Phitsanulok - Discovering Thailand

Travelling to Phitsanulok

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Phitsanulok, a pretty good destination in Thailand (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Phitsanulok and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Phitsanulok, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Thailand, here's everything to know about Phitsanulok for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Phitsanulok

Phitsanulok is a city located in the northern region of Thailand. It is the capital of Phitsanulok Province and is located about 377 kilometers north of Bangkok. The city is well-known for its rich history and culture, and it is considered to be one of the oldest cities in Thailand. Some of the city's top attractions include the Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, the Wat Chula Manee, and the Phitsanulok Night Bazaar. Additionally, Phitsanulok is known for its traditional Thai cuisine, particularly its dishes made with river fish. The city can be easily accessed by plane, train, or bus, making it a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers.

What to visit in Phitsanulok

Here are some tourist attractions in Phitsanulok, Thailand along with some information: 1. Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat (Wat Yai) - This is the most famous temple in Phitsanulok, and one of the most important temples in Thailand. It houses an ancient and highly revered Buddha image, Phra Buddha Chinnarat, which is considered one of the most beautiful in the country.
- Visitors can admire the intricately carved pillars, Naga staircase, and stunning golden chedis.
2. Wat Nang Phaya - Also known as the Temple of the Beautiful Woman, It is a stunning temple built in the Ayutthaya period. The temple boasts a beautiful mural that it is believed to be the most beautiful mural painting in Thailand.
- It is known for its unique blend of Thai, Chinese, and Indian influences in its architecture and artwork.
3. Sergeant Major Thawee Folk Museum - This museum is dedicated to Sergeant Major Thawee, a historical figure and a big part of Phitsanulok's history. It showcases his life and collections, including weapons, antique textiles, and musical instruments.
- It can be quite informative for those who are interested in Thai history and culture.
4. Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park - For nature lovers, Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park offers plenty of hiking trails, beautiful scenery, and waterfalls. It is also rich in biodiversity, being home to many rare fauna and flora, including wild elephants, tigers, and birds.
- Visitors can go camping and explore the historical site of the Thai Communist Party, which used to operate in this area.
5. Chan Palace and Museum - Chan Palace and Museum offers visitors a peek into the lifestyle and living quarters of royalty in the ancient times. The museum has four parts; the first part focuses on the royal lifestyle and explains its noble customs. - The second part contains a permanent exhibit of ancient Thai and Lao pottery, while the third recounts the rich historical relationship between Thailand and Laos. The fourth part focuses on the history of the Northern region.
These are some of the top tourist attractions in Phitsanulok, Thailand, each with a unique charm and interesting backstory.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Thailand, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Phitsanulok.

When to go on holiday to Phitsanulok

The best time to visit Phitsanulok is between November and February when the weather is cooler and the rainfall is less which makes it ideal for exploring the city. This period is considered as the peak tourist season, however, you can expect larger crowds and higher prices. If you prefer avoiding the crowd, you may consider visiting during the shoulder season from March to May when the weather is hot and humid but the tourist crowds are thinner. The monsoon season from June to October brings heavy rainfall and humidity so it is not the best time to visit Phitsanulok.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Phitsanulok

There are several ways to get to Phitsanulok, Thailand: 1. By Air: Phitsanulok has its own domestic airport, which is serviced by Bangkok Airways. You can book a direct flight from Bangkok to Phitsanulok, which takes approximately 1 hour.
2. By Train: Phitsanulok is a major railway hub in Thailand, with trains connecting it to major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Ayutthaya. The journey time from Bangkok to Phitsanulok is around 6-7 hours.
3. By Bus: Phitsanulok is well connected by road to major cities in Thailand, including Bangkok and Chiang Mai. The journey time from Bangkok to Phitsanulok by bus is around 6-7 hours.
4. By Car: If you are traveling from Bangkok, you can rent a car and drive to Phitsanulok. The journey time is approximately 5-6 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Phitsanulok, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Phitsanulok

Phitsanulok is a province in Thailand that is known for its rich culinary heritage. Here are some of the typical foods of Phitsanulok along with a short description for each of them: 1. Kaeng Som - It is a spicy and sour fish curry that is made with tamarind paste, galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves.
2. Khao Soi - It is a noodle soup dish that is made with a coconut milk-based curry and served with egg noodles, pickled mustard greens, shallots, lime wedges, and crispy fried noodles.
3. Nam Prik Ong - It is a spicy pork and tomato dip that is typically served with fresh vegetables like cucumber, long beans, and cabbage.
4. Sai Oua - It is a type of sausage that is made with ground pork, lemongrass, and spices like galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and dried chili flakes.
5. Tom Yum Goong - A hot and sour soup made with prawns, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chili peppers.
6. Gaeng Hang Lay - A Northern Thailand-style thick and aromatic curry made with tender pork or beef, turmeric, ginger, garlic, and shallots.
7. Pad Mee Korat - A stir-fried noodle dish that is made with Korat-style rice noodles and features a variety of ingredients like pork, cabbage, and bean sprouts.
8. Khao Kriap Pak Moh - A steamed rice flour wrap stuffed with minced pork, garlic, and coriander. 9. Kanom Jeen Nam Ya - a Tasty dish of fermented rice noodles topped with a chili oil and fish curry.
These dishes offer a great balance of flavors and are a great representation of the diverse culinary traditions of Phitsanulok.
You can find general info about typical foods in Thailand here.

Is Phitsanulok an expensive destination for tourists?

Phitsanulok is generally an affordable destination for tourists. The cost of accommodation, food, and transportation tends to be lower than in popular tourist destinations like Bangkok or Phuket. However, the cost of some activities and tours may vary depending on the provider. It's always recommended to do some research and compare prices before booking anything.

Where to find accomodation in Phitsanulok

It's recommended to find accommodation near the city center of Phitsanulok since most of the city's main tourist attractions, such as Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat (Temple of the Buddha's Relics) and the Night Bazaar, are located in or near the center. There are many accommodation options available in the city center, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to higher-end hotels. Additionally, the area near the railway station can also be a good option for those looking for easy transportation access.
You can check hotel prices at Phitsanulok here:
Booking.com

Is Phitsanulok a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Phitsanulok is generally a safe place for tourists to visit. However, like any other place, it is important to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Here are some safety tips that may be helpful: 1. Be aware of your surroundings: Always be aware of your surroundings and stay in well-lit and busy areas, especially at night.
2. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash: It's best to use credit or debit cards for purchases and to carry only the amount of cash that you need.
3. Beware of pickpockets: Keep your bags and pockets closed and do not leave valuables unattended.
4. Watch out for scam artists: Be cautious of people offering unsolicited assistance or deals that seem too good to be true.
5. Respect local customs and laws: Make sure to familiarize yourself with the local customs and laws to avoid any issues or misunderstandings.
Overall, if you exercise caution and stay alert, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Phitsanulok.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Thailand here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Phitsanulok.

What type of travelers will enjoy Phitsanulok the most?

Phitsanulok in Thailand is a great destination for travelers who are interested in history, culture, and natural beauty. It's a perfect place for families and couples who love to learn about the local culture and history, and for those looking for a quiet and peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
It's also a great destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring the local national parks and waterfalls. Phitsanulok is not known as a party destination, so it's not ideal for young people looking for a nightlife scene.
Overall, Phitsanulok is a great destination for travelers looking for an authentic Thai experience, who enjoy learning about the history and culture of the country, and who are looking to explore the beautiful natural surroundings.

How to get around Phitsanulok

There are several transportation options to move around Phitsanulok: 1. Tuk-tuk: This is a three-wheeled vehicle that operates as a taxi service. It is a common mode of transportation in Thailand and is relatively inexpensive.
2. Songthaew: This is also a taxi service, but it is a shared vehicle that operates on a specific route. It can be cheaper than a tuk-tuk.
3. Motorbike: You can rent a motorbike to move around Phitsanulok. This is a popular and convenient means of transportation, but it is important to note that traffic in Thailand can be quite chaotic.
4. Bicycle: Some guesthouses and hotels offer bicycles for rent. This is an eco-friendly way to move around, and it is also a good way to explore the city.
5. Car rental: If you prefer to rent a car, there are car rental services available in Phitsanulok.

What to see around Phitsanulok

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Phitsanulok: 1. Sukhothai Historical Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is just an hour's drive from Phitsanulok and is famous for its ancient ruins and beautiful architecture.
2. Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat: This temple, also known as the Temple of the Buddha's Relic, is a very important and sacred Buddhist temple located in Phitsanulok city and is definitely worth a visit.
3. Wat Ratchaburana: This temple in Ayutthaya is known for its beautiful central prang (stupa) and ancient ruins, and is just a two-hour drive from Phitsanulok.
4. Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park: Located about 80 km from Phitsanulok, this national park is known for its beautiful scenery, hiking trails, and waterfalls.
5. Sirikit Dam: This large hydroelectric dam is located about an hour's drive from Phitsanulok and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake.
6. Wang Sai Thong Waterfall: This beautiful waterfall is located about an hour's drive from Phitsanulok and offers a great day trip option for those who love nature and hiking.
For every travel information about Thailand you can click here.

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