Things To Do
in Phetchabun
Phetchabun is a province located in the northern part of Thailand, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The province is home to Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park, a protected area with picturesque mountains, waterfalls, and forests. Visitors can also explore historical sites such as Wat Pha Sorn Kaew, a unique Buddhist temple with colorful mosaic decorations.
Local cuisine in Phetchabun features fresh fruits, vegetables, and regional specialties like khao kha moo (stewed pork leg with rice).
- "Sawasdee" - Hello
- "Khop khun" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Phu Tab Berk for stunning views and fresh air. Grab breakfast at a local café and enjoy the scenery.
Visit the historical Wat Pha Sorn Kaew temple, adorned with colorful mosaic tiles. Explore the surrounding gardens before heading to a nearby restaurant for lunch.
Take a stroll through the local night market for dinner, sampling traditional Thai street food. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and shop for unique souvenirs.
Hike the scenic trails of Khao Kho National Park, immersing yourself in nature. Capture breathtaking views and enjoy a picnic breakfast.
Visit the Vietnam War Memorial for a glimpse into history and stunning landscapes. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café with local specialties.
Relax at a cozy resort, enjoying the serene environment and mountain views. Have a casual dinner at the resort’s restaurant.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural landscapes with mountains and waterfalls.
- Rich cultural heritage and local festivals.
- Less crowded tourist destination compared to other areas in Thailand.
- Affordable accommodations and local cuisine.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities like trekking and visiting national parks.
- Limited public transportation options affecting accessibility.
- Fewer high-end tourist amenities and international restaurants.
- Inconsistent internet connectivity in rural areas.
- Some areas may have language barriers for non-Thai speakers.
- Hot and humid weather can be uncomfortable for visitors.
Best Activities in Phetchabun
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking, camping, and enjoying the panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and misty valleys.
Trekking, bird watching, and visiting the scenic waterfalls and caves within the park.
Exploring the temple complex, which offers picturesque views and beautiful architectural designs.
Tours
Uncover the best of Phetchabun with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Phetchabun
Visit one of these nice places.
Phu Thap Berk offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts looking for beautiful landscapes.
Wat Pha Sorn Kaew, also known as the Temple on the Glass Cliff, provides spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and features intricate architectural details that make for great photo opportunities.
Khao Kho is renowned for its scenic vistas and picturesque landscapes, offering ample photo opportunities with its rolling hills, misty valleys, and lush greenery.
Food in Phetchabun
Phetchabun Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful seafood fried rice dish seasoned with Thai spices and herbs, offering a mix of textures and tastes. Best enjoyed at local seafood restaurants such as Krua Chao Baan Phetchabun.
Must-Try!
A spicy green papaya salad featuring the distinct flavors of Phu Kha, a mountainous region in Phetchabun. Visitors can savor this dish at street food stalls and local eateries like Tam Sung Shop.
This piquant catfish jungle curry bursts with complex flavors and is commonly found in restaurants like Rim Phu Nam. The dish perfectly showcases the blend of local herbs and spices.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Phetchabun better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open from evening till late, this vibrant market is a treasure trove of street food delights. Visitors can relish local favorites like grilled skewers, noodles, and fresh fruit shakes, all within a lively atmosphere.
A must-visit for breakfast treats and snacks, this market offers an array of local dishes like jok (rice porridge), fried dough sticks, and steamed dumplings, providing a immersive culinary experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Phetchabun, it is important to show respect for the Thai monarchy. Avoid speaking negatively about the royal family and be mindful of cultural sensitivities related to the monarchy.
The traditional Thai greeting, known as the Wai, involves placing your palms together in a prayer-like gesture and slightly bowing your head. It is a sign of respect and should be used when greeting elders or those in positions of authority.
When visiting temples in Phetchabun, it is important to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering temple buildings. Show respect for religious customs and avoid pointing your feet at Buddha statues or monks.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Phetchabun with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Phetchabun
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Phetchabun, Thailand. It is generally not expected in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Phetchabun, Thailand. While major credit cards may be accepted at some hotels and larger establishments, it is advisable to carry cash for most transactions, especially in rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Phetchabun.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Phetchabun experiences cool and pleasant weather during this season, making it the best time to visit. The temperature ranges from 15-25°C, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and festivals.
During this season, Phetchabun becomes hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C. It's recommended to stay hydrated and seek shade when exploring the area.
This season brings frequent rainfall and a lush green landscape. While outdoor activities may be limited, it's a great time to witness the natural beauty of the region and experience local life.
Phetchabun at Night
Hiking in Phetchabun
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park featuring stunning mountain scenery, diverse flora and fauna, and numerous hiking trails suitable for various skill levels.
Known for its cool climate and scenic views, Khao Kho offers several hiking trails that take you through lush forests and past breathtaking viewpoints.
Famous for its panoramic views and rolling hills, Phu Tub Berk features trails that allow hikers to explore its agricultural landscapes and enjoy the cool breeze.
While primarily a temple, the area surrounding Wat Phra That Pha Son Kaew has trails that lead to viewpoints offering spectacular vistas of the surrounding valleys.
This park boasts beautiful rock formations, caves, and various trails for hikers looking for a mix of adventure and nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Phetchabun through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Phetchabun by plane.
Located in Bangkok, approximately 380 km from Phetchabun, DMK is one of the two major airports serving the city, focusing on low-cost airlines.
Also located in Bangkok, about 400 km from Phetchabun, BKK is the main international airport in Thailand and serves as a significant hub for international travel.
Located in Chiang Mai, approximately 380 km from Phetchabun, CNX serves as a gateway to Northern Thailand and offers both domestic and international flights.
Located in Phitsanulok, about 200 km from Phetchabun, PHS offers flights connecting to Bangkok and other domestic destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Phetchabun, representing a significant portion of the population.
A minority group in the region, often sharing cultural and linguistic ties with the Thai Lao population.
An ethnic minority group known for their distinct language and cultural practices.
A smaller demographic group that may be found in certain areas of Phetchabun, related to Cambodia.
An ethnic group with a unique cultural heritage, often living in more mountainous areas.
The Soul of Phetchabun
Discover the essence of Phetchabun through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional form of martial arts from Thailand, popular for its striking techniques and cultural significance.
One of the most popular sports in Thailand, played widely at both amateur and professional levels.
A popular team sport in Phetchabun, often played in schools and communities.
Gaining popularity among youth and often played in urban areas and schools.
A widely played racket sport in Thailand, known for its fast-paced action and popularity in local competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Phetchabun.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Thai cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, many local eateries in Phetchabun offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes such as Pad Pak Ruam (mixed vegetable stir-fry), Som Tam Thai (green papaya salad with tofu), and Tom Yum Hed (spicy mushroom soup). It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly when ordering.
Due to the common use of soy sauce and other wheat-based ingredients in Thai cuisine, individuals seeking gluten-free options in Phetchabun may find it helpful to opt for rice-based dishes like Khao Pad (fried rice), Pad Thai (stir-fried rice noodles), and traditional curries without thickening agents.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Phetchabun with these cultural adventures.
