Phitsanulok Province casts a rural tapestry of open farms, cascading waterfalls and intricate cave systems across the north of Thailand. The province is centred around its provincial capital, Phitsanulok, which offers a charming gateway to revered Buddhist temples, inviting Thai restaurants and sprawling national parks.
Things to do in Phitsanulok
Take advantage of the national parks around Phitsanulok Province to experience some of Thailand’s incredible nature. Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park is perfect for admiring unique rock formations covered in orchids and ferns, while Thung Salaeng Luang National Park is renowned for its hiking trails and white-water rafting adventures.
If you’re hanging around the city of Phitsanulok, don’t miss seeing the sacred Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat. This prominent Buddhist temple is positioned on the Nan River and boasts a vibrant garden with water features and seasonal flowers. The nearby Wat Nang Phaya offers an up-close look at gilded Buddha statues and traditional Asian architecture.
The centre of Phitsanulok is a bustling hub of locally-owned restaurants and hawker centres. There are numerous markets dotted throughout the downtown core with stall holders selling electronics, handmade goods and fresh regional produce. Duck into one of the riverfront restaurants for delicious Thai cuisine.
Are you an active traveller? Take on the challenging hiking trails up Phu Thap Boek, a 1,768-metre-tall mountain covered in evergreen forest and cabbage farms. You can also hike through Phu Soi Dao National Park, which is covered in wildflowers during spring and is home to a scenic waterfall.
Getting around Phitsanulok
Phitsanulok Province is under 400 kilometres from Bangkok, connected via long-distance buses. Taxis, tuk-tuks and songthaews service the city of Phitsanulok, but it’s best to hire a car or joining a tour to explore the surrounding national parks.