Phitsanulok to Pak Chong: Road Trip Guide

The drive begins at the sacred Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, whose 14th-century prang is a classic stop for travelers heading east on Highway 12. This route, part of the Asian Highway 16, takes you through the forested foothills of Phetchabun and Chaiyaphum provinces before descending onto the Korat Plateau.

Complete with a mix of mountain passes, national parks, and small town life, the trip covers 415 kilometers in about 6 hours without stops. Yet, to truly appreciate the changing landscapes, you'll want to allow at least one full day.

Phitsanulok to Pak Chong passes through the UNESCO-recognized Dong Phayayen–Khao Yai Forest Complex on its final stretch. This vast protected area includes Khao Yai National Park, Thailand's oldest and one of its most biodiverse parks.

At the 400-kilometer mark, you'll see the park's southern entrance, where visitor numbers peak during the dry season.

Alternating between pineapple plantations and teak forests, the route offers scenic transitions. In Pa Hin Ngam, strange stone pillars rise from the ground, a result of ancient volcanic activity.

Local commerce thrives on roadside fruit stalls, selling fresh tamarind and mangoes for a fraction of city prices. As you approach Khao Kho, you'll find resorts and coffee shops that cater to the cool mountain atmosphere, which is a stark contrast to the sultry plains.

Route 12 is in excellent condition, with well-marked lanes and guardrails. Most sections have a speed limit of 80 km/h in mountain curves and 100 km/h on flat stretches. Fuel stops are plentiful: at least one PTT station in every district, but it's wise to fill up in Lom Sak (km 145) as the next stretch to Chaiyaphum is sparse.

• Distance: 415 km
• Driving time: 5.5–6 hours
• Road tolls: none (free highway)
• Fuel consumption: ~35 liters (for an average car)
• Best time: November to February (cool, dry)

Roadside 7-Eleven and FamilyMart stores appear in every town, providing snacks and toilet breaks. For a more substantial meal, local khao tom (rice soup) shops and som tam stalls dot the route, especially near major junctions. One surprising highlight is the Chaiyaphum night market, located just 200 meters off the highway at the city exit, offering local grilled chicken and Isaan sausages.

The most challenging section is the 30-kilometer climb to Khao Kho, with steep inclines and sharp curves. Use lower gears to keep the car in control; the descent is equally demanding. A break at the Khao Kho viewpoint around km 95 is not just scenic but also a sensible way to stretch your legs and check your brakes.

Family facilities are excellent: most national park restrooms have baby-changing stations, and the Khao Kho National Museum, though small, is a hit with kids due to its interactive exhibits.

For pet owners, the route is pet-unfriendly overall. National parks prohibit pets on trails, but some restaurants near Pak Chong allow dogs on leashes. The Hup Pa Tat Research Station, Km 382, offers shaded picnic areas and is a mid-route green spot to stop with your pet.

To avoid fatigue, plan a rest stop every 1.5 hours. Major rest areas are at Chaiyaphum (km 260) and Pak Chong (km 415), both with high-standard amenities. For detailed advice on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities, check our dedicated guide.