Things To Do
in Phichit
Phichit is a tranquil province in central Thailand known for its riverine landscapes, agricultural charm, and a slower pace of life. The city blends traditional markets, historic temples, and friendly local hospitality, making it ideal for cultural immersion. Visitors can explore rural villages, water-front promenades, and nearby nature spots that showcase Thailand’s heartland.
With affordable guesthouses and easy day trips, Phichit offers a relaxed introduction to northern and central Thai culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Phichit Historical Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the region's rich history and cultural heritage. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the ancient temples, such as Wat Tha Luang, marveling at their intricate architecture and serene surroundings. The morning sun casts a warm glow, making it a perfect time to appreciate the beauty of these sacred sites.
For lunch, enjoy a traditional Thai meal at a local eatery, sampling dishes like Pad Thai or Som Tum. Afterward, visit the nearby Phichit River to take a boat tour, where you can observe local wildlife and the scenic beauty of the riverbanks. As the afternoon progresses, make your way to the Phichit Market, where you can shop for handicrafts and taste local snacks.
As dusk approaches, find a cozy spot along the river for a quiet dinner, savoring the flavors of authentic Thai cuisine. The ambiance is enhanced by the soft sounds of the river flowing and the occasional call of local birds. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the riverfront, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere under a canopy of stars.
Begin your morning by exploring the vibrant Phichit Morning Market, where you can interact with local vendors and sample fresh fruits and traditional breakfast dishes. The market is teeming with life, and the colorful stalls offer a feast for the senses, from aromatic spices to vibrant textiles. Take your time to soak in the local culture and perhaps pick up a few souvenirs.
After the market, head to the nearby Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, a temple famous for its magnificent Buddha statue, where you can spend some time meditating and reflecting. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café, trying out local specialties like Khao Soi, a delicious noodle soup. In the afternoon, take part in a local cooking class, where you will learn to prepare traditional Thai dishes, guided by a skilled local chef.
As the sun sets, attend a cultural performance at a local theater, showcasing traditional Thai dance and music. This experience offers a deeper understanding of the local customs and artistic expressions. After the show, unwind at a nearby café to discuss your day's experiences over a cup of Thai iced tea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🧋Coffee or tea | $1.5-3 |
| 🚌Local transport (one-way) | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse (per night) | $15-30 |
| 🧃Bottle of water | $0.5-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordability and value for money
- Calm pace and friendly locals
- Accessible day trips to nature and nearby towns
- Rich riverine scenery and markets
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Smaller range of international dining options
- Some attractions may require a car or local transport to reach
- "Sawasdee kha" - Hello (polite, female speaker)
- "Khob khun kha" - Thank you
- "Nee tao-rai kha?" - How much is this?
- "Ao ar roi kha" - I would like to order
- "Chuai duay kha" - Help, please
Places to Visit in Phichit
Visit one of these nice places.
Promenade along the river offers golden-hour reflections and street life snapshots with boats and local activity.
Wide lake views, especially at sunrise or sunset, with silhouettes of trees and local birds in flight.
Serene temple grounds and red-brick stupa silhouettes provide quiet composition opportunities.
Early-morning market scenes with vendors, fresh produce, and colorful textiles for vibrant street photography.
Food in Phichit
Phichit Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Stir-fried meat with Thai basil, chilies, and garlic, typically served over jasmine rice with a fried egg. Commonly found in street stalls and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
A hot and sour shrimp soup featuring lemongrass, lime leaves, and chili; a staple at markets and many restaurants.
Green papaya salad with lime, chili, fish sauce, and palm sugar; refreshing and widely available at markets and casual eateries.
Grilled pork skewers often sold by street vendors, great as a quick snack or part of a larger street-food meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling daytime market with fresh produce, noodles, grilled items, and everyday Thai staples. Great for sampling snacks and observing local life.
Evening stalls along a main thoroughfare where you can try quick bites, roti, skewers, fruit, and sweet desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite wai (hands pressed together) with a slight bow is customary when meeting people. Use 'khap/ka' to show politeness depending on gender.
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering temple buildings, and avoid pointing your feet at images or monks.
Show deference to elders in conversation and behavior; speak calmly and politely.
Safety
Tipping in Phichit
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Leave small tips for good service in restaurants, cafes, and with tour guides if you were satisfied.
Cash is widely used in markets and small eateries. Credit/debit cards are accepted in larger restaurants and hotels; mobile payments are increasingly common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry in most areas; carry water, wear sunscreen, and seek shade. Afternoon thunderstorms can occur; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
June–October brings frequent showers and high humidity. Lightweight rain gear and quick-drying clothing are useful; rivers may rise during peak rains.
Cooler and more comfortable daytime temperatures; evenings can be chilly. A light jacket is often sufficient for outdoor sightseeing.
Phichit at Night
Hiking in Phichit
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle nature walk along the river with opportunities to observe birds and local flora, suitable for casual hikers.
Flat loops around Bueng Si Fai Lake offering scenic views, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Airports
How to reach Phichit by plane.
Approximately a couple of hours by road; regional flights connect to Bangkok and other domestic destinations.
A feasible option for travelers heading to central/northern Thailand; connections to Bangkok and some regional cities.
Major international and domestic hub; typically a longer drive from Phichit but offers the best flight options from overseas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Thai-speaking residents with agricultural-based livelihoods and a mix of urban and rural lifestyles.
Smaller communities of students from local schools and universities, alongside retirees enjoying a slower pace of life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Thai boxing practiced and observed in local gyms and events, reflecting regional sporting culture.
Commonly played in schools, local fields, and informal matches around town.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Phichit.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Thai dishes can be made vegetarian by requesting no meat or fish sauce; ask for tofu options or vegetable-only preparations. Look for basil, garlic, chilies, and lime as flavor highlights in dishes labeled with vegetables.