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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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