Sukhothai Province

Introducing Sukhothai Province

Sukhothai Province's main attraction is its historic capital city, Sukhothai. Thailand's first capital, dating back almost eight centuries to the country's 'golden age,' Sukhothai has a fascinating old city, which brims with some of the most visited ancient ruins in Thailand.

Further afield, don't miss Si Satchanalai-Chaliang Historical Park. Bring your imagination and sense of adventure and you're sure to love this more rustic collection of truly impressive ruins. Set among the hills in the old cities of Si Satchanalai and Chaliang (about 50km north of Sukhothai) the 13th- to 15th-century ruins are in the same basic style as those in the Sukhothai Historical Park, but the setting is more peaceful and almost seems untouched. Some people prefer the atmosphere here over that of Sukhothai.

Ban Hat Siaw is a colourful village southeast of Si Satchanalai, and home to the Thai Phuan (also known as Lao Phuan), a Tai tribal group that immigrated from the Xieng Khuang Province in Laos about 100 years ago when the Annamese and Chinese were in northeastern Laos. The Thai Phuan are famous for their handwoven textiles, particularly their exquisite brocade-bordered skirts.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009