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 Thailand's 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 Kingdom's 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 Ayutthaya's 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.

How to get there
By Car
a) From Bangkok, use Highway No. 1 to Wang Noi, then proceed to Nakhon Sawan Province along Highway No. 32 via Ayutthaya, Ang Thong and Sing Buri Provinces. After that, take Highway No. 117 to Phitsanulok. The total distance is 337 kilometers.
b) Take the same Highway to Sing Buri Province and switch to Highway No. 11 (In Buri-Tak Fa route), then turn into Highway No. 12 and proceed to Phitsanulok Province via Wang Thong District. The total distance is 450 kilometers.

By Bus
Buses depart from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Mochit 2 Bus Terminal)to Phitsanulok. Contact Transport Co. Ltd. at Tel: 0 2936 2852-66; Phitsanulok Yan Yon Tour at Tel: 0 2936 2924-5; Choet Chai Tour at Tel: 0 2936 0199 and Win Tour at Tel: 0 2936 3753.

By Train
Daily regular trains depart daily from Bangkok's Hua Lamphong Railway Station. Call 1690 or visit www.railway.co.th for more information.

Trains leave Bangkok for Phitsanulok daily from 7.05 a.m. to 11.30 p.m., 14 times a day. There are express trains (Sprinters) from Bangkok to Phitsanulok departing daily from 8.25 a.m. to 11.10 p.m., 5 times a day.

Trains leave Phitsanulok for Bangkok daily, from 2.05 a.m. to 11.29 p.m., 14 times a day. There are daily express trains (Sprinters) departing from Phitsanulok to Bangkok from 2.05 a.m. to 11.00 p.m., 4 times a day.

By Air
Thai Airways International operates several direct flights daily from Bangkok to Phitsanulok. The trip takes 40-45 minutes. For more information, contact the Bangkok Office at tel. 0 2280 0060, 0 2628 2000, Phitsanulok Office at tel. 0 5525 8020 or visit www.thaiairways.com.

By Rental Car – For visitors interested in touring Phitsanulok independently, Budget has a small operation at the airport. Call tel. 05525-8556 for reservations and information. Avis operates out of an office adjoining the Phitsanulok Youth Hostel.

Travelling around the city is easy as the town is relatively compact. Sam lor will cost 30-50 baht/person, depending on the destination and city buses are also available (4-6 baht/person, non air-conditioned). The station is located on Thammabucha Road, near the train station.

Festivals
Long-tailed Boat Races
The traditional Long-tailed Boat Races are usually held in October when the Nan River is full. The fair is held in front of Wat Phra Si Ratanamahathat. Robes are placed over the Phra Buddha Chinarat, and there are contests of boat processions and races with scores of boats.