The Ruins of Thailand’s Old Capital, Sukhothai

Within the country of Thailand sits the remains of a city that would prove to be influential on everything that the country eventually turned into.  The old city of Sukhothai (“dawn of happiness”) is within the similarly titled OldSukhothaiHistoricalPark.  For those who enjoy vast, sprawling ruins that depict the face of East Asia’s medieval past, there are few places more intriguing.

Sukhothai is regarded by many as the birthplace of modern Thailand.  Founded in 1238 CE when the region was seized from the waning Khmer, it would eventually grow into the capital of a new and powerful kingdom, conquering neighboring lands and expanding even further.  During that process, the leaders of this state would contribute such cultural transformations as the introduction of the Thai alphabet and the establishment of Buddhism as the state religion.  Thus followed improvements in art and architecture and Sukhothai became the center of art, religion and politics in the country.  But this could not last, and eventually, 200 years later, Sukhothai was absorbed by a more powerful southern Thai kingdom.

The site today is truly large, being spread out across more than 3 square miles.  This sprawl of ruins is conveniently divided into five zones, the most popular of these being the Central Zone, or the location of Sukhothai’s royal and religious population.  Within this zone is the site’s most famous landmark, the Wat Mahathat.  Surrounded by walls and a moat, this compound was once the center of politics and religion within the city.  In addition, all the zones contain their own array of temples, stupas, canals and pools, adorned with carvings, sculptures and statues of Buddha.

Each zone of the site charges separately for admission, though each is only around $3, so it’s not a wallet-breaker.  Food stalls are located at the Central Zone, though other areas are sparse.  This huge ruin has much to see and could easily make for an all-day trip.  If you don’t feel like walking the entire area, bicycles are available for rent as well.  If you manage to show up during Loy Krathong, during late October or early November, you can also enjoy a nine-day spectacle of parades, concerts and fireworks celebrating this symbol of Thailand’s history.  For more amazing pictures, head to this site and check out their gallery.

Wat Mahathat courtesy of Tevaprapas Makklay via Wikicommons

Wat Si Chum Buddha courtesy of Ahoerstemeier via Wikicommons