About Sukhothai Historical Park

The Sukhothai Historical Park is a collection of 193 ruins and 26 temples of the Sukhothai Kingdom dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. One of the most impressive temples is the Wat Mahathat, which means “temple of the great relic”, built in the shape of a mandala. The structure in the middle, a stupa, is in the shape of a lotus, built to house the relics of Buddha. At its base are 168 sculptures of Buddhist disciples. The largest temple is the Wat Phra Phai Luang. It has a moat 600-meters long and its architecture shows a shift from Khmer to Thai art. Particularly interesting are the 50 slates with engravings depicting the life of Buddha. Within a beautiful park-like area with trees and ponds with lily pads, you’ll find the President’s pagoda called the Wat Chana Songkhram. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a remarkable place for those looking for a quiet place of pilgrimage, or for ancient history buffs looking for something interesting and inspiring, this won't disappoint.

Must See

  • Wat Mahathat
  • Wat Si Sawai
  • Wat Sa Si
  • King Ramkhamhaeng Monument
  • Wat Si Chum
  • Wat Phra Pai Luang
  • Wat Chetupon
  • Wat Trapang Thonglang
  • Turiang Kiln

How to reach

By taxi:

Take a taxi from Sukothai Airport to the national park. This 33-minute journey costs between 1300 to 1700 THB and covers 31.1 km.

Tips

  • Some of the most impressive ruins are outside the city walls, so hiring a bicycle or motorcycle is essential to fully appreciate everything.
  • Don't miss out on the light and sound show at the Sukhothai Historical Park, called Sukhothai Night (Fri to Sun, 19:00 p.m. to 20:00 p.m.). It truly is spectacular.
  • The best time to visit the park is the early morning, as it can be very hot at midday.
  • Avid photographers should go just before the sunset hours to capture the image of the bright orange sun setting behind the giant seated Buddha at Wat Mahathat.
  • Drink lots of water, apply sunscreen as well as wear light clothing and comfortable shoes, since it can be warm in Sukhothai.
  • Try the guided tram tour that takes you through all major sites in the park. Hop on for a small fee, since this is a convenient and quick way to see the attraction.

Visit Time

Central Zone:

Sunday:           6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Monday:          6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Tuesday:         6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday:    6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Thursday:        6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Friday:             6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Saturday:         6:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Northern Zone:

Sunday:           7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Monday:          7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Tuesday:         7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday:    7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Thursday:        7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Friday:             7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Saturday:         7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Western Zone:

Sunday:           8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Monday:          8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Tuesday:         8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday:    8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Thursday:        8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Friday:             8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Saturday:         8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Time Icon

Waiting Time

You may have to wait in queue for tickets.

 

Entrance Fee Icon

Entrance Fee

Yes

Admission: 100 THB per person, for each zone.

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Time you can spend Icon

Time you can spend

6 hours

 

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Weather

Clear Sky 36.95°C

 

Local Services in Sukhothai (Contact directly)

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