Sukhothai

Gordon:  What can I say, Sukhothai is one of our favorite places in Thailand.  We spent three nights here on our last trip and two nights on this one.  The attraction?  Amazing temple ruins from the 13th and 14th centuries set in a tranquil park setting complete with mature trees, extensive water features, and abundant bird life.  Dawn and dusk are particularly pleasant, with cooler temperatures, few other tourists (never in large numbers) and great light for pictures.

Thais date the birth of their nation to the expansion of the kingdom of Sukhothai in the late 12th century, although Thai kingdoms existed prior to this time, and the kingdom of Sukhothai disintegrated after only a couple of hundred years.  The centre of power shifted to Ayutthaya, leaving Sukhothai to slumber in the jungle until a hundred years ago.  It is now a UNESCO world heritage site.

In honour of the late King, admission to the historical park is free for a three month period.  While the entrance fee was not unreasonable for western tourists, it was significant by local standards.  The result of free entry was that the site was full of Thais today, many on bicycles.  It was a joy to see so many enjoying the park and their own cultural heritage.