Sukhothai - Discovering Thailand

Travelling to Sukhothai

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Sukhothai, a pretty good destination in Thailand (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Sukhothai and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Sukhothai, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Thailand, here's everything to know about Sukhothai for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a province in the north-central region of Thailand that was once the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom, which existed from 1238 to 1438. Today, Sukhothai is known for its well-preserved ruins of the ancient city and temples, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The province is also famous for its unique local cuisine, which features flavors and ingredients unique to the region. Visitors can explore the historical park on bicycles, take part in traditional festivals, or visit nearby national parks for outdoor activities. The province is about a 6-7 hour drive or a short flight from Bangkok.

What to visit in Sukhothai

Sure, here are the tourist attractions of Sukhothai along with some information about each: 1. Sukhothai Historical Park - This park comprises the ruins of the ancient city of Sukhothai, which was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom in the 13th and 14th centuries. The park is divided into five zones, each of which contains numerous temples, stupas, and other ancient structures.
2. Wat Mahathat - This temple is one of the most important and well-preserved religious buildings in Sukhothai Historical Park. It features a large central stupa surrounded by smaller chedis and Buddha images.
3. Wat Si Chum - This temple is known for its giant sitting Buddha statue, which is 15 meters tall and 11 meters wide. The statue is enclosed within a small building with a narrow entrance, which creates a dramatic effect when visitors enter.
4. Ramkhamhaeng National Museum - This museum displays artifacts from the Sukhothai period, including Buddha images, pottery, and other objects. It also has exhibits about the history of the Sukhothai Kingdom and the local culture.
5. Wat Saphan Hin - This temple is located on a hill outside of the historical park, and offers impressive views of the surrounding landscape. The temple features a large standing Buddha statue, as well as several smaller chedis and other structures.
6. Si Satchanalai Historical Park - This park is located about 50km north of Sukhothai, and features the ruins of another ancient city from the Sukhothai period. The park contains numerous temples and historical sites, including Wat Chang Lom and Wat Khao Phanom Phloeng.
Overall, Sukhothai and its surrounding areas are filled with fascinating historical and cultural sites that offer visitors a glimpse into Thailand's rich past.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Thailand, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Sukhothai.

When to go on holiday to Sukhothai

The best time to visit Sukhothai is during the cool and dry season from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and temperatures are comfortable. The temperatures during this time are typically between 20-30° Celsius (68-86° Fahrenheit) and there is very little rainfall. However, if you do not mind the heat and humidity, you can visit Sukhothai during the shoulder seasons of March to May or September to October. The rainy season lasts from June to August, and it is best to avoid visiting Sukhothai during this time as monsoon rains can make it difficult to explore the archaeological sites and outdoor attractions.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Sukhothai

There are several ways to get to Sukhothai, Thailand: 1. By plane: The nearest airport to Sukhothai is Sukhothai Airport (THS), which is served by Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways. You can fly from Bangkok to Sukhothai in around 70 minutes.
2. By train: You can take a train from Bangkok to Phitsanulok and then take a bus or van to Sukhothai. Trains depart daily from Hualamphong Station in Bangkok and take approximately 6 hours.
3. By bus: Buses depart from Bangkok's Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) to Sukhothai daily. The journey takes around 7 hours.
4. By private car or taxi: You can hire a private car or taxi to take you from Bangkok to Sukhothai. The journey takes around 5-6 hours. Once you arrive in Sukhothai, you can use tuk-tuks, songthaews, or motorbikes to get around the town and the surrounding area.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Sukhothai, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Sukhothai

Here are some typical foods you can try in Sukhothai, Thailand along with a short description of each: 1. Sukhothai noodles (ก๋วยเตี๋ยวสุโขทัย) - This dish features thin rice noodles served in a savory broth with pork, bean sprouts, and Chinese kale.
2. Khao soi Sukhothai (ข้าวซอยสุโขทัย) - A variation of the popular northern Thai dish, this dish includes egg noodles served in a curry-like broth with roasted pork, pickled cabbage, shallots, and lime.
3. Sai krog Sukhothai (ไส้กรอกสุโขทัย) - These sour and spicy fermented sausages are a popular snack or appetizer in Sukhothai. They're made from pork meat, chili, garlic, and other spices.
4. Kuaytiaw Sukhothai (ก๋วยเตี๋ยวสุโขทัย) - Another rice noodle dish, this one features wider, flatter noodles served in a broth with meatballs or slices of pork, Chinese kale, and dried chili flakes.
5. Pad Thai Sukhothai (ผัดไทสุโขทัย) - A unique take on the classic Thai stir-fried noodle dish, this version includes large rice noodles mixed with roasted pork, bean sprouts, green onions, and peanuts.
6. Thong yot Sukhothai (ทองหยอดสุโขทัย) - A popular sweet treat, these tiny, golden-colored balls are made from a mixture of flour, sugar, and eggs that's piped into hot oil and then coated in a fragrant syrup.
7. Kao lam Sukhothai (ข้าวหลามสุโขทัย) - This sweet and sticky dessert is made from sticky rice that's cooked in coconut milk and then stuffed into sections of bamboo before being grilled over an open flame. Enjoy your culinary adventures in Sukhothai!
You can find general info about typical foods in Thailand here.

Is Sukhothai an expensive destination for tourists?

Sukhothai is generally not an expensive destination for tourists. It is a popular historical and cultural city located in the north of Thailand that offers affordable accommodation, food and transportation options. There are various types of accommodations available in Sukhothai, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Local street food and restaurants offer delicious and inexpensive dishes, while transportation options include local buses and tuk-tuks.
Entrance fees to Sukhothai Historical Park, which contains ruins of the ancient city, can be a bit pricey, but it is still considered affordable compared to other tourist destinations. Overall, Sukhothai can be a budget-friendly destination for travelers.

Where to find accomodation in Sukhothai

The best areas to find accommodation in Sukhothai are around the Sukhothai Historical Park, which is the main attraction in the town, and near the new city center, which offers a range of restaurants, bars and night markets. Another option is to stay in the nearby town of Si Satchanalai, which is located about 60 km from Sukhothai and has its own historical park. However, the accommodation options in Si Satchanalai are more limited than those in Sukhothai.
You can check hotel prices at Sukhothai here:
Booking.com

Is Sukhothai a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Sukhothai is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any other travel destination, it is always advisable to take basic safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, keeping your valuables secured, not flashing your wealth, and avoiding dark and poorly lit areas. It is also recommended to carry a copy of your passport and keep the original in a safe place. Overall, Sukhothai is a beautiful and tranquil city, and you should have a comfortable and memorable experience exploring its fascinating historical sites and local attractions.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Thailand here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Sukhothai.

What type of travelers will enjoy Sukhothai the most?

Sukhothai is a historic city in Thailand that is rich in cultural heritage, which makes it ideal for tourists who are interested in exploring and learning about the history of the country. That being said, the city is suitable for all types of travelers, including couples, young people, and families.
Couples will find Sukhothai to be a romantic destination, where they can visit historic sites, explore the temples together, and enjoy the natural scenery. It's a serene and peaceful place that provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway.
Young people looking for fun will not find Sukhothai to be a lively party destination, but they can still enjoy their stay by visiting the night markets, going on cycling tours of the surrounding areas, and engaging in cultural activities such as Thai cooking classes.
Finally, families will appreciate Sukhothai's heritage sites, as they offer a great learning experience for both adults and children. Children will enjoy exploring the ruins and playing in the city's parks. Overall, Sukhothai provides something for everyone, regardless of their age or interests.

How to get around Sukhothai

The best way to move around Sukhothai is by motorbike or bicycle. The ancient city and the new town are not too far apart, and there are well-paved roads that connect them. Walking is also an option, but it may take longer. Tuk-tuks and songthaews (shared trucks) are available, but they can be more expensive. It's important to note that there are no taxis or public transportation in Sukhothai.

What to see around Sukhothai

Here are some nice places to visit as a day trip from Sukhothai: 1. Si Satchanalai Historical Park - a historical park that contains important ruins of the ancient kingdom of Sukhothai.
2. Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park - a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is known for its well-preserved ruins of the ancient city.
3. Lampang - a charming city known for its beautiful temples and old-fashioned horse-drawn carriages.
4. Phitsanulok - known for its famous Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat temple, which houses one of the most revered Buddha images in Thailand.
5. Mae Sot - a border town that offers an interesting mix of Thai and Burmese culture, and is known for its vibrant market and delicious food.
6. Uttaradit - a small province in the north of Thailand that offers scenic mountains, waterfalls, and national parks. It is a great place to escape the city and enjoy nature. I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
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