Phitsanulok Information guide
General Information
Covering some 105,815 square kilometers, Phitsanulok is 377 kilometers north
of Bangkok. It borders Uttaradit Province on the North, Phichit Province on
the South, Loei and Phetchabun Provinces on the East, and Kamphaeng Phet and
Sukhothai Provinces on the West. Situated on a strategic location dividing Thailands
Central and Northern regions, and connecting to the Northeastern region, Phitsanulok
is undeniably an important hub and an ideal base for travelers wishing to explore
the lower North and western Northeast. Phitsanulok, however, is not just a stopover
for tourists, but is a province with promising tourism opportunities.
Phitsanulok City spans the banks of Maenam Nan and has Maenam Kwae Noi running
through it. Therefore, it is locally known and historically referred to as Song
Kwae City (song means two and kwae means a river). Most of Phitsanulok's terrain
is flatlands, with one third of the area being mountain ranges on the north
and the east. Its unique natural endowments including natural parks and waterfalls
make a trip to Phitsanulok worthwhile.
Apart from its exceptional natural charisma, Phitsanulok provides visitors with
an opportunity to explore notable chapters of Thailand's history. For example,
remains of an ancient community dating back between 2,000-4,000 years, including
old stone axes, was found here. In addition, the old temple of Wat Chula Mani,
situated 5 kilometers south of the city, was built even before the Sukhothai
Kingdom burst into power.
Phitsanulok prospered along with the powerful Sukhothai (1238-1378) and
Ayutthaya (1350 1767) Kingdoms. In particular, it played a strategic role in
the Ayutthaya era when it had become the Kingdoms royal capital for 25 years
during the reign of King Borom Trailokanat.
Phitsanulok is also the birthplace of King Naresuan the Great (reigned 1590-1605)
the legendary King who declared Ayutthayas independence from Burma in 1584.
King Naresuan the Great is known for his victorious and honorable single hand
combat on elephant back Yutthahatti against a Burmese Crown Prince. His heroic
power and strong dedication to expelling the invaders from his motherland saved
the country, and truly united the Kingdom which later was known as Siam and
currently known as Thailand.
Phitsanulok was also a strategic location for other Ayutthaya Kings as it was
a major center for military recruitment and a training camp when Ayutthaya waged
wars with Burma.
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