About Phitsanulok
Phitsanulok is a historic city in the lower part of northern Thailand, roughly halfway between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. The Nan River flows through the centre and floating houses line the bank. Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, also called Wat Yai, is the most important temple and houses the famous Buddha image Phra Buddha Chinnarat. King Naresuan, one of Thailand's great kings, was born here and his shrine stands by the ruins of the Wang Chan Palace. There are also the Folklore Museum, Wat Ratburana and the ruins of Wat Wihan Thong. The city is a good base for Sukhothai and Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park. In the evening try 'flying morning glory' at the night market. The city has its own airport and a station on the main northern railway line, so it is easy to reach and a handy stopover between Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
Best time to visit (indicative)
Best from November to February: cool and dry, with chilly mornings in the hills. From February to April smoke and haze from agricultural burning can limit visibility; June to October is the rainy season, green and quiet. Weather varies from year to year; this is a guideline based on the climate.
Getting there
From Bangkok by flight (about 1 hour), train or bus (about 5 to 6 hours); the city is a hub towards Sukhothai. Distances and travel times are rounded estimates.
Things to do in Phitsanulok
- Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat The famous Phra Buddha Chinnarat image sits in this temple.
- King Naresuan Shrine A shrine beside the ruins of the Wang Chan Palace.
- Folklore Museum A small museum with local culture and traditions.
- Floating houses Wooden houses on the water along the Nan River.
