Phitsanulok: Rivers, Caves and Temple Culture

Rivers and Waterfalls in Phitsanulok

Phitsanulok combines waterside experiences with grasslands, caves and cultural attractions. The Nan River flows through the province. One way to enjoy the water actively is the rafting route on the Khek River: it is about 8 kilometres long and passes a total of 15 rapids. The starting point is at the upper end of Song Waterfall; from the car park, the route is accessible via a short walk. You can factor its length, rapids and access into your plans for an outing.

Each waterfall also has its own features. Kaeng Sopha Waterfall consists of three tiers and is 40 metres high. Swimming is one of the activities mentioned at Chat Trakan Waterfall. Rafting is also a nature activity at Huai Sam Ruak Reservoir. If you want to compare different water-based experiences for your trip, you have several options to consider—from a described rafting route to activities mentioned at other locations.

Grasslands, Wildlife and Caves

Thung Salaeng Luang is a grassland landscape whose colours change with the seasons. Thung Salaeng Luang National Park is suitable for trekking. Nature enthusiasts can also discover Kaeng Wang Nam Yen, an area with distinctive wildlife: freshwater jellyfish and rare butterflies can be found there. These landscapes and wildlife offer a different focus from activities on rivers and at waterfalls.

Tham Phra Wang Daeng Cave has an underground river and is about 13.5 kilometres long. Visitors can explore about 1.4 kilometres of Tham Duen Tham Dao Cave. When deciding which to visit, consider whether you are more interested in the underground river in Tham Phra Wang Daeng Cave or the opportunity to explore Tham Duen Tham Dao.

Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park offers astronomy learning activities, as well as opportunities to photograph constellations and the Milky Way. The night sky and astronomy are therefore also possible themes for a trip through Phitsanulok, alongside trekking, caves and waterside landscapes.

Temples, History and Local Specialties

One cultural highlight is Phra Buddha Chinnarat, located at Wat Phra Si Mahathat Woramahaviharn in Phitsanulok Province. Wat Chulamanee is an ancient historical site in the province and houses a replica of Phra Phutthabat’s footprint. Wat Ratchaburana is considered one of the oldest known temples in Phitsanulok. Chan Palace is also a cultural attraction. Phitsanulok’s religious and historical culture can be seen in its temples, an ancient site and Chan Palace.

The Ja Thawee Folk Museum preserves traditional tools and handicrafts used by the local population in Phitsanulok in the past. Two culinary destinations offer a different taste of regional products: Jaroenpol Ice Cream is made with coconut milk. Sunisa Souvenir Shop offers processed banana snacks, fried bananas, fried bananas with herbs and fried taro. If you are interested in everyday history and local specialties, you can consider these alongside temples and nature when choosing what to experience on your trip.

Which Holiday Apartment Suits Your Plans?

When looking for a holiday apartment, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on. If you want your trip to centre on nature and outdoor activities, you could consider trekking, caves, waterfalls and activities on the Khek River. If you are more interested in history and culture, temples, the Folk Museum and Chan Palace offer other themes to consider when choosing which places to visit.

For further guidance, here are directly linked locations and subdistricts: Chom Thong, Ban Khlong, Wang Thong, Kiang Sopha, Phitsanulok, Ban Krang, Ban Klang, Chai Nam, Chomphu, Ban Phrao, Chat Trakan District, Nakhon Thai District, Wat Bot District, Bo Thong, Ban Noi Sum Khilek.

For the broader travel overview: Thailand.