"Wat Mahathat Sukhothai"
Sukhothai Historical Park
This fascinating park has been restored in co-operation between UNESCO and the Thai Fine Arts Department. The sites are still being restored in places but the vast majority are very well kept and suitable for long and relaxing strolls.
The Ramkhamhaeng National Museum
Built in 1960 and opened on January 25, 1964, this museum contains a collection of artifacts collected from the sites of Sukhothai and is a good place to begin your tour of the historic park. It is located to your left down the road before passing the entry office to the remainder of the park.
Wat Mahathat Sukhothai
Arguably the most impressive ruin within the Sukhothai Historical Park, this large temple is walled in and surrounded by a shallow moat. The ruined pagoda is the most impressive part of the complex, which was built to contain Buddha relics brought to Sukhothai from Sri Lanka. The temple was rebuilt on the many occasions during the Sukhothai Period and, a result, carries different styles.
King Ramkhamhaeng Monument
To the north of Wat Mahathat, this large bronze statue is flanked by four bas relief sculptures recording the King's life and exploits.
Wat Tra Phang Ngoen
Almost directly behind Wat mahathat, this wat features a brick chedi and four Buddha images in the 'attitude of dispelling fear' stance facing four directions.
Wat Sra Si
Located west of the King Ramkhamhaeng monument and situated on two connected islands, this temple is particularly beautiful and can be noted for its simplicity. A large and beautiful walking Buddha in Sukhothai style dominates the site along with one Pagoda in Sri Lanka style.
Wat Sri Sawai
Built in the time of Khmer dominance, the temple grounds contain three prangs, the largest of which is the central prang, standing at 20 m high. The prangs were decorated with stucco decorations during the 15th century. Originally it was a Hindu shrine before it was converted into a Buddhist shrine.
Wat Phra Phai Luang
Originally a Khmer Hindu shrine, this temple was second in importance to Wat Mahathat. Of the three original prangs, only one remains and it is decorated with both Hindu and Buddhist designs. During excavations a Sivalinga (phallic symbol of Shiva) was discovered within the grounds of this temple.
Wat Chang Lom
About one km to the east of the park entrance, this is the most important temple in the eastern area. The Pagoda is supported by a base of ruined elephants, although they are being restored.
Wat Si Chum
This famous and much photographed temple is definitely worth a visit. The impressive mondop houses a larger Buddha 'touching the earth' which measures 11.5 m from knee to knee. The walls of the mondop are 3 meters thick.
Wat Saphan Hin
Two kilometers to the west of the main park, this temple is at an elevation of 200 meters and affords good views of the historic park. There is not a lot here to see but it is worth the ride for the view.
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