Top attractions in Sukhothai, Thailand

Many travelers think of Thailand as either a shopping haven or a beach bum’s dream, but not looking beyond this is a shame. A mere hour away from Bangkok lies Sukhothai, a place that exudes raw, untainted charm, coupled with the warm hospitability that the Thais are well-known for. This is the place to explore the alternate beauty of Thailand and soak in its history and culture.

If you are looking for a slower pace of life and a change of scenery, Sukhothai is the place to consider for your next Southeast Asian vacation. Here are five places to visit in the province of Sukhothai.

Sukhothai Old City

This UNESCO World Heritage site stands as a testament to Thailand's storied and colorful past. Nearly 200 temples were excavated and partly reconstructed here, providing visitors with a chance to get a unique look at what Thailand's early capital might have been like.

In the city's heyday, three earthen walls and two moats surrounded the old center. Twenty-one wats and four ponds were uncovered during excavations. This was the cradle of Thai culture, and archaeologists have found the remnants of artistic and religious works that would define a society for centuries. Foreign visitors will find here an information center detailing Sukhothai activities and self-guided tours, plus display boards in English outside every building.

Ramkhamhaeng National Museum

Located in the Sukhothai Historical Park area, this museum is one of the regional museums of the Fine Arts Department, which was built in 1960. It houses a wide range of artefacts, from ancient remnants, art objects and antiques that were excavated from the ruins discovered in Sukhothai and Si Satchanalai Historical Parks. These exhibits present a vivid display of lifestyle, customs, traditions, cultural habits, beliefs and art styles that reflect the daily life of people during the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya periods.

Wat Sorasak

The 24 exquisitely carved elephants that still guard the decaying chedi of Wat Sorasak are the real highlight of the park. Wat Sorasak was constructed in 1412, toward the end of the Sukhothai Empire. The niches are occupied by statues depicting Buddha sitting in a “western” position, with legs hanging down.

Si Satchanalai Historical Park

A visit to Sukhothai will only be complete with a visit to the historical site of the ancient Si Satchanalai City, which was the second largest city after Sukhothai during its glory days. The 45-square-metre park is home to remaining structures of what used to be palaces, temples and homes. The main attractions are Wat Phra Si Mahathat, Wat Chang Lom and Wat Chedi Jet Taew, all of which feature authentic Sukhothai architectural style.

Wat Si Chum

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Visitors to Wat Si Chum will be especially impressed by the mondhop, a huge, windowless cuboid construction that stands on a high pedestal. Built in the 14th century, the temple is easily recognizable because of its 15-meter-tall silver seated Buddha leaning against a brick wall in the open.

A narrow enclosed staircase on one of the southern walls leads to the roof and to beautiful open views of the park. The enclosed stair passage was once home to engraved slates featuring different images of Buddha. Ruins of another temple and a brick building that contains a seated Buddha can also be found in the area.

See more: 6 beautiful destinations outside Bangkok, Thailand

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