Wat Mahathat Sukhothai Historical Park
Explore the heart of the ancient Sukhothai Kingdom at Wat Mahathat, a vast temple complex with iconic ruins and a serene atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures and fewer people
Wat Mahathat Sukhothai Historical Park
Best Time
Cooler temperatures and fewer people
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the heart of the ancient Sukhothai Kingdom at Wat Mahathat, a vast temple complex with iconic ruins and a serene atmosphere.
"A must-see for anyone visiting Sukhothai, offering a peaceful atmosphere and stunning architectural remnants."
🚲 Rent a Bicycle
Easily explore the park's vast grounds. Bike entrance fee is extra!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during hotter months. The sun can be intense.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Buddha Head in Tree Roots
Wat Mahathat
An iconic image of Sukhothai, a serene Buddha head entwined by ancient tree roots.
Majestic Chedi
Wat Mahathat
The central lotus-bud chedi, a stunning testament to Sukhothai's architectural grandeur.
Seated and Walking Buddhas
Wat Mahathat
Numerous Buddha images, including seated and walking forms, scattered throughout the complex.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Park Zones and Tickets
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Rent a Bicycle
Easily explore the park's vast grounds. Bike entrance fee is extra!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during hotter months. The sun can be intense.
📸 Capture the Iconic Shot
Don't miss the famous Buddha head nestled in tree roots!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Rent a Bicycle
Easily explore the park's vast grounds. Bike entrance fee is extra!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during hotter months. The sun can be intense.
📸 Capture the Iconic Shot
Don't miss the famous Buddha head nestled in tree roots!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential.
💰 Zone Tickets
The central zone is included in the main ticket; other zones have separate fees.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Wat Mahathat's historical significance and photogenic beauty, particularly the iconic Buddha head in tree roots. The serene atmosphere and impressive architectural remnants, like the lotus-bud chedi, are frequently praised. Some note the park's expansive nature and the need for comfortable shoes and hydration.
"I explored a stunning 14th-century monastery in Sukhothai, surrounded by ancient trees. The aged buildings whispered stories of the past. Intricate carvings and a majestic chedi stood as testaments to skilled craftsmanship. A peaceful atmosphere enveloped the entire place, perfect for reflection. The air was fragrant with the scent of flowers. Giant banyan trees provided shade and a sense of timeless serenity. It's a must-see for anyone visiting Sukhothai."
Nan Eh Lar
"The central complex at Sukhothai Historical Park, Wat Matathat is a treasure trove of seated and walking Buddhas from Sukhothai. The whole area is a mass of lotus bud chedis, stupas and mondops, sometimes including stucco decoration. The complex is marvellously photogenic whichever way you look. A must-see for fans of Thai architecture and art."
Raymond Lind
"Wat Mahathat is the biggest and most important Temple in the entire Sukhothai historic park. It used to stand adjacent to the Royal palace of the first Kingdom.
Considering it dates back to 13 cent, I can say it's in a pretty good condition"
Dejan Braki
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Sukhothai 'New' City, you can take a Grab to the bus terminal and then a songthaew (shared taxi) to the park for around 30 baht. Alternatively, use a map app to find a nearby bus stop and hail a songthaew heading to the park.
Yes, renting a bicycle is highly recommended for easy exploration of the park's expansive grounds.
Bicycles are the most popular way to get around. Some visitors also opt for tuk-tuks or walking, especially in the central zone.
Wat Mahathat is located in the central zone, which is the main area of the park and easily accessible from the entrance.
Yes, Grab is available in Sukhothai and can take you to the park or the bus terminal from where you can catch a songthaew.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The central zone of the park costs 100 baht. Additional zones have separate entrance fees of 100 baht each.
Information on specific discounts is not readily available, but it's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter.
Sukhothai Historical Park is generally open daily from 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM.
Tickets can be purchased on-site at the park's entrance. It's advisable to buy them upon arrival.
Yes, there is a small additional fee for bringing a bicycle into the park, typically around 10 baht.
📸 📸 Photography
The Buddha head in the tree roots is a must-capture. The central chedi and the various Buddha statues also make for stunning photographs.
Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout the park, but always be respectful of the sacred nature of the site.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric glow.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and cultural sites to preserve the environment and visitor experience. It's best to check local regulations.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the ruins, while a telephoto lens can be good for details. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Wat Mahathat was the largest and most important temple of the Sukhothai Kingdom, built adjacent to the Royal Palace. It's a significant site for understanding early Thai architecture and culture. 
You'll find a central lotus-bud chedi, numerous Buddha images (seated and walking), stupas, and remnants of ancient structures, all set within a park-like environment.
Yes, it's considered a very spiritual and energetic place by many visitors, offering a sense of peace and reflection.
Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore Wat Mahathat and the central zone of the Sukhothai Historical Park thoroughly.
Official guides may be available for hire at the park entrance, or you can explore independently using information from guidebooks or apps.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage children to look for the different Buddha statues and imagine life in the ancient kingdom. The open spaces provide room for them to move around, and the relatively peaceful atmosphere can be enjoyable. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and consider visiting during cooler parts of the day to keep everyone comfortable.
🚶 Solo Travelers
You can immerse yourself in the historical ambiance, reflect on the spiritual significance of the site, and capture stunning photographs without feeling rushed. The opportunity to interact with locals or other travelers, as seen in some social media content, can also enrich the experience.
📸 Photographers
The best light for capturing the textures and details of the stonework and the golden hues of the chedi is during the early morning or late afternoon. Experiment with different angles and focal lengths to showcase the scale of the central chedi and the intricate details of the Buddha images. The surrounding ancient trees also provide a beautiful natural frame for your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Buddha Head in Tree Roots
This particular feature draws many visitors and photographers, making it a focal point of any visit. The surrounding ancient trees also contribute to the tranquil and somewhat ethereal atmosphere of Wat Mahathat, enhancing the visual appeal of this iconic spot.
Architectural Grandeur of Wat Mahathat
The complex features a remarkable collection of Buddha images, including both seated and walking figures, showcasing the artistic prowess of the Sukhothai period. The intricate carvings and the sheer scale of the ruins offer a glimpse into the kingdom's past glory and its deep-rooted Buddhist traditions.
Despite the passage of centuries, Wat Mahathat remains remarkably well-preserved, allowing visitors to appreciate its historical and artistic significance. The site's layout and design are a testament to the advanced planning and spiritual devotion of its creators.
Exploring Sukhothai Historical Park
+1Visitors can rent bicycles to easily navigate the park, which is spread out over a considerable area. The park offers a serene and picturesque environment, with ancient trees providing shade and a sense of timelessness.
Beyond Wat Mahathat, other notable sites within the park include Wat Si Chum, known for its massive seated Buddha, and Wat Si Sawai. Exploring these different zones provides a comprehensive understanding of Sukhothai's rich history and architectural heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit