Introduction to Sukhothai

by: Debbie Salcedo

Sukhothai is one of the northern provinces of Thailand. Founded in the 13th century, Sukhothai (meaning 'Dawn of Happiness') was the first truly independent Thai Kingdom, which enjoyed a gold en age under King Ramkhamhaeng, credited with creating the Thai alphabet.

The emerging Thai nation flourished militarily, claiming lands as far as Vientiane and culturally, developing a Thai alphabet as well as distinctive architecture and art. All this was accomplished in 150 years before Sukhothai was superseded in 1379 by Ayuthaya to the south.

If you can only visit one ‘ancient city’, put Sukhothai on your list as the ruins here are more intact and less urban than Ayuthaya’s ruins.

Superb temples and monuments have been lovingly restored in the Sukhothai Historical Park, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for all travelers.

What to do/see:

Sukhothai Historical Park
Today the remains of 21 historical sites can be seen within the old walls, with an additional 70 sites within a 5km radius. The ruins are divided into five zones and there is a 30B-admission fee into each zone; the central zone is 40B, plus 10B if you ride in on a bicycle.

 

Ramkhamhaeng National Museum
This museum provides an introduction to Sukhothai history and culture.


Wat Mahathat

The crown jewel of the old city, the Wat Mahathat is one of the best examples of Sukhothai architecture typified by the classic lotus-bud stupa, which features a conical spire topping a square-sided structure on a three-tiered base.

This vast assemblage, the largest in the city, once contained 198 chedi, as well as various chapels and sanctuaries. Some of the original Buddha images remain, including a 9m standing Buddha among the broken columns.

Wat Si Sawai

Just south of Wat Mahathat, has three khmer-style praang and a moat. From images found in the chedi, this was originally a Hindu temple, later retrofitted for Buddhism.

Wat Sa Si is a classically simple Sukhothai-style temple set on an island. Wat Trapang Thong, next to the museum, is reached by the footbridge crossing large, lotus-filled pond that surround it. It is still in use.

Wat Si Chum

In the northwestern corner, Wat Si Chum contains a massive seated Buddha tightly squeezed into this open, walled building. A passage in the wall that leads to the top has been blocked so that it’s no longer possible to view the Jataka inscriptions (stories of the Buddha’s past lives).