Nakhon Pathom is a province with a deep-rooted history, often considered one of the earliest centers of civilization in the Suvarnabhumi region (present-day Southeast Asia). Archaeological evidence suggests that ancient Nakhon Pathom was once located by the sea and was a prominent city during the Suvarnabhumi era, later becoming a significant capital during the Dvaravati period. As a central hub for cultural and religious exchange, Nakhon Pathom was instrumental in spreading Indian-influenced civilization, including Buddhism, throughout the region. Due to its prominence, people from various backgrounds migrated to the area, establishing a diverse community.

Over time, the city faced severe droughts as watercourses shifted, leading inhabitants to relocate and establish a new settlement known as "Nakhon Chai Si" (or "Sri Vijaya"). As a result, Nakhon Pathom was largely abandoned for centuries until King Mongkut (Rama IV) discovered Phra Pathom Chedi, a large, ancient stupa believed to be unrivaled in size. After ascending the throne, King Mongkut ordered the restoration of Phra Pathom Chedi with a new Sri Lankan-style stupa surrounding the original structure. The King further developed the area by excavating a canal, "Khlong Chedi Bucha," to facilitate travel and pilgrimage to the revered site.

During the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), the construction of the Southern Railway line passing through Nakhon Pathom prompted the King to relocate the city center from Thana, Nakhon Chai Si, to the area around Phra Pathom Chedi, mirroring the city's ancient configuration.

Later, under King Vajiravudh (Rama VI), Nakhon Pathom experienced further growth as the King ordered the construction of Sanam Chandra Palace for his personal residence and military training ground. New roads and bridges, including the Charoen Sattha Bridge over Khlong Chedi Bucha, connected the train station to Phra Pathom Chedi. The King also commissioned the construction of Phra Ruang Rojanarit, a sacred statue on the northern side of Phra Pathom Chedi, and fully restored the stupa to its current grandeur. In this period, he renamed the city from "Nakhon Chai Si" back to "Nakhon Pathom," marking its revival as a center of cultural and religious heritage.