This area was an ancient city, dating back to pre-historic times. It was the starting point of Buddhism in Dvaravati culture area.
The district was created in 1895 named Phra Pathom Chedi district, under control of Mueang Nakhon Chai Si, Monthon Nakhon Chai Si. In 1898 the government moved the capital city of the monthon and the province from Nakhon Chai Si to Phra Pathom Chedi district. King Vajiravudh (Rama VI) changed the district name to Mueang Nakhon Pathom in 1913.