Sukhothai Historical Park

It is a fascinating historical park that has been restored with the co-operation of UNESCO and the Thai Fine Arts Department. It is divided into five zones, and visitors have to pay to enter the central and north zones.

The central zone has some memorable ruins that are scattered over a sizable area with several man-made lakes between the temples. Wat Mahathat is the main attraction, and the huge Buddha statue that is flanked by laterite columns is Sukhothai’s most iconic image. However, Wat Sra Sri is perhaps the most poignant ruin with its island setting and access by wooden bridge. Sunsets from here can be spectacular.

The main sites to see in the north zone are Wat Phra Phai Luang, with its many structures and stucco reliefs, and Wat Sri Chum, with its giant seated Buddha hemmed in by tall walls. The Buddha’s fingers that reach over the knee to the ground are often smothered in gold leaf, and another iconic image of Sukhothai is people making offerings in front of the fingers. There’s a narrow stairway in the wall that leads up to a superior viewpoint of the huge (15-meter tall) image, but it isn’t always open to visitors.

It’s also a good idea to give the crowds the slip by visiting the lesser-known sites outside the walled city, such as Wat Chang Lom in the east zone and Wat Saphan Hin in the west zone, where you may well be the only person around. The best way to see these is by motorbike or bicycle and in the morning before the intense heat of the day.

The grounds at Sukhothai Historical Park are very well kept - perhaps too well kept in that they have a somewhat sterile feel compared with the ruins at Si Satchanalai and Kamphaeng Phet. Nonetheless, it is pleasant to explore on a bicycle, plus there is also a tram system in operation in the high season. Bicycles can be rented opposite the ticket office and you can also buy a good map at the entrance.

On the first Saturday evening of each month, there’s a light and sound performance at the historical park, usually running from 7-9pm. Ask at your hotel for details.