Doem Bang Nang Buat

Doem Bang Nang Buat (เดิมบางนางบวช) is a district in the northern part of Suphan Buri Province, home to about 74,000 people. The name literally means "formerly place of the ordained lady," referencing a Sukhothai-period legend about a nun or ordained woman. The district lies along the Tha Chin River (Suphan River) and is predominantly agricultural, with rice paddies and orchards lining the riverbanks.

The district was created in 1911 when the northern part of Nang Buat District was split off, with two tambons from Chai Nat and two from Sing Buri provinces added. The name combines "Doem Bang" (from the newly established district) and "Nang Buat" (from the original district it was carved from). Today, it is best known for Bueng Chawak, one of the premier natural attractions in Suphan Buri Province.

The climate is tropical savanna; the cool season (November–February) offers the most comfortable conditions for exploring the lake and surrounding countryside.

By Plane

The nearest major airports are Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK), about 150 km away. From either, take transport to Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) for buses heading north toward Suphan Buri and onward to Doem Bang Nang Buat.

By Train

The nearest railway station is in Suphan Buri town, about 50 km south. From there, take a local bus or songthaew north to Doem Bang Nang Buat.

By Car / Road

Doem Bang Nang Buat is on Route 335, about 50 km north of Suphan Buri town and 150 km from Bangkok. Drive via Highway 1 (Phahonyothin) to Ang Thong, then head west on Route 335. Regular buses run from Suphan Buri's bus terminal to Doem Bang Nang Buat, taking about an hour.

The district centre is small enough to walk. Songthaews connect the town with outlying villages and the Bueng Chawak area. For visiting Bueng Chawak, which is several kilometres from the town centre, you'll need a hired songthaew or your own vehicle.

• Bueng Chawak (บึงฉวาก) — A vast natural freshwater lake covering over 2,700 rai (1,080 acres), extending into neighbouring Chai Nat Province. Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1983 and listed as a Ramsar wetland of international importance. The lake and its surrounding attractions are the main reason to visit the district.

• Bueng Chawak Aquarium (สถานแสดงพันธุ์สัตว์น้ำบึงฉวากเฉลิมพระเกียรติ) — Houses a wide variety of freshwater fish including Mekong giant catfish, clown featherbacks, and bony tongues. Walk through the underwater tunnel for a fish-eye view.

• Freshwater Crocodile Pond — Home to about 60 Siamese crocodiles in a naturalistic setting.

• Native Vegetable Garden (อุทยานผักพื้นบ้าน) — Features over 500 species of indigenous vegetables, herbs, and medicinal plants from across Thailand.

• Wat Nang Buat (วัดนางบวช) — An ancient temple over 100 years old with an unclear but intriguing history.

• Wat Khao Nang Buat (วัดเขานางบวช) — Another historic temple, believed to be associated with Phra Ajarn Thammachote, a respected monk from the Ayutthaya period.

• Explore the Bueng Chawak complex — allow half a day to see the aquarium, crocodile pond, tiger/lion cages, and vegetable garden.

• Take a boat trip on Bueng Chawak Lake to see floating fish farms and waterbirds.

• Stay overnight in a homestay near the lake for a peaceful rural experience.

• Visit the Lao Si-Lao Khrang weaving village to watch traditional textile production.

• Bueng Chawak restaurants — Several eateries near the lake serve fresh fish from the reservoir, som tam, grilled chicken, and sticky rice. The fish is the highlight — try pla tod (fried fish) or pla chonan (snakehead fish) prepared in various styles. Meals from 50–150 baht.
• Doem Bang Nang Buat market — Morning market with fresh produce and cooked Thai dishes.

Fresh coconut juice and Thai iced tea are standard at market stalls and restaurants near the lake. Bottled water is recommended for drinking.

• Budget: Homestays near Bueng Chawak offer basic rooms with shared facilities from 300–500 baht.
• Mid-range: Small resorts and guesthouses near the lake area, with rates around 600–1,000 baht.

The Bueng Chawak area has souvenir stalls selling local snacks and crafts. The Lao Si-Lao Khrang weaving group produces colourful handwoven textiles using traditional patterns — these make excellent souvenirs. Local agricultural products include fresh river fish and seasonal fruit.

• Sam Chuk (20 km south) — Famous for its UNESCO-awarded 100-year-old Old Sam Chuk Market along the Tha Chin River.
• Suphan Buri (50 km south) — Provincial capital with the Banharn-Jamsai Tower, Wat Pa Lelai, and more.
• Chai Nat (40 km north) — Neighbouring province known for the Chao Phraya Dam and bird park.
• Sing Buri (40 km east) — Historical province associated with the Bang Rachan battle heroes.