Ancient Thai capital from the 13th century with illuminated temple ruins, a royal palace, and traditional pottery workshops along the Yom River.
In Sukhothai, 427 km north of Bangkok, you can walk among 13th-century temple ruins, cycle past rice paddies, and taste spicy rice noodles in bustling markets. The UNESCO-listed Historical Park spans 70 square kilometers with temple ruins like Wat Si Chum, where a 15-meter Buddha peers through a narrow opening, and Wat Sa Si, where temple spires reflect in still waters at sunrise. Visit in November to float candlelit offerings during the Loy Krathong festival.
Navigating the Historical Park
The Historical Park has five zones, with most major temples in the central area. You'll find bicycle rental shops near the entrance where you can rent a bike for 50-80 baht per day (bring your passport as deposit). Entry to the central zone costs 100 baht, with each additional zone also costing 100 baht. Visit between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM daily.
Main Temple Sites
At Wat Mahathat, 200 chedis surround a large seated Buddha image. Walk through the 3-meter wide entrance at Wat Si Chum to see the 15-meter tall Buddha sitting within stone walls. Wake up early to see Wat Sa Si at sunrise, when the Buddha statue on its island appears to float on the mirror-like lotus pond.
Getting Around Sukhothai
New Sukhothai, the modern town, sits 12 km east of the Historical Park (Old Sukhothai). Catch a songthaew between the two areas from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM for 30 baht per person. Stay in New Sukhothai, where you'll find most hotels and restaurants.
Local Food Scene
Find kuaitiao Sukhothai - rice noodles in pork broth with sliced pork, crackling, peanuts, and string beans - at the night market near Wat Ratchathani from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The morning market near Wat Traphang Thong sells khao perb (rice flour crepes) and locally-grown coffee from 6:00 AM.
Best Time to Visit
Come between November and January when temperatures range from 25-30°C with little rain. The Historical Park lights up during November's Loy Krathong festival with performances and floating lantern ceremonies. Start your temple visits before 9:00 AM to avoid heat and crowds.
Getting There
Fly from Bangkok to Sukhothai Airport on Bangkok Airways (1,700 baht, 1 hour 20 minutes). Take hourly buses from Bangkok's Mo Chit terminal (310 baht, 7 hours) or Chiang Mai (250 baht, 4 hours). By train, stop at Phitsanulok and connect to Sukhothai by bus (60 baht, 1 hour).
Si Satchanalai Historical Park
Visit Si Satchanalai, 50 km north of Sukhothai, to explore 140 temple ruins along the Yom River. Rent a bicycle at the entrance for 40 baht. In nearby Ban Ko Noi village, watch potters create celadon ceramics from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
