The ancient cradle of Thai civilization, Sukhothai, was once a thriving center of trade, culture and religion. Today it is a visual feast of evocative ruins situated among rolling green hills and tranquil lotus filled ponds. In 1978, the largest and most complex restoration effort in Thai history was undertaken and, today, the ancient city is a visual feast of evocative ruins. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sukhothai is also Bangkok Airways' northern "Cultural Hub".

Location

Located in the mountainous northern region of Thailand.

Climate

Average temperature is approximately 27.6 Degrees Celsius.

Accommodation

From inexpensive but comfortable guesthouses to luxury hotels.

Food & Drink

In Thailand one can get an excellent full meal at a street kitchen for 15 to 50 Baht, or in an air-conditioned restaurant for 150 to 400 Baht. The range of tasty high quality food available in Sukhothai town will astound you.

Shopping

Sukhothai handicrafts are much sought after and include cotton weaves, traditional Thai gold, Sangkalok pottery, and silverware.

Places to visit in and around Sukhothai Click for more information

Sukhothai offers both natural and cultural experiences; one can enjoy the UNESCO historical parks, or the natural parks in Si Satchanalai district.

The Sukhothai Historical Park

Ruins of the royal palaces, Buddhist temples, the city gates, walls, moats, dams, ditches, ponds, canals, and a water dyke control system.

Phra Mae Ya Shrine

Built during King Ramkhamhaeng's reign as a dedication to his late mother Nang Suang.

Wat Phra-Phai-Luang

Second only in importance to Wat Mahathat.

Ruins of the Old Celadon Factory (Thuriang Kiln)

A site where Sukhothai celadons were made. Forty-nine kilns and small edifices are visible.

Wat Chang-Lom

A chedi is decorated with an elephant emerging from the base.

Wat Si Chum

A square mondop contains a monumental Buddha image.

Wat Saphan-Hin

Located on a hill 200 meters high.

Wat Aranyik

Dwelling places for monks, caves, and the bases of ubosots and viharns line the pathway to the sanctuary.

Wat Phra-Yun

The viharn enshrines a standing Buddha image.

Wat Traphang-Thong-Lang

The stucco figures are masterpieces of Sukhothai art.

Other temples not to be missed

Wat Mongkon, Wat Pa-Ma-Muang, Wat Tuk, Wat Ton-Chan, Wat Chetuphon, Wat-Phichit-Kirati-Kanlayaram, Wat Chang Lom, Wat Chedi Sung and Phra-Ruang Dam.

Ancient Goldsmith Village (Si Satchanalai Goldsmith)

Renowned for its traditional ancient style and quality.

Cotton Village

Thai Puan of Had Siow Village in Si Sachanalai whose ancestor are originated from Laos over 100 years ago are famed for the colorful teen jok cotton weaves.

Ramkhamhaeng National Park (Pa Kao Luang)

Named after King Ramkhamhaeng The Great, this fertile national park is rich in flora and fauna and has many rare species.

Si Satchanalai National Park

There are many waterfalls and caves to explore here; Tad Dao Waterfall, Tad Duan Waterfall, Taravasan Cave, Kang Kao Cave (Bat Cave). Accommodation is available and can be booked through the Forest Department. Tents can also be rented.