The name Sukhothai literally translates to "the dawn of happiness", and that seems appropriate for an ancient city that served as the capitol of Siam during the 13th, 14th and early 15th centuries. Filled with the ruins of temples and palaces, the capitol was a center of trade and the influences show in the remaining architecture. Khmer, Burmese and its own unique Sukhothai style stand side by side. Sukhothai is the birth place of the walking or standing Buddha, and they appear all over the historical park both as full figures and in friezes such as the one that encircles the Temple of the Walking Buddha. Lakes and canals line the parkways and provide beautiful backdrops for photos. Perhaps the most photographed site is the hand of the Wat Sri Chum Buddha, 2m tall, with long curved fingers and decorated in gold leaf.
At 70 square km, the best way to see Sukhothai is by bike. Rental stands await you at every gate and at $3-$5e the rental is cheap! Trains stop at nearby Phitsanulok. [edit text][editors]
