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Phetchabun: Lower Northern Thailand

It's fair to say the province of Phetchabun has become one of the popular touristy locations north of Bangkok. Yet, it's a region that excels in historical significance and breathtaking natural beauty.

This travel guide contains interesting facts and essential information for tourists or expats who want to know more about this famous mountainous region situated in the low part of northern Thailand.

Interesting Facts for Visitors to Phetchabun

Phetchabun [Thai: เพชรบูรณ์] is one of the 77 provinces of Thailand and sits midway between the northern region and 22 central provinces.

This mountainous area shares its borders with some of the most visited destinations in the lower north, including:

This hilly province occupies around 12,340 square kilometres. It covers a large swath of the fertile valley of the Pa Sak River. In fact, the origins of this river basin begin in the area known as the Phetchabun mountain range.

There's no shortage of natural attractions and historical monuments for visitors to see. In fact, the whole province of Phetchabun relies greatly on tourism for a large part of its economy.

Here's the thing:

The highest mountain in Phetchabun province is Phu Thap Boek situated in the district of Lom Kao. It's close to the border with Loei province further north and the peak measures 1,768 metres above sea level.

Moreover, the area that surrounds this popular destination contains several thousand acres of cabbage plantations - said to be the largest in Thailand.

Some of the other important local produce grown in this fertile valley includes:

Fun Fact: Using old versions of the Sanskrit language, we can describe Phetchabun (a combination of "phetcha" and "bun") as a "perfect diamond". Even so, an updated description of this fertile agricultural province is the "land of crops and foods".

Getting to Phetchabun Province

Traveling north from Bangkok to Phetchabun by road is the most popular way for tourists to get there. Thus, using Route 1 and Route 21, you'll need to drive about 346 kilometres from the capital of Thailand, Bangkok.

As an alternative, Phetchabun Airport (PHY) in Lom Sak district also services the region and Nok Air offers flights from Phitsanulok Airport (PHS).

Administrative Divisions

Besides the capital district of Mueang Phetchbun, there are a total of eleven (11) districts (Amphoe):

Note: Another section contains more information about Thailand airports and some of the most popular domestic flying routes.

Phetchabun Climate and Average Temperatures

In general, the vast mountainous and forested areas help to provide a pleasant climate. Nonetheless, most tourists will find the wet season (May to October) somewhat overcast and oppressive - with daytime temperatures peaking around 35° Celsius (95° Fahrenheit).

A typical dry season has average temperatures around 18° Celsius (64° Fahrenheit). As a result, it's fair to say the best time of year for foreigners to visit the province of Phetchabun is from November to the end of February.

Tourist Attractions in Phetchabun Province

Religious Events and Festivals

Phetchabun National Parks

Wildlife Sanctuaries

Tourist Guides and Information

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