Find out what to see in Sukhothai (Thailand), the first capital of the Kingdom of Siam
In this entry we will explain what to see in Sukhothai. We saw this temple complex in one day. This destination loved us because the temples were similar to those of Ayutthaya, but being 6 hours by bus from Bangkok and 4 hours by Chiang Mai, people don’t usually go. This makes you be able to go through the temples almost only without crossing with anyone, by bicycle paying only 1 euro for the rental of the bike. The quietest atmosphere we found in Thailand, although it is also true that we went in August and the peak season of tourism is supposed to be winter.
What to see in Sukhothai
- Wat Mahathat
- Wat Si Sawai
- Wat Traphang Ngoen
- King Ramkhamhaeng Monument
- Wat Sorasak
- Wat Phrapai Luang
- Wat Si Chum
- Wat Thraphang Thong Lang
Description what to see in Sukhothai
Sukhothai, the first capital of the Kingdom of Siam, is a fascinating destination that houses some of Thailand’s most impressive temples and historical monuments. Here is a guide on the most outstanding monuments, locations and timetables within the Sukhothai Historical Park.
Costs and Hours to see from Sukhothai:
The Sukhothai temple complex is divided into central, northern, eastern and western areas:
If you change the area, you must pay the price of the entry of that area. In this post we explained to you the temples of the areas that gave us time to see quietly in one day, which are the areas with the best preserved temples, the center and the north. We also saw the Wat Sorasak temple, which was outside the central area but was not yet within another area and the Wat Traphang Thong temple, which was on the main street of the village.
- Entry:For foreigners, the entrance to each area of the park costs100 bahtper person. If you have a bike, add10 bahtMore. For motorcycles, the entrance is of20 baht. For Thai, the entrance is of20 baht.
On the map I have put you places where you can rent bicycles for about 1 euro / dollar next to the temples.
Sukhothai Bike - Time:The park is open from6: 30 am to 7: 30 pmMonday to Sunday. The paid areas are available from the6 am until 9 pm.
1. Wat Mahathat, the greatest temple to see from Sukhothai
Located in theCentral areaof the park, Wat Mahathat is one of the most important and representative temples of Sukhothai. This great religious complex includes several stupas, chedis, and Buddha statues. The main stove is surrounded by a set of 200 sculptures that form a Buddhist mandala. It is a place where you can feel the spirituality and greatness of the old kingdom.
2. Wat Si Sawai, the temple of the three towers to see of Sukhothai
Also located in theCentral area, Wat Si Sawai stands out for its three Jemer-style (prag) towers, which resemble the Angkor Wat structures in Cambodia. This temple was initially Hinduist, which is reflected in its architecture, before becoming a Buddhist center.
3. Wat Traphang Ngoen, the temple of the Silver Lake of Sukhothai
Wat Traphang Ngoen, located near the Wat Mahathat, at theCentral area, is known for its picturesque location by a lake. His name means “Silver Lake Temple.” In it you will find an elegant image of Buddha standing and an impressive Lotus Bud style chedi.
4. King Ramkhamhaeng Monument, Sukhothai
This monument is located in theCentral areaand pays tribute to King Ramkhamhaeng, one of Sukhothai’s most important monarchs. It is attributed to the creation of the Thai alphabet and the establishment of many cultural traditions that last until today. The monument is a must visit to better understand the history and legacy of Sukhothai.
5. Wat Sorasak, temple of elephants in Sukhothai
In theCentral areaof the park, Wat Sorasak is famous for its main chedi that is surrounded by 24 elephants sculpted at the base, each representing a direction of the cosmos. This elephantine structure is unique and reflects the ability of ancient Thai artisans.
6. Wat Phrapai Luang, Sukhothai
Located in theNorthof the park, Wat Phrapai Luang is one of the oldest and largest temples in Sukhothai. With its Khmer-style ruins and traces of Hindu and Buddhist art, this temple offers a fascinating mix of cultural influences.
7. Wat Si Chum
Also in theNorth, Wat Si Chum is famous for his monumental image of Buddha sitting, known as Phra Achana. The image is in a square mondop, and its serene face is visible from a considerable distance, making it an icon of Sukhothai.
8. Wat Thraphang Thong Lang,
This temple is within the village itself, known for its frescoes and reliefs that represent scenes of the Buddha’s life. Access to the temple is made through a wooden bridge that crosses a small pond, creating a quiet and evocative environment.
Exploring Sukhothai is like going back in time and immersing itself in the rich history of Thailand. Each of these monuments offers a unique window to the greatness and spirituality of the ancient Kingdom of Sukhothai.
Map what to see in Sukhothai
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