A trip to the Wat Phra Dhammakaya
Wat Phra Dhammakaya is a Buddhist temple which has attracted plenty of controversy over its unique approach to Buddhism. Located in the Khlong Luang District, in the northern part of Pathum Thani, this temple was even accused of commercialising Buddhism. This is because the traditional Buddhist values are approached through modern ways by this temple. This method has aroused protest amongst some Thai Buddhists. Rather than a traditional Buddhist temple, Wat Phra Dhammakaya resembles a spaceship or a sports stadium. It is a unique place indeed and a perfect day trip from Bangkok.
Wat Phra Dhammakaya
Address: 23/ 40/18 ม-7 Khlong Luang Rd, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand
Website: Wat Phra Dhammakaya
8. Wat Chedi Thong Temple
Around 8km (4.9 miles) away from the city of Pathum Thani, the Wat Chedi Thong Temple is a stunning historic site. This temple is located on the banks of the Chao Praya River. The main attraction of Wat Chedi Thong is the Mon-style chedi or stupa. Around 160 years old, the chedi was constructed during the Rattanakosin era.
Wat Chedi Thong Temple
Address: Khlong Khwai, Sam Khok, Pathum Thani 12160 Thailand
Website: Wat Chedi Thong Temple
9. Take a boat ride around Khlong Sam Floating Market
Don’t know what to do near Pathum Thani? Any trip to Bangkok is incomplete without visiting one of its floating markets. These floating markets are not the only places for buying or selling things, but they are some of the best spots to witness the local culture. Khlong Sam Floating Market is one of the newest additions to the city’s floating markets. Located on the Chao Phraya River, this market offers everything from agricultural products to local handicrafts, all at very special prices.
Khlong Sam Floating Market
Website: Khlong Sam Floating Market
10. Dream World Amusement Park
Dream World Amusement Park brings the promise of adventure. Filled with thrilling rides and a variety of themed attractions, the park boasts three roller coasters, go-karts, bumper boats and even a haunted mansion. With so many different rides and attractions here, Dream World is a great way to spend a beautiful sunny day in Thailand.
Dream World Amusement Park
Address: 62 Moo 1, Rangsit-Ongkarak road, Thanyaburi, Pathum Thani
Website: Dream World Amusement Park
11. Visit The Supreme Artist Hall
There are several museums in and around Pathum Thani, all of which provide detailed exposure to the city’s art, culture and history. The Supreme Artist Hall showcases all the local art, but mainly highlights the artwork of Thailand’s former king, Bhumibol Adulyadej. There is also a collection that belongs to Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. The Southeast Asian Ceramics Museum also has a great collection of historical ceramics.
The Supreme Artist Hall
Address: Khlong (Canal) 5, Amphoe Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani
Website: The Supreme Artist Hall
12. The Rare Stone Museum
The Rare Stone Museum is one of Thailand’s hidden gems. Over ten thousand rare stones from Thailand as well as other parts of the world are kept on display here. The museum is an excellent way to gain some insight into what makes Thailand so beautiful.
The Rare Stone Museum
Address: 29/2 Mu 1, Rangsit-Patum Thani Road, Amphoe Mueang, Pathum Thani
Website: The Rare Stone Museum
13. Try your golfing skills at Dhupatemiya Golf Course
Even if you’re not a fan of golf, a visit to Pathum Thani’s Dhupatemiya Golf Course is a must. Also known as the Royal Thai Airforce Golf Course, its great expanse of tropical greenery makes a visit worthwhile and golfers will delight in the challenging aspects of the course. Spend a day hitting some balls on the driving range or taking on the challenging 18-hole course. For those who just want to enjoy the view, Dhupatemiya also offers a restaurant for meals, snacks and cool drinks.
Dhupatemiya Golf Course
Address: 14 Moo 8, Tambol Koo-Kod, Amphur Lamlukka, Pathum Thani, Thailand
Website: Dhupatemiya Golf Course
14. Shop for Fresh Produce at Talaad Thai
Who would want to go on a market on a trip to another country? A visit to Talaad Thai will change your mind! This “central” market was the brainchild of a man who wanted to express the importance of agriculture to local trade. Ever since it began in 1997, it has become a hub for local and international traders, and even tourists have taken notice because of the variety of produce on offer. Located in Phaholyothin Rd. in Khlong Luang district, you cannot miss this place! Rows and rows of fruit stands are everywhere! Try your luck at bargaining and taste all the fresh produce that this attraction has to offer. If you want to immerse yourself in Thai food and culture, then this is one of the best places to start!
Talaad Thai
Address: Talaad Thai, Khlong Nueng, Khlong Luang District, Pathum Thani, Thailand
Website: Talaad Thai
15. Experience an Interactive Tour at Rangsit Science Center
Another interesting attraction in Pathum Thani is the Rangsit Science Center. Unlike other museums, it gives the visitors an interactive experience, so it is not a place that is exclusive to youth learning. Inside its 35,000 sqm overall area, you can find the dome structure which comprises science exhibitions for new technology, astronomy, ecology, and even a kid’s city! Agricultural gardens, herb gardens, and other plants are also on display in the outdoor area. Lastly, the main attraction is the planetarium, which is considered as one of the most advanced in Southeast Asia. Admission is only at 30 Baht and they are open from 09:30 am – 04:00 pm on Tuesdays to Sundays. Whether you are a group of friends traveling, or a family who wants to experience something new, a trip to this attraction will be worth it!
Rangsit Science Center
Address: Thanyaburi District, Chang Wat Pathum Thani 12110, Thailand
Website: Rangsit Science Center
The authentic mix of modern and historic Thailand
Pathum Thani possesses historic and sacred religious sites, as well as plenty of fun activities to keep any visitor happy. Take the time to visit this Town of Lotus and see for yourself how much it truly has to offer.