Phichit Old City Park

History & Significance

Phichit Old City Park marks the site of ancient Phichit, established around 1058 CE (1601 BE) during the reign of Phraya Khotrabong. The area inside the historical city walls covers roughly 640,000 square meters. In 1977, the Royal Forest Department established the Kanjanagumar Arboretum within the grounds, creating a shaded environment rich in various tree species surrounding the ancient ruins.

Highlights & What to See

The park houses several significant historical and cultural points of interest:

• Wat Maha That: Located near the center of the old city on the east bank of the Old Nan River, this ancient brick monument was registered as a historic site in 1935. It features a Lankan-style Phra That Chedi, a nine-room viharn in front, and an ubosot behind it. Excavations in 1991 revealed structural layers from both the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya periods beneath the viharn mound.
• City Pillar Shrine: Constructed in 1977, this two-story building features the official City Pillar Shrine on the upper level and a revered statue of Phraya Khotrabong (locally known as Pho Pu) on the lower level.
• Chalawan Cave: A narrow earth trench linked to the famous Thai literary tale of Krai Thong written by King Rama II. Statues of Krai Thong and the crocodile Chalawan are located at the cave entrance.
• Si Mala Island: A small earthen mound in the moat outside the ancient city walls, surrounded by a shallow moat. Based on its layout, it is presumed to have originally functioned as a fort or watchtower.

Visitor Information

The park is open daily from 08:00 to 18:00. Admission is free of charge. Parking facilities are available on site for visitors.

How to Get There

Phichit Old City Park is situated in Mueang Phichit District, Phichit Province, along the old channel of the Nan River. Transport to Mueang Phichit District is accessible via local roads in Phichit Province.