Thailand Guides - Phitsanulok

Phitsanulok or locally known as the city of two rivers is set on a flat land where the Nan and Kwai Noi River meet. It was a capital city of the Thai Kingdom of Ayutthaya for a brief period of time during the 15th century. It is a birth place of two of Thailand’s most important Thai kings; King Boromtrailokanat and King Naresuan.

Overview

The gateway to Thailand’s northern region, Phitsanulok is about 377 kilometres from Bangkok and accessible by air, car and train. Even though most of its terrains are flat, the city is surrounded by four mountainous national parks. The city is also home to some century-old temples and Buddha images.

Attractions

Wat Phra Si Mahathat is a royal temple sitting on the bank of the Nan River in the city centre area. This Buddhist monastery was built in 1357. The main hall of the temple houses what is regarded as the most beautiful Buddha statue in Thailand; namely Phra Phuthachinarat. Also one of the more revered Buddha images, this large bronze seated statue attracts hundreds of Buddhist pilgrims every day.

The large mother of pear inlaid door panels of the main showcases the magnificent craftsmanship of Thai artists. Other notable attractions in the temple compound are another revered Buddha statue (Phra Attharot) and tall pagodas whose one of them store Buddha relics.

On the south of Wat Phra Si Mahathat is Wat Ratburana. The temple was built by King Boromtrailokanat who resided here for 25 years during his reign. It is believed he was the king who introduced feudalism to the Thai society. The temple features elegant three-headed Naga (mythical serpent) over its eaves. Wat Nang Phaya, Wat Aranyik, Wat Chedi Yod Thong and Wat Chula Manee are all notable aged old temples found in the city.

Sitting on a pedestal in the provincial school of Phitsanulok is King Naresuan the Great Statue. A native of Phitsanulok, the young king, who resurrected the Ayutthaya Kingdom in 1584 after it was defeated by the Burmese army in 1569, is one of the most beloved kings in Thai history.