Visit Sukhothai Historical Park, Thailand

Sukhothai was the capital of the first Thai kingdom, in the 13th century, and its ruins are some of the most graceful in Southeast Asia: lotus-bud towers, seated Buddhas and temples reflected in old moats. It’s quieter than Ayutthaya, spread across green parkland, and best seen by bicycle. It sits halfway between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, so it breaks the journey north beautifully.

What to see

Wat Mahathat. The central temple of the old city, with rows of standing and seated Buddhas and a lotus-bud tower typical of Sukhothai style.

Wat Si Chum. Just outside the walls, a huge seated Buddha, Phra Achana, fills a roofless hall, glimpsed through a narrow opening as you approach.

Wat Sa Si and Wat Si Sawai. One on a small island in a lake, the other with Khmer-style towers from an earlier age.

Si Satchanalai. A second ruined city to the north, part of the same UNESCO World Heritage site, which was listed in 1991. It’s even quieter, and worth a half-day if you have time.

How to visit

The historical park lies outside the modern town of Sukhothai. Rent a bicycle and ride between the temples in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and the heat bearable. One night is enough for the main park; two lets you add Si Satchanalai.

Sukhothai is closely tied to Loy Krathong, the festival of floating lanterns on the November full moon, and the historical park holds a large celebration with lights, candles and performances.

Getting there

Sukhothai has a small airport with flights from Bangkok, and it’s a road trip of a few hours from Chiang Mai or Phitsanulok. A private car makes it easy to stop here on the way between Bangkok and the north. See our Thailand itinerary and Ayutthaya.

Planning it with My Way Travel

We plan private trips through central and northern Thailand with a guide and driver, including Sukhothai on the way to Chiang Mai. Have a look at our Thailand tours or tell us your dates.

Sources: UNESCO on the Historic Town of Sukhothai and Associated Historic Towns. Last checked October 2026.

Frequently asked questions

Is Sukhothai worth visiting?

Yes. Its ruins are among the most beautiful in Thailand and much quieter than Ayutthaya.

How long do you need in Sukhothai?

One night for the main historical park, two to add Si Satchanalai.

Sukhothai or Ayutthaya?

Ayutthaya is an easy day trip from Bangkok. Sukhothai takes more effort but is greener, calmer and fits well on the way to Chiang Mai.

Photo: Khunkay, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.