Sukhothai: Tracing the Origins of Thailand

Unlike Bangkok, a bustling city, and the islands of the south, which are considered heavenly, Sukhothai is just about history and old ups and downs, very close to the Thai people. It clearly reminds Thai people of their origins and cultural roots. Sukhothai remains the least developed, urban-wise and touristy, of other places in Thailand today. These quirky footprints have become ideal tourist destinations for those who love to explore the rich culture and history of the Kingdom of Thailand.

Let's explore the place and add it to your list of must-see visits in Thailand.

Written by Preetika Narula (Local Expert)Updated on 01-08-2024

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1. Cradle Of Thai Civilization

The ancient city of Sukhothai, located about 427 km north of Bangkok (around a 6-hour 12-minute drive), has preserved the vestiges of its past grandeur over the centuries. In the ruins of the Royal Palace, the Buddhist temples, the gates, walls, moats, and ponds, one can see the imprint of the centuries of this ancient capital. Sukhothai, the first Thai kingdom, was established during the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries.

It was built in 1238 by the Khmers but was taken over by the Thais in 1257. The city enjoyed its golden days during six reigns, particularly flourishing during the third reign under King Ramkhamhaeng. He opened the country to cultural exchanges, introduced Sri Lanka Buddhism to Thailand, perfected the alphabet, and created the Thai script. Artifacts from his time show the deep-rooted Buddhist faith of the people of Sukhothai. During his reign, the country experienced burgeoning agriculture and a well-established monetary system.

Although the prosperous stage of Sukhothai lasted only about 200 years, its magnificence and superiority can still be experienced today.

2. How To Get There?

• By plane

To get to this town, which was once the capital of Thailand, the most convenient and fastest way is by air. Sukhothai Airport (THS) serves the city. The flight from Bangkok takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it the preferred choice for many tourists. You may consult reliable sites like Google Flights and Skyscanner for fare ideas, availability dates, etc.

• By train

The train is a suitable option for traveling to Sukhothai from Bangkok, covering a distance of 427 km. For this trip, you will need to take the train from Bangkok to Phitsanulok and then take a bus to Sukhothai.

The train trip takes about 8 hours from Hua Lamphong Station on Bangkok's North Line. View a larger map or PDF map of the station to help navigate the route.

• By bus

The bus is also a popular way to travel from Bangkok to Sukhothai. The bus route from Mochit Terminal in Bangkok takes about 7 hours to reach the city.

>>> Read more: How to Get Around Thailand?

3. When Is The Best Time To Visit?

• Best Time Periods to Visit

• November to February: This period is the ideal time to discover Northern Thailand, thanks to favorable weather conditions.

• May to September: Although this is the rainy season, it's a great time to visit if you're looking to save money.

>>>> Best of Northern Thailand in 10 Days! Dive into ancient cities, breathtaking mountains, and jungles across the country.

• Best Times for Festive Celebrations

Every year, the Loy Krathong Lantern Liberation Festival is celebrated across Thailand. However, it originated in Sukhothai as a tribute to King Ramkhamhaeng, the former ruler of the Kingdom of Sukhothai.

The festival date is set according to the Thai lunar calendar, usually in November, with the next occurrence on November 16, 2024. A highlight of the event is the release of lotus-shaped lanterns into the river at Sukhothai Historical Park, offering a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in Thai culture and participate in local festivities.

>>> Adventure from Bangkok to the Northern Wonders in 10 Days!

4. What To Do And See In Sukhothai?

• Royal Palace

Centered in the heart of the city and surrounded by a moat, this royal complex is made up of two distinct areas: the sanctuary and the residence. In the nineteenth century, during the reign of King Mongkut (Rama IV), inscriptions engraved in stone attributed to King Ramkhamhaeng the Great were discovered.

The palace as a whole is divided into two main parts: the royal residence and the palace, including the Mahathat Pagoda.

• Wat Mahathat

Wat Mahathat is the most significant and noteworthy religious site in the park, known as the "Great Relic Temple." King Inthradit, the city's founder who reigned from 1239 to 1259, began its construction, which was completed by his successor in 1345. The dominant structure is its chedi (or stupa), surrounded by 168 small stucco Buddhas. It contains a backbone and a Buddha's hair brought from Sri Lanka in the late 14th century.

This place also includes eight other chedis in its central part and an assembly hall to the east. In the northeast, there is an ordination hall with images of a seated Buddha. In the northern and southern parts, there are two square-shaped buildings, each housing a large standing Buddha portrait. A pond in front of the temple offers a picturesque view of the entire religious complex.

• Wat Si Sawai

The Si Sawai Temple is a Hindu temple situated to the southwest of the Mahathat Pagoda, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Shiva. This temple was called the "temple of mangoes," since it was located nearby a plantation of those trees. The three Khmer-style towers, which are called "prang," were built in the late twelfth to fourteenth centuries under the rule of the Khmer king Jayavarman VII. Currently, remnants of Hinduism remain to this date, such as the naga, snake figures, and the idols of Garudas.

• Ramkhamhaeng National Museum

This museum is one of the most important in the nation and is named after the intrepid King Ramkhamhaeng, the inventor of Thai writing. It was built in 1960, and four years later, the public could begin admiring a collection of artifacts from the Sukhothai Kingdom. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the museum features Khmer statues alongside the Buddha of Sukhothai and ceramics from Sawankhalok.

• Si Satchanalai Historical Park

This protected site, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991, was founded in Sukhothai in 1250. Its name means "the city of good people." Here lies an area measuring 7 km² with royal remains from the thirteenth to the fifteenth century, including 134 structures that are still visible today.

Among all the temples in the park, a visit should not miss Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, which is probably the oldest and most significant. Additionally, on top of a hill is Wat Khao Phanom Phloeng, and then there's Wat Chedi Chet Thaeo—one of the most beautiful in Sukhothai, which is well worth a visit.

• Wat Traphang Ngoen

This temple, with its artificial island, is located right at the back of the central part. Wat Tra Phang Ngoen is a Buddhist place consisting of an ordination hall, a big assembly hall, and a beautiful chedi. A Buddha being taken care of in walking position is visible at the entrance; right in the middle, we can see a white Buddha with a smiling face. Also here, an ingenious system of irrigation feeds the ditches.

• Wat Sa Si

Situated on an islet within an artificial pond, this stunning temple can be reached by a small bridge. It features an ordination hall, a Sri Lankan-inspired chedi, a large Buddha statue covered in white stucco, and a smaller black Buddha in a walking position. Occasionally, small sound and light shows are held here, particularly during the Loy Krathong festival, the "festival of lights".

• Wat Si Chum

Situated near Wat Phra Phai Luang and just a brief bike ride away, this temple is renowned for its impressive stone statue of a seated Buddha with a smiling face. Visible from a distance through an opening in the hall that contains it, this magnificent piece of art stands over 11 meters tall. Dating back to the 14th century, it underwent two restorations in the 1950s.

• Wat Phra Phai Luang

As already stated, this is the biggest temple in the northern part, which was in the past the second most important religious center in Sukhothai. The pagoda in this place had served as a Khmer Hindu temple that later transformed into a Buddhist monastery surrounded by a moat. Its name means "the temple of the great wind," and it has three Khmer-style towers built during the reign of King Rama VII (1191–1218). Now at present amidst its ruins, there remain three Buddhas standing, reclining, and walking.

• Wat Sorasak

The last site we mentioned today is this temple, hidden in the forest, which was built in 1412 to honor the Kingdom of Sukhothai. Its architecture is notable for the arrangement of stone elephants around its chedi.

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4. Where To Stay In Old Sukhothai Or New Sukhothai?

Sukhothai is divided into two distinct areas, separated by about 12 km: the modern city, New Sukhothai, and the area near the historical park, Old Sukhothai. The ideal choice depends on your preferences.

Old Sukhothai is ideal for anyone who loves peaceful environments and mainly wants to explore the historical park. This is a perfect choice for a lovely stay, with accommodation options ranging from hostels to 4-star hotels and plenty of calm.

New Sukhothai is best for budget travelers, with cheap hostels and 2-3 star hotels. It is well east of the historical park, with a lively urban feel that offers numerous dining opportunities and some light nightlife. Accommodation prices in this area vary, but generally, it is cheaper than Old Sukhothai.

>>> The detailed map of the must-see sites in Sukhothai, Thailand:

Please click on the "[ ]" at the top right for better visibility

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Conclusion

Sukhothai, the historic birthplace of Thailand, offers a fascinating glimpse into the country's past through its architectural and cultural remnants. From the ruins of the royal palace to the remarkable temples and centuries-old traditions, every element of this ancient city tells the story of the Thai people. Visiting Sukhothai is not just an exploration, but a deep dive into Thailand's roots and cultural richness.

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