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 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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