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Phitsanulok used to be the capital city of Thailand (1463 – 1487 A.D.),
the city was built more that 640 years ago, at nearly the same age as
ancient cities Sukhothai and Chiang Mai. In fact, it was believed to be
even older than that with evidence found from the Stone Age.
From a tourism point of view, there are many interesting tourist attractions. Phitsanulok possesses both cultural and natural attraction as well as historical parks. First, to make it a real arrival in this province, one should visit ‘King Narasuan the Great’s Shrine’, located in
Phitsanulok Pittayakom School. Inside the shrine, there is a cast of king Narasuan pouring holy water to declare independence for Thais. In the past, this area was his palace and his place of birth. Moreover, you can also visit and pay respect to the city pillar nearby. On the east bank of the River Nan, near Naresuan Bridge, there is the famous Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat or Wat Yai called by locals. Here, there is one of the most beautiful Buddha images in the world, Phra Buddha Chinnarat. There are also many other noteworthy items in this monastery compound such as the mother-of-pearl inlaid wooden doors of the Vihara (Assembly hall) and the huge Prang (Pagoda) at 36 meters high built in Kmer style during the Ayudhaya period. In addition, other recommended temples are Wat Ratchabhurana, Wat Nang Phaya, Wat Chan, for example. Phitsanulok is also famous for a number of marvellous waterfalls and national parks. But if you do not have much time for this trip to the outskirts, why don’t you try to walk along the Nan River? The floating house is another symbol of this province where people stay on houseboats by the river side. If you have a chance to go there, don’t miss trying khao niew mamuang (sweet sticky rice served with mango and coconut cream - Yummy!) behind Wat Pra Sri Rattana Mahathat.
Visit www.thailand.sawadee.com/phitsanulok/ for more information.
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