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Best Time to Visit Phitsanulok

Best Time to Visit Phitsanulok

Phitsanulok Phitsanulok Province, Thailand Travel Guide

Climate Patterns & Seasons

Hot Season (March - May): Temperatures here range from 28°C (82°F) to a scorching 40°C (104°F). Humidity is high, making the heat feel more intense. April consistently ranks as the hottest month. The air feels thick and heavy.

Rainy Season (May - October): Average temperatures during this period are 25°C (77°F) to 32°C (90°F). This season brings heavy rainfall, especially from August to September. Downpours are intense but often short-lived, followed by clear skies. Humidity remains very high.

Cool Season November - February

  • This is the most popular time to visit. The weather is pleasant.
  • It offers low humidity and clear skies.
  • Conditions are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
  • The cooler temperatures support comfortable walking and exploration.

Shoulder & Low Seasons

Shoulder Season (March - May): You will find fewer tourists compared to the high season. Potentially lower prices for hotels and other services are common. Very hot temperatures can make daytime exploration challenging. Haze from agricultural burning, notably in March and April, reduces air quality and visibility.

Low Season (June - October): This season presents the lowest prices for hotels and flights. You will encounter fewer crowds at attractions. The landscapes become lush and green after the rains. Frequent heavy rainfall is a certainty, accompanied by high humidity. Localized flooding is possible, and some outdoor activities may face limitations due to wet conditions.

High Season

Nov - Feb

Advantages

Comfortable weather, clear skies, ideal for outdoor exploration.

Considerations

Higher prices for accommodation, more visitors at attractions.

Shoulder Season

March - May

Advantages

Fewer tourists, potentially lower prices.

Considerations

Very hot temperatures, seasonal haze from burning.

Low Season

June - Oct

Advantages

Lowest prices for hotels and flights, fewer crowds.

Considerations

Frequent heavy rainfall, high humidity, possible localized flooding.

Ideal Activity Timing

Special Weather Considerations

Monsoons: The rainy season obtains its character from the southwest monsoon, which delivers substantial rainfall across the region. Prepare for daily showers.

Extreme Temperatures: The hot season (March-May) can experience extreme heat. This makes strenuous outdoor activities during midday hours difficult. Plan indoor activities or early morning/late afternoon excursions.

Ideal Activity Timing

  • Cultural Sightseeing & Outdoor Exploration

    The Cool Season (November - February) has the best conditions for exploring temples, city walks, and visiting nearby national parks.

  • River Activities

    While possible during the dry season, river levels are higher and currents stronger during the wet season. This influences boat trips.

  • Air Quality (Haze)

    In March and April, agricultural burning in Northern Thailand leads to significant air pollution (PM2.5 haze). This can influence air quality and reduce visibility, especially for distant views.

  • Booking Ahead

    Book accommodation and popular tours in advance during the High Season due to increased demand.

  • Flexibility in Low Season

    Embrace flexibility for outdoor plans during the rainy season; sudden downpours are common.

Weather Considerations

  • Monsoons: The rainy season gains its character from the southwest monsoon, delivering substantial rainfall. Expect daily showers.
  • Extreme Heat: March-May can bring extreme heat, making midday outdoor activities difficult. Plan indoor or early morning/late afternoon excursions.
  • Haze: March-April sees agricultural burning, impacting air quality and visibility. Monitor local reports.

Visitor Recommendation

For a comfortable visit, aim for the cool season. If you prefer fewer crowds and are ready for heat or rain, the shoulder or low seasons present different advantages.

Visa & Entry Essentials

Plan your entry into Thailand by understanding the visa and documentation requirements. These rules vary based on your nationality.

Visa Options

Thailand offers various entry allowances.

Visa Categories

  • Visa Exemption: Citizens of many countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and most EU nations, enter Thailand without a visa for tourism. This exemption typically grants a stay of up to 30 days when arriving by air or land.
  • Visa on Arrival (VOA): Citizens of certain countries, like India and China, qualify for VOA. This provides a shorter stay, typically 15 days. You apply for this visa upon arrival at a designated immigration checkpoint. A fee applies.
  • Tourist Visa (TRV): If your nationality does not qualify for visa exemption or VOA, or if you plan a longer stay, apply for a Tourist Visa before your travel. Obtain this at a Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country. This visa often grants a 60-day stay and may extend once within Thailand.
  • Always check the Latest visa rules for your specific nationality before travel. Official government websites present the most current information.

Required Documentation

Prepare your documents for smooth entry.

Documents

  • Passport: Your passport must maintain validity for at least six months beyond your intended date of departure from Thailand. Without this, airlines may deny boarding.
  • Proof of Onward/Return Travel: Airlines often request proof of a confirmed departure ticket out of Thailand within your visa-exempt period.
  • Proof of Funds: Immigration officers may request proof of sufficient funds for your stay. This typically means about 10,000 THB per person or 20,000 THB per family.
  • Photos & Card: For Visa on Arrival or visa applications, carry recent passport-sized photos. These should meet standard requirements. Complete the Arrival/Departure Card received on your flight or at immigration.

Entry Procedures

Fees & Immigration

  • No general entry fee for visa-exempt travelers. If you use the Visa on Arrival service, a fee is charged (e.g., 2,000 THB).
  • Upon arrival, proceed to immigration. Present your passport, completed arrival card, and any required visa.
  • Immigration officers take your fingerprints and a photo. The process is generally efficient.
  • For specific visa services, consider VisaHQ or IVisa.

Special Permits

  • Basic tourism in Phitsanulok does not generally require special permits.
  • Visiting certain national parks or protected areas outside the city may incur entrance fees.
  • Pay these fees at the park entrance upon arrival.
  • Always check the latest regulations for any specific activities you plan.

Health Entry Requirements

  • Currently, no specific health-related entry requirements are in place for general tourism for most nationalities.
  • However, always check the latest official information, as requirements can change rapidly.
  • Consult the Royal Thai Embassy or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website before your trip.
  • Stay informed about travel advisories and health guidelines from reliable sources.

Budgeting Your Trip

Plan your budget for a Phitsanulok trip by considering currency, accommodation, food, and transport. Costs vary based on your travel style.

Currency Details

  • Official currency: Thai Baht (THB). Symbol: ฿.
  • Denominations: 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000 Baht notes; 1, 2, 5, 10 Baht, 25, 50 satang coins.
  • ATMs are widely available. Currency exchange booths are at the airport and major city areas. Banks also offer exchange.
  • Major hotels, larger restaurants, and department stores accept credit cards. Smaller shops, markets, and street food vendors often operate cash-only.

Estimated Daily Costs Per Person

Category Budget Traveler Mid-Range Traveler Luxury Traveler
Accommodation 300 - 600 THB 800 - 2000 THB 3000+ THB
Meals 150 - 300 THB 400 - 800 THB 1000+ THB
Transportation 50 - 150 THB 150 - 300 THB 500+ THB
Activities 0 - 100 THB 100 - 500 THB 500+ THB
Total (Approx.) 500 - 1150 THB 1450 - 3600 THB 5000+ THB
USD (Approx.) $14 - $32 $40 - $100 $140+

Attraction Prices

  • Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat:40-50 THB (foreigners, sometimes free)
  • Sergeant Major Thavee Folk Museum:50 THB
  • Other temples:Mostly free, donations appreciated
  • National Parks:Vary by park (entrance fees apply)

Transportation Prices

  • Songthaew (short trip):10-30 THB
  • Motorcycle Taxi (short trip):20-60 THB
  • Tuk-tuk (negotiable):50-200 THB
  • Grab (ride-sharing, distance-based):50-150 THB

Accommodation Prices

  • Hostel Dorm Bed:200-400 THB
  • Budget Guesthouse Room:300-600 THB

Meal Prices

  • Street Food Dish:40-80 THB
  • Local Restaurant Meal:60-150 THB
  • Mid-range Restaurant Meal:150-400 THB

Tipping Guidelines

Restaurants:Not mandatory, rounding up common for good service.
Hotels (bellhops/housekeepers):20-50 THB customary in higher-end hotels.
Taxis/Tuk-tuks:Rounding up fare (10-20 THB) common, not typically expected.
Tour Guides:Appreciated, usually 100-300 THB per person for full-day.
Street food vendors:Tipping not expected.
General rule:Always optional, but appreciated for good service.

Budget Tip

  • To manage your budget, always carry small denominations of Baht for street food and local transport.
  • ATMs are available, but remember they often charge a foreign transaction fee.
  • Eat locally for authentic and cheaper meals.
  • Use songthaews for affordable short distances.
  • Bargain politely at local markets for souvenirs.

Health & Safety Overview

Plan for a healthy and safe journey by reviewing common concerns and preventative steps.

Recommended Vaccinations

  • Routine:

    Ensure MMR, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Varicella, Polio, and seasonal Flu shots are current.

  • Hepatitis A and B:

    Recommended for most travelers.

  • Typhoid:

    Recommended, especially if eating outside major restaurants or in rural areas.

Common Health Concerns

Traveler's Diarrhea:

Eat thoroughly cooked food, drink only bottled or purified water, avoid ice from questionable sources. Peel fruits yourself.

Mosquito-borne diseases: Dengue, Zika, Chikungunya are present. Use Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin, especially at dawn and dusk. Wear long sleeves and pants in the evenings.

Consult a healthcare professional well in advance of your travel.

Healthcare & Emergencies

  • 1
    Hospitals:

    Phitsanulok offers medical care at Buddhachinaraj Phitsanulok Hospital (government), Phitsanulok Hospital (private), and Bangkok Hospital Phitsanulok (private, often English-speaking staff).

  • 2
    Pharmacies:

    Pharmacies are widely available, many pharmacists speak some English.

  • 3
    Emergency Numbers:

    Police: 191, Tourist Police: 1155 (English assistance), Ambulance/Medical Emergency: 1669.

Safety Advice

Phitsanulok is generally safe for tourists.

Water & Food Hygiene

  • Tap water is not safe to drink. Always consume bottled water. Consider a Filtered water bottle to reduce plastic waste.
  • Street food is generally safe if popular and busy. High turnover indicates fresh ingredients.
  • Look for vendors who cook food fresh to order, use clean utensils, and handle food hygienically. Avoid raw or undercooked meat/seafood from questionable sources.

Local Safety Concerns

  • Petty crime like pickpocketing or bag snatching can occur in crowded areas. Secure valuables and avoid displaying large cash amounts.
  • Be wary of common tourist scams. Research typical scams before your trip.
  • Exercise caution late at night, notably around bars. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas.

Natural Risks

Awareness of seasonal hazards supports a smoother journey.

Flooding

During the peak rainy season (Aug-Sep), parts of the city near the Nan River can experience localized, usually temporary, flooding.

Heatwave

Severe heat occurs in March-May. Plan activities to avoid the hottest parts of the day.

Haze

Seasonal agricultural burning (March-April) causes significant air pollution. Monitor local air quality reports.

Travel Insurance & Contacts

Insurance Coverage

  • Comprehensive Travel insurance is highly recommended.Coverage for medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, and lost luggage.
  • Verify your policy covers specific activities, like motorbiking or adventurous sports.Important for unexpected events.
  • Consider options from SafetyWing or Insubuy.Specialized plans for various traveler types.
  • Protects against unforeseen circumstances.

Emergency Preparedness

  • Save all local emergency numbers to your phone.Police: 191, Tourist Police: 1155, Ambulance: 1669.
  • Share your itinerary and contact information with a trusted person at home.For quick assistance.
  • Keep physical and digital copies of your passport and visa separate from the originals.For easy access.
  • Know the nearest reputable hospital location. For serious issues, contact your embassy or consulate in Bangkok.Immediate action.

Safety Advice

Always prioritize bottled water and remain mindful of street food hygiene. Keep emergency contacts handy and secure your belongings, especially in crowded areas.