Sukhothai Historical park

Sukhothai Historical Park, located in Tambon Mueang Kao, Mueang District, Sukhothai Province, is approximately 12 kilometers from Sukhothai Thani. Acknowledged by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in December 2534, the park houses significant historical sites. Notable attractions include the Ramkhamhaeng Monument, Sukhothai City Wall with gates and fortifications, Wat Mahathat featuring the iconic Buddha statue "Phra Attharot," Wat Chetuphon, and Wat Si Sawai. Other points of interest include the Ban Kluai Archaeological Site, Wat Chedi Sung, and the Sukhothai Historical Park Tourist Service Center, providing information and exhibits. Accessible by car or local transportation, the park preserves Sukhothai's rich heritage.

Sisatchanalai Historical Park

The historical park of Sri Satchanalai is located in the districts of Sri Satchanalai, Sarachit, Nong O, and Tha Chai, part of the Sri Satchanalai district in Sukhothai province. Positioned approximately 550 kilometers north of Bangkok, the ancient city lies within the precincts of Phra Prang Village in Sri Satchanalai district. Its topography encompasses the plains of Phra Sri Mountain to the west and a large river to the east. The Department of Fine Arts has designated an area of approximately 28,217 acres as the historical park.

Given the favorable terrain, Sri Satchanalai played a vital historical role. The location's suitability for establishing a base is attributed to its diverse landscape, ranging from valleys along the Yom River to hills such as Phra Sri Mountain. This combination provided both fertile land and natural defenses against enemies. Archaeological evidence, including ancient tools found in Tha Chai sub-district, suggests human habitation since the 9th century CE.

Sri Satchanalai's significance is intricately linked with Sukhothai. Historical accounts confirm its status as a contemporary community during the Ayutthaya period. Notably, it was part of a twin-city state alongside Sukhothai. Rulers like King Si Intharathit assigned different kings to govern both Sukhothai and Sri Satchanalai. Subsequently, during the reign of King Rama I, it became a crucial city in the Ayutthaya Kingdom and was later named Sawankhalok.

Key archaeological sites within and outside the city walls include temples like Wat Chang Lom, Wat Chedi Jet Thaew, Wat Nang Phaya, and Wat Sa Wan Kaeo. Outside the northern wall, notable sites include Wat Ku Ti Rai, Kiln Site Ban Pa Yang, and Kiln Site Ban Ko Noi. In the east, Wat Suan Kaew and Wat Pa Kaeo are significant, while sites like Wat Phra Sri Ratana Mahathat, Wat Chom Chuen, and Wat Khao Angkhan stand out in the south. The western region features sites like Wat Phaya Dam, Wat Rahu, Wat Sa Phan Hin, Wat Yai Ngao, and Wat Khao Yoi. Noteworthy mountaintop sites include Wat Khao Luang Boon Yuen, Wat Chedi Jet Thaew Luang, Wat Chedi Jet Thaew Noi, and Wat Khao Luang Lower.

With over 215 significant archaeological sites, Sri Satchanalai Historical Park preserves a rich cultural legacy. Acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2534 B.E., alongside Sukhothai Historical Park and Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park, it stands as a testament to Thailand's architectural prowess and cultural heritage. The formal inauguration by King Bhumibol Adulyadej on November 17, 2533 B.E., further solidified its status as a global cultural treasure.