| The province of Phichit is situated in the northern part | | | | Each year in September the Phichit annual boat race, |
| of Thailand and the provincial capital is its namesake. It | | | | officially named as the Royal Cup Long Boat Race, is |
| is believed that the town was founded in 1056 by | | | | held on the Nan River. Up to 50 teams take part in the |
| Phraya Khot Thabong and during the Sukhothai period, | | | | race which features Thailand's best rowers who |
| it was community called Sa Luang. The town had | | | | compete for the Royal Cup. The race is hosted by the |
| great importance during the Sukhothai era, which was | | | | province and the Tourism Authority of Thailand. |
| from 1238 to 1350. Once the Ayutthaya period began | | | | The boats that take part in this race are crafted from |
| from 1350, the province was renamed Okhaburi. It was | | | | a single piece of log and have the capability to hold up |
| here that King Sanphet VIII (also known as Phrachao | | | | to 30 rowers. It is great honor for the village which |
| Sua) of Ayutthaya was born. It was named Phichit | | | | wins the race. The race is divided into four categories, |
| during the reign of King Rama V and the community | | | | namely 41 to 55 rowers, 31-40 rowers, fewer than 30 |
| was designated as a province. | | | | rowers, and kor song. |
| Today, the province of Phichit is spread over an area | | | | Before the races take place, there is a procession of |
| of 4,531 square kilometers and is approximately 345 | | | | the boats, which are decorated in all the hues of the |
| kilometers north of Bangkok. Although the province is | | | | rainbow. In addition, one take see cultural shows, music |
| not an important military and strategic location, it still has | | | | performances, fruit and vegetable fair. Of course, the |
| a lot to offer to an intrepid traveler. The town of Phichit | | | | ubiquitous beauty pageant is there too. |
| plays host each year to the Phichit annual boat race. | | | | |