Sights and activities in Phitsanulok: The main attractions of Phitsanulok are the large temple (Wat Yai in Thai) and the Chedi temple opposite it. In the evening, the night market on the banks of the Nan River is well worth a visit.

Places you absolutely must visit in Phitsanulok: Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat (วัดพระศรีรัตนมหาธาตุ) My rating: 5/5 Also known as Wat Yai, it is an important pilgrimage site for Thais. Its Chinnarat Buddha is one of the most revered in the country. Giant Water Lily Pond (บัวกระด้ง พิษณุโลก) My rating: 4/5 This pond has a kind of amazing water lily. People come here to see them, of course, but also... to stand on them. Yes, they can support the weight of a man. A visit to Phitsanulok is a curious and entertaining experience. A place few know about. Sukhothai (สุโขทัย) My opinion: 5/5 stars. Sukhothai is located about 60 kilometers from Phitsanulok and is home to the most beautiful historical park in Thailand, with ruins dating back to when the city was the capital of the Kingdom of Siam. It is undoubtedly the most important and beautiful historical site in Thailand and, for me, an absolute must-see. Many visitors arrive via Phitsanulok, as Sukhothai is the closest city with a train station. It is recommended to stay overnight in Sukhothai rather than making a day trip from Phitsanulok.

Other places worth seeing in Phitsanulok: Wat Phra Sorn Kaew (★★★★★) This temple, little known to foreign tourists, houses a series of white, seated Buddha statues arranged from smallest to largest – simply magnificent. Its location amidst the surrounding mountains is also beautiful. Buddha Factory (★★★★) Visitors have free access to the finishing area (not the casting) and can purchase Buddha images and statues of all types and sizes in the shop. Wat Ratburana (★★★★) Located right next to Wat Phra Si Mahathat Rattana, the main temple of Phitsanulok, the chedi is visible from the road. Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park (★★★★) This national park, about a 1.5-hour drive from Phitsanulok and 1 hour from Phetchabun, is known for its plateau with rock formations that resemble the back of a giant crocodile. While not Thailand's most important national park, it is a beautiful piece of nature and mountains, as well as an important historical site. Wat Nang Phaya (5 stars) – Situated between Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, the main temple in Phitsanulok City, and the very impressive Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Nang Phaya is considerably less well-known and visited. However, it houses a magnificent Buddha statue and is worth a short visit. Wat Chulamanee (5 stars) – This temple is considered the oldest in Phitsanulok Province. It is a historical site; here you can see the ruins of the original brick temple and a more recent wharf with intricate details, including beautiful window decorations. Ban Rak Thai (5 stars) – This mountainous area offers picturesque landscapes with charming cafes, restaurants, and resorts, often boasting breathtaking views. While not a must-see from Phitsanulok, it makes for a lovely day trip or two. Weekends are the best time to visit Ban Rak Thai, as many establishments are closed during the week. Walking Street (5 stars) – This large night market takes place every Saturday evening around 5 pm on Sangkha Bucha Road. The street is closed to traffic to allow vendors to set up their stalls and customers to shop undisturbed.

Other excursion tips in Phitsanulok: Wat Ratburana, right next to Wat Yai, whose stone chedi is beautifully illuminated at night; Wat Chulamani, outside the city, mostly in ruins, dating from the Sukhothai period; the Buddha Factory, the Folklore Museum, and the Bird Garden at Thanon Wisutkrasat, all very close to each other. In the museum, you can admire a large collection of traditional everyday objects, and in the Buddha Factory, you can discover all the production steps of a Buddha statue. Waterfalls and landscapes in the surrounding mountains, accessible by road, such as Wang Nok An (km 33), Kaeng Song Waterfall (km 45), Nam Tok Poi (km 60), or Kang Soph (km 72). The Tung Salang Luang National Park, 130 km from Phitsanulok, is home to very interesting flora and fauna (information from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant – Tel. 02 562 0760).

Other sights in Thailand: Wat Mongkhon Bophit, near Wat Phra Si Sanphet, houses a giant bronze Buddha. [arrow_circle_right] View details for Wat Mongkhon Bophit. Phu Phra Bat Historical Park is located 42 km northwest of Udon and covers a large part of Phu Phan Mountain. It includes caves with prehistoric paintings, interesting rock formations, and temples, including a stupa. [arrow_circle_right] View details for Phu Phra Bat Historical Park. Klong Lat Mayom Floating Market is a small floating market on the outskirts of Bangkok and is only open on weekends. It offers a fascinating glimpse into life on the canals of the Thai capital. [arrow_circle_right] View details for Klong Lat Mayom Floating Market. Khao Takiap is a verdant hill at the edge of a long beach, with a temple at its summit and a large standing Buddha. There is also a small fishing port. [arrow_circle_right] View details about Khao Takiap.