Sukhothai is a destination steeped in history and culture, offering travelers a rare look into Thailand’s origins as the seat of its first kingdom. I spent two days exploring the ancient capital, immersing myself in its past, cycling through age-old ruins, and even experiencing a local festival that added magic to the entire visit. Here’s everything I did and my top recommendations for making the most of Sukhothai.
How I Got There
Flying from Bangkok to Sukhothai was easy and affordable with Bangkok Airways. This direct flight even included a light meal and a uniquely charming arrival experience! At Sukhothai’s small airport, we disembarked on the tarmac and were picked up right there for a short ride to the terminal.
From the airport, I took a shared truck taxi into town, where I met a family taking extended leave to travel with their young children. It made me reflect on the unique ways families can explore the world together, even with little ones in tow. We rode along for about an hour as the sun began to set, a beautiful start to my time in Sukhothai.
Where I Stayed
Travelers in Sukhothai can stay in either the New City or the Old City. I opted for the New City, which is small but has a variety of local restaurants and a more relaxed atmosphere. The Old City, near Sukhothai Historical Park, offers more upscale resorts with easy access to the ruins, but it’s simple enough to reach these from the New City with a quick tuk-tuk or taxi ride.
My hotel, Midtown Sukhothai Resort, was a lovely choice. They served a delicious breakfast each morning and helped arrange all my transportation, from booking a tuk-tuk for a night festival to securing my bus ticket to Chiang Mai. The rooms were also pleasant, and the property includes a pool as well. Find more about Midtown Sukhothai Resort here.
Sukhothai’s Rich History
As the birthplace of Thailand’s first kingdom in the 13th century, Sukhothai is a window into the country’s ancient roots. The historical ruins of Sukhothai, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, are renowned for their beautiful temples and Buddha statues that remain as striking today as they were hundreds of years ago.
The park itself is a sprawling open space, where you can wander among temples, shrines, and monuments, each telling stories of Thailand’s past. Unlike other historical sites that keep visitors at a distance, the experience here is incredibly immersive—you can walk right up to the ancient structures, making it feel like you’re stepping into another era.
Exploring by Bike
The highlight of my time in Sukhothai was a full-day bike tour through the historical park. After a morning pickup from my hotel, our small group set out for a scenic, educational day among the ruins. Our guide was knowledgeable, recounting the rich history behind each monument, with insights into Buddha’s life and teachings. We learned about the ancient Sukhothai kingdom as well as a period when the Khmer Empire ruled the area, as evidenced by the Khmer style architecture included in the ruins.
We took breaks to refuel, enjoying a delicious lunch of yellow curry at a local spot and a quick stop at a fruit stand for refreshing fruit and cold drinks. This bike tour was easily the best way to cover the park’s expansive grounds while learning about the area’s fascinating past. If you’re in Sukhothai, I highly recommend booking this experience to explore the ruins comfortably and learn more about the Sukhothai Kingdom’s heritage.
King Ramkhamhaeng Memorial Day Festival
That evening, the city was celebrating King Ramkhamhaeng Memorial Day Festival in the ruins. This celebration, which honors one of the famed kings who ruled Sukhothai, featured a vibrant night market and a grand celebration show with elephants, lights, and traditional performances.
King Ramkhamhaeng, who ruled during the 13th century, is celebrated as one of Sukhothai’s greatest leaders and is often credited with establishing the foundation of Thai culture. Known for his wisdom and diplomacy, he created the Thai script, which remains the foundation of written Thai today, and fostered a period of peace and prosperity.
His reign is often described as a golden era, during which Sukhothai became a center for Buddhism, arts, and trade, setting the stage for a flourishing kingdom. The legacy of King Ramkhamhaeng lives on in Sukhothai’s historical sites, especially in the intricate carvings and inscriptions that reflect his devotion to cultural growth and unity.
The festival included a performance by local high schoolers telling the story of the King, complete with elephants in full decoration. During rehearsal, the trainers even allowed people to come up and pet the elephants. I hung out with one for a few minutes, a truly magical experience.
Reflecting on the Journey
Journaling during your travels is an invaluable practice that allows you to capture fleeting moments and emotions. Even a quick sentence can trigger memories you might otherwise forget. I’m incredibly thankful I kept a little notebook with me during this trip; it helped me reflect on the day’s experiences and savor the essence of each destination. As someone striving for more mindfulness in my life, dedicating time to journal gave me a space to rewind and cherish my adventures, and allowed me to look back to remember such incredible days.
Closing Thoughts on Thailand’s Ancient Heart
My time in Sukhothai was unforgettable, with highlights like cycling through ancient ruins and petting an elephant for the first time. If you’re considering a visit, I recommend planning for two nights—this gives you a full day to explore the historical park without feeling rushed. Although there are some local restaurants to check out, the festival added so much to my experience, and without it, options are limited.
Want help planning your trip to Sukhothai? Through my full-service travel design package, I’ll create a customized itinerary, making sure you make the most of this historic gem alongside your other adventures in Thailand. Book a free consultation today to get started!
