Things To Do
in Phetchabun
Phetchabun sits in the rolling highlands of northern Thailand, celebrated for its pine forests, cool climate, and gateway to pristine waterfalls and national parks. The province blends traditional hill-country charm with market-filled towns, temples, and farm-to-table experiences that invite relaxed exploration. From Nam Nao and Thung Salaeng Luang to the hill town of Khao Kho, dramatic mountain scenery and friendly locals reward travelers who take the time to slow down.
This guide offers practical tips, nature escapes, and cultural highlights to help you make the most of a visit.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Phetchabun and check into your accommodations. Once settled, enjoy a traditional Thai breakfast, sampling local dishes like jok (rice porridge) and crispy fried dough sticks. Take a leisurely stroll through the nearby market to absorb the local culture and atmosphere.
After lunch, visit the stunning Wat Pha Sorn Kaew, a temple known for its striking mosaic design and panoramic views of the mountains. Spend your afternoon exploring the serene surroundings and taking photographs of the intricate architecture. Don’t forget to spot the majestic Buddha statue placed at the temple.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant and indulge in authentic Thai cuisine, experimenting with flavors and dishes you've never tried before. After dinner, visit a nearby night bazaar to shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs. Wrap up the evening with a relaxing walk along the riverside, enjoying the tranquil sounds of nature.
Set out early to Phu Tub Berk, known for its cool climate and breathtaking views. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at one of the hillsides restaurants while enjoying panoramic vistas of clouds floating below. Spend time hiking around the area, exploring the beautiful landscapes dotted with farms and wildflowers.
After a morning of hiking, take a leisurely drive around the area, stopping to visit local farmers who sell fresh produce and local snacks. Consider trying the famous strawberry from the hill stations as well as other fresh mountain fruits. You can also visit a hill tribe village to learn about their unique way of life.
Return to Phetchabun in time for a traditional dinner at a local eatery. Enjoy a dish of tom yum or a spicy papaya salad while discussing the day's adventures. End your day with a nightcap at a cozy café, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🧋Coffee or tea at cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚕Short taxi or songthaew ride (within town) | $2-6 |
| 🧭Market snack or drink | $1-3 |
| 🎟️National park entrance or attractions | $3-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Cool climate and scenic mountains
- Wide natural parks (Nam Nao, Thung Salaeng Luang)
- Warm, friendly local culture and markets
- Relaxed pace and affordable travel
- Limited nightlife and fewer international dining options
- Rural roads can be winding and slow
- Less English spoken in remote areas
- Seasonal travel may be affected by rains or fog
- "สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ" - Hello (polite; male/female)
- "ขอบคุณ" - Thank you
- "ขอโทษ" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน" - Where is the bathroom?
- "ราคานี้เท่าไหร่" - How much is this?
- "ช่วยแนะนำร้านอาหารท้องถิ่นที่ดีหน่อย" - Can you recommend a good local restaurant?
Places to Visit in Phetchabun
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic temple perched on a hillside near Khao Kho, with panoramic views and colorful mosaic walls that make dramatic photography backdrops.
Open savanna and pine forest panoramas; best captured at dawn or golden hour when light is soft.
Rows of wind turbines set against rolling hills; striking silhouettes especially at sunrise or sunset.
Calm riverfront scenes with surrounding mountains; ideal for sunset reflections and local life shots.
Food in Phetchabun
Phetchabun Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tomato-based chili dip with minced pork, served with fresh vegetables and pounded sticky rice; a staple at markets and local eateries.
Must-Try!
Burmese-influenced pork curry seasoned with ginger, garlic, and spices; best found at northern-style restaurants in and around Khao Kho.
Fragrant rice cooked with seasoned meat and spices; commonly available in hill-country eateries and busier markets.
Hot and sour shrimp soup with lemongrass, kaffir lime, and chilies; widely available across Thai restaurants in the area.
Ripe mango with coconut-scented sticky rice; a popular dessert at markets and restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market near the town center offering fresh fruit, herbs, snacks, and local specialties.
Hill-country stalls selling homemade jams, tea, grilled meats, and simple meals with mountain views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a wai; avoid pointing feet at people or religious objects; dress modestly when visiting temples; speak politely in Thai.
Safety
Tipping in Phetchabun
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; in tourist hotspots, rounding up the bill or leaving 10% for good service is common. Cash is widely accepted, and many places also take card payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days in the plains but pleasantly cool in the hills; carry sun protection, stay hydrated, and plan hikes for early morning or late afternoon.
Frequent showers in the afternoons; lush greenery and dramatic skies; check road conditions and pack a light rain jacket.
Cool to cold mornings, especially in the hills; bring a warm layer for sunrise treks and enjoy clear air for photography.
Phetchabun at Night
Hiking in Phetchabun
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and pine groves with wildlife viewing and scenic overlooks; suitable for day hikes.
Ridge walks with panoramic views, forested slopes, and nearby tea plantations; great for sunrise shoots.
Wetland and forest circuits; birdwatching opportunities and open landscapes.
Highland trails with pine forests, viewpoints, and unique geological features worth a day trip.
Airports
How to reach Phetchabun by plane.
Domestic flights; approx. 2-3 hours by road from Phetchabun; major gateway for the region.
Smaller regional airport with access to northern provinces; road connections available.
Bangkok-based airport; numerous domestic and international flights; easiest for connections from Bangkok.
Main international hub; ideal for long-haul connections before domestic travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Thai with nearby hill-tribe communities; known for hospitality and a relaxed pace of life.
Domestic travelers and expats seeking a cooler climate and nature-based escapes.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely practiced and accessible; many gyms in towns and tourist areas offer training experiences.
Hilly terrain around Khao Kho and Nam Nao offers rewarding routes for cyclists.
Extensive trails in Nam Nao and Thung Salaeng Luang National Parks attract day hikers and nature lovers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Phetchabun.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in markets and most restaurants; ask for 'jay' dishes and avoid fish sauce.