Adventure in Phitsanulok

AN INTERESTING PROVINCE in the north, Phitsanulok, is noted most as the birthplace of King Naresuan the Great (reign 1590 to 1605) and his equally brave and able brother, Prince Ekatosarot. Several long existing ancient places such as Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathart or familiarly known as Wat Yai, and Wat Chula Manee are popular places to visit. The natural beauty of Phitsanulok is outstanding as seen in several National parks: Thung Salaeng Luang National Park is where to enjoy a splash in Phitsanulok's largest waterfall, and Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park is also for nature lovers.

Take Highway #11, drive all the way from Chiangmai through Lampang, Den Chai, Uttaradit. . Highway #11 will meet Highway #12 outside Phitsanulok, turn right, it will lead you to the city and turn left to get to Phitsanulok-Lom Sak Highway (#12). Families can make their base camp at Wang Nam Yen Resort at Kilometer 46, on Phitsanulok-Lom Sak Highway (#12) during a three night stay to holiday at the resort with many attractions.

Chase the rapids

There are several types of accommodations at Wang Nam Yen Resort. A family would be very comfortable in a detached stone cabin house with all the comforts of home. A refreshing mountain stream passes through the resort. Mom and Dad can let the children play in the stream sitting on the big boulders. Guests also enjoy a big swimming pool, massage and spa treatments or choose mountain biking. Ideally, guests could travel to the city in the morning to shop and take in a public tram ride. In the afternoon return for lunch and outdoor activities.

Shopping Bazaar

Visitors can buy souvenirs and local products. It's great fun to rent a tricycle to get around. While in the city visit the landmark sights. The Tourism Authority of Thailand, Phitsanulok branch operates a tram on a route that passes mysterious landmark sights such as Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat or Wat Yai, the shrine of Naresuan the Great, and Nan Riverside Park. The operating hours are from 9.00 am to 3.00 pm at Baht 20 for adults and Baht 10 for children or students.

City Attractions

The route passes Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathart or Wat Yai - located on the riverside built in 1357. Most notable are the pearl inlaid doors. Houseboat Museum - Railway station - Clock tower - Chao Phraya Chakkree Monument - Ekatosarot Bridge - Talaeng kang - City Moats - Cha Nok Rong school - City Hall - Wat Viharn Thong - The shrine of Naresuan the Great at Chandra Palace depicts the seated king. This shrine is on the site of Chandra Palace where King Naresuan was born in 1555. - San Luk Muang the major respective shrine of Phitsanulok and end the trip at Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat or Wat Yai.

Wat Chulamanee has a corncob-shaped tower or prang that is a landmark of the city. The temple isregarded as being Phitsanulok's oldest historical site and contains some exceptionally elaborate plaster designs.

Proudly promoting and preserving Thai arts and culture, the province open The Art & Culture Gallery at the Sanambin Campus of the Naresuan University. More than 100 artistic works of renowned Thai artists are on display.

Opposite the bronzeware casting factory on Wisutkasat is a charming Folklore Museum of Sgt. Mjr. Thawi-Pim Buranakhet displaying local folk arts, crafts including basketry, pottery and ancient kitchen utensils.

Visitors to Phitsanulok during the months of April and December can participate in The Food and Souvenir Festival held at the Nan Riverside Park. The festival features local cooking demonstrations and a wide selection of souvenirs sold at reasonable prices.

How to Get There from Chiangmai

Phitsanulok is served by regular rail and road services From Chiangmai. Trains leave Chiangmai's station several times a day. Further information Tel. 053-247462.

Fly to Sukothai via Bangkok Airways and take a public bus to Phitsanulok. Further information at Bangkok Airways, Chiangmai Office 053-276176.

Air conditioned busses leave Chiangmai from the Arcade on Kaew Nawarat Road. Bus Station, 053-242664.