The Kam-Fa tradition of the Thai Phuan in Ban Pa Daeng, Taphan Hin District, offers a vivid glimpse of local customs. It takes place on the third day of the third lunar month, so the date changes from year to year. The rituals include merit-making and Bai Si ceremonies, as well as the ceremonial roasting of sticky rice. For those who want to get to know Phichit through its culture, this is a special place to start: tradition and community celebration go hand in hand.
Temples, the Old City and Cultural Heritage
Wat Mahathat stands in the old city of Phichit. It is a registered ancient brick structure with a Ceylon-style stupa. Pichit Old City Park preserves the site of the old city, with city walls, moats and old pagodas; the park also includes the Kanchanakuman Arboretum. The Phichit City Pillar Shrine and a statue of Phraya Khotabong, known locally as Pho Pu, are also located there.
Another historical landmark is Wat Pho Prathap Chang. The temple was built during the reign of Somdet Phra Suriyentharathipbodi, also known as Phra Phutthachao Suea, to commemorate his birthplace. Its architectural features include double-layered enclosing walls in the Ayutthaya style. The route described follows Highway 1068 and then Highway 1300; from there, the access road continues for about four kilometres to the temple.
Wat Tha Luang is home to Luangpho Phet, an elaborate Buddha image associated with Phichit Province. Phra Phuttha Ket Mongkhon, also known as Luangpho To of Wat Taphan Hin, is regarded as the province’s largest Buddha image. The Luangpho Phet worship ceremony and Phichit celebration in January feature a worship ceremony, folk cultural performances and a procession of illuminated boats. Check the current festival dates before planning your trip.
Museums also offer different ways to explore Phichit’s history and way of life. The Phichit Museum covers the lifestyle, traditional knowledge, ethnic groups, religion, beliefs, culture and customs of the local population. The Nakhon Chai Bowon Museum is shaped like a two-storey mondop. On the upper floor is a life-size statue of Luangpho Ngoen, a highly revered monk who lived at this temple; the ground floor displays Buddha images and earthenware.
Lotus, Lakes and Forest Landscapes
South of Bueng Si Fai, Lotus Park is a visitor and learning centre for various lotus species. A bridge extends into the lake, allowing visitors to view red lotus flowers up close. At Bueng Si Fai, Princess Srinagarindra Garden offers a different experience: this recreational park covers 170 rai. Visitors often come here to feed the fish and watch the sunset.
The Saranchit Mongkol Suk cycling arena is also located at Bueng Si Fai and is considered a sports and recreation facility for tourism. For those who prefer to walk, a nature trail through the community forest starts in Ban Khao Lon, Thap Khlo District. Nakhon Chai Bowon Forest Park is regarded as the last remaining forest area in Phichit. Large dipterocarp trees grow close together there, and numerous birds stay in the forest during winter.
Markets, Produce and Handicrafts
DongKlang Riverside is a nostalgic community market where visitors can buy local produce and food. Offerings include grilled fish, chilli paste with boiled vegetables, traditional sweets and herbal drinks. In Pho Prathap Chang District, the Sweet Pomelo and Best Products Fair runs annually from March to April, offering selected products for sale from each subdistrict. Check that year’s programme if you plan to visit the fair.
Wang Thap Sai Agricultural Garden grows various varieties of mango and Marian plum, including Nam Dok Mai Si Thong, Phet Ban Lat, Fa Lan and Chok Anan, as well as sweet Marian plums and the Khai Kai variety. Visitors can tour the garden and buy its produce; check seasonal availability before your visit. Handwoven cotton-silk fabrics from Ban Pa Daeng are sold in Nong Phayom, Taphan Hin District. If you are looking for them specifically, ask locally about current availability.
Plan Your Trip Around Your Interests
Phichit offers a range of themes to guide your trip planning: historic temples and the old city, nature experiences by the water, a forest trail, or local markets and produce. When choosing accommodation, you could start by thinking about which of these experiences matters most to you. Your interests can help guide your search, without requiring you to follow a set route.
Songthaews run from the bus station to various destinations in Phichit town. They can be hired for trips within the town or to other districts; ask locally about current availability. This can help you plan the rest of your trip around the places you want to visit. For seasonal offerings and festivals, it is also advisable to check dates and availability before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Amphoe Sak Lek, Mueang Phichit District, Dong Pa Kham, Wang Wa, Thanong, Ratchaburi, Amnat Charoen, Phitsanulok.
See the main travel overview: Thailand.
