Sukhothai and Si Satchanalai
In 1238 the Thais established the new capital of teh Lanna Kingdom near the Yom River, and drove the Khmer to the East. Named Sukhothai, or “Dawn of Happiness” the city marked the birth of the first Thai Nation. Sukhothai’s short-lived glory is preserved in it’s spectacular ruins. Nearby Si Satchanalai, Old Sukhothai’s twin city remains untrafficked.
If you enjoy history and ancient ruins, these cities, along with Ayutthaya, are must sees of Thailand. The sights provide rare opportunities to step back in time and be off the beaten tourist track. That said, if ruins and buddhas are not your thing, this is not a worthwhile stop on your itinerary.
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