Peaceful scene at Mahathat temple.
The "cradle" of Thai culture
Sukhothai was once part of the Khmer Empire but broke away into an independent kingdom in 1238. Although it only existed for two centuries (1238 - 1438), the Sukhothai Kingdom left many marks with its brilliant civilization, known for its linguistic heritage, the development of Buddhism and the unique cultural identity that has been inherited to this day.
The ancient capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom is located in Muang Kao commune, about 12km from present-day Sukhothai city. This place has become a historical park and a world cultural heritage recognized by UNESCO in 1991. Coming here, visitors have the opportunity to admire nearly 200 temples with typical architecture, representing the culture of the land of pagodas such as Mahathat, Phra Pai Luang, Si Chum or Sorasak... Each temple has its own unique architectural features like a "unique" work of art created by the harmony between people, culture and religious beliefs.
Mahathat is one of the oldest temples in Sukhothai, surrounded by 185 stupas and 6 prayer halls of different sizes. The main stupa is located in the center, built in the typical Sukhothai style. Coming to Si Chum temple, visitors will be impressed by the 15m high sitting Buddha statue, built in the 14th century. The majestic appearance and large size of the statue show the greatness of the ancients when creating a vivid work in the lack of technical and technological conditions. Sorasak temple is famous for its stupa protected by 24 elaborately carved stone elephants protruding from the base. Elephants are considered "protectors" in Buddhism, and ancient kings often kept white elephants to show their power and wealth.
Along with Sukhothai, the two towns of Si Satchanalai and Kamphaeng Phet are ancient towns of the ancient Sukhothai kingdom. If Sukhothai was the political and administrative capital, Si Satchanalai was the spiritual center and the center of ceramic exports, then Kamphaeng Phet town was an important military center, protecting the kingdom from foreign invaders.
All three towns also boast monumental monuments and sculptures that testify to the beginnings of Thai architecture and art, known as the “Sukhothai style”. In addition, stone inscriptions found at the monuments have shown that the earliest formation of Thai writing originated in the history of the Sukhothai Kingdom. In addition, Sukhothai also had a developed economy based on agricultural production and industrial exports, especially high-quality ceramics. These favorable conditions made Sukhothai a prosperous country, known as: “Dawn of Happiness”.
Unique experiences
To fully explore the Historical Park and the area around Sukhothai Old Town, visitors can choose to ride a bicycle, electric car or rent a samlor (tuk-tuk) because cars are restricted here. Sukhothai Historical Park is divided into different areas. In addition to highlights such as Wat Mahathat or Si Chum, an interesting bike ride will take you to Wat Saphan Hin - where a giant standing Buddha statue is located on a hill overlooking the Sukhothai countryside. From here, visitors can gaze out into the distance to admire the peaceful and picturesque countryside, or immerse themselves in the brilliant sunset, watching the sun slowly set behind the Buddha statues and stupas.
For an overview of Sukhothai’s history, don’t miss the Ramkhamhaeng National Museum, located near the entrance to Sukhothai Historical Park. The museum showcases the life and career of King Ramkhamhaeng the Great (reigned 1278-1298), who led the Sukhothai Kingdom to its golden age. He is also known as the “Father of the Thai Language” for creating the Thai alphabet that is used today.
In addition to Sukhothai Historical Park, visitors should also visit Si Satchanalai Historical Park, located in the satellite town of the same name. This is also the home of the famous pottery industry. Visitors can tour some of the ancient kilns to learn more about the history of pottery and enjoy the tranquil setting by combining an overnight stay in Ban Na Ton Chan village. Located 10 miles from Si Satchanalai, the village has won awards for its community-based tourism initiatives that preserve traditions while allowing visitors to experience local culture.
When coming to Thailand, many tourists always want to experience the alms-giving activities of monks. Set your alarm and wake up early to witness the scene of monks lining up to beg for alms. One of the best places to experience this is Wat Traphang Thong, where devotees often gather to give alms to the monks.
Finally, to have a complete morning, after watching the alms round, visitors should immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the traditional market adjacent to Traphang Thong Temple to enjoy a cup of coffee and pa tong go (a snack similar to a donut) or try the local noodle dish - kuay tiao Sukhothai and feel the delicate combination of thin rice noodles (sen lek), grilled pork, vegetables and some additional ingredients such as minced pork, green beans, roasted peanuts, crushed red chili, fresh lemon... Surely, the diverse flavors of the dishes will be an unforgettable part of visitors when coming to the ancient capital of Sukhothai.
Source: https://hanoimoi.vn/cham-vao-qua-khu-o-sukhothai-690221.html
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