Sukhothai Historical Park (Old City Zone)

About this Place

Sukhothai Historical Park is Thailand's most serene UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving the ruins of the first independent Thai kingdom (13th–15th centuries). The park's Central Zone contains 21 historical sites within the original city walls and moat. Highlights include Wat Mahathat — the kingdom's spiritual heart with a distinctive lotus-bud chedi, 200+ Buddha images, and a 9-metre seated Buddha — and the Great Sukhothai Standing Buddha at Wat Si Chum. Rent a bicycle at the park entrance to cover the vast site (10 THB). The grounds are set in a landscape of lotus ponds reflecting temple spires — extraordinarily atmospheric at dawn and evening when temples are lit. The Loi Krathong festival (November) originated here and remains spectacular. Combine with the Northern Zone (Wat Si Chum) and Si Satchanalai Historical Park 60km north.