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Nairobi

Nairobi is a city of 4.4 million (2019) on the Nairobi River. It is the political, financial and media capital of Kenya, and a transit point that most travellers to Kenya will pass through. Nairobi is the largest and fastest growing city in Kenya, and one of the largest cities in Africa. It is worth taking a few days to experience this bustling metropolis.

History
The word Nairobi is derived from a water hole known in Maasai as Enkare Nyorobi, which means "cool waters". Nairobi, which had been a swamp area, was founded in 1899 as a railway camp for the Uganda Railway. By 1905, the city had become the capital of Kenya (then the British East Africa Protectorate), supplanting Mombasa and Machakos, the previous capitals. With the spread of plagues in the early 1900s, the town was burnt down and had to be rebuilt. Having a railway helped it to grow rapidly, becoming the second largest city in Kenya behind Mombasa. Nairobi also grew due to administration and tourism businesses (mostly big game hunting).

The British presence led to the creation of big hotels primarily for the British hunters. After independence, some descendants of the British settlers remained in Nairobi and obtained Kenyan citizenship, and today form Kenya's white community. Nairobi has an East Indian community, who are the descendants of the labourers who built the railway and the merchants who set up shop during colonial times. After independence, Nairobi airport became the principal entrance point to Kenya and it still is today, although it has lost some of its importance to Mombasa.

Climate
Nairobi has a subtropical highland climate. At 1,795 metres above sea level, evenings may be cool, especially in the June/July season, when the temperature can drop to 9 °C.

The sunniest and warmest part of the year is from December to March, when temperatures average in the mid-twenties Celsius during the day. The mean maximum temperature for this period is 24 °C.

Local information

 * Nairobi City Government website

Get in
For general information about visas and vaccinations, etc., see the Kenya article.

Airlines
Kenya Airways (KQ) is the national airline of Kenya, and used to be one of the largest and most reputable airlines in Africa, providing extensive connections from international cities including London, Amsterdam, Paris, Dubai, Mumbai, Johannesburg, Antananarivo, Accra, New York JFK (a direct 15-hr flight), and a host of other countries around the world. Due to mismanagement and corruption, the airline has losses of US$120 million in 2019 and US$330 million in 2020.

Other major commercial airlines to serve NBO include: Air Arabia, Air Mauritius, Air France, Lufthansa, British Airways, Brussels Airlines, China southern airlines, Egypt Air, Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, Etihad Airways, Kenya Airways, KLM Royal Dutch, Oman Air, Qatar Airways, Saudi Arabian Airlines, RwandAir, Swiss International Airlines and Turkish Airlines.

Transfers

 * If taking a taxi from JKIA, use a reputable taxi. Many are waiting outside to give you conveyance, and the cost should be very near Ksh 2,000 to the city centre; Westlands or places more west or north will be more. There is an official KAA taxi desk just after you exit the customs area, where you can buy a fixed-price voucher, and they will escort you to a taxi. When taking a taxi to your accommodation, do not be inveigled into taking their recommendation for accommodation. Uber or bolt costs from Ksh 900 from airport to the centre.
 * Airport Bus: To the city centre, Airport Bus #34 for Ksh 100 (as of 2023). You get the bus by walking on the road from the international airport terminal to the cargo terminal, or from in front of the Ambassador Hotel on Moi Avenue in the city centre. 6:00-20:00. the bus trip can take 2 hours in bad traffic, and may be inconvenient if you have big luggage.

There is no official taxi desk at Wilson, and each airline operates out of its own terminal. It may be difficult to arrange a reputable taxi on arrival, but there are plenty at the kerb.

By train
Nairobi has become much more accessible by rail. Kenya Railways has opened the SGR railway in 2017 linking Nairobi and Mombasa, reducing travel time between the two cities to 5/6 hours. There are both express and slower intercity services, the latter stopping on more intermediate stations. Tickets cost Ksh 1000 for 2nd class and Ksh 3,000 for 1st. The difference between the first and 2nd class is just the size of seats. As the train is very popular it is recommended to buy tickets a few days beforehand. Trains operating on the SGR line call at Nairobi Terminus, which is almost 10 km southeast of city centre. A connecting commuter train to the central station is available. there are now 3x trains a day from Nairobi to Mombasa 1x is a night train.

As of June 2023 there is 2x weekly train service from Nairobi from Nanyuki via Nyeri. The train departs Nairobi old central railway station at 09:30 every Tuesday and Friday and takes six hours. The fare is Ksh 200 in 3rd class and Ksh 1000 in 1st class. there is also 1x weekly train from Nairobi to Kisumu every Friday which cost ksh 600/2000 and takes 12 hours.

By bus
Nairobi is the centre of Kenya’s (mostly reliable) bus system. There are many bus companies operating to and from the country’s different cities.

 * Mombasa Use the SGR railway, it take less than half the time of the bus and costs 50% less.
 * Arusha in Tanzania 5½ hr by Modern Coast. Riverside Shuttle.
 * Kisumu, Eldoret, Kitale, Kericho by Easy coach.
 * Kampala 12 hr by Modern coast, Dreamline or Mash Poa.

By matatu
Matatus (11- to 18-seater minibuses) and shuttles (6-seater cars) are convenient, inexpensive (and often the only) modes of public transport for connecting Nairobi with towns and tourist destinations in the Rift Valley and Central Highlands such as Naivasha, Nyeri, Nanyuki, Isiolo, and Thika. Matatus can be obtained from the River Road area. Extreme caution should be exercised in this area because petty theft is a major concern; avoid showing valuables such as mobile phones, even while in the matatu (see safety section below). The best method of connecting to a matatu is to arrange for a taxi to drop you off and pick you up directly at the location of the matatu that you are boarding or alighting from. If you're boarding a matatu from Nairobi, tell the taxi driver your destination and they will drop you off at the correct location. If you are being picked up, then tell the taxi driver the location you're coming from as well as the matatu company that you are using (your ticket should have the operator's name). It is best to arrange for a taxi from the hotel you're staying at. The price is dependent on the distance of travel.
 * from/to Naivasha (Ksh 300) 1½ hr
 * from/to Nanyuki (Ksh 700) 11 seat. 3 hr
 * Prestige Shuttle, Dubois Road, has 10-seat vans going from Nairobi to and from Nakuru and Kisumu. Ksh 600/1200.
 * North Rift Shuttle behind the Afya Centre has 10-seat vans going from Nairobi to and from Eldoret. from Ksh 900.

By boat
Entry into Nairobi by boat is not possible (Nairobi River is not navigable), however one could certainly arrive in Kenya by boat via Mombasa or Lamu, proceeding by road, air or rail to Nairobi. Immigration should be processed at the port facility.

Get around
Be careful getting around Nairobi. Traffic is very bad like any other major city, but if you use common sense and a local or guide you should be able to get where you want.

By hired car

Hiring a car is convenient as it allows you the freedom to explore Nairobi at your own pace. Most rental companies in Nairobi offer self-drive and chauffeured options respectively. You will find that a large fleet of cars available for hire are Japanese: Toyota, Nissan or Mitsubishi. You can hire both automatic and manual transmission. All rental cars are right-hand drive. Hiring a vehicle with a driver or chauffeur is advisable due to the generally lower standards of driving, average to poor road conditions and the overall cost effectiveness of not having to pay a deposit on hiring a vehicle which is the case with a self drive vehicle.

Car rental prices vary but as of April 2015 the going rates were as follows:
 * 1) Saloon car, e.g. Toyota Axio NZE, Toyota Fielder, Nissan Wingroad: (4 seater, under 1800cc, FWD) Ksh 4,000 per day.
 * 2) 4X4 compact car, e.g. Toyota RAV4, Nissan Xtrail, Suzuki Vitara: (4 seater, 4X4 2500cc. AWD) Ksh 8,000 per day.
 * 3) Large 4X4, e.g. Toyota Prado, Mitsubishi Pajero: (4X4 luxury, Jeep 3500cc, AWD): Ksh 16,000 per day.
 * 4) 7 seater minivans, e.g. Toyota Voxy or Alphard: (7 seater, 2500cc, FWD): Ksh 10,000 per day.
 * 5) Safari vans, e.g. customised Toyota Hiace with a pop out roof: (8 Seater, 2500cc, 4WD): Ksh 10,000 per day
 * 6) Safari Jeep, e.g. customised Toyota Land Cruiser J70 jeep with a pop-out roof: (8 seater, 3500cc, 4WD): Ksh 14,000 per day.

The car rental rates are often determined by the number of days and estimated mileage per day. Some car hire companies will give you a rate that is 50% cheaper but either give you a contract with a clause limiting you to visit the specific locations, an old car or require a hefty deposit. The rates are cheaper if you are hiring the car for a week, a month or are looking for a lease. Most car rental rates include unlimited mileage, PSV comprehensive insurance, theft and damage waivers.

The driver and fuel are charged separately with some companies requiring that you hire a driver if you are taking a large 4X4/4WD (e.g. a Toyota Prado, Land Cruiser j70, Range Rover, Land Cruiser VX, Land Rover discovery). The cost of a driver is Ksh 2500 per day inclusive of meals and accommodation (April 2015).

Although a good number of local car hire companies are reliable, you should either take photos of the car before the hire, or carefully note the dents or scratches on the car and agree. In addition, carefully read the rental contract to check for rules on insurance liabilities in case of accident or theft of the vehicle.

Here are some reliable car hire companies in Kenya:
 * 1) Kenya Finest Tours & Safaris offers reliable transport services especially for landcruiser 4x4 and Nissan Safari Vans.
 * 2) Nairobi Car Hire offer good services for 4x4 and other categories of cars.
 * 3) Central Car Hire  are a reliable, trustworthy and helpful rental company based in Nairobi. Two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive vehicles are available and are well maintained.
 * 4) Nairobi Car Hire Services provided by Hire N' Drive Kenya Limited who are very flexible with their rental terms and reliable. They accept credit card payment online with a very credible refund processing system. They also have a wide fleet of cars available at all major airports in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru and Eldoret.
 * 5) Elite Car Rental Kenya although their offices are located in Kikuyu Town, they are a reliable car rental company and have been in operation since the mid-1990s.
 * 6) Avis Rental the local representative of the global business. Services are dependable with a variety of self drive vehicle options.
 * 7) Shoor Kenya - Car Hire which offer safari and saloon vehicle hire including drivers at highly reasonable pricing.
 * 8) Hertz Car Hire are also represented in Kenya and offer pick up and drop off at the international airport in Nairobi.

For ease of navigation around town and to the outskirts, it is advisable to use the Google Map. The navigation guide can be combined with other useful apps such as to help you get a better experience. For ease of search and navigation to secure parking lots, you can use Pata Parking, a smartphone app which is downloadable from Google Play Store. The app enables drivers to search and pre-book for parking, with details of location, charges per hour, features of the preferred parking lot, and the number of reservable parking spaces.

By taxi
Taxis are neither very cheap nor prevalent. Prices should always be negotiated before the trip, and paid afterwards (only cash is accepted, often with limited change available). This can be tricky as it requires you to be knowledgeable on the market rate price of the ride you wish to take. Typically, taxis can be found parked around hotels, malls, and tourist areas. The taxis tend to be marked with a yellow line on each side. Your best bet is to ask a local or enquire at your hotel.

The taxi services Uber, Bolt (formerly Taxify), Little, Mondo Ride, and MaraMoja have become the hired car provider of choice among Nairobi's large expatriate population due to its convenience, cost competitiveness, and higher quality of service when compared to other taxi providers.

If you want a pre-arranged taxi with consistent pricing, you can try Davina Cabs. They have cab service in Mombasa, Nairobi, Kisumu and have an office in Eldoret.

By bus (matatu)
Matatus (public minibuses/commuter buses) are generally used for travelling between downtown Nairobi and the suburbs. Matatus vary in size, between the van sized 14-seat matatus and the larger 50-seat buses. While generally safe, matatus are involved in a high number of accidents every year. Matatus are often overcrowded with more people than seatbelts and therefore can be dangerous if involved in accidents. Because there are no licensing requirements, matatus are often poorly driven, with drivers passing on curbs, speeding, or passing in oncoming lanes while cars are oncoming. On each bus is a conductor who will hang out of the matatu and call out a price (usually Ksh 50-100 as of 2020) and location the matatu is driving. The government banned the 14-seat matatus inside Nairobi to reduce traffic and accidents in town. The best choice is probably the City Hoppa bus service and the revived Kenya Bus Service. Beware of traffic jams on the major highways, not only in the rush hours.

By train

 * There is a commuter rail service from the Central Nairobi Railway Station going to Syokimau Railway Station. Syokimau Railway station is where you take trains going to Mombasa.
 * Train departures from the downtown Nairobi railway station going to Syokimau are at 6:35, 8AM, 9:35, noon, 17:30 and 18:20. From Syokimau the train departures are 6:20, 7:15, 8:50, 14:30 and 20:20. The trip takes 30 minutes. A one-way ticket costs Ksh 50-100 (as of 2023).
 * There are four rail commuter lines in Nairobi:
 * 1.Nairobi main station from Kahawa which departs Nairobi at 8AM, and from Kahawa back to Nairobi at 9AM.
 * 2.Nairobi main station from Embakasi Village Station. It departs Nairobi station at 7:20, 9:30, 11:20, 13:30, 18:00 and 18:30 from Embakasi village station back to Nairobi station departs at 7:00, 8:00, 10:15, 12:10, 14:20 and 19:15.
 * 3.Nairobi main station to Kikuyu station.
 * 4.Nairobi main station to Syokimau station.

By foot

Walking around Nairobi is fairly easy since the city is small and places are easy to get to. However, there are some areas within the city where tourists should not go, and walking around at night should be minimised. Thugs are rampant in many areas. The city centre may be considered safe by some to venture on foot, but it can't be considered a pleasant experience. Expect to be approached by beggars, touts, etc.

By cycle
Cycling is quite uncommon in the city and most roads are not at all suited for safe cycling. With that said, there are a few protected cycle lanes within the central district and the government are keen to expand them into a small network.

By road
Car hire from the airport is possible, and fairly painless with prices in line with other African countries. Travelling during the day reduces your chances of getting car-jacked as most car-jackings occur after dark, but even so, carjacking can still happen at any time of day, even with a strong police presence. However, watch out for undisciplined drivers, as they take little regard for safety.

See
Nairobi is known as the safari capital of Africa, however the city has still managed to keep up with modernization. Unlike other cities, Nairobi is surrounded by 113 km² (70 mi²) of plains, cliffs and forest that makes up the city’s Nairobi National Park. The city is filled with many things to do during the day and the night. Tourists can have their pick from numerous safaris (wildlife, cultural, sport, adventure, scenic and specialist), ecotourism tours, restaurants, culture, shopping and entertainment. While in Nairobi, tourists can also engage in numerous sports from golf, rugby, athletics, polo, horse-racing, cricket and football (soccer).

Parks

Do

 * The Ngong Racecourse (Horse Flat-Racing takes place 3 Sundays a month, and is a great way to spend an afternoon).
 * Hiking: there are several good hiking places near Nairobi, e.g. in the Chyulu Hills or Ngong Hills.
 * The Ngong Forest Reserve is 25 km south west of Nairobi. It is a popular walking and picnicking venue. In Ngong is a station where you have to pay the park entry fee, and those who want to also for a guide. There is only one route, the walk from Ngong to Corner Baridi (Kiserian), which takes about 4–5 hr; you hardly can get lost. Also organized hiking tours are offered.
 * Other nice places for hiking are the Mount Longonot National Park and the Menengai Crater, a massive shield volcano with one of the biggest calderas in the world, in the Great Rift Valley, Kenya. It is the largest volcano caldera in Kenya and the second largest volcano caldera in Africa
 * Safari: Nairobi is the capital of safaris in Kenya. There are tour operators from budget to world class all over the city. Yet it is not easy find the best fitting. For important things to consider when booking see Kenya.
 * The Ngong Racecourse (Horse Flat-Racing takes place 3 Sundays a month, and is a great way to spend an afternoon).
 * Hiking: there are several good hiking places near Nairobi, e.g. in the Chyulu Hills or Ngong Hills.
 * The Ngong Forest Reserve is 25 km south west of Nairobi. It is a popular walking and picnicking venue. In Ngong is a station where you have to pay the park entry fee, and those who want to also for a guide. There is only one route, the walk from Ngong to Corner Baridi (Kiserian), which takes about 4–5 hr; you hardly can get lost. Also organized hiking tours are offered.
 * Other nice places for hiking are the Mount Longonot National Park and the Menengai Crater, a massive shield volcano with one of the biggest calderas in the world, in the Great Rift Valley, Kenya. It is the largest volcano caldera in Kenya and the second largest volcano caldera in Africa
 * Safari: Nairobi is the capital of safaris in Kenya. There are tour operators from budget to world class all over the city. Yet it is not easy find the best fitting. For important things to consider when booking see Kenya.
 * The Ngong Forest Reserve is 25 km south west of Nairobi. It is a popular walking and picnicking venue. In Ngong is a station where you have to pay the park entry fee, and those who want to also for a guide. There is only one route, the walk from Ngong to Corner Baridi (Kiserian), which takes about 4–5 hr; you hardly can get lost. Also organized hiking tours are offered.
 * Other nice places for hiking are the Mount Longonot National Park and the Menengai Crater, a massive shield volcano with one of the biggest calderas in the world, in the Great Rift Valley, Kenya. It is the largest volcano caldera in Kenya and the second largest volcano caldera in Africa
 * Safari: Nairobi is the capital of safaris in Kenya. There are tour operators from budget to world class all over the city. Yet it is not easy find the best fitting. For important things to consider when booking see Kenya.

Money
This may also be a good place to repeat the warning about safety. Pickpockets are rampant in Nairobi and have been known to keep an eye on people getting cash from a machine. It is best to carry cash in a hidden pouch rather than a wallet. Men should not carry their wallets in their back pockets, and women should not carry their purses to the side or behind them, particularly in busy locations.

 * Credit cards: Many stores will accept international credit cards. all big supermarket chains accept credit cards without a surcharge.
 * ATM: There are networked banking machines in major shopping areas of Nairobi and in the Nairobi airport. Ecobank. Cooperative Bank, Gt Bank, NCBA, Sidian bank, DTB, I&M charges no fees for withdrawals (e.g. by Visa or Mastercard) through their ATMs. Absa and Standard Chartered Bank, Stanbic, Equity, BOA, KCB have a minimum Ksh 400-700 ATM fee for overseas cards at all their ATMs. Eco Bank has atms in 36 African countires.
 * Cash: Most transactions are cash only, so it is best to have enough cash on hand to pay for purchases and transport. Cash is dispensed in units of Ksh 1,000. Many smaller businesses will not have much change, so before going shopping for curios be sure to have a good selection of smaller notes.
 * Forex bureaus are found in many parts of the city where tourists are common. They will exchange cash of different currencies, and may also accept a personal cheque for Kenyan cash. They will want a photocopy of your passport before they exchange money. Rates are not bad, but will be worse than a banking machine will offer. Many exchange bureaus and hotels will not accept or exchange American currency printed before 2000. When the exchange bureaus do accept pre-2000 notes, they typically offer substantially lower exchange rates than for currency printed after 2000. Exchange rates are also typically lower for small denomination currency than for US$100 and $50 bills.
 * Cashless payment: Another essential phone tool is M-Pesa. It is a mobile phone-based platform used for most money transactions in Kenya. M-Pesa agents are available all over Kenya. You can use the platform instead of carrying cash around for safety purposes.

Shopping
For local curios and souvenirs, the most easily accessible and tourist-friendly is the Maasai Market, held on Fridays at the Village Market, an upmarket, open concept shopping centre near the United Nations and American Embassy complexes. Bargaining is necessary, and one should probably not spend more than Ksh 1,000 on one item, except in extraordinary circumstances.

For slightly better prices, visit the Tuesday market in town, just down from the Norfolk hotel. This market is less secure, but is larger and offers more variety and opportunity for bargaining.

Biashara Street, downtown, is the spot for textiles. Make sure you pick up at least one kikoi or kikoy (a traditional wrap for Swahili men, predominantly at the coast).

Eat

Nairobi has a wide range of Indian restaurants that speaks to the significant South Asian community in Kenya. The city also offers other restaurants specializing in different European and Asian cuisine. Restaurants serving international cuisines can be found in downtown and in the areas of Westlands, Hurlingham, Kilimiani, and Lavington. Among the many cuisines available are Italian, Brazilian, Chinese, Thai, Japanese, German and French restaurants.

In addition, there are several local restaurants that cater to local cuisine like sukuma wiki (green spinach-like vegetable, 'Kale' in English), ugali (corn bread, ground maize flour and made to a tasty white bread/porridge form), nyama choma (literally: meat roast), chapati and other specialities.

There are also many of the internationally well-known fast-food chains in the city and they are also very popular with the Kenyan youth.

Mid-range
Nairobi has a fantastic array of mid-range eateries.

Drink

 * Double Inn: Also out in Karen, they show rugby/cricket games and it's always full of expats and white Kenyans. The place to get hammered.
 * Double Inn: Also out in Karen, they show rugby/cricket games and it's always full of expats and white Kenyans. The place to get hammered.
 * Double Inn: Also out in Karen, they show rugby/cricket games and it's always full of expats and white Kenyans. The place to get hammered.

Budget

 * The area around Tom Mboya Street & River Road has a lot of low cost hotels. Budget accommodation in Nairobi is from Ksh 1000 for a single room.

Stay safe
Nairobi has a reputation for thievery. Beware of snatch and grab, con artists, or groups of people following you. Scams are elaborate and can involve up to 10 or more people working together. The best advice for a tourist is to stay in the city centre, know where you are at all times, and pretend you know where you're going (even if you don't). If you find yourself in an unfamiliar area your best bet is to find a taxi (although you will probably pay dearly if the driver suspects a panicked westerner!) Don't carry large quantities of money or passports on the street, and assume that anyone trying to engage you is up to no good or trying to sell you something. If one stays smart and plays safe, without going around much after dark, Nairobi can be a safe place to stay. Most locals are honest people who will happily help you if you approach them. The areas where you have to take special care are: Globe roundabout, Archives, Ambassadeur, Muthurwa Market, around Nation Centre, Landies road, Nyamakima, Kirinyaga road, Uhuru

Kenyans are proud people and there is not a lot of begging like you find in some other countries. Some opportunistic people will hang around shopping centres and beg, but they will generally accept a simple 'sorry' and leave you alone if you do not give. Many of these 'beggars' are middle-class kids or adults who have realised they can profit from exploiting white guilt, and should not be encouraged. If you are ever lucky enough to visit a slum as a local (not on some perverse tourist safari) you will discover the poorest of the poor do not even beg.

Outside of tourist and expat communities, young children will become excited at the sight of a white person and may come running towards you to try to shake your hand while yelling out 'mzungu' (white person) or 'how are you?'. Older kids are more reserved, and you should be wary of kids who are older than 9 or 10 who are trying to distract or get close to you.

Slums should be avoided by tourists as you will attract a lot of attention which can quickly turn into a dangerous situation.

Apart from the inner city centre, Nairobi dies out at night. Streets are mostly empty. Do not walk alone after nightfall. Always use taxis. The areas north and east of River Road should be avoided, especially if you're not a local!

Biashara Street is a safe shopping street due to the presence of 10-15 Maasai guards. A place to avoid as a tourist is the City Market; you could end up paying a much higher price than on Biashara Street.

If you are in a matatu and moving slowly through traffic, particularly after dark, you should keep your window closed if your valuables are in reach to prevent people snatching them from the outside (there are thieves who walk through traffic looking for such opportunities). Mobile phones and wallets should be securely kept and not displayed prominently during calls or cash transactions in the River Road area, particularly after dark.

Eastleigh (known as 'little Mogadishu') is an area near the city centre that is decaying due to years of neglect by the government (including the police). It is predominantly populated by Somalian migrants and refugees, and most Kenyans will not go there for fear of their safety. Tourists would be wise to avoid it day and night.

There have been several grenade attacks in the city for which Al-Shabaab have claimed responsibility. These are likely to be ongoing while the Kenyan army has a presence in Somalia. They are random and often fatal, and one should be wary and report any suspicious behaviour. Associated with the terrorist threat, you can expect to pass through security checkpoints with armed guards at most attractions, shopping malls and even on the streets. You can expect (at times) to have to have your bags searched, and car checked.

Stay healthy
It is recommended that before tourists come to Nairobi, that they should be vaccinated well in advance (6 weeks) of their trip. The most common recommended vaccines for people traveling to Africa are Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Yellow Fever, Rabies and Meningitis.

Food and beverages
Be careful with the food that you eat outside the more upscale establishments. Before eating, make sure that the food is freshly and thoroughly cooked and served hot. Also avoid seafood, except at upmarket restaurants and hotels, and make sure that your fruits and vegetables have been properly washed in clean water. The safest fruits to eat are bananas and papayas.

Do not drink tap water or brush your teeth with it. Only use bottled or canned drinks (especially popular brands). Also, do not use ice as it may also be contaminated water, and remember that alcohol does not sterilize a drink. The general rule of thumb is, the more high end an establishment is, the greater the safety of the food and drink within.

Insects
In Africa you are going to be exposed to yellow fever, dengue fever, other viral diseases, sleeping sickness, filariasis and malaria, although none of these diseases is a concern in Nairobi. When insects are biting you should cover up and wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers, socks and pyjamas especially when night falls. It is best to use an insect repellent that contains DEET on your exposed skin and clothing. As for mosquito nets, it is best to use a permethrin-impregnated net along with an insecticide such a pyrethrum coils or an electric mosquito killer during the night. And remember to spray your hotel room every evening.

Heat and sun
Make sure to drink plenty of fluids (not coffee, alcohol or strong tea) to avoid dehydration. To know if you well hydrated, you body would always produce plenty of clear urine. The average temperature is around 25°C (maximum might reach 30°C) throughout the year. People coming from Asian countries like India will not have much problem with the weather, in fact it would definitely seem pleasant all along the year. For people who are from cold countries it takes them three weeks to become accustomed to the heat. Try to avoid plenty of physical exertion and try to stay in the shade and keep cool as much as possible. Increase the amount of salt intake in your food and water. Also, apply a lot of high factor sunscreen, avoid direct sunlight, and try to wear a hat and shady clothing.

Connect
There are very many internet cafés around Nairobi, but connection speeds and computers are not always super fast, but still you will manage to open your email, probably even use a webcam or watch YouTube. Prices are usually at ranges from Ksh 0.5/minute to Ksh 1/minute, usually with a minimum fee of Ksh 5-20. The more expensive internet cafés are rarely better and the best ones charge Ksh 1/minute with discounts for using the internet for longer. Most of the good cafés are found in Norwich Union which has quite a number just opposite Hilton Hotel next to Nandos while the expensive ones are found in malls in Westlands. Although it may be more appropriate for tourists to use the ones in Westlands since they are usually less crowded and are more exclusive but not necessarily faster or better in terms of equipment.

Free wireless internet is available at Java House restaurants and Doorman's coffee shops in the city and malls. Some bars like Havana in Westlands also offer free wifi. The internet cafe in Sarit Centre also has wireless internet available at a good speed and a reasonable price.

Mobile phones are ubiquitous in Kenya with fairly good coverage from all providers Safaricom, Airtel and Telkom that extends to most populated parts of the country. Safaricom has the best national coverage especially if you are using 4G data. The phone system is GSM 900 and 3G-4G 2100 (Asian and European standard) on Safaricom, Airtel and Telkom Phones and SIM cards are available at many locations throughout Nairobi and the country including at the airport. Phone prices are very competitive and priced for average income Kenyans. A basic phone may be obtained new from an independent dealer for ~Ksh 2000. A vast majority of people use pre-paid phones with scratch-card top-ups available at a huge number of merchants across the country. Phones are sold "unlocked" by outlets for use on any network. Safaricom though does sell a number of phones locked to its network. Much business is conducted via mobile phone, so possession of one for even a relatively short stay in the country can be beneficial. Rates are extremely affordable with in-country calls at around Ksh 3 per minute. Overseas calls cost around Ksh 5 per minute to the United States (~USD$0.06/minute) and Ksh 3 per minute to India on the Airtel network.

3G data service is available in most coverage areas on Safaricom and is of a fairly high standard. The other networks have 3G in major population areas and EDGE/GPRS everywhere else. If you have a smart phone you should buy a data pack (200mb, 500mb or 1.5gb) or your credit will go down very fast. Airtel and Telekom have lower prices for calls and data.

Cope
Smoking is against the law out on the streets in the city centre (the downtown grid area with numerous skyscrapers). There are certain smoking zones, and outside of the city centre it becomes much easier to find locations where it is acceptable. However, a general rule would be to not smoke along the side of any roads or streets with pedestrians and/or vehicles. Be observant and take your cues from other smokers - if there are no smokers or cigarette butts on the ground, it is likely a non-smoking location.

Embassies, Consulates and High Commissions

 * 🇦🇺 Australia
 * 🇨🇳 China
 * 🇨🇾 Cyprus
 * 🇩🇯 Djibouti
 * 🇪🇬 Egypt
 * 🇪🇷 Eritrea
 * 🇪🇹 Ethiopia
 * 🇫🇮 Finland
 * 🇩🇪 Germany
 * 🇬🇷 Greece
 * 🇮🇩 Indonesia
 * 🇯🇵 Japan
 * 🇳🇬 Nigeria
 * 🇷🇴 Romania
 * 🇰🇷 South Korea
 * 🇪🇸 Spain
 * 🇷🇼 Rwanda
 * 🇷🇸 Serbia
 * 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
 * 🇺🇸 United States

Go next

 * Kisumu
 * Kakamega Rainforest: the last primeval rainforest in the country, and home to various monkeys and hundreds of bird species
 * Lake Naivasha is worth at least a day's visit and has enough to keep you occupied for two or three days. Lakeshore country clubs are a good place for lunch. You can take a boat ride on the lake to see hippos, go for a walk among zebra and giraffes on Crescent Island, ride thoroughbred horses among zebra, giraffes and wildebeest at the Sanctuary Farm, and ride bicycles among wildlife and dramatic scenery at Hell's Gate National Park.
 * Nakuru National Park, although further afield, deservedly warrants a 1-night stay for a late-afternoon and early-morning game drive.
 * Maasai Mara National Reserve: Kenya's most important National Park
 * Mount Longonot National Park: Daytrip to hike on a 2700m volcano
 * Aberdare National Park: known for high population of rhinos
 * Ol Pejeta Conservatory provides a sanctuary for great apes and rhinos

title: Nairobi


text:
Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park is the closest national park to Nairobi in Kenya. It is a half-hour drive from the city, making it a good destination for a day trip.

History
British colonists arrived in the area where the park is in the late 19th century. At this time, the Athi plains east and south of what is today Nairobi had plentiful wildlife. Nomadic Maasai lived and herded their cattle among the wildlife. Kikuyu people farmed the forested highlands above Nairobi. As Nairobi grew—it had 14,000 residents by 1910—conflicts between humans and animals increased. Residents of the city carried guns at night to protect against lions. People complained that giraffes and zebras walked on and ruined their flower beds. Animals were gradually confined to the expansive plains to the west and south of Nairobi, and the colonial government set this area aside as a game reserve. Settlers from Nairobi including Isak Dinesen, author of Out of Africa, rode horses among gazelles, impala, and zebras in this reserve.

The conservationist Mervyn Cowie was born in Nairobi. Returning to Kenya after a nine-year absence in 1932, he was alarmed to see that the amount of game animals on the Athi plains had dwindled. Expanding farms and livestock had taken the place of the game. He later recalled this place as a paradise that was quickly disappearing. At this time, the area that would later become Nairobi National Park was part of the Southern Game Reserve. Hunting was not permitted in the reserve, but nearly every other activity, including cattle grazing, dumping, and even bombing by the Royal Air Force was allowed. Cowie started to campaign for the establishment of a national park system in Kenya. The government formed a committee to examine the matter.

Opened in 1946, Nairobi National Park was the first national park established in Kenya. Masai pastoralists were removed from their lands when the park was created. Cowie was named as director of Nairobi National Park and held this position until 1966. In 1989, Kenyan President Daniel arap Moi burned twelve tons of ivory on a site within the park. This event improved Kenya's conservation and wildlife protection image.

Fees and permits
Payments for park entry vary according to age, residence and plan of stay.

Adults - Ksh 500 per day without a tour guide, Ksh 1000 with tour guide.

Children (14 years and below) - Ksh 250 without a tour guide, Ksh 500 with tour guide.

Get around
Nairobi National Park is one of the few game reserves in the world that is inside a city. It is 10 min from the city centre off Langata Road, and can give you your first feel of what Kenya has to offer, or for a quick visit for those without the time to see the Mara, Serengeti, or Amboseli. You will be most comfortable in a four-wheel-drive, van, jeep, or truck, as the terrain remains natural and rough. You can use a saloon,though it will most definitely be a rough drive.

There are many car hire firms that offer pick-ups and drops in vans, costing Ksh 6,000-15,000 per day.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Nairobi National Park


text:
Nai Thon and Nai Yang

Nai Thon (หาดในทอน Hat Nai Thon) and Nai Yang (หาดในยาง Hat Nai Yang) are two adjacent quiet beaches in northern Phuket. There are a few hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants in both towns. The atmosphere is generally laid back and quiet. New hotel projects are in the process of being built so it will change here too.

Understand
Nai Thon is at the foot of high hills and has a fine strip of sand. This quiet bay is good for swimming.

Nai Yang is basically a narrow road running towards the beach and a strip of two storey hotels and restaurants along the sea front. Mostly, the town caters towards families and older people wanting a break. In this respect, it offers a subdued and relaxed atmosphere and is almost free of the sleaze that is common to many Thai beach resorts. With its golden sandy beach, forests, small lagoon and island, the town is the quintessential coastal resort.

Sirinat National Park(อุทยานแห่งชาติสิรินาถ) covers an area of 90 square km, stretching all the way to the island's northern tip. The park headquarters are on Nai Yang, with shady pine trees providing excellent opportunities for swimming and relaxation. Off-shore is a large coral reef which serves as habitat for sea life, particularly sea turtles.

Get in
It is only a short taxi ride to and from the airport. The taxi stand outside the airport building arranges cars for 300 Baht

Get around
Walk! Bikes available for rent for 200 baht per day. Motorbikes are 300 baht in the high season.

Short taxi rides (to your accommodation on the main road for example) are 150 baht and up. Negotiate.

See
Mangrove forests, situated on the island's northern tip, cover a large area of 320 acres. A nature trail has been cleared for the convenience of visitors with signs indicating and explaining the various species.

Do
Basically this is a chill on the beach sort of place! It seems that the most popular thing to do is to have a massage.

You can kite surf in summer season. Don't expect strong winds, so take your biggest kites. There are waves on one side of the lagoon and flat water with reef break on the other. Kite schools KBA and Kitezone will help you with lessons and gear.

You can go snorkelling off the beach in Nai Yang from the life guard post in the park. (You don't pay park entrance fee when you walk in from the beach.) There's some fish/animal life and the corals are starting to grow/recover from the 2004 tsunami.

Eat
Small informal restaurants are situated literally on the sand for the length of Nai Thon and Nai Yang Beach, and offer a relaxing meal at minimal cost. Food is either cooked in tents on the beach or in houses across the road. Tables and chairs are set up on the sand, and range from plastic outdoor settings to solid wooden settings with tablecloth. However, appearances can be deceiving, as the tackier looking restaurants often dish up better meals.

Mains start at around 70 baht, offering excellent value for money, but service can sometimes be slow, and orders confused if made in English. The key is to sit back, smile and soak up the serenity; beach-front dining on pocket change doesn't get much better than this.

title: Nai Thon and Nai Yang


text:
Naivasha

Naivasha is a city in Kenya, 90 km northwest of Nairobi on Lake Naivasha.

Get in
There are frequent matatus from Nairobi (1½ hr, Ksh 300), from Nyahururu (2 hours, Ksh 400), and sometimes from Narok (126 kms 2.5 hours Ksh 400). The bus or matatu fare from Naivasha to Nakuru is Ksh 300 and the trip takes one hour.

The new high-speed standard gauge railway (SGR) from Mombasa and Nairobi does not serve Naivasha directly but rather stops in Suswa, located 35 km to the southwest. Journey time from Nairobi is just over 1½ hours. This new line is useful for travelling to some of the national parks in the vicinity, but not the city itself. However, the old slower line between Nairobi and Nakuru has a station in central Naivasha, the old line has rehabilitated and limited passenger traffic is running. National operator passenger rail operator Kenya Railways Corporation maintains schedules at their website. There is one train a week to Kisumu every Friday costing Ksh 600 (as of 2021).

Some trains on the old metre gauge line will connect with the SGR at Naivasha ICD railway station while others continue to Nairobi.

Get around
Matatus run along the Moi South Lake Rd to Kongoni (one hour, Ksh 100). You can get off for the Hell's Gate National Park on the way.

See

 * Lake Naivasha is a beautiful freshwater lake with the highest elevation of the Kenyan Rift valley at 1,890 m. It's a popular weekend getaway for Nairobians.
 * Hell's Gate National Park, outside the town, south of Lake Naivasha.

Do

 * Take a boat ride on Lake Naivasha to see the birds and hippos (allegedly morning between 7-9 is best for Hippos as they sunbathe a bit, otherwise you only see their snouts). You can combine that with a transfer to Crescent Island.
 * Bike through Hell's Gate National Park and see the zebra, gazelle and warthogs. It can also be a half-day hike, you can see more that way because the bike ride is a bit taxing and takes your attention. The Ol Njorowa Gorge is unfortunately closed due to past flash flood casualties. Mvuke Spa Geothermal Spa fed by a Sulphur Hot Spring in the Northwest of the park is a nice way to end an adventurous day if you manage to arrive before they close at 6pm.
 * Dine on fresh fish from the lake (Tilapia & Mudfish).

Eat
The lodges and other accommodation usually have a restaurant (and bar) on site. You can also visit the local villages for fresh and very cheap Kenyan food in the restaurants and cafes.

Drink
Most lodges have a bar on site, sometimes with a TV for sports. For cheaper beer go to the bars in the villages.

Sleep
The shores of Lake Naivasha are dotted with lodging options, ranging from camping ground to high-end hotels.

Go next
From Naivasha Town you can catch a matatu north to Nakuru.
 * Hell's Gate National Park
 * Mount Longonot National Park

title: Naivasha


text:
Najaf

Najaf is a city in Southern Iraq.

Understand
The city covered by this article, usually referred to outside Iraq as "Najaf", in fact consists of two cities which, over the centuries, have grown until they joined together. These are Najaf, in the west, and Kufa (sometimes spelled Kufah), in the east. Both are considered holy by Shi'a Muslims, containing the graves of various important religious figures. Additionally, many key events in the lives of these figures took place in Najaf and/or Kufa. As such, the vast majority of visitors to Najaf are Shi'a pilgrims (referred to as Zuwwar in Arabic, or Za'ir in the singular), and they usually travel in groups, guided by a religious scholar. Nonetheless, independent travel is now also possible.

Get in
There are several daily flights from the capital Baghdad as well as several cities in Iran with national carrier Iraqi Airways. Additionally, there are a limited number of international flights from hubs such as Istanbul and Dubai.

You can take shared taxis to/from Baghdad, Karbala, and other cities. Shared taxis to/from Karbala are 3,000 IQD (76km one way), to/from Nasiriyah are 15,000 IQD (256km one way), to/from Hillah are 7,500 IQD, and to/from Baghdad are 15,000 IQD (as of October 2022).

Get around
Careem (ridesharing app, owned by Uber) is available in Najaf, and takes international credit cards. Note that there are roadblocks around the Imam Ali Mosque which may require a "Careem Old City" service to get past (prices are pretty much the same as the regular Careem services though).

See

Najaf is renowned as the site of the Tomb of Alī ibn Abī Tālib also known as "Imām Alī" the First Imam of Shia's, the cousin and son-in-law of the prophet Muhammad whom the Shia consider to be the righteous caliph. The city is now a great center of pilgrimage from throughout the Shi'a Islamic world. It is estimated that only Mecca and Medina receive more Muslim pilgrims. As the burial site of Shia Islam's second most important figure, the Imam Ali Mosque is considered by Shias as the third holiest Islamic site.

The Imam Ali Mosque is housed in a grand structure with a gold gilded dome and many precious objects in the walls. Nearby is the Wadi-us-Salaam cemetery, reputed to be the largest in the world. It contains the tombs of several prophets and many of the devout from around the world aspire to be buried here, to be raised from the dead with Imām Alī on Judgement Day. Over the centuries, numerous hospices, schools, libraries and Sufi convents were built around the shrine to make the city the centre of Shīʻa learning and theology.

The Najaf seminary is one of the most important teaching centres in the Islamic world. Ayatollah Khomeini lectured there from 1964–1978. Many of the leading figures of the new Islamic movement that emerged in Iraq, Iran and Lebanon in the 1970s had studied at Najaf.

The Afghan city of Mazar-e Sharif also has a site which claims to be Ali's tomb and draws many pilgrims, but Najaf's claim is more widely accepted.

The countryside around Najaf is home to several khans, sometimes also called caravanserais. They were fortified roadside inns built to accommodate travelers overnight. Most of the more impressive ones are located on the historic route between Najaf and Karbala which served as an important trade and religious route.

Money
In busy areas, independent money changers set up small stands in the street. They usually offer a better exchange rate than "official" locations (such as at airports), and commonly sell local SIM cards as well.

Souvenirs
The usual souvenirs from Najaf are tasbih (prayer beads), turbah (a small piece of clay which Shi'a Muslims prostate upon in prayer), and aqeeq (gemstone) rings. In areas frequented by pilgrims, you will find an abundance of small shops selling these.

Drink
In busy areas of Najaf, there are stands selling small cups of black tea. These may cost as little as 250 Dinars, and can be served with or without sugar.

Stay safe
See the warning in the Iraq article.

Nonetheless, Najaf is one of the safest cities in Iraq. As the city is almost entirely Shi'a, ISIS and al-Qaeda have never had any popular support here. There is an extensive network of (highly effective) military and police checkpoints to keep out any would-be infiltrators, especially around areas of interest to pilgrims and tourists (such as mosques and shrines). Expect to be patted down several times before entering the inner part of a shrine.

Respect
Najaf is a holy city in Shi'a Islam, and therefore very conservative, even by Middle Eastern standards. Unlike in some of Iraq's more liberal cities, do not bother looking for alcohol here. Women are expected to wear Iranian-style chadors.

Go next
Most visitors to Najaf are Shi'a pilgrims. The pilgrimage to Iraq is called Ziyarah in Arabic, and a "complete" Ziyarah will involve visiting Karbala, Kadhimain (in Baghdad), and Samarra after Najaf, as these are the burial sites of other Imams (the twelve successors of the Prophet Muhammad, in Shi'a Islam). Other, comparatively minor, pilgrimage sites in Iraq include Hillah and Balad.

title: Najaf


text:
Najran

Najran (previously Aba as Sa'ud) is the principal city of Najran province in south-western Saudi Arabia.

Get in

 * The Najran airport is connected via Saudia to principal cities around the country, including Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam.

Get around

 * There is little evidence of public transport in town; taxi or car hire are available. The city is a 15 km long line along the highway, so very little is walkable. The countryside around the city (e.g. the highway to Abha) has a large number of police checkpoints, to combat smuggling to/from Yemen; police escorts for tourists are common, and not as much fun as they sound.

See

 * Due to the proximity to the Yemeni border, there is a wide variety of traditional mud architecture to be seen.
 * The city itself has an interesting souq area, with a fort.

Sleep

 * There is a Park Inn by Radisson, of all things. It provides adequate rooms.

Go next

 * Although the city is the closest major Saudi city to the Yemen border, land travel across may not be possible, and is certainly not recommended due to the high level of violence in the area.

title: Najran


text:
Naju

Naju (나주,羅州) is a city in South Jeolla, South Korea.

Understand
Naju is located in the mid-western part of Jeollanam-do. It is bordered by Hwasun-gun, Jeollanam-do to the east, Muan-gun and Hampyeong-gun to the west, Yeongam-gun to the south, and Gwangju Metropolitan City to the north. The area is 608.37㎢, accounting for 4.9% of the total area of Jeollanam-do. As of 2020, the population was 118,251, accounting for 6.3% of the total population of Jeollanam-do.

Get in
You can get in by bus, train or plane.

By bus
There are several daily express buses from Seoul. The trip takes about 4 hours. From Gwangju, the express buses run every 30 minutes or so and lasts 45 minutes. You can also take various city buses, like the 180 that runs every 5–10 minutes and several of the 160 routes go to Naju as well.

By train
By train, the fastest route is the KTX. From Seoul it takes just under 3 hours. You can also take a slower, cheaper train. There are over a dozen leaving from Seoul every day. Almost all trains that go on to Mokpo will make a stop in Naju.

By plane
Gwangju has the nearest airport. From there you can catch the 180. Or a taxi from Gwangju will cost you between ₩25,000 to ₩50,000 (depending on the time of day and your haggling skills).

Get around
Taxis are really cheap. You can get anywhere in Naju for under ₩7,000. Or you can take the 160 bus for ₩1,000. It goes to all points of interest across Naju.

Do
If you want to get a driver's licence in South Jeolla, you have to do it in Naju (specifically in Yeongsanpo).

Buy
Every five days, the five day market rolls into Naju. Haggle with the old women for their fruits, vegetables, and various unrecognizable seafoods.

Eat
Naju is known across the country for its pear called the Naju pear. It's very large with the consistency of an apple and the taste of a pear. Very refreshing in the summer. Yeongsanpo, an area of Naju, is famous for its fermented skate fish. Try it at your own risk.

Sleep
There are tons of love motels in every area of Naju. Some are less sketchy than others.

Go next

 * Naju Lake is a sort of water park. You can get there by one of the 160 routes.
 * Mokpo is less than an hour away by express bus or train.
 * Gwangju is even closer and more accessible by bus.

title: Naju


text:
Nakashibetsu

Nakashibetsu (中標津町 Nakashibetsu-cho) is a town in Hokkaido.

Understand
Nakashibetsu is one of the larger towns in the Nemuro subprefecture of Hokkaido, larger than some cities. Its airport makes it the transport hub of Eastern Hokkaido.

Tourist information site
The local tourist association has a bilingual guide site.

By bus
A night bus runs to and from Sapporo.

Go next
A shuttle bus tied to the schedule of the planes runs to Nemuro and Betsukai. Nakashibetsu bus terminal is also a hub for buses serving the Akan and Shiretoko region, with several daily buses to Rausu.

title: Nakashibetsu


text:
Nakbé

Nakbé is an early Maya archaeological site located in the Petén department of the Northern Lowlands of Guatemala.

History
Abandoned around the time of the rise of El Mirador, and it had somewhat of a resurgence during the Late Classic.

Climate
Tropical rainy forest half of the year.

Get in
With mules and guide from El Mirador. This trip is usually done this way, but if you are on your way to Naachtun, you may be coming from Uaxactun.

Fees and permits
None. The two vigilantes (guards) are pleased when you sign their guest book. Odds are that the previous visitors were there a month before. One of them will go to a lot of effort to show you around. Tips are appreciated, especially hard liquor.

Drink
Bring your own alcoholic beverages.

Sleep
See El Mirador.

Lodging
Hammocks and mosquito nets.

title: Nakbé


text:
Nakło

Nakło is a village in Silesia, in southern Poland. It lies approximately 8 kilometres (5 mi) south-east of Lelów, 46 km (29 mi) east of Częstochowa, 84 km (52 mi) north of Kraków 68 km (42 mi) north-east of the regional capital Katowice.

The village has a population of 614.

See
Architectural relics include a brick church built at the turn of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries and consecrated in 1726 by Bishop Augustine Wessel, and an 18th century neoclassical palace. The Palace at Nakło was designed by Polish economist and royal architect Jan Ferdynand Nax.

title: Nakło


text:
Nakfa

Nakfa is a town in Eritrea. It is about ten hours by taxi from the Eritrean capital of Asmara. In the moment it is not possible to get a travel permit to go to Nakfa, so for tourists it is out of reach.

Understand
Nakfa is the remotest village of Eritrea but at the same time the most sought after place. This was the place where the Eritrean Peoples Liberation Front or the E.P.L.F. fought bravely for nearly 30 years before liberating Eritrea from the rule of the Ethiopian government. For this reason the currency of Eritrea is also named ‘Nakfa’.

The road from Afabet to Nakfa is winding like all the other roads in this country. But in this sector it is extremely narrow and the village van bulges with passengers. The people here are all tribal Muslims and they live in small stone huts without plastering. More important is the generator which is essential as this village has no electricity. Even a telephone is available in the village but it works on sunny days only as the power source is solar. You can’t dial home directly either as it is a link system and it takes quite some time to connect to Asmara. But the telephone booth looks ‘crowded’ all the day as those who come in the morning wait the whole day to get connected. Once connected you can talk aloud but there is no guarantee of your message reaching the other end as the signals are often very weak.

Get in
Nakfa is a nice place to go but it is not easy to reach. But alas, there are no bus services and taxi drivers simply refuse to go there. Given the unlikely case that you got a travel permit you have to take a bus to Keren town where a village van going to Afabet can be arranged on the next day.

You have to accommodate yourself with cattle and carry bags but you will reach Afabet within a few hours of comfortless travel. Afabet is the place where you have to show your patience. Transport to Nakfa is certainly available but you have to wait for one or two days.

Get around
There are no taxis or buses atop the mountain. But you don't need any of them as the place is very pleasant for walking. Look out for land mines.

See
If Nakfa is not beautiful, what is beauty? Perched atop 1,780 metres above the sea level, this little African village is rich in history and scenic beauty. Nakfa is beautiful because of the undulating nature of the Sahel mountain range in this area. You don’t see a single mountain but hundreds and hundreds of small hills rolling to all the four sides of your observation point. Nakfa is one of the few villages in Africa where shifting cultivation and nomadic herding is still in practice. The tribal population shifts from mountain to mountain in search of better pastures.

Each tribal house is built on a separate hillock. The house is only one room made of stones and the roof is made up of corrugated sheets these days. There is a small enclosure outside every house which is used as a bathhouse. All chores of the home are done outside. In the evening all the cattle are simply put outside the hut without employing ropes, fences or identity tags. Water is not plenty but there are some tanks and streams where the animals crowd to quench their thirst. They all dry up in summer and the big camel population here depends upon cactus stalks for their water requirements. It is real fun to see the camel eating the cactus without harming itself with the very sharp thorn.

The people of Nakfa live in harmony with nature. They eat what they cultivate and drink what their cattle provides them. Coco Cola comes only once a month to the top of the hill and then there is real celebration around the truck. Everybody insists on finishing the whole load within the next few hours. You are reminded of the commercials of Coco Cola on the television. But then Eritrea is one country where the fanciful and the real meet each other. When you travel the spiral path down the plateau of Asmara, you can see the long Coco Cola truck climbing up the hairpin bends, just like their magazine ads.

Do
The village markets are very vibrant and suitable for a stroll around. The little hillocks are worth visiting provided you keep limited to beaten tracks because land mines can be a real hazard.

Eat
The food is sumptuous. For ten Nakfa, you can have ‘injira’ and ‘zigni’ which is something like the Indian dosai and mutton curry.

Go next
Keren is where you could explore picturesque foothills in the second largest city in Eritrea.

title: Nakfa


text:
Nakhchivan

There is more than one place called Nakhchivan:

Azerbaijan

 * Nakhchivan (region) - an exclave of Azerbaijan surrounded by Armenia, Iran, and Turkey.

Nakhchivan (region)

 * Nakhchivan (city) - the capital city of the Nakhchivan (region).

title: Nakhchivan


text:
Nakhchivan (region)

Nakhchivan is an exclave of Azerbaijan, which borders Turkey to the northwest, Armenia to the north and east, and Iran to the south.

Cities

 * city

 * , Babek Rayon (district)
 * , Julfa Rayon (district)
 * , Kangarli Rayon (district)
 * , Ordubad Rayon (district)
 * , Sadarak Rayon (district)
 * , Shahbuz Rayon (district)
 * , Sharur Rayon (district)

Understand
Nakhchivan is separated from the rest of Azerbaijan by Armenia, with which Azerbaijan is still at war. The region is not a major tourist destination.

The Tourist information Centre, in the brown domed building (historically a madrasa) opposite the Tabriz Hotel, can offer advice on what to see and gives free guides and maps. The helpful staff can speak Azeri, Russian, and English.

Talk
The national language is Azeri; Turkish and Russian are also widely understood.

By plane
The best way to get to Nakhchivan is to fly to Nakhchivan International Airport. Azal operates a shuttle service, heavily subsidized by the Azeri government.

Airfare prices are different for foreigners than for Azeris. You can book a flight on the AZAL (Azerbaijan Airlines) website in English, azal.az, by using your credit card. Flights book out day several days in advance, so it is worth planning ahead.

Foreign rates:

 * Nakchivan/Baku and vice versa = 70 manat (2019)
 * Nakchivan/Ganja = 39 manat (2011). As of October 2019, this route seems to be no longer operational.

There are buses and taxis to the city, which is 3 km away. Minibuses depart from the tiny bus station in front of the airport, just across the parking lot. City buses do have numbers written on them and stop relatively frequent. Fare is 0.30 manat for travel in town, almost all of them will stop at the long distance bus terminal (Avtovagzal) in the north of town, where one can catch also minibuses to other parts of the enclave. Check the signs in the windshield which show the major stops of the bus.

Alternative airport with connections to Ankara is at Erzurum, 250 km west of Nakhchivan.

By train
There is twice-weekly train service between Nakhchivan and the Iranian cities of Tabriz and Tehran. It's also possible to travel to the border crossing at Jolfa, which sees daily trains from Tabriz, and cross the border independently.

By car

Local cabs can be hired on arrival but will likely inflate prices. If you are headed to Nakchivan, having a local receive you will smooth over any unplanned border hassles. Taxi rates are linked to fuel costs. In Nakchivan it's about US$0.75/L.

By bus
The exclave has a short border with Turkey in Sədərək which allows an easy link to the city of Iğdır. There are several buses per day starting from or passing through Iğdır bus station (150 min driving time). The border is open 10 hours a day and that border guards are very corrupt – and even corruption aside, the extensive security, customs and immigration checks on both sides are likely to last two hours or more.

Buses ply the Baku — Nakhchivan route: 30 manat, 8 hr, 3 times a day (2021).

On foot
You can enter Nakhchivan on foot from the Iranian town of Jolfa, crossing the bridge across the Aras River. The border crossing is on the northern side of Ashura Square in the Iranian border town of Jolfa. Walk right to the end of the pedestrian street into the Iranian immigration building and present your passport. Following a baggage and passport check, cross the bridge on foot (around 3 minutes' walk) to the Azerbaijani side. Here you should present your passport and a print out of your eVisa to the officer in the small booth. He/she will direct you to the immigration building where you will have your visa and bags checked (make sure to have a prescription for medicines) and photo taken. The immigration officials on both sides are very friendly and helpful with some speaking English. The crossing should take around 45 minutes if there are no problems.

Taxi to Nakhchivan City outside the immigration building:
 * Private taxi: 15 manat (2017)
 * Shared taxi: 3 manat per person (2017)
 * Minibus to Nakhchivan City: 1 manat from the bus terminal in the center of town (2019) 10 minutes walk from the immigration building.

Get around
The best way to get around is by cab. There is a fixed price system when you travel within the city. It costs 3 manat to travel between any two points within the city. If you want to travel outside of the city, you have to bargain with the cab drivers. A half day taxi outside the city with multiple sights should cost around 60-70 manat. The highest price you will be charged (traveling from Sederek to Ordubad) is no more than US$50.

It is easy to catch minibuses to every village in Nakhchivan from the main bus station (Avtovagzal) in Nakhchican City. The fare is always 1 manat, no matter where you go. If you don't find the bus with your destination, you can ask around. Drivers as well as other passengers are extremely helpful and will go out of their way to help you find the right minibus for you, sometimes by calling an English speaking friend who will translate for you. For example if you want to visit Alinca Qalasi, it is best to take the bus to Qazanci, which will pass by the entrance to the castle and the tiny museum (both free). You can tell the driver where you are going so he knows where to stop.

There are hourly minibuses from Nakhchivan to Culfa which will also drop you near the border control post near the Iranian border. The Bus driver will ask the passengers when he drives into Culfa, where they want to be dropped off. The actual bus terminal is about 10 to 15 minutes walk from the immigration building.

Do
It is possible to see the highlights of Nakhchivan in one day by hiring a taxi for the morning to see the sights outside of the city (Alinjagala, Sheikh Khorasan Tomb, and Asebi Keif), and then exploring the sights of Nakhchivan city in the afternoon and evening.

Eat
Qutab, dolma (naxcivanski dolma), bozartma, xash and many more.

Drink
Wine growing in Nakhchivan is an ancient tradition, in the Araz valley and foothills. Very hot summers and long warm autumn make it possible to grow such highly saccharine grapes as bayan-shiraz, tebrizi, shirazi. Wines such as "Nakhchivan" "Shahbuz", "Abrakunis", "Aznaburk" are of reasonable quality and very popular.

Stay safe
Being an important trade center, with manifold connections to Iran and Turkey, Nakhchivan city is after Baku the most cosmopolitan city in Azerbaijan, and this is reflected also in the availability of accommodation.

Beware of officials when taking photographs. Rumor has it, even taking pictures in the direction of the Armenian border could get your camera confiscated.

Go next

 * Iran – You can cross on foot to the Iranian border town of Jolfa and then on to other cities. You must have a visa as there is no visa on arrival at Jolfa.
 * Turkey
 * Baku or Ganja – To get to Azerbaijan proper you need to fly. There are usually 3 flights to Baku per day, but because this is the only way to get to other parts of the country, flights can be booked out days in advance (sometimes up to 5). Flights are operated by AZAL and can only be booked in person in the office near the theatre in Nakhchivan City, or online on azal.az. Flights for foreigners to Baku cost 70 manat.
 * There are occasional international flights to Turkey and Russia.

title: Nakhchivan (region)


text:
Nakhodka

Nakhodka (Russian: Нахо́дка, nah-KHOHT-kuh) is a port city in Primorsky Krai. Its name means 'discovery' in Russian.

Understand
Nakhodka Bay was discovered in 1859 by a Russian corvette seeking shelter during a storm. The name is best translated as "lucky find". A small fishing village was founded in 1907, and got city rights in 1950. Unlike Vladivostok, Nakhodka was never a closed city, and the city's economy suffered a downturn when the biggest city was opened to foreign trade. Russia designated the city a "free economic zone," a variation on China's very successful Special Economic Zones, which could attract large-scale foreign investment. It is location of the port Vostochniy, the largest port in Russian Far East, and an oil-terminal for Sakhalin projects.

By train
Direct trains come from Khabarovsk every other day in cold season. In hot season they arrive daily. Don't be confused if the destination in your ticket would be read as 'Tikho'okeanskaya' (Тихоокеанская, "Pacific Ocean's") because it's The station 'Nakhodka' is up north and serves commuter purposes mostly.

Elektrichkas bound for Vladivostok and Partizansk depart 3 times a day: in the morning, at midday and in the evening.

By plane
From Vladivostok International Airport at Artyom, 50 km north of Vladivostok, one can order a taxi for ₽2000-2500. The trip that takes 3 hours.

Public buses leave Artyom's bus stop, at the right hand of the airport square.

By bus
The (Avtovokzal) is in the city's center, near the railway station Barkhatnaya (Бархатная).

Taking a bus to the capital Vladivostok is possible every 40 min and the time of travel lasts 4 hours. Bus #601 (Nakhodka-Ussuriysk) with a stop in Artyom goes three times a day.

Get around
The city spreads along the harbor for more than 40 km. The central street is Nakhodkinskii Prospekt, along the shoreline.

Common public transport in Nakhodka is taxi and public buses. Taxi usually charge for a period of time: 15 min, 30 min, 1 hour (₽200).

Viewpoints
In the 1980s several viewpoints were built on the main street, with views to port and hills.

Sleep
Nakhodka is amongst the most frequented cities in Russian Far East and there is over 40 hotels and more is under construction. You can pick a hotel in the city or get out to rest at the numerous bases along the sea.

Go next

 * Vladivostok
 * Lisiy Island.
 * Brother and Sister Hills.

title: Nakhodka


text:
Nakhon Nayok

Nakhon Nayok (นครนายก) is a city of 17,000 people (2006) in the Chao Phraya Basin region of Thailand. Nakhon Nayok is a tourist destination not far from Bangkok. The city and surrounding province come alive during the holidays with tourists. Nakhon Nayok is renowned for its refreshing waterfalls and abundant varieties of fruit.

Understand
Historically, it is believed that the area of Ban Dong Lakhon, to the south of Nakhon Nayok town, was a Dvaravati settlement, dating back for more than a thousand years. As for the name of "Nakhon Nayok", records going back to the Ayutthaya's period indicated that it was an eastern frontier town during the reign of King U-Thong. In 1894, under the royal command of King Rama V, Nakhon Nayok was designated as a part of Prachin Buri Province. Eventually, it became a separate province.

In the past, Nakhon Nayok was called "Ban Na" (village of the rice field). From hearsay, during Ayutthaya period, Nakhon Nayok was just forested highland, on which farming or planting was fruitful. Jungle fever was everywhere, thus the townspeople migrated elsewhere, leaving the place deserted. News of the plight of people reached the king. Subsequently, the king commanded that paddy field taxes be lifted to encourage the people to stay on, which worked, and also enticed the people around the area to migrate to the town. After that, it became a large community and the town was renowned as "Mueang Nayok" (the town where the paddy tax was lifted).

By car
The city is a less than a two hours drive from Bangkok. It can be reached in two ways:

 * Drive Hwy 305, along Rangsit canal passing Ongkharak. This route is about 107 km.
 * Take Hwy 1, take a right turn at Hin Gong, and then drive along Suwannason Road (Hwy 33). This route is about 137 km.

By bus
The Transport Co., Ltd. ("baw kaw saw") operates daily non-air conditioned and air conditioned buses from the Northern Bus Terminal on Kamphaengphet 2 Rd.

There are two routes: Bangkok-Hin Kong-Nakhon Nayok and Bangkok-Rangsit-Ongkharak-Nakhon Nayok. For more information, contact tel: +66 2 5378055 or +66 2 9362841. Additionally, there are specially-run second-class air conditioned buses from Bangkok-Ongkharak-Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy (by-passing Nakhon Nayok town) available.

Get around
There are tuk-tuks available for chartering around Nakhon Nayok town. They can mostly be found at the town bus terminal. For more information, contact the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Nakhon Nayok office, in city hall.

See
San Lak Mueang (City Pillar Shrine) (ศาลหลักเมือง) at one time it was a shrine housing a one metre wooden column topped with a carving in the form of a lotus bud, near the old city wall. Later the shrine was rebuilt into an elegant four-cornered pavilion. Today, City Pillar Shrine is the most revered shrine of the townspeople.

Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy (โรงเรียนนายร้อยพระจุลจอมเกล้า) A training centre for Thai military cadets.

Attractions in the Chulachomkloa Royal Military Academy include:

 * King Rama V Monument (พระบรมราชานุเสาวรีย์พระบาทสมเด็จพระจุลจอมเกล้าเจ้าอยู่หัว) It was built in honour of and reverence to King Chulachomkloa (King Rama V) who was the founder of the Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy.
 * Circular Pavilion (ศาลาวงกลม), historically, under the command of Field Marshal Crown Prince Pitsanulok Prachanat, the circular pavilion was built as a recreation area for cadets. It enshrines a statue of King Rama V.
 * 100 Year Royal Military Academy Museum (อาคารพิพิธภัณฑ์โรงเรียนนายร้อย จปร. 100 ปี) exhibits biographies of the graduates who performed public services and also displays history of wars, weapons that were used in wars in the past, various uniforms of soldiers of all forces as well as a wax sculpture of King Rama V.
 * Shrine of Chao Pho Khun Dan (ศาลเจ้าพ่อขุนด่าน) is a revered shrine of the Thais. Historically, Khun Dan was a commander in Nakhon Nayok during the Ayutthaya period.  His heroic deed was the expulsion of the Khmer rebels in the year 1587, during the reign of King Naresuan Maharat.
 * Phra Phutthachai or Wat Phra Chai (พระพุทธฉายหรือวัดพระฉาย) used to be called "Wat Khao Cha-ngok". In 1942, the army's map department built a marble quarry at the foot of the hill and restored and enhanced the Buddha images. Phra Phutthachai is sacred to the townspeople.

Luang Pho Sian Nakhon (หลวงพ่อเศียรนคร) the revered Buddha image of the townspeople is enshrined at Bunnak Rakkitaram temple (Wat Tam). It is assumed that this sacred Buddha image dates back to Phra Ruang Era of the Sukhothai period. Buddha's Footprint Replica at Khao Nang Buat (รอยพระพุทธบาทจำลองเขานางบวช), housed in a square structure with four arches and a pyramidal roof (mondop) on top of Nang Buat hill. The festivity to worship the Buddha's Footprint Replica at Khao Nang Buat is held annually in the middle of the fifth month of the lunar calendar.

Ban Dong Lakhon Archeological Site (แหล่งโบราณคดีบ้านดงละคร) It is the site of the old town during the Khmer period. Artefacts discovered here include; an elaborate gold head of a Buddha image about the size of a fingertip, crab and elephant ring-stamps, bronze ring, glass beads, rock beads, and bronze ear-rings. 37th Quartermaster Infantry of Japanese Military Memorial (อนุสรณ์สถานกองพลทหารญี่ปุ่นที่37) The Friends of Asian Alliance War Association built the memorial in 1992 to honour the 7,920 Thai soldiers who were recruited into the Japanese 37th Quartermaster Infantry and died in the war. Namtok Sarika (น้ำตกสาริกา) is the most famous waterfall of Nakhon Nayok. The waterfall cascades down 9 levels, of which the top level is 200 metres up. Each level (of 9 levels) of the falls has a large basin, which could hold a large amount of water in the rainy season, but is dry in dry season. Nearby, there is "Sarika Cave" where the revered monk "Luang Pu Man" resided on his religious missions from 1917-1920.

Lan Rak Falls or Tat Hin Kong Falls (น้ำตกลานรักหรือน้ำตกตาดหินกอง) The waterfall originates from a small stream passing through a large rocky formation at the end, then flowing strongly through the large rocky formation at the foot of a small hill.

Wang Takhrai (วังตะไคร้) is filled with huge, shady trees and has a small stream running through. There are also a variety of beautiful species of ornamental flowers and plants.

Nang Rong Falls or Namtok Nang Rong (น้ำตกนางรอง) The waterfall originates from a source on a high mountain in Khao Yai National Park. It cascades down several levels onto rock formations, flowing through verdant forests

Huai Prue Reservoir (อ่างเก็บน้ำห้วยปรือ) This is a small reservoir by volume but has a large surface area. The reservoir is filled all year round and surrounded by an unpaved road.

Sai Thong Reservoir (อ่างเก็บน้ำทรายทอง) This small reservoir offers a natural mountainous landscape. The small waterfall runs all throughout the year.

OUT-OF CITY ATTRACTIONS Ban Na District Namtok Ka-ang (น้ำตกกะอาง) The water cascades through gaps between large rocks. Nearby, there is a transplanting station of the Forestry Department. In the vicinity is a small hill that enshrines the Buddha image in an attitude of subduing Mara.

Namtok Wang Muang (น้ำตกวังม่วง) The waterfall cascades through lines upon lines of big boulders before falling to a basin.

Thudongkhasathan Thawon Nimit (ธุดงคสถานถาวรนิมิตร) is a meditation centre for monks, novices, nuns, and the general public. There are hundreds of shelters for monks, nuns, and general public to worship.

Namtok Heo Narok (น้ำตกเหวนรก) This is a 3-tiered large waterfall with its first tier at 60 metres high. During the rainy season, there is such a lot of water that the flow is frightening and will drop straight down at 90 degrees to a lower chasm.

Chao Pho Ongkharak Shrine (ศาลเจ้าพ่อองครักษ์) In front of the shrine in the middle of the Nakhon Nayok River, there is a sacred whirlpool, of which the water taken is used in royal ceremonies. When the present king, King Bhumibol Adulyadej ascended to the throne, water from this whirlpool was used during the ceremony.

Ornamental Plants and Floral Centre (ศูนย์ไม้ดอกไม้ประดับ) Various plant nurseries that grow a large variety of ornamental plants and flora which are sold to every corner of the country.

Do

 * Khao Yai-Nakhon Nayok Jungle Treks (ท่องไพรเขาใหญ่-นครนายก) is usually held during December to June. The trekking aims to promote the study of nature and ecology, as well as creating good understanding in natural resources and environmental conservation.
 * Khao Yai National Park, the first national park of Thailand was declared a national park on September 18, 1962. It covers areas of four provinces: Nakhon Nayok, Nakhon Ratchasima, Prachin Buri, and Saraburi.  The park occupies an area of 2,168 square kilometers and consists of virgin forest, tropical forest, streams, waterfalls, wildlife, and a variety of plants.  The most suitable visiting time is during the Thai winter, from October to February when it is cold at night until the next morning.  The highest point is Khao Rom Peak, which is 1,351 metres above sea level.
 * Tak Bat Thewo Rohana Fair (งานประเพณีตักบาตรเทโวโรหนะ), a festivity where offerings are made to monks. The festivity is held annually on the 1st day of the waning moon of the 11th month of the lunar calendar or the end of the Buddhist lent.  During the festivity, 109 monks descend from Wat Khao Nang Buat to accept offerings from the townspeople.
 * Sweet Plum Mango and Nakhon Nayok Products Fair (งานวันมะปรางหวานและของดีนครนายก) takes place annually during February–April in front of the City Hall. It is held to promote Ma-prang (sweet plum mangoes), and other agricultural products and handicrafts
 * Thai Merit Making (Sat Thai) and Long boat Racing Festival (งานประเพณีสารทไทยและแข่งเรือยาวประเพณี) is annually held in October along Khlong 29 at Wat Thawiphon Rangsan, Amphoe Ongkharak. The fair showcases a variety of long boats racing, a krayasat-making contest (krayasat is a sticky paste made from rice, bean, sesame, and sugar, usually eaten during Sat Thai Festival), merit making on Sat Thai day, and local entertainment at night.
 * Ongkharak Ornamental Plants and Flowers Fair (งานมหกรรมไม้ดอกไม้ประดับองครักษ์) is annually held in April at Khlong 15, Tambon Bang Pla Kot, Amphoe Ongkharak. The contests of ornamental plants and flowers, mini-garden arrangement contests, and an academic exhibition regarding plants and flowers are also held.

Local products
Sweet Plum Mango (Ma-prang, มะปราง) is the most well known fruit of Nakhon Nayok (it is a sweet fruit and is similar to "ma-yong-chit", a sour fruit). The ma-prang harvest season February to March. They are grown in a number of orchards on the Nakhon Nayok-Namtok Sarika road.

Dala (ดอกดาหลา) is a flower of Etlingera or Jack Jr. Rosemary. Along Highway 3049 as well as the route to Wang Ri Resort, a number of Dala orchards can be found. The dala's blooming season is November to May.

Marble Products (ผลิตภัณฑ์หินอ่อน): A marble quarry is located near Nakhon Nayok hospital, Amphoe Mueang, and at the intersection to Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy.

Bamboo Products (ผลิตภัณฑ์จากไม้ไผ่) Bamboo products are produced in Tambon Sarika, Amphoe Mueang. Products include a miniature sail boat, a peacock, and human faces.

Brooms (ไม้กวาด) Manufactured in Tambon Sarika, Amphoe Mueang, Tambon Na Hin Lat, Tambon Khok Kruat, Tambon Nong Saeng, Amphoe Pak Phli. The brooms are made with indigenous grass and the broomstick is made from a piece of wood from a tree of the Apocynaceae family or made of bamboo.

Doormats made from scrap cloth (พรมทอจากเศษผ้า) are produced in Tambon Khao Phoem, Amphoe Ban Na. The scrap cloth, also made into bed covers, are sold in various sizes at furniture stalls of Ban Na market and Amphoe Mueang.

Sugared Banana Chips (Kluai Chap) (กล้วยฉาบ) and sugared sweet potato and sugared taro chips are produced in Tambon Sarika, Mueang District.

Preserved Fruits (ผลไม้แช่อิ่ม) such as star apples, tamarinds, mangos, santol, and lime. They are sold at the Ban Yai intersection, Mueang District or Dong Chok Di Housewife Association at Ban Dong, Tambon Sarika, Mueang District. The supply of fruits comes from fruit orchards of the members; some of the cultivated fruits are sold fresh while others are converted into various products.

title: Nakhon Nayok


text:
Nakhon Pathom

Nakhon Pathom (นครปฐม, also Nakorn Pathom) is a city and province in the Bangkok Metropolitan Area, around 56 km from Bangkok. It is home to the "world's tallest stupa".

Understand
The town's main attraction is Phra Pathom Chedi, a 127 m stupa, which marks the approximate location of the region's first exposure to Buddhism and Indian civilisations.

Nakhon Pathom used to be by the sea but the shifting coastline now places it about 50 km inland. Archaeological findings date back to the 4th century and the first mention of a stupa was in the year 675 CE.

While Nakhon Pathom was a prosperous city during the pre-Angkorian Dvaravati period; it was the Angkorian Empire that left a greater mark in the 11th century. However, shifting landscape and the altering of the river course caused drought that led to the abandonment of Nakhon Pathom in favour of the new riverside settlement of Nakhon Chaisi.

The ruins of the Angkorian stupa inspired King Rama IV to build the current giant, which was completed in 1870. He also commanded that the Chedi Bucha canal be dug to facilitate transport.

During the reign of King Rama V, the construction of railways led to more changes. The population of Thana Subdistrict, Nakhon Chaisi District, was relocated to Nakhon Pathom.

By bus
Government buses (lines 83 and 997) leave from Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal. The trip costs 40 baht in first class and takes about an hour in good traffic. Buses leave every 10 minutes from 04:10 until 21:30.

There are 2nd class buses to Kanchanaburi every 15–30 minutes.

In addition there is a non-stop minibus service between Bangkok and the Big C Superstore in Nakhon Pathom. You can also ask to be dropped off directly in front of Phra Pathom Chedi. In Nakhon Pathom, Big C is on the main road through Nakhon Pathom, and has plenty of four-wheel and two-wheel taxis to take you to your final destination. Cost is 60 baht each way.

By train
Nakhon Pathom is an important rail junction. It is where the line to Kanchanaburi/Nam Tok diverges from the main north-south line. Therefore long distance trains that connect Bangkok's Hualamphong station to the south stop there, as do the trains from Bangkok's Thonburi station to Kanchanaburi and the bridge over the River Kwai. Connections to and from Thonburi are quicker than those to Hualamphong. Tickets are not sold in advance at Nakhon Pathom Station, and can only be purchased on the day you take the train.

By car
From Bangkok, driving on the old route of Petchkasem Rd (Hwy 4) passing Aom Noi, Aom Yai, Sam Phran to Nakhon Pathom or driving on a new route from Bangkok, passing Buddhamonthon, Nakhon Chaisi to Nakhon Pathom. The new route is Rte 338 and originates on Pinklao Road. The elevated part from Pin Klao Bridge to Buddhamonthon 2 Rd is toll-free and cuts down travel time considerably.

See

 * Wat Phra Pathom Chedi Ratchavoraviharn (วัดพระปฐมเจดย์ราชวรวิหาร): This is a first-class royal monastery. The temple houses Phra Pathom Chedi, the largest pagoda in Thailand. Phra Pathom Chedi is the official provincial symbol of Nakhon Pathom.

 * Nakhon Pathom Palace (พระราชวังนครปฐม): At the command of King Rama IV, the palace was built near the Phra Pathom Chedi, similar in concept to those palaces in the Ayutthaya period whereby the king commanded that a palace be built on the perimeter of the temple housing the Phra Buddhabat (Buddha's footprint).

 * Neun Wat Phra Ngam (เนินวัดพระงาม): Prince Damrong Rachanuphab explained that the origin of the name Wat Phra Ngam (temple of magnificent Buddha images) was due to the beauty of the discovered earthen Buddha images, the temple was given its name. All of the discovered artifacts date back to the Dvaravati period, which are the same age as those found around Phra Pathom Chedi. On weekends, there is a large market selling food, clothes etc. on the street outside the temple.

 * Phrabat Somdej Phra Monkut Klao Chaoyuhua Museum (Sanam Chan Palace) (พิพิธภัณฑ์พระบาทสมเด็จพระมงกุฏเกล้าเจ้าอยู่หัว): The palace was constructed at the command of King Rama VI in 1907 when he was crown prince. Sanam Chan Palace covers a vast area with a big court in the middle, surrounded by ring roads, with water canals on the outer perimeter. The beautiful halls in the middle of the Palace include:

 * Phiman Pathom Hall (พระที่นั่งพิมานปฐม): It is the first hall to be built in the Sanam Chan Palace. It is of European architecture, a 2-storey building in which King Rama VI resided before his ascension to the throne. As for the Phiman Pathom Hall, it now houses a part of the Nakhon Pathom City Hall. Apirom Reudi Hall (พระที่นั่งอภิรมย์ฤดี) is a two-storey hall to the south of Phiman Pathom hall. It houses the offices of the Nakhon Pathom City Hall.

 * Vatchari Romya Hall (พระที่นั่งวัชรีรมยา): This is a two-storey hall. It was built in Thai-style: multi-layered roof with colourful tiles on the turret; with a swan-like finial on the roof ridge, representing the head of garuda and small finials jutting out of the two corners of the gable.

 * Samakki Mukmat Hall (พระที่นั่งสามัคคีมุขมาตย์): This is a Thai-style hall. It was a meeting hall for King Rama VI and also where he held court. The hall was also used as a khone theatre (khone is a Thai play performed by dancers wearing masks). It is used as a meeting hall of Nakhon Pathom Province.

 * Phra Tamnak Chali Monkol-asna (พระตำหนักชาลีมงคลอาสน์): The two-storey building is of European architecture, plastered in caramel-yellow, with roof tile in red. It was used as a temporary residence of King Rama VI.

 * Phra Tamnak Mari Ratchrat Banlang (พระตำหนักมารีราชรัตบัลลังก์): This is a two-storey wooden building painted in red. The building is opposite Phra Tamnak Chali Monkol-asna and is connected via a walk way.

 * Phra Tamnak Tabkaeo (พระตำหนักทับแก้ว): This is a small building that used to be a temporary residence during winter. After a renovation it is a residence of the Palad Changwat of Nakhon Pathom. Around 450 rai (180 acres) of land to the rear of the building is now the campus of Silpakorn University.

 * Phra Tamnak Tabkwan (พระตำหนักทับขวัญ): This is a teak building with a palm leaf roof. At the command of King Rama VI, the teak building was constructed to preserve traditional Thai architecture. It is also used for merit making and sometimes classic Thai performances would also be held at this building.

 * Thevalai Kanaesuan or Phra Pikkanesh Shrine (เทวาลัยคเณศวร์ หรือ ศาลพระพิฆเณศวร์): It was built to house the image of Phra Pikkanaesuan (or Ganesh), the Indian god of arts. The shrine is in a large field, in front of the Sanam Chan Palace.

 * Ya-Lei Monument (อนุเสาวรีย์ย่าเหล): The dog, Ya-Lei, was very close to the heart of King Rama VI. The king was very fond of Ya-Lei, so much so that Ya-Lei was envied, and was later shot by an envious person. King Rama VI was much saddened when Ya-Le died and commanded that a copper statue of Ya-Lei be cast and placed on a pedestal in front of Phra Tamnak Chali Monkol-asna.

 * Neun Dhamma Sala (เนินธรรมศาลา): The physical appearance is that of a hill with a tunnel opening that is believed to connect Wat Phra Mayn to Wat Dhamma Sala. From hearsay, there are various valuable treasures like ancient pottery but which may not be taken out because there is a treasure guardian spirit watching over.

 * Wat Phra Mayn (วัดพระเมรุ): It is an abandoned temple that nowadays resembles a large hill. Also discovered here are other artefacts which include bronze Buddha images as well as arms, thighs, and hands from a laterite Buddha image, Yaksa Deva (Thai mythical giant gods), Lotus Lion Deva, and stucco relief from the stupa ruins.

 * Phra Padhone Chedi (วัดพระประโทณเจดีย์): As Wat Phra Padhone Chedi is in the middle of the ancient city of Nakhon Chaisi thus several artefacts were discovered during excavations. Some of the discovered items include Buddha images, heads of Buddha images and Buddha images in terra cotta, as well as a bronze figure of a garuda gripping naga under its claws, which is the official symbol of King Rama VI.

 * Neun Phra or Neun Yai Hom (เนินพระหรือเนินยายหอม): This area was once an ancient temple and that the hill must have been a large chedi that was in the temple compound dating back to the Dvaravati period, or earlier, roughly about 1,000 years ago.

 * Buddhamonthon (พุทธมณฑล): A huge upright Buddha image, in walking attitude, measuring about 15.8 metres marks the centre of the area. King Bhumibhol Adulyadej granted the name Phra Sri Sakkaya Thosapol Yan Phratan Buddhamonthon Sutas to the Buddha image. Important Buddhist ceremonies and festivities are held here, such as the Visaka Bucha Day, Makabucha Day, Asanhabucha Day, and Loy Krathong Festival among others

 * Open Study Centre or College in the Palace (ศูนย์การศึกษานอกโรงเรียน หรือ วิทยาลัยในวัง): The centre mobilises an ancient school of Thai arts called Chang Sib Mu or 'the ten master crafts', the Thai arts that stem from local wisdom and expertise that Thais managed to retain from their forefathers.

 * Misiem Yip Intsoi Arts Garden (สวนศิลปะมีเซียมยิบอินซอย): The garden houses masterpieces created by Madam Misiem Yip Intsoi for educational purposes.

 * Don Whai Market (ตลาดดอนหวาย): Behind the Don Whai temple is a market that still retains an appearance of a market dating back to the King Rama VI period.

 * Rose Garden (สวนสามพราน): There are a multitude of beautiful floral displays of great variety. A Thai-style houses; parts of the area are hotel, lodges, and golf course. It also features an attractive Thai cultural show that commences daily in the afternoon.

 * Thai Human Imagery Museum (พิพิธภัณฑ์หุ่นขี้ผึ้ง): The museum displays lifelike wax/fibreglass sculptures in vivid detail. These breath-taking real-looking human figures of various characteristics and also replicas of important people are displayed in many sections such as the Great Buddhist Monks, former Kings of the Chakri Dynasty, and One Side of Thai Life: Thai Chess, Thai Family, and Abolishing of Slavery, among others.

 * Wat Klang Bang Kaew (วัดกลางบางแก้ว): The temple houses a chapel, a vihara, and a Buddha image, all of which are very old and assumed, archaeologically, to have been built in the Ayutthaya period. There is a Phra Phuttha Vithinayok museum, exhibiting historical remains, artefacts, as well as utensils of the late monks: Luang Poo Boon (Phra Phuttha Vithinayok Boon Kanthachoti) and Luang Poo Perm (Phra Phuttha Vithinayok Perm Punyavasano).

 * Thai Farmers' Lifestyle Museum (พิพิธภัณฑ์วิถีชาวนาไทย): The house cum museum displays equipment, utensils, and tools, used in rice farming. Also in the compound is a handicraft training centre that trains townspeople to make various products from water hyacinths (pak tob chawa).

 * Fish Sanctuary (อุทยานปลา): The place is a natural fish sanctuary, which is the habitat of various species of fish typical to the Tha Cheen River.

 * Wat Lampaya Floating Market (ตลาดน้ำวัดลำพญา): The floating market was initiated by the Lampaya Subdistrict Cultural Council and Lampaya temple. It is a centre of trade for fruits and vegetables as well as agricultural produce.

 * Thai Soang village (หมู่บ้านไทยโซ่ง): The village is home to Thai Soang or Thai Soang Dum (Thai Soang usually wear black dresses) or Lao Soang, who migrated from Ban Nong Prong, Khao Yoi District, Petchaburi, who have a distinct culture and tradition of their own.

 * Herbal Grove, Wat Plug Mai Lai (สวนป่าสมุนไพร วัดปลักไม้ลาย): An entrance to the temple can be seen on the left. More than 500 kinds of herbs abound in the grove which covers an area of 92 rai (36.8 acres) and in a tranquil ambiance.

 * Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus (Botanical Garden): In the university compound, there are a number of projects to educate farmers and the general public that include scaled-down projects such as an agricultural technology project, an irrigation system initiated along with the Royal project, an Entomological Park where various species of butterflies are housed, a pilot vegetable plantation plot, and Suan Saen Palm (garden of a hundred thousand palms), which collects various kinds of ornamental palms.

 * Kamphaeng Saen (เมืองเก่ากำแพงแสน): this is an ancient town that is worth visiting. It is used as a Boy Scout's camp. The interesting attractions of Kamphaeng Saen include unchanged ditches and earth dikes surrounding the ditches.

Activities

 * Sight-seeing by boats: there are tours of canals, visiting fruit orchards and orchid farms, this includes:

 * Klong (canal) Mahasawat (ล่องเรือเที่ยวคลองมหาสวัสดิ์): A boat ride to see the fruit farmers at work on two sides of the canal, touring orchards of pomelo, guava, sweet coconut, and orchid farms.

 * Tha Cheen River (ล่องเรือแม่น้ำท่าจีน): is the place to witness natural ambience along the river and conjoining canals.

 * Fruit orchards along Nakhon Chaisi River (Tha Cheen River) (ล่องเรือเที่ยว ชมสวนผลไม้ แม่น้ำนครชัยศรี (แม่น้ำท่าจีน)): The fruit orchards are in Tambon Bangchang, Tambon Klong Chinda, and Chinda Market, all of which are renowned for grapes, mangos, sweet coconuts, and rose apples, as well as floral gardens and other ornamental plant gardens. Plants and agricultural products can be bought directly from farmers. There are cruise services available at Samphran District Office (terminal of Bangkok-Samphran line bus), via Chinda canal and Bangchang canal, passing rose apple orchards, coconut orchards, and orchid farms.

 *  Pomelo orchards in Nakhon Chaisi (ชมสวนส้มโอนครชัยศรี): Touring of pomelo orchards can be done in Nakhon Chaisi

 * Suan Thai Tawee pomelo orchard (ชมสวนส้มโอสวนไทยทวี): This orchard is in Samphran District.

 * Banchong Orchid Farm (ชมสวนกล้วยไม้ บรรจง ออร์คิดฟาร์ม): The orchid farm is in Samphran.

 * Olan Lake Water Ski (โอฬาร เลค วอร์เตอร์ สกี): On Buddhamonthon IV Road, Klong Yong-Bang Pasi Subdistrict. It is the centre of various water sports including five-pole cable ski and regular water skiing.

Festivals

Buy

 * Sweet pomelo (ส้มโอหวาน): A major product of Nakhon Chai Si District.
 * Fragrant coconut juice (มะพร้าวน้ำหอม)
 * Khao lam (ข้าวหลาม): sticky rice mixed with coconut milk and grilled in a bamboo cane.

Sleep
An easy day-trip from Bangkok, Nakhon Pathom won't leave you feeling the need to stay the night. But if you want a slow trip, there are plenty of provincial style hotels: designed for Thais, and straight out of the 1970s. At the Nakhon Inn, for example, they haven't changed their brochure since the early 1980s, and the photos of the rooms still match exactly to the rooms, but they are comfortable and prices are very reasonable.

 * Whale Hotel, Rajivithi Rd. Has an attached restaurant and nightclub. It is the best situated hotel to visit Silpakorn University and Sanam Chan Palace grounds, although it is a bit far from the chedi. The most expensive hotel in town.
 * Whale Hotel, Rajivithi Rd. Has an attached restaurant and nightclub. It is the best situated hotel to visit Silpakorn University and Sanam Chan Palace grounds, although it is a bit far from the chedi. The most expensive hotel in town.
 * Whale Hotel, Rajivithi Rd. Has an attached restaurant and nightclub. It is the best situated hotel to visit Silpakorn University and Sanam Chan Palace grounds, although it is a bit far from the chedi. The most expensive hotel in town.
 * Whale Hotel, Rajivithi Rd. Has an attached restaurant and nightclub. It is the best situated hotel to visit Silpakorn University and Sanam Chan Palace grounds, although it is a bit far from the chedi. The most expensive hotel in town.
 * Whale Hotel, Rajivithi Rd. Has an attached restaurant and nightclub. It is the best situated hotel to visit Silpakorn University and Sanam Chan Palace grounds, although it is a bit far from the chedi. The most expensive hotel in town.

Go next

 * Damnoen Saduak — the best-known floating market in Thailand. From Nakhon Pathom, taking bus No 78. from the Bus Stop in front of Police Station (Kwaa-Pra Road). It would take about 1 hour to get there.  Buses come every 30 mins.  The first bus comes approximately 06:30.  The best time to catch the bus is around 07:30-08:00, otherwise the tour buses from Bangkok will get there first and it will be too touristy.  The market really starts around 08:00 and closes around 11:30.
 * Kanchanaburi — site of the Bridge over the River Kwai and the start of the Death Railway. Buses from Nakhon Pathom to Kanchanaburi pickup at the roadside bus stop on Phet Kasem Road opposite Big C Supermarket, located in the south of the city. Phet Kasem Road is more like a highway, and there is a barrier dividing traffic with no crosswalk, so make sure your taxi drops you at the bus stop and not Big C Supermarket. Bus tickets to Kanchanaburi cost 80 baht, which you can purchase at the bus stop from the ticket teller. There are two trains per day from Nakhon Pathom to Kanchanaburi; one departs in the morning and one at 3:30 pm. (August 2023)

title: Nakhon Pathom