Nakhon Pathom's Old Market In Nakhon Chaisi

[sbk]

from the Nation's write up it sounds like an interesting destination. Anyone visited or live here? I do love a good shopping trip!

DAY OUT

Tempted at Tha Na

By Pattarawadee Saengmanee

THE NATION

Tempted at Tha Na

The old market in Nakhon Chaisi. Nation photo/Ekkarat Sukpetch

Browsing through an old market in Nakhon Chaisi a perfect way to spend a lazy Sunday

A survivor of the bombs that fell on Nakhon Pathom province during World War II, the 100yearold Tha Na market in Nakhon Chaisi district, on the banks of the Tha Chin river, is now a hot weekend destination for tourists eager to soak up the charming atmosphere of good old days.

Owned by the Crown Property Bureau, and lined by old wooden shophouses serving traditional Thai cuisine, Tha Na's vendors offer a range of wares with a focus on antiques, classic toys and collectible items.

At the mouth of the market, visitors are greeted by more than 20 vendors selling fresh fruits and juices as well as homemade Thai desserts. Famous Chinese sausage shop ASim offers delicious dried Chinese pork sausage at Bt180 per kilo as well as dried shredded pork, curried fish souffle (hor mok) and pickled lemons.

Nearby in a narrow land is Jiem Chan, a store famous for ped palor (steamed duck), hoy jor (deepfried crab balls) and look chin plakai (fish balls served with spicy dip).

On the corner is the treasure trove of local children, a large toy store piled high with colourful plastic toys, dolls and games at reasonable prices. Opposite is Cake Som Oh, a friendly bakery offering homemade snacks that are perfect for a coffeebreak.

Or browse at Noi Marmon Jang, the purple wooden house that doubles as a bakery and dishes up delectable pastries with 30 different toppings like the popular shredded mozzarella. They go for Bt120 for a box containing a dozen or Bt40 for four.

For those are looking for a place for lunch, Tik Pochana serves delicious hor mok, omelettes and kaeng par look chin pla (curry with fish balls).

Visitors can also admire the many antiques and collectible items that date back more than a century. A favourite stop is Pin Toh Cheen, home to a collection of 100yearold curved wooden furniture, Chinese bamboo tiffincarriers and other decorative items.

Som Oh Waan and Nimitr Wittayu are next door and both stores are crammed with rare antiques ranging from old electronic appliances to toys and artworks.

But don't bid farewell to the old market without buying a memento to take home. The district is well known for its delicious pomelos, and two local types are famous: khao nampueng (white, sweet and crisp) and thong dee (pinkish, sweet and soft).

Tha Na Market is located in Nakhon Chaisi district, Nakhon Pathom province. It's open daily from 9am to 8pm.