Phitsanulok
Located 377 kilometers to the north of Bangkok, Phitsanulok sits on the borders of Uttaradit, Phichit, Loei, Phetchabun, Kamphaeng Phet and Sukothai. The province divides Thailand’s north and central regions and thus is an ideal hub for travellers visiting both the lower north and western northeast regions of the country. This makes Phitsanulok a prime location for tourists, and the region boasts several wildlife parks and trekking opportunities along the Maenam Nan and Maenam Kwae Noi rivers.
In addition to these nature activites, Phitsanulok provides a number of archeological and cultural destinations. The temple of Wat Chula Mani is of particular interest, as are the ancient ruins dating back more than 2,000 years.
The legendary King Naresuan the Great (1590-1605), famous for declaring Ayutthaya’s independence from Burma, was born in Phitsanulok. This helped push the province into the forefront of the Ayutthaya/Burma wars. Phitsnaulok was home to military training camp and a primary recruitment center for Ayutthaya troops. Legend tells of King Naresuan’s vailiant elephant-back fight against the Burmese Crown Prince. His honor and dedication to his country led to a united kingdom free of Burmese invasion.
