Beyond the Greenery: Why Nong Nooch Tropical Garden is Pattaya’s Ultimate Travel Gem

 If you think you’ve seen it all when it comes to botanical gardens, think again. Nestled just a short drive from the neon lights of Pattaya, Thailand, lies Nong Nooch Tropical Garden—a 600-acre wonderland that feels less like a backyard and more like a trip across the globe (and through time).

Whether you're a plant enthusiast, a photography lover, or a family traveler looking for the next big adventure, Nong Nooch is a mandatory stop on any Thai itinerary.

A Garden of Many Worlds

What started as a simple fruit plantation in 1954 has transformed into the largest botanical garden in Southeast Asia. But it’s not just about the flowers. The brilliance of Nong Nooch lies in its Themed Gardens.

In one afternoon, you can walk through:

• The French Garden: A symmetrical masterpiece inspired by the Palace of Versailles.

• Stonehenge Garden: A quirky and impressive recreation of the UK’s famous stone circle.

• The Italian Garden: Filled with marble statues and romantic fountains that make you feel like you've teleported to the Mediterranean.

Step Into the Jurassic Period

For many of my viewers, the highlight isn't a flower at all—it’s the Dinosaur Valley. This isn't just a small display; it’s an expansive landscape featuring hundreds of life-sized, hyper-realistic dinosaur replicas. Walking among the T-Rexes and Velociraptors with a backdrop of rare tropical palms is an surreal experience that looks incredible on camera.

Pro-Traveler Tips for Your Visit

To make the most of your day at Nong Nooch, keep these tips in mind:

1. Beat the Heat: Arrive as soon as they open (8:00 AM). The Thai sun can be intense by noon!

2. Use the Skywalk: Don't just walk on the ground. The elevated skywalk offers the best aerial views of the French Garden and keeps you in the shade.

3. Stay Hydrated & Protected: You will be doing a lot of walking. I always recommend traveling with a high-quality, lightweight travel gear. If you're looking for the best travel essentials for your next trip to Thailand, check out my favorite travel picks here.

4. Don't Miss the Shows: The Thai Cultural Show and the Elephant Show run multiple times a day. They offer a fantastic deep dive into local traditions and the intelligence of these gentle giants.

The "Secret" Car Museum

Hidden away from the orchids and palms is a world-class Car Museum. It houses a private collection of rare sports cars and vintage classics. It’s the perfect "cool down" spot after a morning of exploring the gardens.

Conclusion

Nong Nooch Tropical Garden is a testament to what happens when nature meets imagination. It’s vast, colorful, and completely unexpected. If you're planning a trip to Pattaya, give yourself at least half a day to soak it all in.

Have you been to Nong Nooch? What was your favorite themed zone? Let me know in the comments below!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, I may earn a commission. Thanks for supporting the blog!

Gavi echo tourism project Vandiperiyar in eastern extreme of the Pathanamthitta District.

Gavi eco tourism project is located 28 km from Vandiperiyar in eastern extreme of the Pathanamthitta District. This scenic project is located about 3400 feet above mean sea level. Gavi is very near to Thekkady and Sabarimala. Tourist can reach Gavi from Trivandrum Airport, Cochin Air Port or Madurai Airport. The nearest railway station is Kottayam. There are buses conducting service from Kochi and Trivandrum to Vandiperiyar. Gavi is the natural habitat for tiger, elephants, leopards, bears, Indian gaur, sambar, barking & Mouse deers, lion tailed macaque, other varieties of monkeys, Nilgiri Marten etc and about 300 plus species of birds. Trekkings to Kullur, Gavi Pullumedu, Kochu Pampa, Pachakanam can watch several wild animals. Gavi offers its adventure tourist activities like trekking, wildlife watching, outdoor camping in specially built tents, and night safaris. There are plenty of hotels around Gavi offers different types of accommodation. Tourists visiting Thekkady also go to Gavi.

Kyuruva Deepu or Kuruva Island Wayanad

Wynad or Wayanad as we have described earlier is a place of natural wonders. Kuruva deep or Kuruva island is one of the most popular place in Wayand. Tourists come to Wayand may find some time to visit Kyuruva Deepu or Kuruva Island. Kyuruva Deepu or Kuruva Island is situated about 17 kilometers east of Mananthavady. Situated in the Kabana River Kyuruva Deepu or Kuruva Island is a gift of nature to Wayanad. It is a large virgine forest of about 950 acres. This rich evergreen forest host uncommon species of birds, herbs and orchids. Kyuruva Deepu or Kuruva Island is closed during monsoon (June – September). Tourists can enjoy trekking, watching birds and wildlife photography. Tourists are coming from all over Kerala and Karnataka to visit this beautiful place.

Tourists also can visit Edakkal Caves, Banasura Sagar Dam, Chembra Peak Kalpetta, Meenmutty Falls, Kalpetta Neelimala View Point, Vaduvanchal Pookot Lake, Vythiri Soochipara Falls, Kalpetta, Muthanga / Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Lakkidi , Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary, Tholpetty.

The Alappuzha District

The Alappuzha District is famous for its unique backwaters. It is also called the Venice of East. The district is endowed with immense natural beauty. The sandy strip of land with Arabian Sea to its west is woven by lagoons and an array of rivers, canals, and lakes ideal for boat cruise. The main rivers are Achankovil, Pamba and Manimala. The Vembanad lake covering an area of 204 sq. kms. stretches from Alappuzha to Kochi and the ayamkulam lake covers an area of 59.57 sq. kjns. and extends into Alappuzha and Kollam districts. These lakes are used for the inland water transport of cargo and passengers. The district has been an important centre of Christiarilty. The church at Kokkomangalam in Cherthala taluk is believed to be one of the seven churches founded by St. Thomas, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ. Alappuzha has been an important trading and commercial centre since time immemorial. It is also known for coir and carpet industry. The coir industry in the district is well known!

The Alappuzha District

The Alappuzha District is famous for its unique backwaters. It is also called the Venice of East. The district is endowed with immense natural beauty. The sandy strip of land with Arabian Sea to its west is woven by lagoons and an array of rivers, canals, and lakes ideal for boat cruise. The main rivers are Achankovil, Pamba and Manimala. The Vembanad lake covering an area of 204 sq. kms. stretches from Alappuzha to Kochi and the ayamkulam lake covers an area of 59.57 sq. kjns. and extends into Alappuzha and Kollam districts. These lakes are used for the inland water transport of cargo and passengers. The district has been an important centre of Christiarilty. The church at Kokkomangalam in Cherthala taluk is believed to be one of the seven churches founded by St. Thomas, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ. Alappuzha has been an important trading and commercial centre since time immemorial. It is also known for coir and carpet industry. The coir industry in the district is well known!

Hotels of Cochin

Aiswarya Hotel, Jos, Jn., Warriam Road, Ph: 2364454

Abad Atrium, M. G. Road, Ph: 2361595,2381 122

Abad Metro, Rajaji Road, Ph: 2364162, 2364032

A. J. Residency, Kaloor, Ph: 2531480/884/2530012

ATS Wlllingdon Hotel, Wiillngdon Island, Ph: 2667643

Bijus Tourist Home, Canon Shed Road, Ph: 2381881

Cochin Regency, Near Padma Jn. Ph: 2360667

Cochin Tourist Home, Opp. Near South Rly Stn., Ph:2377577

Elite Tourist Home, Paramara Rd, Opp. Town Hi, Ph: 2395692

Gaanam Hotels Ltd., •Chittoor Road, Ph: 2376123

Good Shepherd Tourist Home, Chelakulam Building, Ph: 2381145

Hotel Abad, Chullickal, Ph: 2228211

Hotel Airlines, M. G. Road, Ph: 2366633, 2351772

Hotel Blue Diamond, Market Road, Ph :2382118

Hotel Chandnl Park, South Kalamassery, Ph : 2557628

Hotel Crystal Palace, Banerji Road, Ph: 2394222, 2393789

Hotel Grace, Narakathara Rd, Ph: 2353789

Hotel Kavita, Chittoor Road, Ph: 2350618

Hotel K. K. International, Opp. South RIy Stn, Ph: 2376010

Hotel Megha, Kacherippady, Ph: 2395305

Hotel Mayura Park, Kacheripady Jn, Ph: 2390560

Hotel Sangeetha, Chitoor Road, Ph: 2376123

Hotel Mermaid Days Inn, Kaniampuzha Rd, Ph: 2307999

Hotel Segate, Pathadipalam, Ph: 2555405

Hotel Uduppi Anantha Bhavan, M. G. Road, Ph: 2382071, 75

Kamyakam Haven, Kothad Island, Ph : 2432701

Travancore Court, Warriam Road, Cochjn-16. Ph : 2351120, 3044000

Hotel Harbour View, M. G. Road, Opp. Ship yard, Cochin, Ph 4090000

Mas Hotel, Near North Rly Stn, Ph: 2395090

Matha Tourist Home, St. Vincent Road, Ph: 2395250

N. M. Hotels, Near South Rly Stn, Ph: 2375137

Paulson Park Hotel, Ekm South Jn, Ph: 2378240

Piazza Residency, Near Ekm South Rly Stn, Ph: 2376408

Queens Residency, Shenoys Jn, Ph: 2365775, 2368010

Sahara Tourist Lodge, Convent Road, Ph: 2352178

Saas Tower, Canon Shed Road, Ph: 2365319

Star Tourist Home, Kaloor, Ph: 2539940

Thankam Tourist Home, Near North Rly Stn, Ph: 2390007

Bolghatty Palace Hotel, Bolghatty, Ph: 2750600

Circle Manor, Deshabhimani Jn, Ph: 2408066

Fort Heritage, Ph: 2217902

Haramain Tourist Home, Ph: 2381789

Hotel White Fourt, Byepass, Ph : 2706955

Hotel Cochin Tower, Lizy Jn, Ph: 2401910

Hotel Seagull, Ph: 2217172

Hotel Rakoba, Ph: 2353933

Hotel Highway Garden, Ph: 2330321

Hotel Mercy, Ph: 2367379

Rivera Suites, Thevara, Ph: 2663474

R. K. Oberol Hotel, Ph: 2351743

Hotel Searock, Ph: 2354745

The Metropolitlan, Near South Rly, Stn Ph: 2375412

Youth Hostel Kakkanadu, Ph: 2422808

KaLady the birth place of-Adi Sankaracharya

KaLady the birth place of-Adi Sankaracharya is located on the banks of River Periyar, 45 km from Kochi is Kalady a pilgrim centre and the birth place of-Adi Sankaracharya, the great Indian Philosopher of the 8th century AD. There are two shrines in memory of Adi Sankaracharya, one dedicated to him as Dakshinamurthy and the other to the goddess Sharada maintained by Sringeri Mutt. On the same place there is also a spot (Brindavan) where Adi Sankaracharyas mother Aryamba was cremated. In addition there is an ancient Shri Krishna Temple close by which was me family temple of Adi Sankaracharya. Another temple known as the International Temple dedicated to Shri Ramakrishna Deva has been built with the hope that it would eventually become a temple for all religions and an house of peace.

Kalady is located on MC Road Between Angamaly and Perumbavoor. Tourists come here and spend hourse enjoying peaceful atmosphere.

Cochin Boat Rides

Cochin Boat Rides : The best part of Cochin is a boat ride through the backwaters to all the islands. The most beautiful of all the islands is Bolgatty built by the Dutch. Today it has been converted into a hotel run by Kerala Tourism Development Corporation. Gundu island : With an area of 5 acres, Gundu Island is the smallest island around Cochin.

Cochin Boat Rides Timings: -

Thommankuthu, Thodupuzha

Thommankuthu 28 km from Thodupuzha is Thommankutthu, which is famous for its numerous waterfalls. This place is ideal for natural lovers as the seven-step waterfall here is a much loved picnic spot. At each step, there is a cascade and a pool beneath to enjoy the panoramic beauty; the best way is to undertake a trek that takes one to the top of the mountain, a 12km. Elaveezh Poonchira, Vagaman, Bharananganam are few tourist attractions!

Muzhappilangad Beach, Kannur

Muzhappilangad Beach: Muzhappilangad Beach, one of the longest beaches in Kerala is located 15 kms south of Kannur, near Thalassery. This is the only drive-in beach in India. The drive across Muzhuppilangad beach attracts many tourists. Dharmadam Thuruth and Thalassery Fort are nearby attraction. Tourists can walk to Dharmadam Thuruthu during low tide time but during high tide they need boats to come back. Brhannan College situated very near to Dharmadam Thuruth. Myuzhuppilangad beach is very close to NH 17 just 5 km from Thalassery towards Kannur.

Chennamangalam

Chennamangalam: Chennamangalam is located 5 Kms from north Paravur, north-west of Errrakulam. Chennamangaiam is popular as the residence of traditional priministers of Cochin Raja, the Paliathachan. Chennamangalam presents a extraordinary geographical blend of rivers, seven inlets, a small hill and a vast spread of green plains, It is located 5 Kms from north Paravur, north-west of Errrakulam. The place is surrounded by rivers on all 3 sides, Chennamangalam was the residence of the famous Achans of Paliam who were traditional prime ministers to the Raja of Cochin Kottayil Kovilakam. The small hill presents an unusual sight of a Hindu temple, a church and a Jewish Synagogue all closely located next to each other, There is a seminary built in 1075 by Jesuit Priests, It was here that printing first began in Kerala in 1577. Malanappara is another attraction of Chennamangalam. Malanappara is made up of holders lying one over the other resembling an elephant from a distance.

Pazhur, Piravom

Pazhur, Piravom is Situated 25 kms towards the southeast of Kochi, near Piravom. It is the legendary Pazhur Siva temple here that make Pazhur famous. It is believed that the Siva temple here is nearly 1800 Years old. The Muvattupuzha river flowing west ward from the east changes direction on reaching the temple. If the river runs in the original direction the temple would have been washed away. Pazhur is famous for astrologers. The Pazhur Astrologers is believed to have divine powers. The proverb “Pahur Padippurayil Pokanam” is said to indicate unknown truths.

Mulamkuzhi, Malayattoor

Tourists visit Malayattoor i also interested in Mulamkuzhi, Malayattoor. Mulamkuzhi, Malayattoor is a tiny settlement nearly 15 km from Malayattoor. It is a convergence of the rivers Periyar and the Perumthode. Tourists can reach this place by road and there are a lot of local transport buses plying through this area. One can also reach here from Perumbavoor via Panankuzhi on a country boat. One can also make a trip to the St. Thomas church al Malayattoor. The crystal clear medicated water of the Mulamkuzhi river and the tiny waterfalls of Venanbaravady near Malayattoor is an enchanting scenery believed to have prayed at this shrine.

Cochin Carnival 2011

Kochi Carnival, Kochi Festival or Cochin Carnival in the present form is started about three decades back. The commencement of the Cochin Carnival in India roots back to the period when colonialism ruled supreme in Kochi. This year carnival will be celebrated on December 31, 2010 and January 1 2011. The new year eve programs and the the parade mark the event. Cochin Carnival is a merry making feast observed during the last week of every year in Fort Kochi in Kerala. The Cochin Carnival is the most revered and famous event of the city of Kochi. Numerous native people participate in it and experience the lighter side of life. It has been conjectured that the Portuguese rulers greeted the New Year in a truly grand fashion. Absolutely dazzling ceremonial elegance and unparalleled splendor marked the parties and fiestas that were conducted by them so that they could celebrate to their heart's content. Events like Sea-Swimming, Beach Volleyball, Beach Football and Beach Bike Race make the Cochin carnival more interesting and amusing. Even prizes are awarded to the competition winners. On the New Year's Day elephants are brought out on the roads and the tunes of the instrument known as 'Panchavadyam' reverberates throughout the city.

The Sabarimala Temple

The Sabarimala Temple, the place where Ayyappan meditated after killing the powerful demoness, Mahishi, is a Hindu pilgrimage center located in the Western Ghat mountain ranges of Pathanamthitta District in Kerala. The Sabarimala temple is situated on a hilltop at an altitude of 468 m above mean sea level, and is surrounded by 18 mountains and dense forests. The temple is reached by climbing a flight of 18 steps covered in gold that signify different aspects of human nature and a devotee who crosses these 18 steps is said to have attained "Punyadarshanam". In January every year, thousands of devotees gather at Sabarimala to view the "Makaravilaku", “Makarajyothi” or divine flame that is visible during one particular day of the Makara star. The Sabarimala Temple is one of the most popular Hindu Pilgrim centre in South India. Sabarimala, Kerala can be reached by Air from Trivandrum (170 kilometers) or Cochin (200 kilometers) and then by bus, by Rail getting at Kottayam and Chengannur and then by bus and by Road Sabarimala is well connected to Kerala, Andhra, Tamilanadu, Karnataka by a wide network of roads. A lot of locals visit Sabarimala pilgrimage by walking long distances.

The Thirumullavaram Beach in Kollam, Kerala

The Thirumullavaram Beach in Kollam, Kerala is situated at a distance of around 6 kilometers to north of Kollam. Unexplored and untouched by time, the beach offers unadulterated tranquility and peace of mind. Thirumullavaram Beach in Kollam, Kerala is ideal for activities like swimming and sun bathing. Thirumullavaram Beach is excellent for bathing. about a quiet day far away from the madding crowd If that sounds like something you'd really enjoy, This secluded beach is a beautiful picnic centre. About one and a half kilometre into the sea is the Nyarazhcha Para. Tourists can reach here by road from Kollam. There are many local tourists spending their days here.

Bolgatty Island Kochi, Kerala

Bolgatty Island is one of the finest tourist locales in Kochi. The exotic seas scape and the serene ambiance of the island are worth a visit. It is an island of calm right in the midst of the bustling City of Kochi. Bolgatty Island is a narrow stretch of an island, easily accessible from the mainland. Located beside Ernakulam Island and Willington Island, the place is a favorite tourist hangout. Bolgatty is an island located near the mouth of Kochi harbour. The island is famous for the Bolgatty Palace built by the Dutch in 1744. Later it became the seat of the British Resident of Cochin. Today it is a hotel run by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation. Bolgatty Island of Kochi is a small island which is just a boat ride away from Kochi harbour mouth. The small journey amidst the cool breeze is very interesting. The grounds contain small golf links and has several vantage points for lovely views of the harbor and the sea. Get set for an exotic island experience in Bolgatty.

Jewish Synagogue Kochi, Kerala, India

Located at Mattancherry, about 24 km from Cochin International Airport, Kerala India, this synagogue built in 1568 by the prosperous Jewish community, is the oldest in India. Among all the common wealth countries of the world, the Jewish Synagogue, Kochi is the oldest existing synagogue. It is also referred to as the Cochin Jewish Synagogue or the Mattancherry Synagogue. The synagogue is located in the quarter of Old Cochin known as Jew Town. Synagogue is commonly spoken of as a "Shul" by Orthodox Jews, "synagogue" by Conservative, and "Temple" by Reform. "Synagogue" is a good all-around word to cover the preceding three possibilities. The Jewish Synagogue is a combination of architecture from Portuguese and Dutch. It is also called Paradesi and Mattancherry Synagogue. Jewish synagogue is located near the Dutch Palace in Mattancherry. It was partially destroyed by the Portuguese in the war of 1662 and was rebuilt by the Dutch. One of its interesting features is the hand painted willow pattern floor tiles brought from Canton in China in mid 18th century and no two tiles are alike. The interior offers many delights: a Belgian chandelier, scrolls of the Old Testament, copper plates on which were recorded the grants of privilege made by the Cochin rulers to the Jewish community in the 4th century and finely wrought gold and silver crowns gifted to the synagogue by various patrons. The Kochi Synagogue at Fort Kochi is the oldest Jewish synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations. The area around the synagogue is known as Jew town whose by-lanes that wind around offer charming sights of houses built in Dutch, Portuguese and British styles. The Synagogue itself is elaborately decorated with crystal chandeliers and carved wood with blue and white ceramic. There are many antique shops located nearby this place. The Jewish Synagogue in Kochi and the surrounding areas are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kerala. Europeans visiting Kerala come and spend hours enjoying the colonial cultural remaining.

The Payippad boat race of Kerala

The Payippad boat race of Kerala is held in Payippadu near Harippad in Kerala is held every year in the month of either August or September. In Kerala, Payippad boat race is a major event that draws a huge crowd from all nearby places. Payippad Vallom Kali or Boat race is held during Onam days every year. It is held continuosly for 3 days starting from the Thiruvonam day.The Payipad Boat Race is perhaps the oldest boat race of Kerala. The accurate historical evidence is not available. This three-day long water regatta literally thrills this land of lagoons. Snake boat pageantries are held on the first two days and the race is on the Thiruvonam day. The event has religious importance as well. Legend has it that the idol of the temple was found from the Kayamkulam lake. The villagers brought the idol to the temple in a colourful journey escorted by country boats. The boat race is held in commemoration of this event.

 

 

Nehru Trophy Boat Race Punnamada Lake near Alappuzha

Nehru Trophy Boat Race is a popular Vallam Kali held in the Punnamada Lake near Alappuzha, every year on the second Saturday of August. our Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru visited Alappuzha and had the chance of experiencing the tremendous excitement of sailing in a snake. As a token of gratitude, he donated a rolling trophy to be presented to the winner of the Snake Boat Races in future years. he race conducted on the second Saturday of August every year is a major tourist attraction. The sheer atmosphere is enough to give you a high. The snake boats that are used in this festival can go up to 140 feet in length.