Phitsanulok speeds up development of historical and community tourism sites to welcome visitors after the rainy season

The municipality and tourism agencies in Phitsanulok province are coordinating plans to develop historical and community tourism sites to welcome an expected increase in visitors after the end of the rainy season. This year’s plans focus on restoring ancient sites, improving public utilities, and promoting local products and community activities to make them more attractive.

Phitsanulok’s key attractions include Wat Phra Sri Rattana Mahathat Woramahawihan, Wat Nang Phaya, and the city’s natural trails that link cultural activities and ecotourism. Authorities say they will increase investment in infrastructure such as safer pedestrian crossings, multilingual information signage, and development of parking areas and bicycle services to match travelers who seek slower, more environmentally friendly experiences.

Provincial policies also emphasize community capacity building and development of local products, such as regional foods, silk souvenirs, and woven handicrafts. Training will be offered to shop owners and community guides on basic service skills and elementary English to better serve foreign visitors. Cultural activities will be promoted as well, including local festivals, craft demonstrations, and community tours where tourists can learn directly about local ways of life.

The development also covers sustainability measures, including controlling visitor numbers at sites vulnerable to overtourism and systematic waste management to protect the environment. Phitsanulok is piloting programs encouraging restaurants and accommodations to reduce single-use plastics and supporting wastewater management for small lodging providers near natural attractions.

The positive effects of these plans are expected to reach many groups — tourism operators, shops in tourist areas, and local residents participating in the programs. The local economy is likely to recover as visitor numbers rise after the rainy season, but good management is needed to ensure income is distributed fairly within communities. Improved facilities will also benefit residents and domestic tourists by providing cleaner, safer public spaces.

In the long term, the governor and tourism agencies hope Phitsanulok will no longer be just a pass-through stop but become a destination travelers plan to visit deliberately. They aim to base development on sustainability, preserve cultural heritage, and create economic opportunities for communities. Projects and measures will be monitored and public feedback sought before implementation to ensure development aligns with local needs and delivers maximum benefit to the province.