Often regarded as the treasure trove of indelible history, Phitsanulok is one of the most exotic travel destinations situated in the heart of incredible Thailand. Blessed with a lovely tropical savanna climate, Phitsanulok is humid and dry. Discovered 600 years ago, the city is the birthplace of the King Naresuan, who with his valour and power freed the country from Burmese domination. A must visit on every traveller’s list, Phitsanulok has an incredible beauty and rich cultural tradition to offer. Let’s explore its unique history and natural beauty.
Things you must do while in Phitsanulok
Though Phitsanulok doesn’t attract as many tourists as other popular cities in Thailand, there are a host of unique things to do in Phitsanulok which should not be missed. Here are the top 9 things you should do while you are in the amazing Phitsanulok.
1. Pay Visit to Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat Temple
2. Explore Sergeant Major Thawee Folk Museum
3. Thai Bird Garden
4. Chom Nan Chaloem Phrakiat Public Park
5. Yasmeen Halal Food Restaurant
6. Night Bazaar Of Phitsanulok
7. Wat Ratburana Temple
8. Phra Buddha Chinnara
9. Buddha Casting Factory
1. Pay Visit to Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat Temple
Image Credit: JJ Harrison for wikipedia
Built in the 14th century by King Lithai of Sukhothai – one of the important historical figure of this region, this majestic Budha temple is one of the major attractions of Phitsanulok. The name given to the temple literally translates to “The Temple of The Great Jewelled Reliquary” in the English language. The Buddha image of this temple is regarded as the most beautiful and grandiose spectacle of the city. Situated at the foot of Naresuan Bridge on the banks of Nan river, the temple is beautifully designed in the Khmer style. Several Buddhist festivals and other cultural functions take place here throughout the year and are open for all.
Must Read: Top Experiences In Thailand That You Absolutely Cannot Miss On Your Exotic Vacation
2. Explore Sergeant Major Thawee Folk Museum
Image Courtesy: powerstotravel.com
This famous museum has got an eclectic collection of tools from the city of Phitsanulok. The museum takes you through an amazing historical journey coupled with beautiful aquatic fauna. The stunning aquarium here has the country’s national fish on display. The entire museum is divided into five buildings each surrounded by majestic lush green gardens. A paradise for food lovers, the museum has also got a kitchen where tourist can try their hands on some authentic Thai cooking. It is one of the best things to do in Phitsanulok for a gastronome.
Suggested Read: 7 Best Trips From Koh Samui To Explore Everything That Lies Beyond Thailand!
3. Thai Bird Garden
Image Courtesy: thailand-property.com
If you are in Phitsanulok then do not miss a chance to explore it’s exquisite Thai Bird Garden. It is easily accessible and is located near the Buddha Image Foundry. The Thai Bird Garden is home to hundreds of beautiful Thai birds, including some endangered species with prehistoric significance.
4. Chom Nan Chaloem Phrakiat Public Park
Image Courtesy: deskgram.co
One of the most popular public parks in the heart of Phitsanulok, Chom Nan Chaloem Phrakiat Public Park hosts several festivals and exhibitions throughout the year. One of them is the famous Loy Krathong New Year Festival which celebrates the tradition of making decorated baskets which are later floated on a river. The park has several attractions for tourists and is on the bucket list of every Phitsanulok visitor.
Suggested Read: A Detailed Guide To Maya Bay Thailand: A Must-Visit Spot
5. Yasmeen Halal Food Restaurant
Image Courtesy: feedthelion.co.uk
No travel experience is complete without great food. Good food simply accentuates your travel fun and makes the trip all the more memorable. A heaven for a foodie, this Muslim cafe cum restaurant is a must try in Thailand. Situated near the Pakistan Mosque, the Yasmeen Halal Food Restaurant is without any doubt the best and the most popular cafe here in Phitsanulok. They serve a variety of lip-smacking curries and other Mughlai delicacies at a great price. So if you want to give new meanings to your experience, then it is de rigueur for you to be here when you are in Phitsanulok.
6. Night Bazaar Of Phitsanulok
Without a cool and fun shopping extravaganza, your travel experience is incomplete. If you have not bought some souvenirs at the Night Bazar of Phitsanulok then you have missed a big opportunity to embrace life in Phitsanulok.
Night Bazaar of Phitsanulok is very popular amongst tourists presenting you with numerous shops and stores to buy local items at a bargain price. You can buy all sorts of clothes here along with pretty trinkets. It is also famous for various eateries with a yummy menu and souvenir shops. So do not miss a chance to splurge here. It is one of the best things to do in Phitsanulok for those who want to take the culture and local memories home.
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7. Wat Ratburana Temple
Although it is often overshadowed by the popularity of the Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat Temple in the neighbourhood, Wat Ratburana Temple holds a special place in the tourists’ hearts. Tourists from all over the world pay visit to this beautiful temple for its exotic murals dating back to the 19th century. This temple is also famous for wi-Hahn that earns its popularity from the 700-year-old gold Buddha and old wooden manuscript libraries.
8. Phra Buddha Chinnarat
Image Courtesy: fineartamerica.com
Phra Buddha Chinnarat is a famous Buddha statue all painted in gold, a beauty sure to mesmerize the onlooker. This statue famous for its unmatched aesthetic beauty, some even call it the most beautiful Buddha statue in Thailand. This temple is also located near Wat Phra Si Ratana Mahathat Temple and is a must visit.
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9. Buddha Casting Factory
Image Courtesy: patricklepetit.jalbum.net
A paradise for fine art lovers, the Buddha casting factory is a must visit the place. Full of numerous images of Buddha, the Buddha Casting Factory is the best place to find about the ancient Thai art of casting images of Buddha. In fact, you can also learn to cast them over here.
Further Read: Kanchanaburi Forest Reserve: A Guide To Spend A Day At This Nature’s Paradise In Thailand!
So if you are on a trip to Thailand, make sure to explore Phitsanulok to the fullest. This city has plenty to offer to its beholders—be it zoos, public parks, temples, and exotic gardens etc. Less explored, Phitsanulok has a lot of hidden gems. Besides beautiful attractions, Phitsanulok is a frenetic and extremely friendly city in Thailand which will leave you wanting to stay more at this place.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Things to Do in Phitsanulok
Where is Phitsanulok located?
Phitsanulok is located in the Mueang Phitsanulok District of Thailand. It is in northern Thailand and the Phitsanulok Airport is situated here. You can also commute to Phitsanulok by road as well, as it is well-connected to major cities of Thailand.
How do I reach Sukhothai from Phitsanulok?
No direct trains that go directly to Sukhothai. However, you can take a bus to Sukhothai. The Sukhothai Bus Terminal is located on Highway 101 and is just a few kilometers away from the famous bridge in New Sukhothai.
Is it safe to visit Phitsanulok during covid times?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to visit Phitsanulok during covid times, as it has a relatively low number of covid cases. But don’t take our word for it: check up on the latest travel advisory, Covid-19 measures, and the number of cases before your departure. It is safer to undertake solo travel or with a small group of people to somewhere that is not overly crowded at the moment.
Which are the popular attractions in Phitsanulok?
Some of the popular attractions that you must explore in Phitsanulok are Pin Buranaket Folklore Museum, Wat Ratcha Burada Temple, Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park, Shrine Of King Naresuan, Buddha Image Foundry, Rim Nam Restaurant, and Phutthabucha Road Night Bazaar.
What can I do in Phitsanulok?
There are many amazing things to do in Phitsanulok that will keep you hooked. Some of those things are exploring the Night Bazaar of Phitsanulok, birdwatching at the Thai Bird Garden, seeking blessings at the Wat Ratburana Temple and getting in touch with the city’s history at the Major Thawee Folk Museum.
What is the best time to visit Phitsanulok?
The best time to visit Phitsanulok is from January to July and September to December. However, April and May happen to be the hottest months and it might be slightly uncomfortable to explore various attractions in Phitsanulok.
Is Phitsanulok a safe place to visit?
Yes, Phitsanulok is one of the safest places to visit in Thailand with the crime rate being negligible and crime against women being non-existent. However, if you seek any kind of help, then you can contact the officials using the special helpline number for tourists.
What can I eat in Phitsanulok?
Crabmeat Roll, Hoi Jor, Peanut Chicken, and Khao Man Kai are some of the many things that you can eat in Phitsanulok. You can find these dishes in various popular restaurants of Phitsanulok.
Gaurav is an entrepreneur by profession and an avid Yoga enthusiast. He loves to explore and know about Varied traditions, arts and colourful cultures of people at different places around the world. He loves to spend time in nature and to read books.
