Phitsanulok: More Than a Stopover, It's a Spiritual Heartbeat
Sitting at the crossroads of central and northern Thailand, Phitsanulok is a city that buzzes with life, history, and a very special secret. While many travellers pass through, those who stop are rewarded with one of the most profound spiritual sights in the kingdom and a city with a unique, fiery flavour!
Ready to discover why this city is a must-visit destination for Thais and savvy travellers alike?
Behold the Phra Phuttha Chinnarat 🙏
The number one reason to visit Phitsanulok is housed within the walls of Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat (or Wat Yai to the locals). Here you will find the Phra Phuttha Chinnarat, a golden Sukhothai-style Buddha image that is widely considered to be the most beautiful and revered in all of Thailand.
As you walk into the temple, the serene, flame-like aura of the statue is truly breathtaking. The atmosphere is thick with devotion as Thais from all over the country come to pay their respects. It's not just a tourist sight; it's a living, breathing centre of faith and an unforgettable cultural experience.
Dinner and a Show: Catch the Flying Morning Glory! 🥬💨
Ready for the most entertaining meal of your life? Phitsanulok is famous for a unique culinary tradition: flying morning glory.
Find a riverside restaurant at night and order "Pad Pak Boong Fai Daeng." The chef will cook the vegetable dish in a wok over a massive flame, and then, with a flick of the wrist, launch it through the air across the restaurant (or even across the street!) where another waiter skillfully catches it on a plate. It’s dinner and a show, all in one!
Adventures Beyond the City
If you have more time, Phitsanulok is a great base for exploring the region's rugged natural beauty.
- Kaeng Sopha Waterfall: Head out to this powerful, multi-tiered waterfall in Thung Salaeng Luang National Park. It's a thundering cascade, especially in the rainy season, earning it the nickname the "Niagara of Thailand."
- Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park: This park combines dramatic history with stunning scenery. Explore the former hideouts of the Communist Party of Thailand from the 1970s, set amongst unique rock formations and lush forests.
Phitsanulok is the perfect place to connect with the spiritual heart of Thailand, have a meal you'll talk about for years, and discover a truly authentic and vibrant Thai city.
