Phitsanulok: A Must-Visit City...Plus the Nakhon Chum Ravine and Baan Rom Klao

Phitsanulok, a city you can't miss. If you miss it, you won't be able to talk to him.

"Phitsanulok: More Than Just a Gateway to the North"

Phitsanulok, also known as the "City of Two Rivers", is a province in northern Thailand. While many associate it with popular tourist destinations like Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park and whitewater rafting on the Khek River, Phitsanulok often gets overlooked as a destination in its own right. Often seen as a mere "transit point" or "stopover" on the way to other northern provinces, its location in the lower north makes it a gateway to other destinations.

However, Phitsanulok has much more to offer than meets the eye. This article will delve into the hidden gems and unique experiences that await those who choose to explore beyond the usual tourist attractions. From lesser-known historical sites to vibrant local culture, Phitsanulok promises a journey filled with discovery and wonder.

Hello. . . Phitsanulok, the city of two rivers. ^.^

Kick off your lunch in the charming city of Phitsanulok with a legendary bowl of noodles at "Juk Kai Thai Noodle Shop." This renowned eatery boasts a signature dish that's simply irresistible: the "Dry Chicken Noodle." The secret lies in the unique, house-made noodles, unlike anything you'll find elsewhere. With over three decades of experience, the restaurant has perfected the art of crafting springy, tender noodles that pair perfectly with succulent Thai chicken. The rich, flavorful chicken broth adds the finishing touch to this culinary masterpiece. Don't miss out on this must-try dish!

• Juk Kai Thai Noodle Shop is conveniently located on Phutthabucha Road, just past the Night Plaza, along the Nan River.

After our stomachs were full, we continued our journey to the "Monument of King Sri Indraditya" or "Father Khun Bang Klang Hao", the first king of Sukhothai, located at Nong Pu Ta, in Nakhon Thai District, Phitsanulok Province (95 kilometers from Phitsanulok city).

Not far from there, we traveled to "Wat Klang Si Phuttharam" or "Wat Klang", an ancient temple in the city of Nakhon Thai, or Nakhon Bang Yang in the past, which was ruled by King Bang Klang Thao (King Sri Indratit). In the temple area, there is a monument to King Bang Klang Thao, and behind the monument, there is a white champaca tree that is about 700 years old. The villagers believe that this is the champaca tree that King Bang Klang Thao planted.

Monument of King Ramkhamhaeng the Great

The sentence is already in English and does not require translation.

The centuries-old ordination hall at Wat Klang

Inside the ordination hall: Sukhothai-style bronze Buddha statue, Lopburi-style stone reclining Buddha statue in meditation posture

The murals on the walls of the ordination hall depict scenes from the life of the Buddha and his previous lives.

The murals depict a contemporary interpretation of the "Buddha's Victory over Mara" episode, featuring giants and monkeys clad in camouflage attire. The giants wear masks resembling the "Phi Ta Khon" ghosts and carry guns, headphones, and mobile phones. The temple is open to the public throughout the day, from morning to evening.

The aforementioned painting is the work of Mr. Surapong Koamuangmu, a skilled artisan from Loei Province. Created in 2003, the painting depicts the Jataka tales of the Buddha in vibrant colors and intricate Thai patterns.

Having marveled at the unique beauty of the murals at Wat Klang, it was time to embark on a journey to **"Nakhorn Chum Subdistrict"**, a small community nestled amidst the mountains, another captivating destination in Nakhon Thai District. . .

"Nakhon Chum Khao Viewpoint" is a must-visit viewpoint along the way. It offers stunning panoramic views of rolling green hills stretching into the distance. In the foreground, the towering limestone karst formation known as "Khao Pok Lone" dominates the landscape. Below, a patchwork of small villages nestled amidst a mosaic of trees and fields unfolds, with vibrant hues of green and yellow changing with the seasons.

The location offers stunning views of the sea of mist in the morning, from 5:30 AM to 8:00 AM, providing ample time to witness this breathtaking phenomenon.

After soaking in the breathtaking views and capturing stunning photos from the scenic viewpoint, it was time to embark on a journey to the **"Nakhon Chum Homestay."**

"Nakhon Chum": A Hidden Gem in the Mountains

Nestled within the mountainous embrace of Nakhon Thai district, Phitsanulok province, lies the quaint village of "Nakhon Chum". Here, amidst the serene landscape, the majority of residents engage in traditional agricultural practices, tending to their rice fields and gardens. Many homes are adorned with nearby rice paddies, while others stand nestled against the majestic mountains, forming a natural barrier that adds to the village's charm. This unique setting creates an aura of tranquility and invites exploration, beckoning travelers to immerse themselves in the authentic local life.

To cater to this growing interest, several villagers have transformed portions of their homes into cozy homestays, offering visitors a chance to experience the genuine rhythm of rural life. These homestays provide a platform for cultural exchange, allowing guests to connect with the locals and gain a deeper understanding of their traditions and way of life.

The house where we stayed in Nakhon Chum was the home of "Grandma Tob". The house is a two-story building. The lower floor is divided into two guest rooms for tourists. The center is like a living room with a TV, table, and chairs for relaxing. Next to the house is a rice field that has been harvested. From the house, you can see the mountains not far away. Importantly, Grandma's house also has a water heater. (I didn't take a picture of the house.)

After settling our belongings at the house, we spent the evening strolling along the small streets of the village, soaking in the atmosphere while waiting for dinner, which would be served in about two hours. Some groups opted to cycle around the village, where bicycles were available for rent at an affordable price of around 30 baht. Some houses might even have bicycles available for use. As we walked along the village roads, we started looking for small shops or convenience stores that would sell everything we needed in the village, including snacks and provisions. Along the way, the people here were friendly, smiling, and greeting us throughout the journey. Some villagers inquired about our destination, asking if we were looking for a shop. They then provided directions and smiled at us. Some had just finished work, while others had just completed their tasks in the fields. They walked, rode motorcycles, or drove small pickup trucks, greeting each other along the way like acquaintances. It was a heartwarming sight.

And this is the atmosphere around the village where we stayed (a few photos taken)

The weather here is pleasantly cool all year round. . . There are small mountains surrounding the village.

Our school is a pleasant place to be, and all the teachers are kind..

It's dark now.

Dinnertime finally arrived. As a large group, we gathered food from each house and brought it to the largest house for a delicious dinner together. The cool evening air added to the ambiance. The must-try local dishes were **"wild egg omelet and stir-fried field crab with curry powder."** The combination of field crab and curry powder was a perfect match, and it was incredibly delicious! We were so hungry that we didn't even take any pictures of the dinner. . . !!

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At 4:00 AM the next morning, we woke up early (very early) because we had an appointment to conquer "Mount Pok Lone," located on the side of the village. We arranged for a village pickup truck to pick us up at around 5:00 AM from each house. The morning air was cool and almost cold. We took a short ride from the village to the starting point of our hike. We prepared our flashlights and began our trek, accompanied by a guide who led the way.

The walking distance from the starting point is considered easy and comfortable, covering approximately 1-2 kilometers. The trail is not too challenging, with some steep sections but still manageable for a leisurely walk. The walk takes about 30-40 minutes to reach the viewpoint where you can enjoy the sea of mist.

Every year, on April 13th, a ceremony is held on the summit of Mount Pok Khlong to commemorate the heroic deeds of King Bang Klang Thao. This tradition involves the planting of a ceremonial flag.

We have arrived! . . . "Sea of fog" Wow!!

As we sat taking photos, a soft orange light began to shine over the ridge in front of us. The sun was about to rise. The fog we had seen began to dissipate in the gentle breeze. We encourage you to come and experience it for yourself.

As the sky begins to clear . .

I never thought that "Nakhon Chum" would have a place like this. If I hadn't been here, I wouldn't have known. And I must say that this place is worth coming back to again. Because if anyone gets to experience this place, they will definitely be impressed and will definitely want to come back again for sure. . .

A simple breakfast of sticky rice with fried pork, accompanied by an extraordinary view.

And these trusty shoes, who would have thought they would bring me here. . .^^

For travel information, please contact the Nakhon Chum Subdistrict Administrative Organization at 055 009 808 or Mr. Tum at 095 815 3968. To book a homestay in Nakhon Chum, please contact the Nakhon Chum Subdistrict Administrative Organization at 055 009 808. The price for a homestay is 450 baht, which includes two meals: dinner and breakfast.

Transportation

Private vehicle recommended for convenience.

• Car: Follow the Phitsanulok - Nakhon Thai route. Drive to Nakhon Chum Subdistrict, approximately 28 kilometers from Nakhon Thai District and 100 kilometers from Phitsanulok City.
• Public transportation: Take a bus from Bangkok to Phitsanulok and disembark at Phitsanulok Bus Terminal. Transfer to a bus bound for Nakhon Thai District. From there, hail a local ride, hire a private car, or contact the Nakhon Chum Subdistrict Administrative Organization to arrange transportation.

After soaking in the breathtaking atmosphere, we embarked on our return journey to the village, packing our belongings in preparation for our next destination in Phitsanulok. . .

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Mission accomplished. We took a car from Nakhon Thai, winding our way along the road to the "Ban Rom Klao Botanical Garden in Phitsanulok Province." The route was quite winding, as it was a combination of uphill and flat sections. Along the way, we passed villages and forests, with occasional stretches of phone signal and stretches where it was lost. Finally, we arrived, along with the disappearance of our mobile signal.

The journey from Nakhon Chum to Ban Rom Klao Botanical Garden in Phitsanulok province took approximately two and a half hours.

The Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden in Phitsanulok Province

The Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden in Phitsanulok Province, located in Bo Phak Subdistrict, Chat Trakan District, was established on March 5, 1999, following the initiative of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. The garden aims to serve as a natural tourist attraction for Phitsanulok Province.

The Royal Botanical Garden at Ban Rom Klao is a natural tourist attraction with a diverse collection of plant species. It serves as a repository for various plant varieties, including endemic, rare, and endangered species. The garden also features a greenhouse dedicated to Thai orchids, showcasing over 300 rare species. Notably, the garden is home to the newly discovered "Siamese Garland" (Sarcochilus siamensis), a member of the orchid family endemic to Thailand. Additionally, the garden houses rare plants found only on high mountains with cold climates, distributed in the provinces of Phitsanulok and Phetchabun.

Guided tours are available, with staff leading visitors through the garden and providing information about the various plant species found there. Additionally, there is a greenhouse dedicated to showcasing orchids.

Siam Garland Pavilion

This newly discovered plant species blooms year-round, with peak flowering occurring from October onwards.

Tonight, we will change the atmosphere for sleeping by "camping in tents". The campsite in this area can accommodate approximately 200 tourists. Not far from the campsite, there are rooms for showering with cold water. There is also a faint phone signal near the bathroom area.

With luggage packed and ready, we set off to capture the breathtaking sunset at the **"Lone Pine Viewpoint."**

A Breathtaking Vista: Khao Kho's Lone Pine Viewpoint

The Lone Pine Viewpoint offers a breathtaking 360-degree panorama, allowing visitors to witness the sun's majestic ascent and descent. As night falls, the sky transforms into a celestial tapestry, adorned with twinkling stars vying for attention. On fortunate evenings, the Milky Way might even grace the heavens, aligning perfectly with the viewpoint's motto: "Embrace the mist, cuddle the cold, and gaze at the stars on the mountain."

This annual event, held from November to February, invites tourists to experience the region's refreshing chill. The Lone Pine Viewpoint stands as a testament to the beauty and wonder of nature, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the cosmos and revel in the tranquility of the mountains.

This viewpoint offers panoramic views of two countries and three provinces, encompassing the border area between Thailand and Laos. It also provides a glimpse of the peak of Phu Soi Dao mountain, which connects three provinces: Phitsanulok, Uttaradit, and Loei.

The "Lonely Khao" Viewpoint: A Solitary Sentinel of Time

The "Lonely Khao" viewpoint derives its name from the centuries-old Khao tree that stands alone, a solitary sentinel amidst the surrounding landscape. This endangered species, facing the threat of extinction, stands as a poignant reminder of the importance of conservation. Its singular presence, isolated and vulnerable, evokes a sense of both resilience and fragility.

The "Lonely Khao" serves as a powerful symbol, urging us to consider the delicate balance between human activity and the preservation of our natural heritage. It invites us to reflect on the consequences of our actions and the responsibility we hold towards protecting the irreplaceable treasures of our planet.

"Lonely Peak" is a scenic viewpoint that serves as the highlight of the Ban Rom Klao Botanical Garden in Phitsanulok, Thailand, established under the royal initiative. It offers breathtaking views of both sunrise and sunset, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere and panoramic vistas. The view encompasses a series of rolling hills stretching into the distance, bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun as it gradually disappears behind the mountain peaks.

The sky began to change color once again. . .

Come "Lonely Khao" but not lonely, there are also

As the sun sets, the air grows increasingly cooler. Many people are taking showers, while others are preparing to enjoy the dinner provided by the staff. The governor of Phitsanulok is expected to officially open the winter festival this evening.

The crisp morning air was frigid, and the wind added a chill that felt like a prelude to the light drizzle that accompanied the early dawn. We quickly prepared ourselves to board the "e-taek" or "e-taen" to witness the sunrise from the breathtaking viewpoint.

And then this morning we didn't see the sunrise and the sea of fog at all.

Instead, I can only share the morning atmosphere with you.

After capturing the breathtaking sunrise, we descended for a delightful breakfast. The tantalizing aroma of the local favorites, "Khai Pama" and "Khao Jee," filled the air. These must-try dishes are an absolute delight for any visitor. Don't miss out on this culinary experience!

We then continued our adventure by riding an "e-tan" to admire the colorful flora on the high mountains, witness the historical traces of the Ban Rom Klao battlefield, and enjoy the surrounding atmosphere along the way. . .

Although the journey was not very long, the scenery along the way was quite beautiful. Riding in an e-tan like this is good because it allows us to slowly absorb and experience the fresh air and pleasant atmosphere, which is better than sitting in an air-conditioned car.

The view along the way is like this.

DIY activity using dried flowers to make greeting cards for the upcoming New Year. . .

Following the event, the governor delivered closing remarks and posed for a commemorative photograph.

If you are interested in staying at the Botanical Garden, please contact us.

Ban Rom Klao Botanical Garden, Phitsanulok

Contact: 055 316 715, 081 287 4994

Accommodation:

• Bungalows: 200 THB/person/night
• Camping:
  • Small tent: 200 THB/tent/night
  • Large tent: 350 THB/tent/night

• Bedding set costs 100 baht (pillow, blanket, sleeping mat)
• If you bring your own tent, there is a 100 baht tent pitching fee.*

• Tourists who wish to ride the "E-tan" must inform the staff in advance. The cost is 300 baht per vehicle.

. . We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Northern Region, and the TAT Phitsanulok Office. . .