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PHITSANULOK

Wat Ratchakhiri Hiranyaram, Phitsanulok Located on Khao Samo Khlaeng, Ban Samo Khlaeng, approximately 14 kilometres from Phitsanulok on Highway 12 and 3 kilometres before reaching Amphoe Wang Thong. The hilltop temple houses two Buddha’s footprints, one is a replica and the other is on the face of a western cliff. A celebration is held annually in February. The temple also houses a thousand-handed Guan Yin statue, three tons in weight, from Hangzhou, China, which was carved out of white jade and sent here in 1992. On the mountain, there is a pond that never runs dry since ancient time. Uphill from the Guan Yin statue, there is a shrine of Heng Jia, the monkey hero, which is frequented by Thai Chinese visitors. The topmost viewpoint of the mountain is the location of Phra Mahathat Chedi Si Bowon Chinarat where the Buddha’s forehead bone relic is enshrined. The Chedi has a lotus-shaped spire, with a walking Buddha image on each side of its square base.

Textile Museum and Life Museum, Phitsanulok Located on the second floor of the multi-purpose building of Naresuan University, the Textile Museum displays textiles and garments from different sources domestically and internationally. The museum houses documents and research studies regarding textiles and royal suits of Their Majesties the King and Queen that were conferred to the university. Nearby is a Life Museum that displays the Thai way of cotton weaving, from cotton growing to high-class techniques in weaving. A weaving demonstration is available every weekend. Both museums are open daily from 8.30 a.m. - 4.30 p.m. A guide is available. For more information, Tel: 0 5526 1000 - 4 ext. 1218, 1149 or www.thaiextilemuseum.com. Naresuan University (Thung Nong O) is located between Kilometre 118-119 of Highway 117.

Thai Bird Garden, Phitsanulok Located opposite to the folk museum, it is a bird conservation centre that displays endangered as well as extinct birds of Thailand such as jambu fruit-dove, helmeted hornbill, and birds mentioned in Thai literature; namely, oriole, barbet, common koel, green magpie, blue magpie, etc. The park entertains visitors with some birds that can imitate human’s voice greeting both in Thai and English such as parrot as well as those singing beautifully like black-throated laughing thrush, white-crested laughing thrush, and white rumped shama. The garden is open daily from 8.30 a.m. - 5.00 p.m. Admission is 50 baht for adults and 20 baht for children. For more information, call Tel: 0 5521 2540 or www.geocities.com/thaibirdgarden.

Nang Phaya Temple (Wat Nang Phaya), Phitsanulok Situated near Wat Ratburana is Wat Nang Phaya which believed to have been built during the same period. The temple is famous for extensive collection of the highly coveted Nang Phaya (small Buddha images used as amulets) which was found underneath.

Chula Mani Temple (Wat Chula Mani), Phitsanulok Located approximately 5 kilometers from town on the east bank of Nan river, Wat Chula Mani is the oldest temple in town. It was built prior to the Sukhothai era and was once the spot where the original town was located. Wat Chula Mani is a temple with long history. King Borom Trailokanat of Ayutthaya and 2,000 of his followers were ordained as monks at this temple in 1416. The Khmer-style pagoda attracts students and archaeologists to explore the beautiful, intricate swan design. Moreover, the Mondop contains a Holy Footprint and an inscription stone built by King Narai the Great of Ayutthaya.

Chedi Yot Thong Temple (Wat Chedi Yot Th..., Phitsanulok Located on Phaya Suea Road, outside Phitsanulok walls, Wat Chedi Yot Thong is the only temple in the province that has a lotus bud-shaped Chedi in the original Sukhothai style.

Shrine of King Naresuan the Great, Phitsanulok Located on the other side of Maenam Nan, opposite the main town, the Shrine of King Naresuan the Great is in the compound of Phitsanulok Phittayakom School. The Shrine was built in 1961 at the site of the Chan Palace where King Naresuan the Great was born and raised. The Shrine represents the Thais utmost respect to their beloved King who liberated the nation from Burmese power. Within the Shrine is a seated image of King Naresuan the Great pouring water from a golden container symbolizing the declaration of Ayutthaya's independence from Myanmar. To reach the site from the city, pass through Naresuan Bridge and turn right at the foot of the bridge, drive for another 200 meters and turn left to enter the road along Maenam Nan, then proceed for another 700 meters.

Sgt. Maj. Dr. Thavi Folkore Museum, Phitsanulok This is definitely the place for those wishing to learn more about the Thai lifestyle. Step inside a group of Thai pavilions and explore a private collection of antique items representing Thai rural life. They include indigenous arts, pottery, farming and trapping equipment and household items. Old photographs revealing Phitsanulok's good old days are also on display. The museum was established by Sgt. Maj. Dr. Thavi Buranakhate, who is recognized as a leader in the area of sculpture and indigenous art preservation. He is renowned for his knowledge on Northern Thai folklore. In addition, he is the owner of a Buddha Casting Foundry located just opposite the museum. The Folklore Museum received the Excellence in Tourism Award from the Tourism Authority of Thailand in 1998 and is located on Wisutkasat Road (Sanam Bin Road), approximately 5 kilometers from the town center. The folklore museum is open daily, except for Monday, from 8.30 a.m. - 4.30 p.m. Admission is 100 baht. For more information, call Tel: 0 5521 2749, 0 5525 8715, 0 5530 1668. His Buddha Casting Foundry is located just opposite the museum. Appointment is required. Call 0 5525 8715.

Ratburana Temple (Wat Ratburana), Phitsanulok South of Wat Phra Si Mahathat is Wat Ratburana, another main attraction worth visiting. The temple was built at the command of King Borom Trailokanat of Ayutthaya who played a major role in fostering Buddhism in the Kingdom. The temple features a three-headed Naga (mythical serpent in Buddhism) over its eaves.

Kaeng Chet Khwae National Park, Phitsanulok Located in Amphoe Wang Thong, Nakorn Thai District, the park covers an area of 136,250 rai of land. The terrain is mainly covered by lush forests with mountain ranges raising 100 to 645 meters above sea level. Attractions include Namtok Kaeng Bua Kam: a 5-tiered waterfall, Namtok Phu Daeng Ron, Namtok Huay Plu, Larn Mapha Dua view point, and Ban Nong Hin view point. To reach the national park drive along Highway No. 12 from the city for 6 kilometers, then turn left onto Highway No. 11 (Phitsanulok - Uttaradit). Proceed for another 25 kilometers to Ban Nakam, then turn right and drive for approximately 9 kilometers. Upon reaching Ban Kaeng Ched Kwae School, turn right and drive along the road for 300 meters to the entrance on the left. Accommodations are available. Contact Kaeng Ched Kwae National Park Office (temporary) National Park Guard Unit (Phu Daeng Ron) Ban Huay Plu ,Sup Prai Wan,Wang Thong District, Phitsanulok 65130 or emai : reserve@dnp.go.th

Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park, Phitsanulok Phu Hin Rong Kla is a distinctive national park with a unique mixture of scenic attractions and historical sites. It was once the stage of armed conflicts between two extreme political ideologies. The Park covers a total area of 191,875 rai of land (76,750 acres) and is approximately 130 kilometers from Phitsanulok city. It can be reached by taking Highway No. 12 and turning left at Km.68 marker into Highway No. 2013, a road leading to Nakhon Thai District. The park area is mainly covered with lush green forests, several awesome waterfalls, and a vast plain of rocks with cracks scattered all around. The highest point of the park is 1,617 meters above sea level. Here, rock formations are naturally formed into different shapes beyond your wildest imagination. Some rocky grounds have deep splits (Lan Hin Taek), while others have uneven formations. Apart from natural attractions, the park offers opportunities to explore many of its historical sites that tell the story of national political conflicts. Because Phu Hin Rong Kla was the strategic headquarters of the Communist Party of Thailand (CPT) during 1967 to 1982, the area was declared as a red area by the Thai government. For nearly two decades, the site had become a strategic battlefield between the Royal Thai Army and the CPT. Phu Hin Rong Kla was the perfect location for the CPT to fight the military. Its remote, closed mountainous area was superb for an elusive defense. It was not until 1982 that the conflict was overcome when the government granted amnesty to all the students who had joined the CPT. In 1984, Phu Hin Rong Kla was declared a National Park. During the CPT’s golden era, a hospital, a school of political and political tactics, living quarters, an air-raid shelter and other necessary facilities were set up. Today, visitors to Phu Hin Rong Kla can travel along the parks main road to witness the remains of a rustic meeting hall, the political school, and the administration building. There is also a trail leading to Lan Hin Pum, an area of jutting rocks that the CPT used as an air-raid shelter. From the spot, it is possible to see the remains of the CPT headquarters with a small museum displaying some CPT weapons and medical instruments. Follow another trail to Pha Chu Thong, the cliff where a red flag was raise when the CPT gained a victory. Tourists or visitors wishing to stay overnight are advised to make advance reservations at the National Park Division, Forestry Department tel. 0 5523 3527 or 0 2561 4292, or email: rongkla-00@thaimail.com, Website : www.dnp.go.th. Accommodations and tents are available. Getting There : From Phitsanulok, take a public bus 68 kilometers towards Lomsak. At Ban Yang, take a left and travel 29 kilometers to Nakhon Thai District. From Nakhon Thai, take a mini-van (song-taeo) the remaining 31 kilometers to the park.

Namtok Wang Nok Aen (Sakunothayan Botani..., Phitsanulok Situated in the arboretum only one kilometre off of the main highway 12 (Phitsanulok – Lom Sak Road) Kilometre 33, the small fall is surrounded with different kinds of plants. On the west is a royal pavilion that once welcomed Their Majesties the King and Queen during their royal visit to the North, with another pavilion by the water in the east. Nearby is Sai Rapids, where visitors can enjoy the scenery. Within the park is Namtok Wang Nok Aen, a 10-meter high waterfall, that cascades down the rock with strong currents that have gradually shaped the stones into the most unique formations.

Namtok Poi and Khao Krayang Forest Plant..., Phitsanulok Situated between Kilometre 59-60 on Highway 12, turn right and proceed for another 2 kilometers. The surrounding area is suitable for recreation and relaxation activities. The Forest Industry Organisation’s forest plantation houses a beautiful waterfall that allows visitors to enjoy nature. Nature trails and accommodation are available.

Namtok Kaeng Sopha, Phitsanulok This waterfall, Phitsanulok's largest, is located 2 kilometers off of Km. 70 marker along Highway No. 12. It is possible to walk around and explore the rocky surroundings especially during the dry season. This 2-tiered waterfall cascades down the steep cliffs to the rocks below providing a different ambience for every season.

Namtok Kaeng Song, Phitsanulok Located at Km. 45 along the Highway, the waterfall, which is slightly bigger than Namtok Wang Nok An, is set against a mountainous backdrop.

Thung Salaeng Luang National Park, Phitsanulok Against a backdrop of high mountain ranges is the Savannah-type grassland of Thung Salaeng Luang. Covering an area of 16 square kilometres, the park is naturally endowed with pine trees and wild flowers which blossom in virgin jungles. The parks mountain ranges are watersheds of several streams which are a source of the famous Maenam Nan. Its area spreads across Phitsanulok and Phetchabun provinces. The park headquarters located at Km. 80 on Highway No. 12 is where information on the park and accommodations can be obtained. Most of the park's attractions are superb for trekking. The route starts from the sub-office at Ban Nong Mae Na (off Highway No.12 at Km. 100 marker) to Khao Kho. The route allows visitors to enjoy the marvelous scenery of Thung Salaeng Luang and Thung Phaya grassland hemmed in by pine trees and lush forests. Another attraction along the way is Thung Non Son, a flatland located on top of the mountain, at the heart of the park. It is famous for its wild flowers which are in their full bloom from October through December. The flatland is accessible through a 16 kilometers clay road and a walking route of 15 kilometers from Ban Nong Mae Na. There is also a study trail at the Mae Na park station which is superb for exploring the entire ecological system of the park. Kaeng Wang Nam Yen a 50 meter x 100 meter wide rapid, suitable for white-water rafting, is located about 5 kilometers from Nong Mae Na station. Visitors who wish to stay overnight in the park are required to make arrangements with the park rangers in advance. Call 05 526 8019 or email : reserve@dnp.go.th for more details.

Phra Si Mahathat Temple (Wat Phra Si Mah..., Phitsanulok Locally dubbed as "Wat Yai", the complex is considered the most important temple in Phitsanulok. Housing Thailand's famous Phra Phutthachinnarat, Wat Yai is located at the foot of Naresuan Bridge on the city side of the river. The temple was built during the reign of Phra Maha Thamma Racha I (Phraya Lithai) in 1357. Phra Phutthachinnarat is considered the most beautiful Buddha image in Thailand. The large Sukhothai-style bronze statue was cast in 1357 by the order of King Maha Thamma Racha I of Sukhothai. The statues unique feature is the flame-like halo a symbol of spiritual radiance. In 1931, King Ekatotsarot (King Naresuan's younger brother) commanded a gold coating of the image, making it outstanding against the dark backdrop. Today, thousands of visitors, both Thais and foreigners, flock to Wat Yai just to get a glimpse of Phra Phutthachinnarat. Most of contemporary Buddha images are cast using Phra Phutthachinnarat as a model. There is even a saying that, your trip to Phitsanulok is not complete without visiting Wat Yai to pay respect to Phra Phutthachinnarat. Only the Emerald Buddha situated in the Grand Palace, Bangkok, is more highly respected by Thais. A celebration to honour the statue is held annually in late January. Other outstanding features of the temple (vihan in Thai) include the large pearl-inlaid wooden doors, the gateway to see Phra Phutthachinnarat. The doors were completed in 1756 by Ayutthaya's royal craftsmen. Inside the vihan are the Italian marble floor, two painted pulpits (thammas) placed to one side, and murals illustrating the life of the Lord Buddha. Apart from Phra Buddha Chinnarat, there are other Buddha images worth seeing. Phra Attharot, a standing Buddha statue cast in same period as Phra Phutthachinnarat, is situated in front of the large Phra Prang (pagoda) behind the Viharn. A 36-metre high Phra Prang was built in the early Ayutthaya style. There are staircases leading up to the place where relic of the Lord Buddha is enshrined. There is also a small museum, which exhibits a good collection of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya-era Buddha images and related religious items that is worth visiting. Visitors are advised to dress conservatively. Wat Phra Si Mahathat Woramahawihan is open daily between 6.30 a.m. and 6.00 p.m. The Phra Phutthachinnarat National Museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday, between 9.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. The museum is closed on public holidays, for more information, click www.thailandmuseum.com.

Phu Soi Dao National Park, Phitsanulok Phu Soi Dao National Park is located in both Chat Trakan district of Phitsanulok Province and Nam Pard District of Uttaradit Province. Occupying a total area of 48,962.5 rai of land (equivalent to 58,750 acres), the park stretches along the Thai-Laos border with the highest peak measured at 2,102 meters above sea level. The climate park is cool throughout the year and visitors are able to see several species of wild flowers. One of the most distinctive features of the park is the savanna field amidst the dense pine trees. Another attraction worth visiting is the five-tiered Namtok Phu Soi Dao which is located quite near to the park office. Larn Paa Son which can be reached in 4-5 hours via mountainous trails is also a highly recommended place for an overnight stay. In addition, Namtok Sai Tip, the next waterfall on the way, is a place where visitors can marvel at moss and lichen covered cliff. Advanced notice to Park Officers is required and highly recommended. Call 05 541 9234-5 or email reserve@dnp.go.th for more camping and travel information. How to get to Phu Soi Dao From Phitsanulok By Car: take the Phitsanulok - Wat Bot - Ban Pong Cae - Chat Trakan - Phu Soi Dao route where the total distance is 177 kilometers. Alternatively, take the Phitsanulok - Nakhon Thai - Chat Trakan - Phu Soi Dao route where a total distance of 154 kilometers. By Bus: there are buses departing from the city at 6.00 a.m., 7.20 a.m., 9.30 a.m., 11.30 a.m., 12.50 p.m. and 4.30 p.m.

Namtok Chat Trakan National Park Located in Khao Ya Puk, approximately 145 kilometers from the city, Namtok Chat Trakan National Park occupies a total area of 146,875 rai of land (equivalent to 58,750 acres). This is the location of the famous 7-tiered waterfall which cascades down high mountain cliffs which have traces of carvings of pre-historic symbol. In addition, there is a beach and a pond suitable for swimming situated just in front of the waterfalls lowest tier. To get to the national park take Highway No. 12 to Ban Yang. At Km. 68, turn left onto route No. 2013 which leads to Nakhon Thai District. Then proceed on route No. 1143 to Chat Trakan District. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Phitsanulok. It departs 7 times a day: 6.00 a.m., 7.20 a.m., 9.30 a.m., 11.30 a.m., 3.20 p.m. and 4.30 p.m. Visitors may camp out in the park with permission from the park officials. Call 05 523 7028 or email reserve@dnp.go.th

Tham Duean Tham Dao Situated in the western territory of Thung Salaeng Luang National Park, the cave has a subterranean river running through it. Visitors have to climb over rocks at the cave’s entrance to get in, just to find a large chamber and subterranean river. At the length of 1.4 kilometres, the cave is beautified with stalagmites and stalactites. It can be visited during the dry season and a personal torch is required. High water during rainy season makes it dangerous to visit. To get there: The cave is 85 kilometres from downtown Phitsanulok. Motorists can use Highway 12, then use Highway 11 and 1115 to Amphoe Noen Maprang. The cave is 6 kilometres away.

City Pillar Shrine The city pillar is located in the shrine on the western bank of the Nan River, opposite the Mueang Phitsanulok District Administration Office. Designed by the Fine Arts Department, the Prang-shaped building houses the city pillar which is made of different kinds of sacred wood in its various parts and has gone through a religious ceremony at the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok.

Aranyik Temple (Wat Aranyik) This is a Sukhothai-era temple located in the same vicinity which is surrounded by moats.

Nan Riverside Park and Boathouse Museum he park, which was built by Phitsanulok Municipality in 2002, is situated in the middle of the town, on the eastern bank of Nan river. Inside the park, is a Boathouse Museum showcasing the daily life of people living in boathouses.

House Boat The house boat serves as a signature of Phitsanulok. From north to south along both sides of Nan River, house boats and rafts are lined up, creating a unique perspective for tourists. In addition to the display of the typical Phitsanulok way of life emphasis is placed on the strong connection between man and the river. Hardly seen anywhere else in the Northern region, the house boat represents the serene ambience of a united community.

City Walls and Moats of Phitsanulok The city walls of Phitsanulok were made of clay similar to those of the Sukhothai era. The walls were built at the command of King Borom Trailokanat of Ayutthaya to prevent attacks from both the Lanna and Burmese Kingdoms. It was not until King Rama I of the Rattanakosin era that the walls were destroyed. The demolition was undertaken to prevent enemies using the city walls as shelter for their troops. Today, the remaining walls can be seen in the area of Wat Noi and Phitsanulok Police Station. City Moats are 12 metres wide and are visible in the western area of the city parallel to Phra Ruang Road.

City tour by tricycle Usually taken at night, visitors can see the city from a different perspective when on the tricycle. The trip will pass the commercial part of town, markets and ancient places. Chauffeur services are available. Reservations can be made at local hotels.

Chan Palace The birthplace and a resident of King Naresuan the Great, Chan Palace is located in the compound of Phitsanulok Phittayakom School. At present, the site is being excavated and the entire palace will be restored as a future historical attraction.

Whitewater rafting An exciting activity, visitors are provided with a truly unique experience while whitewater rafting especially with the refreshing natural scenery along Maenam Kek in Wang Thong District. The entire trip takes only 2.5 hours to complete. The best time to go downstream is between June and October. Reservations can be made at your hotel or at any resorts located along Highway No. 12 .

Buranathai Buddha Casting Foundry Located opposite the Sgt. Maj. Dr. Thavis Museum is a small bronze Buddha image casting foundry, which is the only of its kind in the province. The foundry allows visitors with the opportunity to witness skilled craftspersons working on the reproduction of Phra Buddha Chinnarat images. It is possible to actually walk along the production line to see the whole bronze-casting process. In addition, huge Buddha images are also cast here. The foundry is open on Wednesday through Sunday from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.

Art & Culture Gallery, Naresuan Universi... The Gallery is established with an aim to promote and preserve Thai arts and culture. Located at the resource centre on Sanam Bin Rd., the Gallery is divided into 3 sections including; Art Gallery: over 100 masterpieces of renowned Thai artists such as: Chuan Leakpai (Thailand's former Prime Minister), Sawasdi Tantisuk (National Artist in visual Arts field), Phun Ketchamrat (National Artist in visual Arts field), Priyuan Aruchata (National Artist in visual Arts field), Pratuang Emjaroen, Chavalit Saemprungsuk, Chung Moonphinit and Chalermchai Khosipipat are on display. Museum: Under the concept, "The Way of Life of The People in the Lower North", more than 500 handicrafts including household utensils, agricultural tools and manuscripts are exhibited. Database: provided to promote the study of the Lower North, Thai classical dance and music. The gallery is open daily from 9.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. For more information contact tel: (055) 230720, 259404 fax: (055) 261080, or email Homer97@hotmail.com