Things To Do
in Sukhothai
Sukhothai is a historical city located in central Thailand, known for its well-preserved ruins of ancient temples and palaces. It was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom, considered the first kingdom of Thailand. The Sukhothai Historical Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and showcases the city's rich cultural heritage.
Visitors can explore the ancient ruins by foot, bicycle, or guided tour to learn about the fascinating history of Sukhothai.
- "Sawasdee" - Hello
- "Khop khun" - Thank you
- "Chai" - Yes
- "Mai" - No
- "Tao rai?" - How much?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The early morning light makes for stunning photographs of the ancient ruins.
Head to the local market for lunch and sample traditional Thai dishes. Afterward, rent a bike to explore the park's vast area at your own pace.
End the day by visiting the enchanting Wat Si Chum to see the impressive Buddha statue. Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a nearby restaurant with a view of the park.
Take a peaceful guided meditation class at a local temple to start your day with mindfulness. Enjoy the tranquility of the lush surroundings.
Visit the Ramkhamhaeng National Museum to learn about the history and culture of the Sukhothai region. Immerse yourself in local art and artifacts.
Relax at a spa for a traditional Thai massage. Later, enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant with beautiful sunset views.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical significance with ancient ruins and temples.
- Beautiful landscapes and natural scenery.
- Cultural experiences and local traditions.
- Less crowded compared to other tourist destinations in Thailand.
- Delicious local cuisine with unique flavors.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Some tourist attractions may require entry fees.
- Weather can be hot and humid, especially during summer.
- Language barrier as English may not be widely spoken.
- Not as many modern amenities or infrastructure compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Sukhothai
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient temples, Buddha statues, and beautiful park landscapes. Ideal for biking or walking.
Rent a bike and explore the scenic countryside and historical ruins at your own pace, focusing on the surrounding area outside the main park.
Experience breathtaking aerial views of Sukhothai's landscape, historical sites, and rice paddies during a thrilling hot air balloon ride.
Embark on a hiking adventure in this national park, which boasts waterfalls, wildlife, and stunning mountain views, perfect for nature lovers.
Enjoy kayaking in nearby lakes or rivers, appreciating the tranquil scenery and observing local wildlife along the waterways.
In the evening, explore the local night market where you can sample various Thai street foods and shop for handmade crafts.
Join a guided cycling tour to visit nearby villages, learn about local culture, and enjoy authentic Thai hospitality.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sukhothai with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sukhothai
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the most iconic and photogenic temples in Sukhothai, famous for its Buddha statues and serene atmosphere.
A UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient ruins and peaceful surroundings, offering great views and photo opportunities of the historical architecture.
Known for its impressive Buddha statue and architectural beauty, providing a picturesque setting for photography and sightseeing.
Food in Sukhothai
Sukhothai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Flat rice noodles served in a flavorful broth with tender slices of pork, green beans, and crispy wonton strips. Find this delectable dish at street food stalls throughout the city.
Must-Try!
A version of the famous Thai stir-fried noodle dish, Pad Thai, unique to Sukhothai. It typically includes thin rice noodles, dried shrimp, tofu, and tamarind sauce. Look for it at local eateries and food vendors.
A traditional Sukhothai dish featuring rice served with a piquant shrimp paste sauce, accompanied by an assortment of flavorful condiments. Try this dish at traditional restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sukhothai better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling night market is a treasure trove of street food delights. Sample an array of local treats, from grilled skewers and fresh seafood to sweet snacks and refreshing beverages.
Visit this vibrant market during the day to discover an assortment of fresh produce, aromatic spices, and ready-to-eat Thai dishes. It's an excellent place to immerse in Sukhothai's food culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Sukhothai, as in the rest of Thailand, monks hold a special place in society. Show respect by avoiding physical contact, especially with their robes, and by not speaking in a loud voice around them. Women should take extra care not to touch monks or hand them items directly.
The traditional greeting in Thailand is the 'Wai', where one places their palms together in a prayer-like gesture and bows slightly. It is polite to return this gesture when greeted with a Wai, particularly to elders or people in higher positions.
When visiting temples in Sukhothai, dress modestly to show respect. This means wearing clothes that cover the shoulders and knees. Avoiding revealing clothing, swimwear, and flip-flops is also advised.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Sukhothai with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Sukhothai
Ensure a smooth experience
In Sukhothai, as in many parts of Thailand, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. It is common to round up the bill at restaurants or leave small change for good service. In tourist areas, leaving a tip of 20-50 baht is considered generous. However, tipping in informal settings, like street food vendors, is less common.
Payment practices in Sukhothai typically involve cash transactions, as many small businesses and street vendors may not accept credit cards. However, larger establishments such as hotels and some restaurants may accept card payments. Mobile payment systems are growing in popularity, particularly among younger consumers and in urban areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Sukhothai.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Sukhothai is during the cool and dry season from November to February. The weather is pleasant, and it's an ideal time for exploring the historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities.
During the hot season from March to June, the weather can be very hot and dry. It's advisable to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during the peak of the day.
The wet season from July to October brings heavy rainfall and high humidity. While the landscapes are lush and green, outdoor activities may be limited, and some historical sites could be affected by the rain.
Sukhothai at Night
Hiking in Sukhothai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
While primarily known for its historical significance, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers scenic walking and hiking paths amidst ancient ruins and lush greenery.
Located about an hour's drive from Sukhothai, this national park features stunning hiking trails that take you through dense forests, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna.
Similar to Sukhothai Historical Park, this site offers hiking paths that connect various temples and ruins in a tranquil natural setting, perfect for explorers and history enthusiasts.
Approximately a two-hour drive from Sukhothai, this national park features rolling hills, unique rock formations, and various trails suitable for hiking and enjoying nature.
About one hour from Sukhothai, it offers hiking trails through mountainous terrain, waterfalls, and opportunities for bird watching and exploring nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Sukhothai through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Sukhothai by plane.
Main international airport serving Bangkok, located approximately 450 km from Sukhothai.
Another major airport serving Bangkok, situated about 400 km from Sukhothai.
International airport located in Chiang Mai, approximately 250 km from Sukhothai.
International airport located in Phuket, around 770 km from Sukhothai.
International airport serving Hat Yai, situated about 830 km from Sukhothai.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Sukhothai, comprising the majority of the population.
A significant minority, often involved in commerce and business.
An ethnic group with historical roots in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Various smaller indigenous communities that have unique cultural practices.
The Soul of Sukhothai
Discover the essence of Sukhothai through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Thai boxing that is popular in Sukhothai, known for its eight points of contact.
The most popular team sport in Sukhothai, with many local teams and a passionate fan base.
Growing in popularity, especially among the youth with local courts and schools promoting the sport.
A widely played sport in schools and community gatherings, often enjoyed both indoors and on beaches.
A popular recreational game in Thailand, similar to boules, often played in parks and social settings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sukhothai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While many traditional Sukhothai dishes contain meat or fish, vegetarians and vegans can find options such as vegetable stir-fries, tofu-based dishes, and fresh fruit smoothies at most eateries. Restaurants like Poo Restaurant and Oh! My Cakes offer dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus.
For those seeking gluten-free options, dishes like grilled meats, fresh salads, and rice-based noodles are commonly available. Additionally, communicating dietary restrictions clearly to restaurant staff can help in customizing meals to suit specific requirements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Sukhothai with these cultural adventures.
