Things To Do
in Phak Hai
Phak Hai is a quiet agricultural district in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province, characterized by rice paddies, riverside villages and a slow pace of life. It sits along the Chao Phraya river system, offering rural scenery and easy access to Ayutthaya’s historical sites. Visitors come for local markets, simple temples, and to experience everyday Central Thai country life.
Phak Hai is a good base for low-key cycling, river photography and short trips into Ayutthaya’s cultural attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey by visiting the vibrant Phak Hai Floating Market. Immerse yourself in the local culture while savoring delicious street food and browsing unique handicrafts. Experience the bustling atmosphere as vendors sell fresh produce and handmade goods from their boats.
After enjoying a hearty lunch at the market, hop on a long-tail boat for a scenic tour along the canals. Take in the picturesque landscapes as you glide through the village and witness the daily life of the locals. Don't forget to capture the stunning sights and vibrant flora along the waterways.
As the sun sets, return to the market for an evening of entertainment and food. Enjoy live performances showcasing local talent while feasting on traditional Thai dishes. The lively ambiance and friendly locals will make for a memorable evening experience.
Begin your day by visiting the ancient Wat Phra Non, an impressive temple known for its striking architecture. Spend time admiring the intricate details and historical significance of this sacred site. The peaceful atmosphere will allow for reflection and appreciation of Thailand's rich heritage.
After your temple visit, explore the nearby Wat Bang Na Nok, famous for its beautiful murals and serene environment. Take part in a monk chat to learn about Buddhist practices and gain insights into monastic life. The experience will provide a deeper understanding of local spiritual customs.
Wind down your day with a meditation session at the temple grounds under the guidance of a local monk. The tranquil ambiance combined with the setting sun creates a serene atmosphere perfect for mindfulness. End the evening with a quiet dinner at a nearby restaurant featuring traditional Thai cuisine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $1.50-4 |
| ☕Coffee or iced tea | $0.80-2.50 |
| 🏨Budget guesthouse (per night) | $12-30 |
| 🚕Short taxi or songthaew ride | $0.50-3 |
| 🚆Train to Ayutthaya or nearby city | $0.50-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Thai atmosphere and friendly locals
- Quiet, low-cost destination with good opportunities for cycling and photography
- Close enough to Ayutthaya for cultural day trips
- Fresh river fish and home-style Central Thai food
- Limited tourist infrastructure and few luxury accommodations
- Sparse nightlife and entertainment options
- Public transport options are limited; a car or arranged transport is helpful
- Hot and humid in the peak season with occasional flooding in rainy months
- "สวัสดี (sawasdee)" - Hello / Hi
- "ขอบคุณ (khob khun)" - Thank you
- "เท่าไหร่ (tao rai)?" - How much?
- "ใช่ / ไม่ใช่ (chai / mai chai)" - Yes / No
- "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน (hong nam yoo tee nai)?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "ไม่เผ็ดได้ไหม (mai phet dai mai)?" - Can it be not spicy?
Places to Visit in Phak Hai
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views and low-lying mist in the cool season make for beautiful golden-hour shots of boats, fishermen and reflections.
Expansive paddies, seasonal planting or harvest activity, and simple wooden houses offer classic rural Thai compositions.
Small community temples with ornate chedis and Buddha images provide detail shots and cultural scenes, especially during ceremonies.
Close-up food and vendor portraits, colorful produce and lively interactions — ideal for street and documentary photography.
Food in Phak Hai
Phak Hai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Whole river fish salted and grilled over charcoal; commonly served with the spicy dipping sauce nam jim. Found at riverside stalls and small local restaurants.
Must-Try!
A local spin on tom yum using fresh fish or river prawns; aromatic with lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves and available at family eateries.
Seasonal dessert of ripe mango with sweet coconut sticky rice — look for vendors at markets in mango season (summer).
Spicy, sour papaya salad popular across Thailand; in Phak Hai you'll find variations with local freshwater ingredients.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market selling fresh produce, cooked breakfasts, noodle soups and snacks — a great place for cheap local eats and to observe daily life.
Evening stalls near the river serving grilled fish, skewers and seafood-style dishes; best for sunset dining and casual photography.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting temples (shoulders and knees covered). Women should avoid touching monks and do not sit higher than monks during religious settings.
Avoid touching people's heads (considered the most sacred) and do not point feet at people or religious images; remove shoes when entering homes and some temple buildings.
The wai (palms together) is a common polite greeting. Smile, speak softly and show patience; loud arguments in public are frowned upon.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially monks, ceremonies or private property.
Safety
Tipping in Phak Hai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Leave small change or round up at casual restaurants; for boat drivers, guides or exceptional service, tip 20–100 THB depending on the service.
Small vendors and markets prefer cash (Thai baht). Larger restaurants may accept card, but always carry cash for local stalls, transport and small purchases. PromptPay (Thai QR payments) is increasingly common—ask if available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures can reach the mid-30s °C (95°F). Expect dry fields, intense sun and afternoon heat; plan activities for mornings and evenings and carry sun protection and water.
Frequent afternoon or evening showers; landscapes are lush and green, with higher mosquito activity and occasional localized flooding on minor roads. Bring lightweight rain gear and quick-dry clothing.
Most comfortable time to visit with cooler mornings (especially December–January), clearer skies and good conditions for cycling, walking and photography.
Phak Hai at Night
Hiking in Phak Hai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Not a mountain hike but extensive walking and cycling loops among ancient ruins, temples and riverbanks; ideal for photography and cultural exploration (30–60 minutes drive).
Short flat walks along levees and canals for birdwatching and sunrise photography; easy terrain and very accessible.
A longer day-trip option (approximately 2–3 hours by car) offering extensive hiking trails, waterfalls and wildlife — a major natural escape if you want mountainous hiking beyond the plains.
Airports
How to reach Phak Hai by plane.
Approximately 1–1.5 hours by car from Phak Hai depending on traffic; serves many domestic and regional flights and is often the most convenient for low-cost carriers.
Bangkok’s main international airport, about 1.5–2 hours by car depending on traffic; best option for most international arrivals and a wide range of connections.
Regional airport approximately 1.5–2 hours drive north (depending on route) useful if combining Phak Hai with northern-central Thailand travel plans; fewer flight options than Bangkok airports.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority of residents involved in rice farming, orchards and fisheries; daily life revolves around agricultural cycles.
A significant older population lives in the area as younger people often move to cities for work.
Local temples are centers for religious life and education, with monks playing a visible social role.
People who travel to Ayutthaya or Bangkok for work; some newer housing supports commuters.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed at community and school levels; informal matches are common in fields and schoolgrounds.
Traditional Thai boxing is popular and practiced locally; small training camps or gyms can sometimes be found in nearby towns.
River-based activities and seasonal long-boat events occur in river communities and festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Phak Hai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are limited; ask for 'jay' (เจ) food at markets or eateries for simple vegetable and tofu dishes, and confirm no fish sauce or shrimp paste when ordering.
Vegan choices require clear communication — avoid fish sauce, oyster sauce and shrimp paste. Dry snacks and fruits are widely available.
Rice-based dishes are naturally gluten-free; be cautious with soy sauce (may contain wheat) and ask cooks about seasonings.
Peanuts are used commonly; carry allergy translation cards in Thai and speak clearly to vendors if you have severe allergies.