Where to stay in Sukhothai – old city or new town
Old Sukhothai near the historical park versus New Sukhothai town, plus Si Satchanalai. Where to stay and how to explore the ruins.
Sukhothai was the capital of the first Thai kingdom in the 13th and 14th centuries. Its ruins, together with those of Si Satchanalai and Kamphaeng Phet, form a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Sukhothai Historical Park is spacious, green and peaceful, with lotus ponds, Buddha images and temple ruins spread over a wide area.
Choosing where to stay
- Old Sukhothai (Mueang Kao), next to the historical park, has guesthouses and boutique resorts within cycling distance of the ruins. It is quiet at night but ideal for early-morning visits.
- New Sukhothai, about 12 km east, is the modern town, with the bus station, markets, more restaurants and cheaper hotels. Songthaews run to the old city.
- Si Satchanalai, about an hour north, has a second historical park and a few simple places to stay.
Exploring the historical park
The park is divided into zones, each with its own entrance fee. The central zone has the most famous monuments, including Wat Mahathat. Most visitors rent a bicycle near the entrance; electric carts and guided tram tours are also available. Go early to avoid the heat.
When to go
The cool season from November to February is the most pleasant. Sukhothai holds one of Thailand’s best-known Loy Krathong celebrations, usually in November, with light-and-sound shows among the ruins.
Getting there
Sukhothai Airport, run by Bangkok Airways, has flights from Bangkok. Buses run from Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phitsanulok, which has the nearest railway station.
Festivals and events
Loy KrathongWhen Loy Krathong is held, the best places to see it, what a krathong is and how to take part respectfully.
