Sukhothai

Uttaradit Phitsanulok Phetchabun

Sukhothai Historical Park
 CONTENTS

SUKHOTHAI 8
City Attractions 9
Special Events 21
Local Products 22
How to Get There 22
UTTARADIT 24
City Attractions 25
Out-Of-City Attractions 25
Special Events 29
Local Products 29
How to Get There 29
PHITSANULOK 30
City Attractions 31
Out-Of-City Attractions 33
Special Events 36
Local Products 36
How to Get There 36
PHETCHABUN 38
City Attractions 39
Out-Of-City Attractions 39
Special Events 41
Local Products 43
How to Get There 43
 Sukhothai
Sukhothai
Uttaradit Phitsanulok Phetchabun
 SUKHOTHAI
Phra Achana, , Wat Si Chum
Sukhothai is located on the lower edge of
the northern region, with the provincial
capital situated some 450 kms. north of
Bangkok and some 350 kms. south of Chiang
Mai. The province covers an area of 6,596
sq. kms. and is above all noted as the centre
of the legendary Kingdom of Sukhothai, with
major historical remains at Sukhothai and
Si Satchanalai. Its main natural attraction is
Ramkhamhaeng National Park, which is also
known as ‘Khao Luang’. The provincial capital,
sometimes called New Sukhothai, is a small
town lying on the Yom River whose main
business is serving tourists who visit the
Sangkhalok Museum
nearby Sukhothai Historical Park.

CITY ATTRACTIONS Ramkhamhaeng National Park (Khao

Luang)
Phra Mae Ya Shrine
Covering the area of Amphoe Ban Dan Lan
Situated in front of the City Hall, the Shrine
Hoi, Amphoe Khiri Mat, and Amphoe Mueang
houses the Phra Mae Ya figure, in ancient
of Sukhothai Province, this park is a natural
queen’s dress, said to have been made by King
park with historical significance. Amongst the
Ramkhamhaeng as a dedication to his late
abundance of natural beauty, Ramkhamhaeng
mother Nang Sueang.
National Park also features several ancient
Sangkhalok Museum structures. The most prominent features of
The Museum displays Sangkhalok (Sawankhalok) this park are Namtok Sai Rung and Khao
ceramics, which are ceremics produced in old Luang mountain range. Pha Na Rai, which
Sukhothai Kingdom and ceramics produced is one of the peaks of Khao Luang, offers
in the old Lanna Kingdom. Located 1 km. from the most magnificent view of the sunrise
town on the Phitsanulok Road; open everyday and sunset. For more information, please
between 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. For more information, contact the Department of National Parks,
please call +66 5561 4333. Wildlife and Plant Conservation at Tel.
+66 2561 0777 or visit portal.dnp.go.th.
Fish Museum
Old Sukhothai
Located in Rama IV Park on Phitsanulok Road,
Founded in the 13th century, Sukhothai was
the Museum displays a variety of freshwater
the first truly independent Thai kingdom, and
fish mentioned in Thai literature. Open everyday
it enjoyed a golden age during the reign of
between 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. except Tuesdays, free
the great King Ramkhamhaeng. Abandoned
admission.
and overgrown for many centuries, the superb

Sukhothai 9
temples and monuments of this splendid city trade in elephants, so trades. Whoever wants
have been restored in Sukhothai Historical to trade in horses, so trades. Whoever wants
Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A must-see to trade in silver and gold, so trades.”
for all travellers, Sukhothai is one of the most King Ramkhamhaeng the Great also promoted
important historical sites in Southeast Asia. religion and culture, and through his efforts,
Buddhism progressed among the people.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND Inspirational faith gave birth to classic forms
Sukhothai, which means “Dawn of Happiness”, of Thai religious art. Images of the Buddha
was the first kingdom of the Thais, formed after sculpted during the Sukhothai era are cultural
Thai forces drove the Khmers out of the city, treasures which impart a feeling of peace and
a major frontier post of the Khmer Empire, serenity. Eight kings ruled Sukhothai, whose
and established it as their capital in 1238. gradual decline occurred during the last two
The first king’s son, Ramkhamhaeng, ascended reigns. The end of the first Thai kingdom came
the throne in 1278 and reigned for forty years. in 1365 when it was reduced to a vassal state
A fine warrior, King Ramkhamhaeng the Great by Ayutthaya, a young and rising Thai power
made Sukhothai a powerful and extensive to the south, which became the capital for four
kingdom which included many parts of centuries, succeeded by Bangkok.
what are today neighbouring countries. King
Ramkhamhaeng the Great opened direct
Sukhothai Historical Park
political relations with China and made two The Park is located 12 kms. from Sukhothai
trips there, from which he brought back town on the Tak Highway; open daily between
Chinese artisans who taught the pottery 6.00 a.m. - 9.00 p.m. Bicycles can be rented for
techniques to the Thais, resulting in the famous touring the ruins. The Park’s Tourist Service
Sangkhalok ceramics. A major achievement of Centre Tel. +66 5569 7310 provides information
his reign was the revision of various forms of and displays models of historical buildings
the Khmer alphabet into a system suitable for and structures of the old Sukhothai. Lying over
the writing of Thai. The alphabet that the king an extensive area, ruins of the royal palaces,
invented in 1283 is essentially the same that Buddhist temples, city gates, walls, moats,
is used today. dams, ditches, ponds, canals and the water
dyke control system are preserved, with major
The kingdom of Sukhothai during the reign
restoration by the Fine Arts Department in
of King Ramkhamhaeng the Great is noted
cooperation with UNESCO.
for prosperity and happiness, as recorded
in a stone inscription well-known to Thais.
“This realm of Sukhothai is good. In the water
Inside The City Walls
there are fish; in the fields there is rice. The The core city was surrounded by walls and
ruler does not levy a tax on the people who earthen ramparts; this forms the centre of the
travel along the road together, leading their historical park. It was rectangular, measuring
oxen on the way to trade and riding their 1,300 m. by 1,800 m., with four gates. A stone
horses on the way to sell. Whoever wants to inscription reveals that King Ramkhamhaeng
the Great set up a bell at one of the gates. If his

10 Sukhothai
 stone inscription of King Ramkhamhaeng
the Great was found by King Mongkut
(Rama IV ) in the 19 th century together
with par t of the stone throne called
Manangkhasila-at. King Ramkhamhaeng
the Great set up a throne in the midst of
a sugar-palm grove where, at his request,
a monk preached on Buddhist holy days and
the king conducted the affairs of state on
other days. This throne was later installed
in Bangkok’s Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
Lying west of the Royal Palace compound is
Wat Mahathat, the royal sanctuary, which is
Sukhothai’s largest temple with a customary
main chedi in a lotus-bud shape and ruined
wihan (image hall). At the base of the chedi
are Buddhist disciples sitting in adoration, and
on the pedestal are sitting Buddha images.
In front of this reliquary is a large hall formerly
containing a remarkable sitting bronze Buddha
image of the Sukhothai style, which was cast
and installed by King Lithai of Sukhothai in
1362. In the late 18th century, the image was
moved to the Wihan of Wat Suthat in Bangkok
under the command of King Rama I and has
since been named Phra Si Sakaya Muni. In
front of the large hall is another smaller one
Wat Mahathat
which was probably built during the Ayutthaya
period. Its main Buddha image (8 m. high)
subjects needed help, they could ring the bell was installed inside a separate building. In
and the king would come out to settle disputes front of the southern image, a sculpture called
and dispense justice. Within the walls are the Khom Dam Din was found, now kept in the
remains of 35 structures. The most notable are Mae Ya Shrine near the Sukhothai City Hall.
described as follows: To the south stands a pedestal of a large
Royal Palace and Wat Mahathat stepped chedi adorned with beautiful mural
paintings, whose lowest platform is adorned
The Royal Palace lies in the centre of the city,
with beautiful stucco figures of demons,
surrounded by a moat and contains two
elephants, and lions with angels riding on
main compounds – the royal residence and
their backs.
the royal sanctuar y. Here, the famous

Sukhothai 11
King Ramkhamhaeng the Great Monument Wat Mahathat

King Ramkhamhaeng the Great the wall, the wihan in the west, built of laterite,
Monument is separated from the main prang (Khmer-style
pagoda) which was constructed in the Lop Buri
Situated to the north of Wat Mahathat, the
or Hindu-style. A trace of the Hindu sculpture
bronze statue of King Ramkhamhaeng
‘Sayomphu’ was found here, indicating that
the Great sits on a throne with a bas-relief at
this was originally a Hindu shrine, later
the base depicting the king’s life.
converted into a Buddhist temple.
Wat Si Sawai
Wat Traphang Ngoen
Situated amid magnificent scenery southwest
Situated to the west of Wat Mahathat is Wat
of Wat Mahathat is Wat Si Sawai, with three
Traphang Ngoen with its square pedestal,
prangs surrounded by a laterite wall. Inside

12 Sukhothai
 Wat Chana Songkhram

main sanctuary and stucco standing Buddha a round Singhalese-style chedi. In front of the
image measuring four niches. There is a wihan chedi is the base of a wihan and behind the
to the front, and to the east of the pond is chedi stands an ubosot. Bases of twelve small
an island with an ubosot (assembly hall). This chedi are also visible. Near Charot Withithong
edifice has crumbled and only its pedestal and Road is a strange chedi with three bases, one
laterite columns remain. Many monuments and on top of the other.
magnificent scenery are visible from this
San Ta Pha Daeng or Deity Shrine
location.
Situated to the north of Wat Mahathat is
Wat Sa Si San Ta Pha Daeng. This monument consists
Located to the northwest of Wat Mahathat, of a single laterite prang with a staircase in
Wat Sa Si is a historical ancient site that is the front. Sandstone Hindu divine objects
situated on an island in the middle of the pond (Lop Buri-style) were found here.
called Traphang Trakuan. The most prominent
Wat Mai
feature of this temple is the Lankan-style
bell-shaped chedi. Wat Sa Si regarded as Situated to the north of Wat Mahathat is Wat
one of the most scenic sites in Sukhothai. Mai. The main sanctuary is an Ayutthaya-style
brick wihan with its columns made of laterite.
Wat Chana Songkhram A bronze image of Buddha under a Naga (a Lop
Situated to the north of Wat Mahathat is Buri-style image) was found here and is now
Wat Chana Songkhram. Its main sanctuary is preserved in the Ramkhamhaeng National
Museum.

Sukhothai 13
Wat Phra Phai Luang

Wat Traphang Thong Open everyday between 8.30 a.m. - 4.30 p.m.
Situated to the east of Wat Mahathat is Wat For more information, call +66 5569 7026.
Traphang Thong, which is located on an island
in the middle of the large pond. There is Outside The City walls
a ruined laterite Singhalese-style chedi and The Sites to the North
a new mondop containing the Lord Buddha’s
Footprint slab that was created by King Lithai Wat Phra Phai Luang
in 1390. An annual fair to worship this sacred This temple lies 500 m. north of San Luang
footprint takes place during the Loi Krathong Gate (nor thern gate). This sanc tuar y,
Festival. formerly a Khmer-Hindu Shrine but later
conver ted into a Buddhist temple,
Ramkhamhaeng National Museum
is surrounded by a moat. It is second in
The museum offers an outstanding introduction importance to Wat Mahathat. Inside, there
to the arts and crafts of Sukhothai and its are three prangs like Wat Si Sawai, but the
vassal cities, displaying objects unearthed or southern and the central ones have crumbled
collected from Sukhothai and nearby provinces. leaving only the northern one that shows the
Inside the spacious building are Khmer beautiful decoration of stucco figures. In front
statues, Sukhothai-style Buddha statues, of these prangs are a wihan and a crumbled
Sawankhalok ceramics and other archaeo- chedi; the latter has a pedestal decorated with
logicalartefacts gathered from the area. stucco of sitting Buddha images. A mondop

14 Sukhothai
 Wat Si Chum

contains ruined Buddha images in four Wat Si Chum

postures – sitting, reclining, standing and This lies about 1,500 m. north of Wat Mahathat
walking. A Sivalinga (phallic emblem of Hindu and was originally surrounded by a moat.
gods) was unearthed in the compound of this A square mondop (an edifice which is
sanctuary. square in plan, cubicle in form, with
Ruins of the Old Celadon Factory a pyramidal superstructure for roofing), which
(Thuriang Kiln) is the main sanctuary, contains a monumental
stucco-over-brick Buddha image in the attitude
Thuriang Kiln is a site where Sukhothai
of Subduing Mara, called Phra Achana. This
celadons were made. Kilns found in this
Buddha measures 11.3 m. from knee to knee.
area measuring 100 m. by 700 m. Each kiln
The width of the mondop is 32 metres on
is divided into three sections; the fire area,
each side and the height is 15 metres, while
the baking oven and the fuel. The pottery
the walls are 3 metres thick. There are remains
unearthed here mostly has three painted
of the passageway in the left inner wall which
designs on the bottom – a disc, a fish and
leads to the above crossbeam. On the ceiling of
a f l owe r. Fo r t y - n i n e k i l n s a n d s m a l l
the passageway are more than fifty engraved
edifices are found, and there is a pond which
slate slabs illustrating scenes from the Jataka
was dug into the stone located to the north
epic.
of the site.

Sukhothai 15
Wat Saphan Hin

The Sites to the West The Site to the South

Wat Saphan Hin Wat Chetuphon
Situated on a 200-metre-high hill, the sanctuary This temple features a mondop enshrining
is approached by a pathway of slate slabs. four Buddha images in different postures–
sitting, standing, walking, and reclining.
Wat Chang Rop The outer walls of the mondop still retain
This temple features a bell-shaped chedi on a section in the form of a slate pillar with
a square base decorated with 24 sculptures of balustrade window. There is an entrance
elephant, which is the origin of the name of to the mondop to the north. Just behind
the temple ‘chang rop’ which means ‘surrounded the mondop is a small sanctuary which
by elephants’. contains a Buddha image known locally as
Phra Si Ariya Mettrai, the Future Lord Buddha.
Phra Ruang Dam
This earthwork dam was built to hold back The Sites to the East
water between Khao Phra Bat Yai and Khao Wat Chang Lom
Kio-Ai-Ma since the ancient period, and was This temple is located to the north of Charot
referred to in the famous Sukhothai stone Withithong Road with a bell-shaped chedi of
inscription. It was later restored by the Irrigation Ceylonese influence standing at the centre.
Department. The chedi is situated on a three-tiered square
base with a platform decorated with rows of

16 Sukhothai
 Wat Chetuphon

elephants. This type of elephant-decorated

chedi is to be seen in many ancient towns of
the Sukhothai period; for example, Kamphaeng
Phet and Si Satchanalai.

Wat Traphang Thonglang

The main sanctuary of this temple is a square
mondop, with a wihan to the east and ubosot
standing beyond the wihan. Surrounding the
mondop is outer wall which is beautifully
decorated with stucco figures in niches. The
southern side portrays the Lord Buddha flanked
by angles descending from Tavatimsa Heaven
(the second heaven in Buddhist six heavens).
The west side portrays the Lord Buddha
preaching to his father and relatives. The north
side depicts the episode when the Lord Buddha
returned to preach to his wife. These stucco
figures, especially those on the south side, are
masterpieces of Sukhothai art.

Wat Chang Lom

Sukhothai 17
Ramkhamhaeng National Park
(Khao Luang Sukhothai)
This exquisite national park with a combined
natural and historical background covers an
area of 341 sq. kms. of high hills and steep cliffs,
some over 1,200 m. high. The park features
natural attractions; such as, waterfalls,
varied vegetation and wildlife, alongside
archaeological remains. This park is accessed via
Highway 101 south from Sukhothai for about
20 kms., then west via a 16 km. laterite road.
Trekkers are required to bring their own food
and essential equipment with them. Bungalows
and tents are available. For more information,
please contact the Department of National
Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation at Tel.
1362 or Contact Visitor center Tel. +66 2561
0777 or visit portal.dnp.go.th.

Sawankhaworanayok National Museum

Located at Sawankhalok town, 38 kms. north
of Sukhothai via Highway 101, the Museum
features sculptural art from various periods
and Sangkhalok (Sawankhalok) pottery
from the Sukhothai era, some of it retrieved
from sunken vessels in the Gulf of Thailand.
Open everyday between 8.30 a.m.- 4.30 p.m.;
except Monday, Tuesday and public holidays. Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat
For more information, call +66 5564 3166, +66
5564 1571.
the crown prince. It enjoyed great importance,
Si Satchanalai Historical Park
as demonstrated by the size of its remains. This
Si Satchanalai Historical Park contains the park is open everyday between 8.00 a.m. - 5.00
remains of Sukhothai-era Structures in a park p.m. For more information, call +66 5575 0714.
and setting similar to Sukhothai Historical Park.
The 13th to 15th century ruins of 134 structures Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat
have been discovered and are located beside This temple, also called Wat Phra Borommathat
the Yom River among hills and are less restored Mueang Chaliang or Wat Phra Prang, is situated
than those of Sukhothai’s. The ancient site was 3 kms. to the south of the ancient Si Satchanalai’s
the kingdom’s second city and the residence of walls. An immense laterite prang, which is on

18 Sukhothai
Wat Chang Lom Wat Chedi Chet Thaeo

a square base, marks the centre of the temple. Wat Chang Lom
A steep staircase in front of the prang leads to A huge bell-shaped chedi supported by 39
a room where a reliquary is enshrined. elephants, with four at the cardinal points to
Wat Khao Phanom Phloeng mark the centre of the temple. Above the chedi’s
base are the niches enshrining Buddha images
This is a hilltop temple within the old town of
in the Subduing Mara posture.
Si Satchanalai. A laterite chedi in the centre, a
large wihan or image hall in the front and a Wat Chedi Chet Thaeo
small sanctuary at the back all appeared as This is one of the most beautiful temples in
ancient ruins. Some laterite pillars and a Sukhothai Province. Stupa of different artistic
damaged Buddha image constructed of laterite styles and influence were built here. Remnants
slabs and coated with mortar are also visible. of old mural paintings can still be seen in some
Wat Khao Suwan Khiri stupa.

The hilltop temple is situated 200 m. from Wat Suan Kaeo Utthayan Yai
Phanom Phloeng Hill. A huge bell-shaped chedi Located near Wat Chedi Chet Thaeo, across a
on a five-tiered base marks the centre of the dirt road, this temple has the ruins of a large
temple. Ruins of a wihan, chedi and fragments image hall. It is also called Wat Kao Hong, which
of huge stucco figures scattered on the ground. means the Nine-Roomed Temple.
The similarity between some figures here and
those at Wat Chang Lom lead to the belief that Wat Nang Phaya
King Ramkhamhaeng the Great had this temple This temple is famous for its delicate stucco
constructed. reliefs on the remains of the northwestern
wall of the seven-roomed wihan. The pillars

Sukhothai 19
Wat Nang Phaya Wat Chedi Chet Thaeo

are decorated with unglazed ceramic designs. of Si Satchanalai Historical Park to Ban Ko Noi,
The central laterite stupa is surrounded by on Highway No.1201 from Si Satchanalai.
lamp-posts and accessible by a set of narrow
Si Satchanalai National Park
stairs.
Covering an area of 213 sq. kms., this forest and
Wat Suan Kaeo Utthayan Noi mountain park offers trekking routes to
This temple’s ruins consist of a frontal wihan waterfalls, caves and a hot spring. The park is
housing a Buddha image and complete with about 100 km. from Sukhothai via Highways
a laterite roof. 1113 and 1294 and can be reached by a local
bus from Si Satchanalai where there is
Sangkhalok Kiln Site Study and Conser-
accommodation provided. For reservations
vation Centre and more information, contact Tel. +66 2579
At one time, hundreds of huge pottery kilns 6666, +66 2561 0777 or +66 5561 9214-5 or
lined the Yom River in this area and several of visit portal.dnp.go.th.
these have been carefully excavated. One of
the kilns that can be viewed in the centre is in Ban Thung Luang
an oval shape, with a curved roof and around Situated in Tambon Thung Luang, Amphoe
7-8 m. wide, while a large outdoor kiln is Khiri Mat, around 17 kms. from the Sukhothai
situated a short distance away. The centre town centre, Ban Thung Luang is famous for
displays pottery and potsherds, found in the producing unique pottery. Over 200 families
area and information on the evolution of residing at this village produces pottery, using
ancient ceramics. Located some 4 kms. north of the ancient techniques that have been
Si Satchanalai, the centre is open daily between passed down through generations. For more
9 a.m. - 4 p.m. To get there, drive 6.5 kms. north information, contact Tel. +66 5569 3451, +66
8 1972 2644

20 Sukhothai
 Sukhothai Loi Krathong and Candle Festival

SPECIAL EVENTS monks) in colourful costumes on the backs of

some 20-30 decorated elephants.
Si Satchanalai Ordination Celebration
Songkran Festival
April
13-15 April
Locally called Buat Chang Hat Siao, this event is
held at Hat Sieo, Si Satchanalai, and is arranged This is the traditional Thai New Year celebration,
by the local Thai Phuan people. It features also known as the Water-splash Festival.
a spectacular procession of ordination Songkran was mentioned in the famous stone
candidates (men about to become Buddhist inscription dating from the reign of King
Ramkhamhaeng the Great.

Sukhothai 21
Sukhothai Loi Krathong and Candle By Bus
Festival Air-conditioned buses depart from Bangkok
Bus Terminal on Kamphaeng Phet II Road for
November
Sukhothai (7-hour journey). For more information,
Sukhothai Historical Park contact call center 1490 or +66 2936 2852-66,
Held on the full moon night of the 12th lunar or visit home.transport.co.th.
month, Loi Krathong Festival originated in
Sukhothai and is now celebrated throughout
By Rail
the kingdom. Krathong, the lotus-blossom- The nearest railway station is at Phitsanulok,
shaped vessels made of banana leaves and from where there are frequent bus services to
containing a candle, incense sticks, flowers Sukhothai, some 50 km. away. Trains depart
and coins, are floated on the rivers, lakes or from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station. Contact
canals. Other activities include the Krathong State Railway of Thailand at 1690 or visit www.
design contest, the cultural arts and traditional railway.co.th for more information.
Thai musical performances, Nang Nopphamat
By Air
Beauty Contest, and lighting of lanterns.
Bangkok Airways operates a one-hour direct
LOCAL PRODUCTS flight from Bangkok to Sukhothai on a daily
basis.For more information, contact Tel. +66
Famous for the Sangkhalok Pottery; such as, the
2270 6699, Hotline 1771 or visit www.bangkok
Thung Luang terra cotta of Khiri Mat, Sukhothai
air.com.
also offers other variety of products; including,
the handmade ancient-style gold and silver Nok Air also operates daily fly and ride service,
products of Si Satchanalai, fried peanuts of Please contact Tel. +66 2900 9955, 1318 or visit
Si Samrong which is called “200-year fried www.nokair.com. Locating within the Sukhothai
peanuts” as it is an old recipe that has been airport, which is about 30 kms. north of the
passed on through generations, and Hat Siao town, is the Organic Agriculture Project.
fabric of Si Satchanalai, made by descendants This worth-visiting place was awarded the
of Thai Phuan migrants from Lao PDR. outstanding performance in the Thailand
Tourism Award in 2010. Here visitors can find
HOW TO GET THERE organic rice, vegetable, fruits and chemical-
By Car free plants; such as, orchids, and an organic
food restaurant is also available. For more
From Bangkok, take Highway 1 then Highway 32
information, please contact Khrua Sukho at
north to Nakhon Sawan. Highway 32 becomes
Tel. +66 5564 7290 .
Highway 1 again, follow all the way to
Kamphaeng Phet, then take Highway 101 to
Sukhothai, a total distance of 440 kilometres,
or about 6-hour drive.

22 Sukhothai
Sukhothai Historical Park

Sukhothai 23
 UTTARADIT
Wat Tha Thanon
A province in the Lower North, Uttaradit
has a long history going back to at least
the Sukhothai period, which is around the
13th century. Today, it is most noted for the
cultivation of ‘langsat’ fruit and for the major
lake formed by the Sirikit Dam. The provincial
capital is located 491 kms. from Bangkok and
the province covers an area of 7,838 sq. kms.
The original town, called Bang Pho Tha It, was
located on the right bank of the Nan River.
A flourishing port for regional trade, it was
renamed Uttaradit, literally means the Port of
the North, by King Rama V (1868-1910) and
made a provincial capital. When the northern
Wat Tha Thanon
railway line was built in the early 20th century
with a stop at Uttaradit, the town received a
further boost. Unfortunately, the town centre along Samranruen Road, this temple features
was largely destroyed in a fire in 1967 and was an old wihan with beautifully carved wood door
rebuilt in a modern style. panels and lintels.
Phraya Phichai Dap Hak Memorial
CITY ATTRACTIONS
This statue commemorates a governor, who
Wat Thamma Thipatai ( Wat Ton in 1772 valiantly fought the Burmese invaders
Makham) until one of his swords broke in two. Still he
At this temple, the door panels of the prevailed over them, and is remembered as
large and ancient wihan of Wat Phra “Phraya Phichai of the Broken Sword”.
Fang are kept. The wooden panels are Uttaradit Provincial Cultural Hall
2.2 m. wide and 5.3 m. tall and are carved in
Once the official residence of the provincial
the graceful style of the Late Ayutthaya Period.
governor, this late 19 th century traditional
These door panels are only second to those of
wooden building houses impor tant
Wat Suthat in Bangkok.
historical relics. A major item is the Yan Mat,
Wat Tha Thanon a carved wooden carrying pole made by Late
Located beside the Nan River, this temple Ayutthaya period craftsmen.
houses Luangpho Phet, the principal
Buddha statue of the province. It is in the OUT-OF-CITY ATTRACTIONS
ancient Chiang Saen style and cast in bronze. Wat Klang
Wat Yai Tha Sao Located about 3 kms. outside of town at Ban
Situated east of the town centre about 3 kms. Kae, this old temple has beautiful plaster
bas-reliefs over the ubosot. Within the temple

Uttaradit 25
Wat Phra Boromathat Thung Yang Wat Phra Tan Sila - Asana

are rare wall murals of the Early Rattanakosin 1041 for a further 6 kms.
period style depicting the Jataka and assemblage
Wat Phra Tan Sila - Asana
of celestial beings.
Located near Laplae, this temple is believed to
Wat Phra Boromathat Thung Yang be of the Sukhothai Period. Its major feature is
Located about 3 kms. from town on Highway the base of a sermon platform built with laterite.
102, this old temple, once called Wat Mahathat,
Namtok Mae Phun
has a large round Sri Lankan style chedi
enshrining a holy relic. Located at Ban Ton Klua, about 20 kms. from
town, the waterfall features multi-level cascades
Wat Phra Yuen Phutthabat Yukhon amid pleasant natural surroundings.
Situated near Wat Phra Boromathat Thung
Sirikit Dam
Yang, this temple features a Chiang Saen-style
mondop sheltering holy footprints. It also Situated at Tha Pla some 68 kms. from town on
houses a bronze Sukhothai-style Buddha statue. the Uttaradit-Tha Pla Road, this is the country’s
largest earthen dam. Stemming the Nan River,
Laplae the dam is 800 m. wide. The large lake has
An ancient community dating from the Ayutthaya beautiful scenery and during the cool season
period, Laplae is an attractive place to visit the landscape is covered in a profusion of
with old wooden houses, hand-woven textiles colourful flowers and blooms. Accommodation
and other craft specialties. It is also a major and boating services are available.
producer of langsat, the province’s famous
Sak Yai Forest Park
fruit, as well as a local variety of durian called
“long laplae”. It lies west of town via Highway This park, located in Amphoe Nam Pat
102 for 3 kms., then to the right along Highway about 80 kms. from town on Highways 1045,

26 Uttaradit
Namtok Mae Phun Sak Yai Forest Park

1146 and 1047, features the largest teak been used to make only the king’s swords. This
tree in the world. It has a circumference of ancient site is reached by going to Thong Saen
9.87 m. and an age of about 1,500 years. Khan (42 kms. southeast of town), then taking
Unfortunately, its top was broken off in Highway 1245 for 14 kms.
a storm, cutting its height from 48.5 m. to
Phu Soi Dao National Park
37 m., but it is still alive.
Having been dubbed as “the flower field
Bo Lek Nam Phi amidst the pine forest”, Phu Soi Dao National
Here swords and other weapons were forged Park features beautiful natural landscape
from high quality steel. There are two mines still and is one of the popular tourist attractions.
in existence, whose ores are believed to have Covering a vast area of Amphoe Ban Khok,

Uttaradit 27
 Phu Soi Dao National Park

28 Uttaradit
Amphoe Huai Mun, Amphoe Nam Pat of
Uttaradit Province and Amphoe Chattrakan of
Phitsanulok Province, the park’s office is located
at Amphoe Nam Pat near Namtok Phu Soi Dao,
which is the most prominent feature of this
park. Namtok Phu Soi Dao is a magnificent
5-tiered water fall, which can be easily
accessed. A walking trail leads visitors to the
top of the mountain, where sea of fog is clearly
visible in the morning. Camping site is available
at the park but please contact the Park officers
in advance. For more information, please contact
the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and
Plant Conservation at Tel. +66 2561 0777 or visit Namtok Phu Soi Dao
portal.dnp.go.th.

SPECIAL EVENTS HOW TO GET THERE

The Tradition of Buddha Cremation By Car
6th lunar month (Usually in May) 1. From Bangkok, take Highway 1 (alter
A unique religious ritual is performed at Wat native: Highway 32 after Ayutthaya)
Phra Boromathat Thung Yang after the full to Nakhon Sawan, then Highway 117
moon day of the 6th lunar month. It features to Phitsanulok, then Highways 12 and 11 to
a re-enactment of the Buddha’s funeral Uttaradit.
ceremony. 2. From Bangkok, take Highway 1 to Ayutthaya,
then Highway 32 to In Buri, then Highway
Langsat Day Fair 11 to Uttaradit.
Late September
By Bus
Langsat-growing has long been the main
Air-conditioned and non air-conditioned
occupation of the local people, and Uttaradit
buses depart from Bangkok Bus Terminal on
organises this fair to celebrate the province’s
Kamphaeng Phet II Road for Uttaradit. For more
famous fruit. The fair features exhibitions,
information, call +66 2936 2852-66, Call Center
contests and parades of floats decorated with
1490 or visit home.transport.co.th.
fruits and flowers, as well as entertainment.
By Rail
LOCAL PRODUCTS Trains depart from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong
Interesting items include woven materials Station for Uttaradit everyday. Contact
with lovely designs and colours, and preserved State Railway of Thailand at 1690 or visit www.
fruit; such as, the chewy ‘Kluai Kuan’ made railway.co.th for more information.
from bananas.

Uttaradit 29
Phra Phuttha Chinnarat
PHITSANULOK
A major province of the Lower Nor th,
Phisanulok is located where the Central Plains
begin to rise into the Northern region. The
provincial capital is 377 kms. north of Bangkok
and boasts a nationally important temple.
Most of the terrain is flat, contrasted by
mountain ranges running along the east
where waterfalls and national parks offer
opportunities for nature treks. The town of
Phitsanulok, situated on the banks of the
Nan River, has been a major community since
ancient Khmer times and enjoyed great
prosperity during the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya
periods. During 1463-1487, the city served as Wat Ratchaburana
the royal capital as King Boromtrailokanat of
Ayutthaya resided permanently in the
pagoda or prang. It is thought the structure
province. Unfortunately, most of the city was
was originally a lotus bud-shaped stupa of
destroyed by a fire, and today it is built in the
Sukhothai style, and was altered into a prang
modern style.
during the early Ayutthaya period.
CITY ATTRACTIONS Wat Nang Phaya
Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat Wat Nang Phaya is located on the eastern bank
of the Nan River, near Wat Phra Si Rattana
This nationally important temple, commonly
Mahathat to the south. Both temples are
called Wat Yai, has its origin dating back to the
assumed to be built when Phitsanulok City
14th century and is situated on the river’s east
was ruled by King Boromtrailokanat, have
bank. The wihan houses what is regarded as
linking compounds. Wat Nang Phaya features
the most beautiful and graceful Buddha statue
a wihan but there is no ubosot and it is known
in Thailand – the large bronze sitting statue of
for the so-called “Phra Nang Phaya” votive
Phra Phuttha Chinnarat in the Sukhothai style,
tablet which is one of the famous 5 greatest
dating from the 14th century. A celebration
auspicious amulets in Thailand.
honouring the Chinnarat Buddha image is held
in late January. Other prominent features are Wat Ratchaburana
the hall’s large pearl-inlaid doors made in 1756
Situated on the east bank of the Nan River
by royal craftsmen and an 8-metre tall standing
and south of Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat,
Buddha image called Phra Attharot. Phra
this temple also survived the fire. The
Attharot, which was cast in the same period as
ordination hall features a graceful three-headed
the Chinnarat Buddha, was originally housed in
Naga (mythical serpent) over its eaves and
a large hall which has now crumbled away. In the
murals painted \in the early 19th century. It was
centre of the compound is a great Khmer-style
built by King Boromtrailokanat who played

Phitsanulok 31
 accompanied by more than 2,000 followers,
was ordained as a monk here in 1416. An
important ancient structure in the temple is
the hall containing a holy footprint and
inscription stone built by King Narai the Great of
Ayutthaya. There is also a Khmer-style pagoda
(Prang) built with laterite, adorned with
intricate swan designs.

King Naresuan the Great Shrine

The Shrine is located on the site of the former
Chan Palace, the birthplace and residence
of King Naresuan the Great who is a revered
king famous for defending the nation from
the Burmese. Located close to the river
on the west bank, it features a statue of
the King declaring independence from Burma.

Sergeant-Major Dr. Thawi-Pim

Buranakhet’s Folklore Museum
This museum on Wisutkasat Road is regarded
as the folklore museum with the greatest
collection of indigenous arts and utensils.
A labour of love by Dr. Thawi, the museum
displays pottery, kitchenware, agricultural
Wat Chula Mani tools and musical instruments, all reflecting
the lifestyle and creativity of the traditional
a major role in fostering Buddhism in the community. Open Tuesday to Sunday between
province. 8.30 a.m. - 4.30 p.m.

Wat Chedi Yot Thong Buddha - Casting Foundry

Located on Phaya Sua Road, this temple Situated opposite the Folklore Museum and also
has a 15th century lotus bud-shapedz chedi created by Dr. Thawi, the Foundry specialises
of the typical Sukhothai style, the only such in casting bronze Buddha images and statues,
structure left in the province. mostly replicas of the Chinnarat Buddha in all
sizes. It is open on Tuesday to Sunday between
Wat Chula Mani
8.30 a.m. - 4.30 p.m.
Located on the east bank of the Nan River, about
5 kms. south of the town centre on the City Walls
Boromtrailokanat Road, this temple was the Originally made of clay like those of Sukhothai,
site of the original town. King Boromtrailokanat, the city walls were built during the Ayutthaya

32 Phitsanulok
 Thung Salaeng Luang National Park

period to deter raids from Lanna and Burma locating nearby. At Km.45 lies Namtok Kaeng
and the remnants can be seen to the north Song Waterfall. At Km.72 and a further 2 km. off
and east of town. Part of the old 12 m. wide the road is an extensive three-level waterfall
city moat still exists to the west of town called Namtok Kaeng Sopha, which runs
parallel to Phra Ruang Road. Located within over massive rock formations amongst lush
the compound of Phitsanulok Phittayakhom vegetation. The best time to visit all waterfalls is
School are the remains of Chan Palace, from September to December when the water
the birthplace of King Naresuan the Great, flows are at the maximum.
which are being excavated at present.
Thung Salaeng Luang National Park
OUT-OF-CITY ATTRACTIONS This protected area of mountain forests and
grasslands covers 1,262 sq. kms. The park office,
Highway 12 Scenic Route where information may be obtained and
Cutting through the eastern mountain ranges accommodation booked, is at Km.80 on
of Phitsanulok, the route offers a series of Highway12. The grasslands are bright with
attractive forested areas and waterfalls within flowers, particularly during the late rainy season
national parks. To visit these places, transport (October). The mountain ranges are watersheds
can be hired in town. One of the highlights feeding several streams flowing into the Nan
is Namtok Wang Nok Aen, within the River. A good walking trail starts from the
Sakunothayan Arboretum, which is 1 km. off the sub-office at Ban Nong Mae Na (Km.100)
main highway at Km.33, with Kaeng Sai Rapids and leads alternately through forest and

Phitsanulok 33
Namtok Chat Trakan National Park

savanna. Thung Non Son, a grassy plateau or visit portal.dnp.go.th.

in the heart of the park, abounds with wild
Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park
flowers in October to December. From Ban Nong
Mae Na, it takes 16 kms. by car and a further This is an outstanding national park with unique
15 kms. on foot to get to the park. For more scenic attractions and historical significance.
information, please contact the Department of Located where Phitsanulok, Phetchabun,
National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation and Loei provinces meet, Phu Hin Rong Kla
at Tel. +66 2561 0777 or visit portal.dnp.go.th. is reached via Highway 12, turning right at
Km.68 onto Highway 2013 and travelling 28
Namtok Chat Trakan National Park kms. to Nakhon Thai, then taking Highway 2331
This forest and waterfall park lies some 145 kms. for another 31 kms. The mountainous area was
from town. It is reached via Highway 12, a communist guerilla base from 1967 to 1982
turning left at Km.68 onto Highway 2013 to and many radical students fled here after
Nakhon Thai, and then taking Highway 1143 the 1976 massacre of students in Bangkok.
to Amphoe Chat Trakan. The water cascades Reminders of the struggle are living quarters,
down seven tiers to a wide pool with a beach. schools, a hospital and other facilities. There
Some cliff faces carry traces of prehistoric are also beautiful waterfalls and strange rock
carvings. Camping can be done at the park, formations with jagged boulders and deep
but please contact the park officials in advance. crevices. The Park also provides accommodation,
For more information, please contact the campsites and food facilities. For more
Department of National Parks, Wildlife and information, please contact the Department of
Plant Conservation at Tel. +66 2561 0777, National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation

34 Phitsanulok
 Lan Hin Pum, Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park

Pha Chu Thong, Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park Namtok Kaeng Sopha

at Tel. +66 2561 0777, or visit portal.dnp.go.th. a big performance where the cooks toss fried
morning glory to the sky to the server, in which
INTERESTING ACTIVITIES the customers can also participate in trying to
catch the morning glory on the plate.
Flying Vegetables
Touring Phitsanulok city by a tric ycle Water-rafting
(called ‘sam-lo’) is recommended, particularly Endowed with natural beauty and suitable
around the river banks where floating terrain, Phitsanulok is a great place where
restaurants abound with theatrical cooks adventure lovers would enjoy water-rafting in
making “flying vegetables”. The specialty is the river. The famous place for water-rafting
a dish called ‘Phak Bung Loi Fa’, which attached trip is Lam Nam Khek, with several challenging

Phitsanulok 35
Long Boat Races & Fair

rapids and an event called “Tasting Kaeng Preserved food products are the specialty of
Song Coffee and Rafting on the Khek River” Phitsanulok, notably Kluai Tak, which are dried
which takes place around July of every year. bananas coated with honey. Also popular are
At this festival, visitors get to experience items made from pork; such as, Naem (fermented
the excitement of rafting along the river, as pork sausage) and Mu Yo (pork sausage).
well as to taste the Kaeng Song coffee, which
is the local Arabica coffee. HOW TO GET THERE
By Car
SPECIAL EVENT
1. From Bangkok, take Highway 1 and 32
Long Boat Races & Fair to Nakhon Sawan, then Highway 117 to
October Phitsanulok (total 337 kms.).

These races and fair are held when the Nan 2. From Bangkok , take H ighway 1 to
River is full at the peak of the rainy season. Ayutthaya, then Highway 32 to
The Fair is held in front of Wat Phra Si In Buri, then Highway 11 to Wang Thong,
Rattana Mahathat. Robes are placed over then Highway 12 to Phitsanulok (total of
the Phra Phuttha Chinnarat, and there are 450 kms.).
contests of boat processions and boat races. By Bus
Buses depart from Bangkok Bus Terminal on
LOCAL PRODUCTS

36 Phitsanulok
Kamphaeng Phet II Road. For more information, co.th for more information.
call Tel. +66 2936 2852-66, Call Center 1490 or By Air
visit home.transport.co.th.
Nok Air operates daily flight from Don Mueang
By Rail Airport in Bangkok to Phitsanulok. Call +66 2900
Trains depart from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong 9955, 1318 or visit www.nokair.com for more
Railway Station for Phitsanulok. Contact State information. Thai AirAsia, call +66 2515 9999
Railway of Thailand at 1690 or visit www.railway. or visit www.airasia.com

Thung Salaeng Luang National Park

Phitsanulok 37
 PHETCHABUN
Wat Pha Son Kaeo
Situated in the heart of Thailand, with its OUT-OF-CITY ATTRACTIONS
provincial capital some 346 kms. north of
Bangkok, Phetchabun is the meeting place of Huai Pa Daeng Dam
three regions, the North, the Central Plains and Constructed for irrigation purposes, this dam
the Northeast. with pleasant scenic view is located some 8 kms.
The province centres on the Pa Sak River basin west of town on Highway 2006.
with mountain ranges running along both the Tat Mok National Park
western and eastern reaches. Because of the
This forest park has a huge waterfall fed by
fertility of the soil, Phetchabun has always been
streams flowing down mountain crevices,
a productive area, and its name means “the land
creating twelve beautiful tiers. To reach the park,
of crops and food”. The province has a long and
drive east for some 15 kms. to Ban Chaliang
prosperous history and rich tourism potential.
Lap, then take a right turn onto Highway 2275,
Its climate is attractive due to the mountains
then a left fork, continuing for 20 kms. For more
and forests.
information, please contact the Department of
National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation
CITY ATTRACTIONS at Tel. +66 2561 0777, or visit portal.dnp.go.th.
Wat Mahathat
Si Thep Historical Park
This temple on Nikon Bamrung Road has
Some 130 kms. south of Phetchabun on
several ancient chedis of the Sukhothai style.
Highway 21, and another 9 kms. after a left turn,
The main chedi, believed to be built around
lie the ruins of Si Thep. An ancient town where
the Sukhothai period and was restored in 1967, many structures still remain indicative of its
houses the Lord Buddha’s relics. past prosperity during the 11th -12th Buddhist
Phetchabun City Pillar Shrine Centuries, Si Thep was the centre of contact
between the Dvaravati Kingdom in the Central
Relocated from the ancient town of Si Thep,
Plains and the Khmer Kingdom in the Northeast.
this is considered one of the oldest city pillar
Several remains of laterite buildings and ponds
shrines in Thailand. The pillar is made of stone
spread around the area. Artefacts found here
and has the width of 30 centimetres, length of
include elaborate lintels, Sema stones (used to
15 centimetres and rises about 85 centimetres
mark out the limits of Buddhist temples) and
above the ground.
jewellery.
Wat Trai Phum Khao Kho
This temple on Phetcharat Road features
Situated to the northwest of town, Khao Kho is
a Buddha statue called Phra Phuttha Maha a 1,000-metre high mountain that once served
Thammaracha, which was casted in the as a base from which communist insurgents
ornamental Lop Buri style. The ritual conducted their struggle from 1968 to1982.
bathing of the Buddha image is performed It is accessible via two routes, both of which
each September. wind through steep terrain: off Highway 12

Phetchabun 39
Phu Thap Boek

(Phitsanulok-Lom Sak) at Ban Camp Son, and Phu Hin Rong Kla
off Highway 21 at Ban Na Ngua, about 13 kms. Located in the mountains northwest of Lom
north of town. Interesting places include various Sak, in the north of the province, amidst exotic
viewing points, remains of guerrilla bases, scenery, this was a communist guerrilla base
a war memorial, a weapon museum, a stupa
in the 1970s and 1980s. See the Phitsanulok
containing a holy relic, the Si Dit Falls and
section for more information.
a royal palace. On the way to Khao Kho, visitors
can visit the Hmong Market, which is where the Nam Nao National Park
Hmong hill-tribe people come to sell the hill- Its office located some 50 kms. east of Lom Sak
tribe handicraft and products from their farm. along Highway 12, this is an immense tract of
Phu Thap Boek dry evergreen forest. Spread over rolling hills
and including pineries and grasslands, it is the
Located at Tambon Wang Ban, Phu Thap Boek
is the highest point of Phetchabun Province habitat of diverse animals, and more than 100
at around 1,768 metres above the sea level. bird species. In December and January, the
Surrounded by fertile forests and beautiful temperature can drop to as low as 2 degrees
mountain ranges, it possesses cool climate all Celsius. Attractions reached by taking Highway
year round, with the stunning sea of fog in the 12 include: Tham Pha Hong with stalactites and
morning. stalagmites, located 300 m. north from Km.39;
Ban Paek Pinery, reached by a 5 kms. walk from
Km.49; Phu Khum Khao Pinery, 15 kms. from

40 Phetchabun
 Phu Hin Rong Kla

Km.53, covering an area of about 10 sq. kms., from January to May as it is the time where
and Namtok Heo Sai and Namtok Sai Thong, “freshwater jellyfish” is visible during daytime.
located on the same trail, reached on foot, 1
km. and 1.5 km. respectively off the main road SPECIAL EVENTS
at Km.67. There are also attractions on Highway
Sweet Tamarind Day
2216 (Lom Kao-Huai Sanam Sai); such as, Pha
Lom-Pha Kong which are 5 kms. from Km.40 January-February
and Tham Yai Nam Nao near Km.60. For more In front of the Phetchabun Provincial Hall
information, please contact the Department of
Sweet tamarind is strongly associated with
National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation
Phetchabun, as it is widely grown throughout
at Tel. +66 2561 0777, or visit portal.dnp.go.th.
the province and made into several products;
Khon Rak Pa Nong Mae Na Community such as, candies, drinks, and soaps. Phetchabun
Group organises Sweet Tamarind Day to celebrate
Awarded the outstanding performance for the harvest of this fruit and during the festival,
the Thailand Tourism Award in 2010, this farmers bring their sweet tamarinds to sell at
community provides a fun-filled ecotourism reasonable prices where best crop contests
activity by taking visitors on a rafting trip at are held. In addition, there is a variety of other
Kaeng Bang Rachan. The best time of visit is entertainment; such as, the beauty pageant,
and other cultural performance.

Phetchabun 41
Um Phra Dam Nam Ceremony the image is carried around town and then put
under a tent in Wat Trai Phum, so Buddhists can
September
pay respect by applying gold leaf to the statue.
Held on the 15th day of the waning moon in In the evening, people gather at the temple
the 10th lunar month, or Sat Thai Day, the day to pray, as well as to enjoy various kinds of
in which Thais make merit by offering Krayasat entertainment. The next morning, people make
(sticky paste made from rice, bean, sesame merit by offering food and other necessities
and sugar) to monks. The festival honours to the monk, as it is Sat Thai Day. The Buddha
Phra Phuttha Maha Thammaracha, a highly image is then taken to be immersed in
revered ancient Buddha image housing at Wat the Pasak River by the governor of Phetchabun
Trai Phum, which was found in the Pasak River and traditional dances are performed as a sign
by a group of farmers 400 years ago. The ritual of respect. After the ceremony, the water in
of taking the Buddha image to be immersed the river is regarded as sacred, so people swim
in the Pasak River depicts the legend that in it or take the water to drink, and the festival
the image twice wandered out of the temple concludes with the traditional long boat races.
and was later found in water. In the afternoon,

Traditional Dance Performance

42 Phetchabun
 Um Phra Dam Nam Ceremony

LOCAL PRODUCTS HOW TO GET THERE

Makham Wan or sweet tamarind is the most By Car
famous product of Phetchabun. Another
From Bangkok, take Highway No. 1 via Saraburi
popular product, especially in Amphoe Lom
to Phu Khae (Km. 125), and then turn right onto
Kao is Khanom Chin or rice vermicelli, a noodle-
Highway No. 21.
like dish made from rice flour and eaten with
a variety of soup; such as, Namya Pa or Nam By Bus
Phrik. Both air-conditioned and non air-conditioned
buses leave Bangkok Bus Terminal on
Kamphaeng Phet II Road to Phetchabun
on Bangkok-Phetchabun-Lom Sak route.
Contact +66 2936 2852-66, or call center 1490
for more information or visit home.transport.
co.th

Phetchabun 43
 Sukhothai Historical Park

Printed in Thailand by Promotional Material Production Division,

Marketing Services Department,
Tourism Authority of Thailand for free distribution.
www.tourismthailand.org E/MAR 2020
The contents of this publication are subject to change without notice.