Phichit (Thai พิจิตร) is one of the provinces (changwat) of Thailand, located in the north of the country. Neighboring provinces are (from north clockwise) Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Nakhon Sawan and Kamphaeng Phet.

Geography

The rivers Nan and Yom flow through the Phichit province, before they join shortly before the Chao Phraya is formed. The province mainly consists of low fertile river plains, making rice and lotus the main crops.

History

The town Phichit was established in 1058 by Phraya Kotabongthevaraja, and was first part of the Sukhothai kingdom, and later of Ayutthaya.

The name of the main city changed several times. At first it was called Sra Luang (city of the royal pond), in Ayutthaya times it was called Okhaburi (city in the swamp), and then finally Phichit (beautiful city).

Symbols

The provincial seal shows a pond, which refers to the old name of Phichit, Mueang Sra Luang (meaning city at the royal pond). The Banyan tree in front refers to the temple Wat Pho Prathab Chang. The temple was built in 1669-71 by King Luang Sorasak , who was born in the village of Pho Prathab Chang, between a Banyan and a Sacred Fig. The flag of Phichit shows the circular provincial seal in the middle. It has three green bars and two white horizontal bars, with the middle bar being interrupted by the seal. Provincial tree is the Ironwood (Mesua ferrea), provincial flower is the Lotus (Nymphaea lotus).

Administrative divisions

The province is subdivided in 9 districts (Amphoe) and 3 minor districts (King Amphoe). These are further subdivided into 89 communes (tambon) and 852 villages (mubaan).

External links

• Province page from the Tourist Authority of Thailand
• Golden Jubilee Network province guide