Things To Do
in Phitsanulok
Phitsanulok, Thailand is a historic city located in the lower northern region of the country, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant local life. It is home to the revered Phra Buddha Chinnarat statue, one of the most important Buddha images in Thailand. The city serves as a hub for travelers exploring Northern Thailand, offering a blend of ancient temples, bustling markets, and scenic landscapes.
Visitors can enjoy a mix of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures, making it a unique destination for all types of travelers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, where the famous Phra Buddha Chinnarat statue is located. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and take photos of the intricate temple architecture.
Head to the Phitsanulok National Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region. Afterward, visit the nearby local market for some shopping and street food.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Thai cuisine, followed by a stroll along the Nan River to experience the evening breeze and local nightlife.
Take a morning trip to the nearby Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. Explore the park's walking trails and enjoy the fresh air.
Visit the scenic waterfalls in the area, such as the Tat Mok Waterfall, for a refreshing swim and a picnic lunch amidst nature.
Return to the city for dinner at a popular night market where you can try various local dishes and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at a local restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-30 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within the city | $3-5 |
| 🚌Bus ticket | $1 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Affordable living and travel costs.
- Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation can be less reliable.
- Hot and humid weather during summer months.
- "สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ" - Hello (male/female)
- "ขอบคุณครับ/ค่ะ" - Thank you (male/female)
- "ช่วยด้วย!" - Help!
- "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "ฉันไม่เข้าใจ" - I don't understand.
Places to Visit in Phitsanulok
Visit one of these nice places.
The temple houses the Phra Buddha Chinnarat statue, and its stunning architecture provides a perfect backdrop for photographs.
The river offers picturesque views, especially during sunset, making it an ideal spot for capturing natural beauty.
The park's dramatic landscapes, including mountains and waterfalls, are perfect for outdoor photography.
Food in Phitsanulok
Phitsanulok Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy coconut curry noodle soup, typically topped with crispy noodles and served with pickled vegetables.
Must-Try!
A spicy green papaya salad, often accompanied by sticky rice and grilled chicken.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling night market where locals gather for street food, fresh produce, and handmade crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always show respect towards monks; women should not touch them and should give way on the streets.
A traditional greeting involving placing palms together in a prayer-like gesture. It’s polite to greet locals this way.
When visiting temples, wear appropriate clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
Safety
Tipping in Phitsanulok
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.
Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted at larger establishments. ATMs are available throughout the city.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the cool season, with pleasant temperatures. It's a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.
Expect high temperatures and humidity. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.
Frequent rain showers can be expected. Bring an umbrella and enjoy the lush green scenery that follows the rains.
Be sure to check local calendars for festivals like Loy Krathong in November, which features beautiful lantern displays.
Phitsanulok at Night
Hiking in Phitsanulok
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about an hour's drive from Phitsanulok, this trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
A scenic trail within the national park that leads to breathtaking viewpoints and unique geological formations.
Airports
How to reach Phitsanulok by plane.
Located just a short drive from the city center, the airport offers domestic flights to Bangkok and other key destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population practices Buddhism, influencing the local culture and festivals.
Phitsanulok is home to various ethnic groups, including hill tribes, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional martial art that is very popular in Thailand, with local gyms offering classes and events.
Football is widely played and followed, with local matches often attracting enthusiastic crowds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Phitsanulok.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local dishes can be made vegetarian upon request, but be sure to specify no fish sauce.