Si Satchanalai
On the west bank of the Yom river 56 km to the north of Sukhotai, Si Satchanalai was a contemporary satellite city of Sukhothai and today is similarly preserved as historical park (open daily 08:30-16:30). Compact and attractively sited, the ruins are less visited and more atmospheric than those of Sukhothai. Dominating the site is Wat Chang Lom, a late 13th century temple with a large bell-shaped chedi raised on a square based decorated with elephant buttresses. To the north, two temple topped hills afford splendid panoramic views.
About 2km east of Si Satchanalai on the banks of the Yom river is the ancient site of Chalieng incorporating the extensive remains of Wat Si Ratana Mahathat, arguably the signle most evocative temple ruin in the entire Sukhotai region. Note the superb laterite and stucco high-relief of the walking Buddha on the side of the ruined sanctuary adjoining the prang.
Kamphaeng Phet
Located 77km south of Sukhothai, just of Hiighway 1, Kamphaeng Phet was another satellite town of Sukhothai. It is dotted with ruins, although they are inferiors to those of Si Satchanalai and Sukhothai and are genuine interest only to history buff. The Kamphaeng Phet National Museum offers a good introduction to Thai art from all periods, including the Sukhothai era.
Tak and Mae Sot
Also on Highway 1, 67 km north of Kamplaeng Phet, is Tak, the gateway to the North. The town is situated on the banks of the Ping River, but otherwise has little attraction. Some 80km to the west is Mae Sot, on the banks of the Moei river, which forms the boarder with Burma. Aside from the market there is a little to detain the visitor. The drive from Tak to Mae Sot passes through very attractive hill country.
I have been on holiday at Central Thailand, but never go to Phitsanulok, I guess because it is near North Thailand. Probably on my next trip to Chiang Mai, I will have a day there.
Many foreigners just pass the place without know the history and that there are so many beautiful areas and parks there. Highly recommended if you like to walk around ruins.
Pictures looks pretty nice, I quite like walking around ancient ruins, never ever been there, but probably will visit the place on my next trip.
Phitsanulok is very nice area of Thailand. Many historical parks and ruins that definitely need to be visited on a day trip. I personally would classify the place as North, but not Central Thailand.