Sukhothai

Sukhothai, the first capital of Thailand. Literally means 'Rising of Happiness' flourished from the mid 13th century to the late 14th century. The city of Sukhothai is approximately 450km north from Bangkok. The province was at first known as Sawankhalok, it was renamed to Sukhothai in 1939.

The Sukhothai kingdom is viewed as the golden age of Thai Civilisation where the religious art and architecture of the era are considered to be the most classic of Thai styles.

Sukhothai was the first truly independent Thai Kingdom, which enjoyed a golden age under King Ramkhamhaeng, who credited with creating the Thai alphabet which is essentially the same as that in use today. The province is most famous for the historic city of Sukhothai, the capital of the Sukhothai kingdom. It is located about 12 km from the modern New Sukhothai city. Not far from Sukhothai is the Si Satchanalai Chaliang Historical Park, a second city of the same time.

On the full moon night of the 12th lunar month, Loi Krathong and Candle Festival is held at Sukhothai Historical Park annually. Activities during the festival include krathong floating,a fireworks display and local games and performances amid the glamorous atmosphere of Sukhothai Historical Park.