Sukhothai Historical Park

My favorite place in Thailand is Sukhothai – the first capital of Thailand. It’s a photographer’s dream and a great stopover en route to Chiang Mai. After rising to power in the mid-13th century, the kingdom spanned 200 years and nine kings before being absorbed by Ayuthaya. The old city is now a World Heritage historical park and features five kilometers of ruins that can be visited easily by bike. Don’t miss the giant Buddha at Wat Si Chum! I’ve lived in Thailand a few times and always go back to visit the ruins. My favorite thing to do is rent a bike at sunrise and take a solo trip through the ruins when the light is nice. Sukhothai Historical Park is open 6 a.m. - 9 p.m. and costs 150 Thai baht.

I visited this UNESCO site as part of my Thai holiday. Take the train from Bangkok and then a car to this quiet small country town that just happens to have this ancient capital site. A place to walk with a guide and map in one hand and listen. Then in cool of the evening wander at leisure and drink the atmosphere. A variety of styles from different asian cultures and yet a harmonious whole. A site that you can take at your own pace and ponder the lives of those people long ago. TIP: If you stay at the Legenda hotel then slip out of the hotel back gates directly into the park and enjoy enjoy