Sukhothai Historical Park contains the ruins of Thailand's first kingdom, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient 13th-century capital with dozens of temples, stupas, and Buddha statues spreads across more than 70 square kilometers.

Main attractions: Wat Mahathat — the central temple with a colossal Buddha statue, Wat Si Sawai in Khmer style, Wat Sa Si on an island in a pond. The ruins look especially picturesque at sunrise and sunset.

The park is best explored by bicycle (rentals at entrance). Best time is November during Loy Krathong festival when ruins are illuminated by thousands of candl...