
Phitsanulok
I arrived in Phitsanulok at dusk, the Nan River catching the last orange light as houseboats and floating restaurants bobbed gently along its banks. Most travelers pass through this city on their way ...
About Phitsanulok
I arrived in Phitsanulok at dusk, the Nan River catching the last orange light as houseboats and floating restaurants bobbed gently along its banks. Most travelers pass through this city on their way to Sukhothai or the northern hill towns, and that is their loss. Phitsanulok, or "Phitlok" as locals...
Population
84,000
Region
Central
Hidden Gems
Phitsanulok Floating Market (Talad Nam)
"A small but authentic floating market on the Nan River where vendors sell food and goods from wooden boats. Less touristy than Bangkok's famous versions and much more genuine."
Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park
"A highland national park 90 minutes from the city with surreal rock formations, cool climate, and the ruins of a former Communist Party headquarters. Spectacular in the cool season."
Where to Stay in Phitsanulok
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Activities & Tours in Phitsanulok
Best Restaurants
Flying Vegetable Restaurant (Phak Bung Loi Fa)
Thai SpecialtyFamous for the theatrical presentation of stir-fried morning glory launched through the air from a wok to a waiter who catches it on a plate. A Phitsanulok icon since the 1960s.
Phitsanulok Night Market (Phaya Sua Road)
Thai Street FoodSprawling night market with dozens of food stalls serving noodles, grilled meats, desserts, and the local kuay tiew hoy khae noodle soup that is the city's signature dish.
Pak Bung Loi Fa (Original)
Thai River CuisineThe original flying vegetable restaurant on the Nan River bank. Besides the famous flying morning glory, serves excellent river fish dishes and tom yum with a riverside ambiance.
Rim Nam Food Park
Thai MixedAn open-air riverside food court where you can choose from multiple vendors and eat overlooking the Nan River. Popular with locals for dinner and evening drinks.
Houseboat Restaurant (Rauen Pae)
Thai SeafoodDine on a traditional wooden houseboat floating on the Nan River. Specializes in grilled freshwater fish, spicy river prawn salad, and classic central Thai curries.
Recommended Hotels
The Grand Riverside Hotel
$$Phitsanulok's premier hotel overlooking the Nan River with modern rooms, pool, and excellent restaurant. Walking distance to Wat Yai and the night market.
Topland Hotel & Convention Centre
$$Large hotel in the city center with rooftop pool, connected shopping mall, and comfortable rooms. The most convenient option for exploring Phitsanulok.
Lithai Guesthouse
$Friendly backpacker guesthouse on the east bank of the Nan River run by a helpful local family. Basic rooms but great atmosphere and excellent travel advice.
Pattara Resort & Spa
$$Modern resort on the outskirts of town with spacious rooms, pool, and spa. Good option for those with their own transport seeking quiet accommodation.
Travel Tips
- Phitsanulok is the nearest city with an airport and train station to Sukhothai Historical Park (60 km away). Local buses run regularly, or rent a motorbike for independence.
- Do not miss seeing the pak bung loi fa (flying morning glory) performance at one of the riverside restaurants. The cook launches the stir-fry through the air and a waiter catches it on a plate.
- The Chinnarat Buddha is most atmospheric during early morning prayers when monks chant and locals offer alms. Arrive by 7 AM for a spiritual experience few tourists witness.
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