Nakhon Nayok (Thai นครนายก) is one of the central provinces (changwat) of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are (from north clockwise) Saraburi, Nakhon Ratchasima, Prachinburi, Chachoengsao and Pathum Thani.

Geography

The northern part of the province is located in the Dong Phaya Yen mountain range, with the highest elevation the 1292 meter high Yod Khao Kiew. Most of that area is covered by the Khao Yai National Park. The central part of the province however is a rather flat river plain formed by the Nakhon Nayok River. The southern part of the province has relatively unfertile acidic soil.

The main river of the province is the Nakhon Nayok River. It joins the Prachin Buri River at Pak Nam Yotaka in Amphoe Ban Sang , Prachinburi province, which then becomes the Bang Pa Kong River.

History

The city of Nakhon Nayok dates back to the Dvaravati kingdom, probably founded in the 11th century. The name Nakhon Nayok was assigned to it in 1350, when it became a garrison town of the Ayutthaya kingdom protecting the eastern boundary.

Symbols

The provincial seal shows an elephant holding an ear of rice with its trunk. This symbolizes the fertile rice fields as well as the forests with numerous elephants. In the background two piles of straw, trees and clouds symbolize the natural beauty of the province. Provincial flower and tree is the Silk-Cotton Tree (Cochlospermum religiosum).

Administrative divisions

The province is subdivided into 4 districts (Amphoe). The districts are further subdivided into 41 communes (tambon) and 403 villages.

External links

• Province page from the Tourist Authority of Thailand
• Golden Jubilee Network province guide