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The name Sukhothai means "Dawn of Happiness" in Thai
and this is an interesting province in northern Thailand
located in the valley of the Yom River. Sukhothai
is approximately 427 kilometres north of Bangkok and
covers an area of around 6,600 square kilometres.
The province was established in the 13th century and
was the first independent Thai Kingdom - the Kingdom
of Sukhothai.
Today, most visitors come to see the spectacular
Sukhothai Historical Park, which is full of interesting
temples including Wat Si Chum, Wat Saphan Hin, Wat
Si Sawai and Wat Trapang Thong. There are twenty six
temples in all and Wat Mahathat is the largest, although
all are worth a visit. Both the excellent Ramkhamhaeng
National Museum and Sangkhalok Museum are good places
to get to grips with Sukhothai's intriguing history.
Exploring the temples in the sunshine can be hot and
sticky, but the sunset bicycle tours, which run daily,
can be a good way to see the sights whilst beating
the heat.
But Sukhothai isn't all about temples and history.
In fact, there are plenty of other dimensions to this
province which cause travellers to extend their stay
and visit time and again. If you are suffering from
the relentless sun, you can cool down and enjoy a
quick dip in the swimming pool at Suan Nam Premsuk,
or get fit at the nightly aerobics classes opposite
Wat Rachthani.
The night stalls opposite the Poo restaurant are
a great, cheap place to sample the local cuisine,
whilst indulging in a drink and a spot of people watching.
Simply buy a food voucher and make your selection.
The Si Satchanalai-Chaliang Historical Park, 50 kilometres
to the north, makes a great day trip and highlights
include Wat Chang Lom, Wat Khao Phanom Phloeng, Wat
Chedi Jet Thaew and Wat Nang Phaya. While you are
there, stop in at the informative Sawanworanayok Museum
and if you are interested in the ancient art of pottery
don't miss Swankhalok Kilns, where you can learn all
about the skill and how it has developed over the
ages.
Another great day trip is Ban Hat Siaw, where you
can bargain hunt amongst the colourful collection
of textiles.
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