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Things to Do in Phitsanulok

Things to Do in Phitsanulok

Phitsanulok Phitsanulok Province, Thailand Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

The region surrounding Phitsanulok offers chances for hiking, cycling, and wildlife observation within its national parks.

Hiking & Trekking

Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park

Offers varied trails, from easy walks to challenging treks, exploring former communist strongholds, waterfalls, and rock formations.

Thung Salaeng Luang National Park

Known as the "Savanna of Thailand" with vast grasslands and pine forests, providing trails suitable for walking and cycling.

Adventure Sports Limitations

Phitsanulok is not a hub for extreme adventure sports. Rappelling or rock climbing in Phu Hin Rong Kla typically needs specialized operators and advance booking.

Water & Wildlife Activities

  • Nan River: mainly for longtail boat sightseeing. No extensive water sports like kayaking or jet skiing directly in the city.
  • Cycling: Casual cycling is possible on less busy city streets. Thung Salaeng Luang National Park has designated cycling routes; bicycle rentals are available closer to the parks.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Phu Hin Rong Kla and Thung Salaeng Luang National Parks offer birdwatching opportunities. Smaller mammals may also be spotted within protected areas.
  • Self-guided exploration: Most wildlife observations are through self-guided walks or driving through park areas.

Day Trip Focus

  • Most adventurous activities require travel outside the city.
  • Consider full-day excursions to national parks.
  • Plan transport to and from these natural sites.
  • Prepare for varied terrain and weather conditions.

Booking Activities

  • For tours and tickets to national parks or guided adventures.
  • GetYourGuide for pre-booking.
  • Check directly with park offices for local guides.
  • Some activities may need local permits.

City vs. Province

  • City limits focus on cultural and historical sites.
  • The wider province features natural and outdoor pursuits.
  • Combine both for a balanced trip.
  • Rental vehicles are recommended for province exploration.

Safety Advisory for Outdoor Activities

Always inform someone of your plans when venturing into national parks or remote areas. Carry sufficient water, sun protection, and a basic first-aid kit.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Thai culture through various workshops, performances, and local interactions within Phitsanulok.

Workshops & Learning

  • Formal workshops (art, craft, music, dance) for tourists are not widely available.
  • Inquire at Sergeant Major Thavee Folk Museum for craft demonstrations during your visit.
  • Language Learning: Naresuan University has programs, but short-term classes for tourists are rare. Learning basic Thai phrases is beneficial.
  • Community-Based Tourism: Less formalized in the city. Opportunities may exist in smaller provincial villages via local tourism initiatives.

Performances & Festivals

Cultural Performances

Temples like Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat occasionally host religious ceremonies or cultural shows, often during Buddhist holidays or local festivals.

Songkran Thai New Year

Mid-April celebration with enthusiastic water splashing and traditional activities across the city, a experience.

Loy Krathong

In November (full moon of 12th lunar month), a beautiful festival where people release decorated floats and lanterns onto the Nan River, creating a magical atmosphere.

Buddhist Holidays

Various merit-making activities and ceremonies occur at temples throughout the year. These present opportunities to observe local religious practices.

Local Schedules

Check local calendars upon arrival for specific dates of cultural events to experience unique offerings and traditions.

Relaxation & Wellness

Discover opportunities for rest and rejuvenation in Phitsanulok, from traditional massages to tranquil hotel facilities.

Spa & Massage

  • Many mid-range and luxury hotels offer in-house spa services with various treatments.
  • Independent massage shops are available around the city, specializing in traditional Thai and foot massages.
  • Traditional Healing: Local pharmacies and herbal shops also supply traditional remedies for common ailments.
  • Hot Springs: No hot springs are directly in Phitsanulok city. Phu Khieo Hot Spring is about an hour's drive away (Wang Thong District), suitable for a day trip.

Wellness Activities

Yoga & Meditation

Phitsanulok is not a known hub for formal yoga or meditation retreats. Some temples may offer short-term meditation instruction with genuine interest and respectful approach.

Pool Access

Phitsanulok is inland; no beaches. Hotels like Topland Hotel and Amarin Lagoon Hotel have swimming pools for guests, offering a refreshing break from the heat.

Riverside Relaxation

The Nan River's banks provide serene spots for quiet contemplation or a leisurely stroll.

Wellness Aspects

Accessibility of Massage

Traditional Thai massage is widely accessible, found in hotel spas and independent parlors.

Natural Escapes

Nearby national parks offer quiet environments for nature walks and mental rejuvenation.

Hotel Amenities

Many hotels offer pools and fitness centers for guest use, providing leisure options.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Phitsanulok offers a relaxed evening atmosphere with local entertainment options, mainly centered around dining and casual socializing.

Evening Venues

  • Live Music: Some restaurants and bars, especially along the Nan River or in the university area, feature live Thai music.
  • Bar Districts: Clusters of bars can be found near the Nan River and around the university area, suitable for casual drinks.
  • Night Bazaar: Remains a hub for food and activity late into the evening.
  • 24/7 Convenience: Convenience stores like 7-Eleven stay open around the clock for essentials.

Specific Entertainment Types

Theater & Performances

No major theater venues exist. Naresuan University may host occasional cultural events or performances. Check their schedule.

Nightclubs & Dancing

A few local nightclubs or discotheques mainly cater to Thai youth. These offer a chance to experience the local party scene.

Pub Crawls

Phitsanulok is not a typical "pub crawl" destination like larger cities, but areas with clustered bars are good for socializing.

Karaoke

Karaoke bars are a popular local pastime, offering private rooms for singing with friends and family.

Riverside Bars

Enjoy a relaxed drink with views of the Nan River, notably scenic in the evening light.

Bowling Alleys

Some shopping malls feature bowling alleys, providing a casual entertainment option for all ages.

Alcohol Consumption Advisory

Legal drinking age in Thailand is 20. Public consumption of alcohol, especially near temples or schools, may be restricted or frowned upon. Drink responsibly.

Shopping & Markets

Discover local crafts, souvenirs, and daily necessities at Phitsanulok's diverse markets and shopping areas.

Traditional Markets & Crafts

  • Phitsanulok Night Bazaar: Excellent for evening food, clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.
  • Borom Trailokkanat Market: Large morning and daytime market for fresh produce, meats, spices, and local street food.
  • Artisan Crafts: Sergeant Major Thavee Folk Museum showcases many traditional crafts. Some local shops, especially near main temples, may sell handmade items.
  • Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat: Shops around this temple sell religious items, amulets, and local crafts related to the temple itself.

Souvenirs & Modern Shopping

Souvenir Recommendations

Miniature Buddha images (especially Phra Phuttha Chinnarat replicas), traditional Thai fabrics, local snacks (crispy pork rinds, dried fruits), and silk products are popular choices.

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

Limited. Central Plaza Phitsanulok offers brand-name clothing and electronics, but not high-end luxury goods.

Ethical Shopping

Support local artisans by purchasing from independent vendors. Avoid items from endangered species or illicit materials.

Shipping Services

  • Thailand Post offices are available.
  • Send postcards or parcels internationally.
  • Inquire about shipping costs and delivery times.
  • Secure packaging for fragile items.

Customs Information

  • Awareness of home country's import restrictions.
  • Check duty-free allowances.
  • Thailand has strict export laws for Buddha images.
  • Permits needed for large or ancient Buddha images.

Bargaining Tips

  • Common in markets, less so in fixed-price shops.
  • Start with a polite lower offer.
  • Aim for a fair price for both parties.
  • Keep it friendly and respectful.

Affiliate Shopping Resources

General Online Shopping
  • While direct affiliate links for local shops are rare, general platforms can provide ideas.
  • Explore options on international sites for general travel gear before or after your trip.
  • Use general e-commerce sites to research typical prices and product varieties.
Souvenir Ideas
  • Consider local crafts bought directly from markets for authenticity.
  • Buddhist art and amulets from temple-side stalls are unique mementos.
  • Local snacks and dried fruits from the markets make delicious gifts.

Shopping Awareness

Always check for product quality and authenticity, especially with higher-value items. Remember to keep receipts for any significant purchases for customs purposes.

Activity Planning Summary

Daily Planning

  • Allocate specific days for city attractions and separate days for national park excursions.
  • Consider transportation needs for activities outside the city center.
  • Factor in travel time and potential delays.
  • Plan outdoor activities for cooler parts of the day if possible.

Experience Mix

  • Balance sightseeing with relaxation and cultural immersion.
  • Integrate local dining and market visits into your schedule.
  • Dedicate time for souvenir shopping at local bazaars.
  • Stay flexible to account for unexpected discoveries or local events.