Sukhothai

History · Temples

Sukhothai was Thailand's first capital (13th century), and its historical park — a UNESCO World Heritage site — includes ruined temples and ancient Buddha statues in a green, calm layout, less crowded than Ayutthaya.

Best time to visit

November–February.

Getting there

Flight to the local airport, or overland drive from Bangkok/Chiang Mai.

Best for

History · Ancient architecture · Cycling among the ruins

Recommended attractions in Sukhothai

Wat Mahathat (Sukhothai) וואט מהאטאט

The central and largest temple in the historical park, surrounded by water channels and many Buddha statues.

Wat Si Chum וואט סי צ'ום

Home to a giant seated Buddha statue that appears to 'peek' through a narrow opening in the structure — one of the site's most impressive statues.

Wat Sa Si וואט סה סי

A small, elegant temple on an island in an artificial lake — simple and calm relative to the rest of the site.

Ramkhamhaeng National Museum מוזיאון רמח'מהנג

A museum at the park entrance with historical background before heading out to tour the ruins.

Cycling Around the Ruins רכיבה בין החורבות

The open terrain and well-maintained path make the park one of the most comfortable places in Thailand to tour by bicycle.

Practical tips

•The park is large and spread out — rented bicycles at the entrance are the most pleasant way to see everything without walking kilometers.
•Fewer tourists than Ayutthaya, so even at peak hours it's not too crowded — nicer for photography.
•Worth combining with nearby Phitsanulok (about an hour's drive) as a convenient lodging base.