Phitsanulok Province Travel Guide
Containing one of the largest and most ancient provincial capitals in Thailand, Phitsanulok province is a popular choice with tourists to the region. Home to the Nan river and a myriad of stunning temples, the province also includes a number of attractive national park areas.
In the Ayutthaya period the city of Phitsanulok was a royal capital of great power. Today, the city is a busy and prospering place with many attractions to keep visitors occupied for more than a couple of days. The city, one of Thailand’s largest provincial capitals, has many ancient temples. Well worth a visit are Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahatat Woramahawihan and Wat Ratchaburana temples.
The province boasts four national park areas that are a major draw for those wanting to trek in the province. Thung Salaeng Luang National Park which spreads over Phitsanulok and Phetchabun provinces is one of Thailand’s largest and most visited national parks, with attractions including the Wang Tong river and the Kaeng Sopha waterfall.
Other attractions within the province include Tham Lot, a tunnel of caves with a subterranean river running through it that leads to a Buddhist temple at the exiting end, and Wat Ratchakhhiri Hiranyaram, a hilltop temple that is home to a 1,000-hand Guan Yin statue.
Transport links within the province are good with regular bus and trains services linking all main towns and cities. Phitsanulok city is also a national transport hub providing links to many regions within Thailand. Accommodation choices in the province are not varied or widespread. Within the provincial city hotels tend to be of a slightly shabby variety and guesthouses are limited.