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Sukhothai (Part 3)
(Part1)

This is the third page about the Historic Park in Sukhothai. The first page shows various views and aspects of Wat Mahathat. On this page, as well as on the second page several Temples and sights of the Historic Park of Sukhothai will be explored. Also some attention will be paid to King Ramkamhaeng on this page

A major sight to see in historic Sukhothai is Wat Sri Sawai. You can walk to it from Wat Mahathat. It was built in Kmer style and was originally a Hindu Temple. You will not find Buddha Images of any importance inside for that reason.

While walking (or cycling) through Sukhothai Historic Park you will pass several minor, but nevertheless interesting sights. On the left hand side picture above, you can see Wat Sorasak, surrounded by images of elephants. On the right hand side picture you can see a stupa, with hardly any remains of the Wat to which it belonged. These pictures try to show you that taking any route through this park is worthwhile.

After having passed the old City Wall (quite a far walk from the Park entrance) you will see this Buddha Image, also with hardly anything left of the Wat to which it belonged. Nevertheless this fine Buddha is in good condition and worth a stop.

There is a special area in the park to remember King Ramkamhaeng, who was was the most important ruler during the Sukhothai era. Also in neighboring towns (like Phitsanuloke) statues devoted to this King can be found. King Ramkamhaeng ruled from 1279 to 1298. Do not forget to visit the Ramkamhaeng Museum, just outside the Historic Park.

In 1283 King Ramkamhaeng amended the Sri Lankan script and therewith created the very first Thai script. The left hand side picture shows the famous stone on which one of the oldest scriptures of this first Thai script has been engraved. The right hand side picture shows a detail of the stone.
And now a small disappointment: This stone is a copy and the real stone is standing in front of the National Museum in Bangkok, near Sanam Luang! So you are not looking at the "real thing", but at a copy to honor King Ramkamhaeng. You have to go back to Bangkok to see the "real thing"!

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I hope that I have awakened your interest for Sukhothai on these three pages. There are several ways of transport within the Historic Park: You can rent a bicycle or a kind of "samlor" (three wheeled bicycle with a driver). You also can walk, but then you will have to be a good walker if you want to see most of the sights! At some times public transport is scarce. In that case have some patience or visit the Museum first.
On the full moon night in November there is a great spectacle in the Historic Park on the occasion of Loy Krathong Day. Sukhothai is also known for that reason. But a visit at any time is almost a must for every Thailand traveler.
You have to pay an entrance fee for the Historic Park. If you have rented a bicycle, you also have to pay an entrance fee for your bicycle! Luckily you are (still) welcome to take your camera with you free of charge.

Download our Sukhothai screen saver!

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