Visiting Sukhothai Historical Park in 2024: Everything You Need to Know

Is Sukhothai Historical Park worth visiting?

Known as the first capital of Thailand, a visit to Sukhothai Historical Park is an excellent destination for history and culture fans. Although my journey’s main focus was on other Sukhothai attractions, I ended up having a great time in and around the park.

Located smack in the middle between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers visitors a glimpse into the ancient kingdom of Sukhothai.

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Best Sukhothai tour

Wat Si Chum an impressive buddha structure in the north sukhothai historical park

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Ok, so this blog post will include everything you need to know before visiting Sukhothai Historical Park, including a short history of the park, entrance fee structure, tips on visiting, aka how to not accidentally offend anyone, and what to actually see when you’re there.

the stnding buddha of Wat Mahathat, a sukhothai attraction

Brief History: Why is Sukhothai Historical Park important?

Resting at the heart of the Thai kingdom, Sukhothai was once the first capital of the Siam empire in the 13th century. The area was part of the Khmer Empire, and you can still see some architectural influence from that time period.

The local Siam population took power as the Khmer empire’s hold on the region lessened, creating the kingdom of Sukhothai, which lasted for about 200 years.

Sukhothai” means “dawn of happiness.” While it’s no longer around, could this be where the famous Thai smiles originated?

The UNESCO World Heritage site was granted in 1991. When visiting, you can tour approximately 200 ruins around the city that offer a unique glimpse into Thailand’s rich history.

Tours of Sukhothai Historical Park

If you’re looking to pre-book a tour, two main tours are available to visit the park: a full-day excursion with a guide or a bicycle tour like this one. Or if you’re coming from Chiang Mai, here’s a good day trip option.

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thai people lighting candle during the lantern festival, which thailand is famous for

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Sukhothai historical park map

There are five areas of Old Sukhothai, and three zones require a fee. The other parts and the surrounding small stupas, temple ruins, and statues can all be viewed for free by driving, strolling, or biking around.

Here’s a Sukhothai Historical Park map of the whole area:

Sukhothai Historical Park Entrance Fee Structure

Most information online is outdated. At least since 2022, the entrance fee for the Sukhothai Historical Park is only three sections: north, central, and west.

Each area has its own ticket booths, and you can only purchase a ticket for the area you are in. The tickets are only good for one day with multiple entries.

You can purchase additional amenities like a bike entry fee, hop-on-hop-off buses, electric cars, and tricycles. The north end has a car entrance fee too. Please see the photo below for the official prices.

sukhothai historical park entrance fee map

Tips on Visiting the Sukhothai Historical Park

Sukhothai historical park Opening Hours

Paid Areas: 6:30 am to 7:30 pm, perfect for the sunrise and sunset.

You can visit the free areas at any time.

Sukhothai Historical Park Dress Code

As with many temples around Southeast Asia, there’s a dress code when visiting the Sukhothai Historical Park.

Be sure to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Although I am not sure how strictly they enforce this rule, entrances to the fee area all have a posted sign about this.

Don’t Climb on The Statues

It should go without saying, but please do not climb where you’re not supposed to. There are signs in English asking visitors not to do this.

What to Do in Sukhothai National Park

Below I will list the most impressive and important temples to add to your park itinerary.

You can see all the best areas in a half-day trip if you have your own vehicle. However, if you would like to take your time, many people split the zones into two days to not get “templed out”.

Central Park Area

By far, the best area in the Sukhothai Historical Park is the central zone. Here, you will find the grandest and the most number of ruins. However, it is the most touristy part of the park.

Cat’s Insider Tip! Try to go early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the crowds and the heat.

Wat Mahathat

The Wat Mahathat temple is one of the most popular and magnificent in this Thai historical park. It’s easy to see why, as it features a large assembly hall, intricately carved Buddha statues, four corner stupas, and much more.

As the sun starts to set, Wat Maha That becomes the best sunset spot by far. You can see the temple silhouette against the incredible colors of the fading day.

Wat Mahathat the best thing to do in sukhothai historical park

King Ramkhamhaeng Monument

The King Ramkhamhaeng Monument sits northeast of the central area of Sukhothai Historical Park. The monument is a large stone statue of King Ramkhamhaeng, the son of the founder of the Sukhothai Kingdom.

Admired as one of the great kings in the Sukhothai kingdom, he gets credit for creating the Thai alphabet. At the height of his reign, his kingdom’s influence stretched all the way to present-day Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar.

Wat Sri Sawai

Wat Sri Sawai is a temple located south of Wat Mahathat, and it is unique due to three prangs influenced by Khmer influence. Built in the Lop Buri style, some designs are similar to those on Chinese wares of the Yuan dynasty.

This temple was originally a Hindu sanctuary but later transformed into a Buddhist temple.

Wat Sri Sawai the khmer influence temple in sukhothai historical park

Wat Sa Si

Wat Si is a photogenic ancient monument in the middle of a reservoir. Its important buildings include a round bell-shaped chedi, an assembly hall, and an ordination hall.

Fun fact: Before 1978 A.D., modern infrastructure built a road running straight through the temple grounds. Later aware of the cultural and environmental damage, the government demolished and repaired Wat Sa Si to its former glory.

nomadicated sitting in front of Wat Sa Si a photogenic temple in the central historical park

Wat Tra Phang Ngoen

Relatively small, Wat Tra Phang Ngoen is another prominent Buddha statue with a nice lake in front.

North Park Area

The northern zone covers Wat Si Chum and Wat Phra Phai Luang. If you only have time to see one, Wat Si Chum is much more aesthetic and unique.

Wat Si Chum

One of the coolest structures in the park, Wat Si Chum is a singular structure with a large sitting Buddha image, in the attitude of the subduing Mara, standing at 15 meters tall.

What makes Wat Si Chum so impressive is that the Buddha takes up the entire open roof enclave of the structure, looking out from a narrow slit.

West Park Area

Wat Saphan Hin

Although the western zone includes many ruins, Wat Saphan Hin is the only one worth visiting. Since I was running out of time, this was the area I had decided to skip.

The “stone bridge” (more like a path) leads you to Saphin Hin, a large buddha with a view of the surrounding area. The walk from the bottom to the top takes 5 minutes.

Other Historical Things to Do in the Sukhothai Area

Cycle Through the Historic Area

There are plenty of biking paths not just in the historic district, but also connecting new Sukhothai to the old city. Biking is one of the best ways to explore the park.

If you choose to rent a bike, it will cost 30 baht. If you wish to bring the bike into the park, there is an additional fee of 10 baht per fee area.

Guided cycling tours are available everywhere, some lasting only 2.5 hours while others last all day. Check out this all day cycling tour, pedaling through the countryside on a leisurely 30 -35 km ride past temples and ancient history.

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Ramkhamhaeng National Museum

The Ramkhamhaeng National Museum offers an opportunity to learn about Thai history, emphasizing the Sukhothai period.

The museum displays a decent number of artifacts–most found during excavations at the historical Sukhothai park. Further, there are almost always English translations explaining the significance of what you’re viewing.

The museum is priced at 150 baht for foreigners and 30 baht for Thai citizens. It’s conveniently location just outside the central zone of the park.

Wat Tra Phang Thong

The Wat Traphang Thong is an ancient monument constructed on an island in the middle of the reservoir, Traphang Thong. It is right next to the local flea market and Ramkhamhaeng National Museum.

Surrounded by 8 subordinate chedis, the main bell-shaped structure is hidden behind tall palm trees. Visitors can access the island by crossing one of two bridges.

Culture Experience Tip! If you want to experience the best place to celebrate Loy Krathong, come to this temple on the night of the full moon in November.

Wat Tra Phang Thong, a free thing to do in sukhothai

How to get to Sukhothai

Since Sukhothai sits between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, most tourists stop by Sukhothai as a waypoint between the country’s two most popular tourist cities. With instant confirmation and seat reservation, check 12Go.Asia, which is the best Southeast Asia transportation aggregator.

Getting to Sukhothai By Bus

Chiang Mai and Bangkok both have direct busses that will arrive at the bus terminal in the new Sukhothai. Multiple buses leave per day, and there are even night bus options.

Approximate Cost From Bangkok – 360 Baht
Approximate Cost From Chiang Mai – 324 Baht

Getting to Sukhothai by Train

Although Sukhothai does not have a train station, the nearby city of Phitsanulok has one. Since trains are generally cheaper (but more uncomfortable depending on which class you purchase), the cost is slightly more affordable than the bus.

Trains leave on average two times per day, passing through Phitsanulok. From there, busses leave every hour in the daytime to Sukhothai. The final leg of the journey takes around one hour.

Getting around Sukhothai Historical Park

Sukhothai is divided between new and old cities, with a 12-kilometer gap between them.

The ride-sharing app, Grab, and motor taxis are the easiest way to get around. Songthaews (the red busses) also run around the city all the time. Just stand on the main road to flag one down.

Once you are in the park, renting a motorbike or a bicycle to see all the attractions is the easiest way to get around yourself.

bicycle rental at sukhothai historical park

Where to stay in Sukhothai

Being by the old town is the best way to wake up and be within the confines of the historical park. However, the new city is the easiest way to get in and out.

If you plan on renting a scooter, staying in the new city is more accessible because many accommodations are right next to the bus station and are generally cheaper.

Highly Rated Places In New Sukhothai

🏘️ WHERE TO STAY IN NEW SUKHOTHAI

✅ STYLISH AFFORDABLE LUXURY WITH AWESOME POOL – Foresto Sukhothai Guesthome

✅ MID PRICED PRIVATE BUNGALOW WITH POOL – The Nature

✅ BUDGET DORM IN FRONT OF BUS STATION – Reung Sri Sri
I stayed at Reung Sri Sri, and it was great location-wise as it literally couldn’t be closer to the bus station. The hostel also rents motorbikes and offers tours.

Highly Rated Places in Old Sukhothai

🏘️ WHERE TO STAY IN OLD SUKHOTHAI

✅ QUIET RESORT WITH AMAZING OUTDOOR SPACE – Sawasdee Sukhothai Resort

✅ LUXURY RESORT AT CRAZY DISCOUNTS – Vieng Tawan Sukhothai Hotel by Thai Thai
For a few more dollars when this resort is on sale, I would recommend booking with Vieng Tawan over any of the cheapest options in Old Sukhothai. You are getting a lot more value for the price.

✅ BASIC PRIVATE ROOM NEAR CENTRAL HISTORICAL PARK – Vitoon Guesthouse

Best Time to Visit Sukhothai

To enjoy Sukhothai Historical Park to its fullest, the best time to visit is October-January, when the weather is cooler and less humid.

However, keep in mind that Northern Thailand experiences something called “burning season,” where farmers burn their crops, causing severe air pollution. This usually occurs during the winter period and may decrease visibility.

Thailand can get uncomfortably hot and sticky in spring, and the rains during the summer season may put a damper on your outdoor plans. However, the air quality is generally better at these times of the year.

Which is better Sukhothai vs. Ayutthaya?

Both UNESCO World Heritage sites have their pros and cons. If you don’t have too much time, then Ayutthaya is only an hour from Bangkok. Ayutthaya is much more spread out and has more grand structures.

If you would rather stay in a smaller city with fewer crowds and tourists, Sukhothai is the place for you. Sukhothai is in the middle of Bangkok and Chiang Mai, and the temples are much more centralized. But, if you can’t decide, visit both!

Final Thoughts: Visiting Sukhothai Historical Park

If you’re looking for an escape from the bustle of Thai cities, Sukhothai Historical Park is an excellent itinerary stop for history buffs and UNESCO World Heritage chasers. (If you’re looking for another historical area, check out this guide on Chiang Saen and the Golden Triangle)

With this guide in hand, you should be able to plan your visit for the most ideal time of year and get a better grasp of the land.

TRAVEL RESOURCES

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🏘️ Book your accommodation with Booking.com in advance and check availability on the days of your travels.

🧾 Rent a car in advance with Discovercars for those epic road trips at the best price.

📓 Safety first! Insure yourself with Safety Wings nomad travel insurance for $45/month for all your adventures and activities abroad.

Where Next in North Thailand?

I’ve been to Thailand 10+ times in my life and now spend my winters there. That’s a lot of my life biking, hitchhiking, and bussing around this beautiful country. Check out these other posts to see if any of these destinations pique your interest.