Transfer to the railway station this morning for a four and a half hour journey to the town of Wat Mahathat, gateway to the ancient capital of Sukhothai. Travel in Second Class which offers an air-conditioned carriage with recliner seats.

On arrival stop for lunch in a local restaurant, before a visit to the Ja Thawee Museum with its exhibits that depict rural Thai life. Continue with a visit to Wat Mahathat, a much venerated shrine and said to be home to one of Thailand’s most beautiful Buddha images.

Your hotel for the duration is the Lengendha which has an excellent location close to the historical park.

Lengendha, Sukhothai

Lunch

Spend the morning exploring the UNESCO listed Historical Park just a short drive from your hotel. Established around 1238, Sukhothai was the first capital of Siam and is considered the cradle of Thai civilisation – the birthplace of Thai art, architecture and language. This is appropriate as ‘Sukhothai’ translates as ‘the dawn of happiness’. Admire beautiful standing Buddha statues as you explore the many ruined temples and monasteries.

Lengendha, Sukhothai

Breakfast and lunch

It’s an early start this morning to take part in Tak Bat where you can offer food to the Buddhist monks at Wat Thraphangthong.

After breakfast back at the hotel, drive to Sri Sachanalai park which was founded in 1250 and contains ancient Buddha figures, palace buildings, and ruined temples. Continue to the Sathorn Gold Textile Museum which provides a history of ancient hand-woven cloth by the Phan people. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, before free time back at the hotel.

Lengendha, Sukhothai

Breakfast and lunch

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel and some free tome before meeting your guide and heading to the railway station for your afternoon train back to Bangkok.

Breakfast