Sukhothai   (Northern Thailand)

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Founded in the 13th century, Sukhothai was the first capital of Thailand (then Siam), which enjoyed a golden age under King Ramkhamhaeng, credited with creating the Thai alphabet. The superb palaces, temples and monuments of this great city have been lovingly restored in Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for all travellers. Ramkhamhaeng National Museum contains an outstanding collection of the arts and crafts of Sukhothai, including statues, Buddha images and old celadon found within the old city. Important sites inside the old city walls include: Wat Mahathat, the royal temple with a giant chedi built to house Buddha relics brought from Sri Lanka; Wat Sri Sawai with its three Hindu-style prangs; Wat Traphang Thong in the centre of a large pond and its Buddha Footprint; Wat Sa Si, an attractive temple on connecting islands with a large Singhalese chedi. Wat Traphang Ngoen on the Silver Lake is the scene of the Loi Krathong festival.

At over 1,000 metres above sea level, the nearby Ramkhamhaeng National Park is an environmental delight, with forest and hills combined with archaeological sites and interesting ruins.

A visit to Sukhothai in Thailand can efficiently be combined with excursions coming from Kanchanaburi, the national park Khao Yai and/or the adventurous trekking Touching Burma in Tak and is also is included in our module Ancient capitals.