Introduction
This former capital city is best experienced by bicycle, as you wind your way through the streets and discover the crumbling temples, serene Buddha statues, and fish-filled ponds. The city also offers worthwhile museums and some of the country's most affordable accommodation, rounding out the overall experience for visitors.
Buddha at Sukhothai Historical Park - Source : Pixabay
Sukhothai Historical Park
The province of Sukhothai (The Rise of Happiness) lies in northern Thailand, about 420 km from Bangkok. You'll come here mainly for the historic sites of the Kingdom of Sukhothai, Thailand's first unified kingdom, which existed between the 13th and 14th centuries.
Sukhothai Historical Park is the jewel in the crown of this province. It is home to the well-preserved ruins of the ancient capital, with numerous temples, stupas, Buddha statues and other impressive relics of that era, divided into 5 distinct zones, each with an entrance fee of 100B.
Here are some of the most remarkable remains
- Wat Mahathat, the park's largest and most important temple, with its many Buddha statues.
- Wat Si Sawai, a magnificent 13th-century Hindu temple. Admire the unique architecture of this period.
- Wat Trapang Ngoen, with its beautiful Buddha statues. Take a moment to feel the serenity emanating from these statues.
- Wat Sa Si, a temple set on an island in the middle of a pond.
- The hilly landscapes and ruins scattered throughout the park offer a melancholy, mystical atmosphere. Let your mind wander in this unique atmosphere.
Good to know
Park opening hours: 6.30 a.m.-5.30 p.m. Sunday to Friday, until 9 p.m. on Saturday
Aside from the historic park, here are Sukhothai's other must-sees
- The National Museum, featuring a rich collection of antiques from the Sukhothai period.
- The village of Ban Nok Noi, where you can discover local crafts such as pottery and weaving. Watch as craftsmen dexterously work these raw materials.
- Ramkhamhaeng National Park, with its verdant landscapes and waterfalls.