Thailand Guides - Phichit

The lower northern province of Phichit and its namesake provincial capital are known for crocodile farms and annual boat races. Although somewhat overshadowed by its larger neighbour, Phitsanolok, the town of Phichit is a pleasant place to visit.

Overview

Phichit is a small agricultural province 345 kilometres north of Bangkok. The town of Phichit, which means ‘beautiful town’ was established in 1056 and was at the time an important part of the Sukhothai kingdom. Today the town is well connected by road and rail but receives fewer visitors than it deserves. Both the Nan and the Yom rivers pass through Phichit before joining the Chao Phraya River, making the province exceptionally fertile. Major crops grown in the area include rice, corn, green peas and a variety of fruits such as jackfruit, mango, pomelo and santol.

Attractions

Wat Tha Luang is situated on the western bank of the Nan River and houses a bronze Buddha image of the Chiang Saen-style. The image, which is known as Luang Pho Phet, has been cast in a pose that represents the of subduing evil and is highly revered by local people.

Bung Si Fai is an extensive area of swamp land west of the town centre. This 12,000 rai expanse of swamp acts as a breeding ground for freshwater fish and is also used to farm lotus plants. The area also features the Phichit Crocodile Auditorium, an unusual building constructed in the shape of a giant crocodile – a creature once prevalent throughout the province but now only found in nearby farms. Within the belly of the beast is an air-conditioned room large enough to seat 30 guests.