Sukhothai, the first capital of Thailand, is a historical gem that offers travelers an opportunity to step back in time and immerse themselves in the grandeur of the Sukhothai Kingdom. With its ancient temples, peaceful reservoirs, and beautiful parks, the city provides a perfect mix of culture, history, and natural beauty.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, a culture seeker, or someone looking for tranquil surroundings, Sukhothai has something for everyone. Below is a guide to the places to visit Sukhothai, featuring 15 must-visit locations, complete with highlights, tips, and reasons to explore each one.
Table of Contents
Best Time to Visit Sukhothai
| Season | Best Time to Visit | Weather | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cool Season | Nov – Feb | Pleasant and cool | Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. |
| Hot Season | Mar – May | Hot (30°C – 40°C) | Visit early morning/evening to avoid midday heat. |
| Rainy Season | Jun – Oct | Humid with heavy rain | Fewer tourists, lush greenery, but expect rain. |
| Shoulder Season | Late Oct, Early Nov | Moderate with occasional rain | Mild weather and fewer tourists. |
| Festivals | Oct | Moderate, occasional rain | Experience the Loy Krathong festival. |
Here is the List of Places to Visit In Sukhothai
Sukhothai Historical Park
The heart of Sukhothai’s historical significance lies in the Sukhothai Historical Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the top places to visit Sukhothai and houses over 190 ruins of temples, monuments, and statues that reflect the grandeur of the Sukhothai Kingdom, which flourished between the 13th and 15th centuries. The park serves as an open-air museum, offering visitors the chance to wander through the remnants of an ancient civilization, experiencing the rich history and culture that once thrived in this remarkable city.
Highlights
- Wat Mahathat: The centerpiece of the park with a central stupa surrounded by smaller temples.
- Wat Si Chum: Known for its gigantic seated Buddha.
- Wat Sra Sri: A serene temple surrounded by a pond, offering a picturesque view.
Why Visit
Visiting Sukhothai Historical Park is like walking through history. The ruins offer insight into the early days of the Thai Kingdom, and the park’s design allows you to explore the past at your own pace.
Tips
- Rent a bicycle for a more relaxed and enjoyable exploration of the park.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Don’t miss the evening light show that illuminates the ruins for a magical experience.
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Wat Phra Phai Luang
Situated just outside the Sukhothai Historical Park, Wat Phra Phai Luang is one of the most important ancient temples and a must-see among the places to visit Sukhothai. Built during the 12th century, the temple combines both Hindu and Buddhist architectural influences, making it unique. The intricate design and stunning ruins of this temple reflect the blending of two distinct cultures, showcasing the religious diversity that existed during the era of the Sukhothai Kingdom.
Highlights
- Central Prang: The temple’s towering central prang (tower) is a striking feature.
- Intricate carvings: The temple is adorned with detailed carvings that showcase the cultural fusion between Hinduism and Buddhism.
Why Visit
The architectural beauty and historical significance of Wat Phra Phai Luang make it a must-see for anyone interested in understanding the cultural evolution of Sukhothai. The mixture of religious influences in its design is fascinating.
Tips
- Take your time to explore the temple’s carvings and structures, as they tell the story of both Hindu and Buddhist influences.
- Best visited in the early morning for peace and quiet
Si Satchanalai Historical Park
Located 50 kilometers north of Sukhothai, Si Satchanalai Historical Park is another essential site and one of the hidden places to visit Sukhothai. This park contains ruins from the Sukhothai Kingdom, offering a quieter and less touristy alternative to the main Sukhothai park. With its peaceful surroundings, Si Satchanalai provides an ideal experience for those looking to explore historical sites without the crowds, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the serenity and beauty of this ancient location.
Highlights
- Wat Phra Si Ratana Mahathat: Famous for its towering prang and beautiful stucco designs.
- Wat Nang Phaya: Known for its decorative stucco work and historical significance.
Why Visit
Si Satchanalai offers a deeper look into the Sukhothai Kingdom and gives you a chance to explore a less crowded historical site. It’s a great destination for history lovers who want to experience the ancient kingdom away from the crowds.
Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as the park is spread out and involves walking.
- If you prefer peace and quiet, try to visit in the early morning or late afternoon.
Traphang Thong Reservoir
Located near Wat Mahathat in the heart of the Sukhothai Historical Park, Traphang Thong Reservoir is a peaceful spot and one of the best places to visit Sukhothai. Visitors can relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere while taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding trees and historical sites. The reservoir provides a perfect place to unwind and reflect after exploring the nearby ancient ruins, offering a calm escape within the historical setting of the park.
Highlights
- Wat Sra Sri: Located right by the reservoir, this temple provides a stunning view of the water.
- Scenic beauty: The reservoir’s tranquil waters surrounded by greenery create a serene atmosphere perfect for a break.
Why Visit
Traphang Thong Reservoir offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can enjoy nature and capture beautiful photographs of the surrounding temples and trees.
Tips
- Bring a camera to capture the picturesque views of Wat Sra Sri by the water.
- Enjoy a boat ride or a relaxing walk around the reservoir’s edges.
Ramkhamhaeng National Museum
The Ramkhamhaeng National Museum is a must-visit location for anyone interested in learning more about the history and culture of the Sukhothai Kingdom. Located near the heart of Sukhothai, this museum showcases a wide range of artifacts from the Sukhothai era, including pottery, sculptures, and tools. As one of the key places to visit Sukhothai, the museum provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the kingdom’s significance and its artistic and cultural achievements.
Highlights
- Ancient artifacts: Discover the treasures of the Sukhothai Kingdom, from intricate sculptures to everyday objects.
- Historical exhibits: Learn about the history, culture, and people of the Sukhothai era.
Why Visit
For history enthusiasts, the Ramkhamhaeng National Museum offers valuable insights into the culture and civilization of the ancient Sukhothai Kingdom. It’s an educational stop that complements the experience of visiting the ruins.
Tips
- Take a guided tour to gain more in-depth knowledge about the exhibits.
- Visit before heading to the historical park to get context about what you’ll see.
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Wat Chang Lom
Located in Si Satchanalai Historical Park, Wat Chang Lom is a stunning temple that stands out as one of the top places to visit in Sukhothai. What makes this temple unique is its base, which is surrounded by 39 elephant statues, symbolizing the strength and stability of the Sukhothai Kingdom. The intricate design and historical significance of Wat Chang Lom make it a remarkable site for anyone wanting to delve deeper into the culture and legacy of the kingdom.
Highlights
- Elephant statues: The temple’s base features 39 elephant statues, each beautifully carved and facing outward.
- Central stupa: The large central stupa is a masterpiece of Sukhothai architecture.
Why Visit
Wat Chang Lom offers a unique and visually striking experience with its elephant statues, making it a standout among the many temples in the region.
Tips
- Be sure to take a close look at the elephant statues and the intricate details of the stupa.
- Visit early to avoid the crowds.
Phra Mae Ya Shrine
Located on the outskirts of Sukhothai, Phra Mae Ya Shrine is dedicated to the mother of King Ramkhamhaeng. The shrine holds cultural and spiritual significance, as it is a place where locals come to honor the late queen mother.
Highlights
- Royal significance: The shrine is dedicated to one of the most important figures in the Sukhothai Kingdom.
- Scenic views: The shrine offers a peaceful atmosphere and lovely views over the surrounding landscape.
Why Visit
Phra Mae Ya Shrine offers visitors a chance to learn about the royal family’s influence on the Sukhothai Kingdom. It’s a spiritual and peaceful stop that also offers a deeper understanding of the region’s history.
Tips
- Take some time to reflect and enjoy the serene surroundings of the shrine.
- Best visited in the morning or late afternoon.
Phu Kao Thong (Golden Mountain)
For panoramic views of Sukhothai, visit Phu Kao Thong, also known as the Golden Mountain. This hill offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape, including the Sukhothai Historical Park and the vast rice fields.
Highlights
- Breathtaking views: The top of the hill provides sweeping views of the entire area, especially beautiful at sunset.
- Historical significance: The hill is known for its role in ancient times as a lookout point.
Why Visit
If you enjoy scenic vistas and nature, Phu Kao Thong is the place to be. The views from the top are simply stunning, and the peaceful surroundings make it a perfect spot for some quiet time.
Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll need to hike up the hill.
- Visit in the late afternoon for the best sunset views.
Wat Si Sawai
Located within the Sukhothai Historical Park, Wat Si Sawai is one of the oldest temples in Sukhothai. This temple is especially renowned for its three Khmer-style prangs (towers), which set it apart from the other structures in the park.
Highlights
- Khmer architecture: The temple’s distinctive prangs are a prime example of Khmer-style architecture.
- Intricate carvings: The walls of the temple are adorned with carvings that reflect the kingdom’s rich cultural history.
Why Visit
The unique architecture and historical significance of Wat Si Sawai make it an essential stop. It’s perfect for visitors interested in seeing the blend of different architectural influences.
Tips
- Take time to study the carvings and details on the temple’s prangs.
- Early morning visits are recommended for a peaceful experience.
Wat Thammikarat
Just outside the main Sukhothai Historical Park, Wat Thammikarat is an often-overlooked gem. The temple’s ruins include several interesting structures, including a large chedi (stupa) and remnants of an ancient ordination hall.
Highlights
- Main stupa: The large central stupa is a striking feature of this site.
- Quiet atmosphere: Unlike the main park, Wat Thammikarat is less crowded, providing a peaceful environment for exploration.
Why Visit
This temple offers a more intimate look at the ruins of Sukhothai, away from the crowds. Its tranquil setting makes it a perfect place for reflection and photography.
Tips
- Bring a camera to capture the serene surroundings.
- Visit in the early morning for a quieter experience.
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Sukhothai Night Market
For a taste of local culture, head to the Sukhothai Night Market, which comes alive in the evenings. This bustling market offers an array of Thai street food, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Highlights
- Local cuisine: Try the famous Sukhothai noodles and other delicious Thai street foods.
- Souvenirs: The market is a great place to pick up traditional Thai crafts and souvenirs.
Why Visit
The night market is a great way to experience local life and sample traditional dishes while shopping for unique gifts. It’s the perfect spot to end your day in Sukhothai.
Tips
- Go hungry! There’s a wide variety of food to try, and the flavors are delicious.
- Bring cash, as many vendors do not accept credit cards.
Wat Phra That Sangkhaburi
Situated on a hilltop outside the city, Wat Phra That Sangkhaburi is a serene temple with stunning views over the surrounding countryside. The temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere and picturesque setting.
Highlights
- Hilltop views: The temple offers one of the best vantage points in the area.
- Serene surroundings: The temple’s location atop a hill ensures a peaceful experience, ideal for relaxation and contemplation.
Why Visit
If you’re looking for peace and beautiful scenery, Wat Phra That Sangkhaburi is the place to be. It’s perfect for visitors seeking solitude and natural beauty.
Tips
- Visit during the morning or late afternoon to enjoy the views and avoid the midday heat.
- Bring water and wear a hat, as there’s little shade on the hilltop.
Sukhothai Hot Springs
For relaxation, the Sukhothai Hot Springs provide a natural and rejuvenating experience. These hot springs are known for their therapeutic properties and are the perfect way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
Highlights
- Thermal baths: Relax in the warm, mineral-rich waters that are said to have healing properties.
- Natural setting: The hot springs are surrounded by lush greenery, creating a peaceful and rejuvenating atmosphere.
Why Visit
The Sukhothai Hot Springs offer a chance to relax and rejuvenate after a day of exploring the ancient sites. The therapeutic properties of the water make it a great place to unwind and recharge.
Tips
- Bring a swimsuit if you plan to soak in the thermal baths.
- Stay hydrated and take time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Conclusion
Sukhothai offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, with numerous places to visit in Sukhothai. Whether you explore the ancient temples within the Historical Park, take in the stunning views from Phu Kao Thong, or relax at the hot springs, there’s something for every type of traveler.
The best time to visit Sukhothai is during the Cool Season (Nov-Feb), offering ideal weather for sightseeing. However, if you prefer fewer tourists, the Rainy Season (Jun-Oct) provides a quieter experience. No matter when you visit, Sukhothai’s unique attractions and peaceful surroundings will leave a lasting impression.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Sukhothai?
The best time to visit Sukhothai is during the Cool Season (Nov-Feb) when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. However, the Rainy Season (Jun-Oct) offers fewer crowds and lush landscapes.
How many days do I need to explore Sukhothai?
Typically, 2 to 3 days are enough to explore the main attractions of Sukhothai, including the Historical Park, Wat Si Chum, and other historical temples.
Is Sukhothai a family-friendly destination?
Yes, Sukhothai is a great destination for families. The calm atmosphere, open spaces, and educational value of its historical sites make it enjoyable for all ages.
Are there any entry fees for the historical sites in Sukhothai?
Yes, most of the historical sites in Sukhothai, including the Sukhothai Historical Park, have an entry fee. It’s recommended to check the current fees before your visit.
What is the best way to get around Sukhothai?
Renting a bicycle or a motorbike is a popular way to explore the Sukhothai Historical Park and nearby attractions. Alternatively, you can hire a tuk-tuk or take a local tour for easier transportation.