A Visual Journey Through The Historical Ruins Of Sukhothai In Thailand

The kingdom of Sukhothai (Rising of Happiness) is one of the most magnificent examples of religious art and architecture in Thailand. The remains of it, known as meuang gow (old city), consist of 45 square kilometers of partially rebuilt ruins from Sukhothai’s 200-year long dynasty.

Sukhothai’s Historical Park is one of Thailand’s most impressive World Heritage Sites. Divided into five zones of various, impressive promenades, it is one of the most visited ancient sites in the country.

Most of the temples feature chedi-style architecture (lotus bud motif of conical spire topping a square-sided structure on a three-tiered base). Architectural patterns have been gradually modified and rebuilt throughout the years.

Wat Mahathat temple is the largest temple in Sukhothai, surrounded by brick walls and a moat that is believed to represent the outer wall of the universe and the cosmic ocean. The temple was completed in the 13th century and is one of the most impressive sites of the Historical Park.

Wat Si Chum temple is situated in the northern zone of the Historical Park containing a 15-meter brick and stucco seated Buddha, an amazing sight among others.

Wat Sa Si, also known as ‘Sacred Pond Monastery,’ is one of the classic Sukhothai-style temples consisting of a large Buddha, one chedi and a series of column ruins.

Wat Chang Lom, also known as the ‘Elephant Circled Monastery,’ is a sacred memorial consisting of 36 elephants sculpted into its basis.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.