Phitsanulok Phitsanulok Province, Thailand Travel Guide
This is Phitsanulok, a place connecting Thailand's rich history with its ongoing story. Travelers here discover more than just sights; they uncover layers of tradition, devotion, and everyday Thai life. Phitsanulok has a genuine look into the heart of a nation, away from the usual tourist paths. Prepare to explore a destination that truly rewards the curious traveler.
Phitsanulok carries a history spanning centuries, marking it as a truly old and important city in Thailand. Originally known as Song Khwae ("two rivers"), it gained prominence during the Ayutthaya Kingdom, serving as a royal city and sometimes as capital.
Despite its long history, a major fire in 1955 destroyed much of the city's wooden buildings, leading to modern reconstruction. While this event changed the city's appearance, its historical spirit and landmarks persisted.
Phitsanulok has travelers a glimpse into Thai daily life and history. The Phitsanulok Province, as of 2022, has a population of 842,912 people. The urban area of Muang Phitsanulok District, the city center, has an estimated population of around 66,000. These figures describe a regional center rather than a sprawling metropolis, supporting a more manageable and intimate travel experience.
The local economy relies heavily on agriculture, with rice, sugarcane, and cassava being main crops grown in the surrounding plains. Education forms another important sector, with Naresuan University and Phitsanulok Rajabhat University contributing to the city's lively atmosphere and presenting a youthful presence. Tourism, while not as dominant as in some other Thai destinations, steadily grows, supported by the city's historical sites and its role as a transport hub for northern Thailand.
Home to the revered Phra Phuttha Chinnarat Buddha image.
Features architectural interest.
Has a deep look into traditional Thai life and crafts, showing a large collection of everyday items.
Honors the city's most famous son.
Comes alive in the evenings, with an array of local food and goods.
Beyond its specific attractions, Phitsanulok acts as a practical transport hub. It features a major railway station on the Northern Line, connecting Bangkok to Chiang Mai. A large bus terminal serves routes across Thailand, and Phitsanulok Airport handles domestic flights, mainly to Bangkok.
Phitsanulok features a major railway station on the Northern Line, connecting Bangkok to Chiang Mai. A large bus terminal serves routes across Thailand, and Phitsanulok Airport handles domestic flights, mainly to Bangkok.
The city’s welcoming nature and deep historical roots make it a compelling destination for those seeking to understand Thailand beyond its most well-known tourist spots.
Image: Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, main wihan
Phitsanulok has a place where ancient spirits mix with modern sounds, where golden temples reflect in a placid river, and the scent of street food fills the evening air.
Travelers here uncover layers of tradition, devotion, and everyday Thai life, away from the usual tourist paths. It's a destination that truly rewards the curious traveler.
Birthplace of King Naresuan, featuring ancient temples and a deep connection to the Ayutthaya Kingdom.
Strategic crossroads for travel, offering excellent air, rail, and bus connections across Thailand.
Glimpse into everyday Thai life, with markets and a relaxed atmosphere.
Phitsanulok has a diverse experience. Explore its spiritual sites, historical monuments, and bustling markets.
Phitsanulok has a genuine look into the heart of a nation, away from the usual tourist paths.
Travelers discover layers of tradition, devotion, and everyday Thai life.
As of 2022, the total population of Phitsanulok Province.
Estimated urban population of Muang Phitsanulok District.
Main crops include rice, sugarcane, and cassava.
Houses the Phra Phuttha Chinnarat, a highly revered Buddha image.
Showcases traditional Thai life and extensive craft collections.
Dedicated to Thailand's most revered monarch, King Naresuan.
