Cradle of Thai culture
Sukhothai Historical Park is a reminder of the 13th and 14th centuries, the time when Sukhothai was the first capital of the new kingdom of Sukhothai. It was the first city where the Khmer no longer dominated, and thus Sukhothai is considered the cradle of Thai culture. In this golden age of Thai history, wealth was invested in the construction of magnificent temples. The Khmer architectural style - similar to Angkor Wat in Cambodia - is still recognizable but was given a unique character. The style became a leader in Thai architecture and is still known as the Sukhothai style. Within the walled park you will find beautiful remains of the royal palace and as many as 26 temples. It is perhaps the most impressive temple complex in the country, and is included on UNESCO's World Heritage List.
Cycling through the temple complex
The largest and most important temple within the complex is Wat Phra Mahathat, which is a beautiful sight thanks in part to the mirrored pond full of lilies in the foreground, the surrounding palm trees and the green hills in the background. But even outside the walls lie the most magnificent remains of temples.
Grab a bike to see the impressive ruins in a foreseeable time, preferably early in the morning before the many tourists out. Or take the crowds for granted and wait for a golden glow to fall over the ruins at sunset, an enchantingly beautiful picture. Where the world can't find you...