Situated on the route between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, the city of Sukhothai lies waiting to be discovered. Literally translated as "Dawn of Happiness," it was the first capital of the Siamese Kingdom and remains today the birthplace of Siamese identity. With its timeless ruins and vestiges, lush vegetation, and profoundly peaceful atmosphere, it ranks among the country's finest archaeological sites. Here's more about this historical gem that's an absolute must-see on any Thailand journey!

A glimpse into history…

Trapped between the Khmer Empire and the Burmese kingdom, Sukhothai became the cradle of Siamese identity when two regional leaders from the central plains, Pho Khun Pha Muang and Pho Khun Bang Klang Hao, united to liberate themselves from Khmer dominion. Then in 1238, the city became the capital of the Siamese kingdom. At its height, the kingdom stretched from Nakhon Si Thammarat in the south to the upper Mekong Valley in Laos, and into southern Burma.

The Sukhothai dynasty lasted 200 years and saw 9 sovereigns reign. But it was especially under King Ramkhamhaeng, a ruler greatly revered by his people, that the city experienced its golden age. It was he who created the first Thai script, drawing from Indian, Mon, and Khmer writing systems.

Despite its flourishing, Sukhothai faded into obscurity with the rise of the Ayutthaya kingdom in 1350 and became, over the following centuries, an extensive field of ruins. Only in 1960 did a Thai archaeologist undertake the restoration of the ruins with support from the sovereign Bhumibol Adulyadej, King Rama IV. The goal? To breathe new life into this ancient capital that many Thais still consider the birthplace of Thai civilization. The Sukhothai historical park was even inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. One thing is certain—this ancient city still has much to reveal…

An essential stop on a Thailand journey

Towering Buddha statues, original stupas, impressive prangs, stone sculptures shaped like elephants… The architectural elements of Sukhothai captivate every visitor! And the setting itself? Amid water lily ponds and floating lotus blossoms in the basins, ancient banyans, acacias, frangipani, and centuries-old trees… There's no question—a visit to Sukhothai is truly enchanting!

Thanks to restoration and reconstruction efforts, the Sukhothai historical park now encompasses 45 sq km of ruins featuring 21 historical sites, 4 ponds within the ramparts, and over 70 sites in the surrounding area. The ruins are divided into five zones: central, north, east, west, and south. But it's especially the central, northern, and western sections that deserve your time:

- The central zone, known as "the royal city": here you'll find the most imposing and best-preserved ruins, including the most famous temple: Wat Mahatat, built in 1240.

- The Northern zone: the former center of the Khmer city, where you can see an impressive seated Buddha statue nearly 15 meters high.

- The Western zone: nicknamed "the forest temples," this is the most remote area and offers breathtaking views across the plains. If you want to venture off the beaten path and escape the crowds, this is the ideal spot!

To explore the Sukhothai historical park, the best option is to rent a bicycle. Not only are the routes easily accessible, but you'll also be free to stop wherever you wish! Otherwise, you can always opt for a scooter or motorbike, tuk tuk, or car rental!