This trip to "Si Satchanalai Historical Park" by "ดินสอขอเขียน" can be considered a "dream trip" as they had visited this place as a child and wanted to see the ancient monuments again.

The trip began with a visit to "Wat Phra Si Mahathat, Mueang Chaliang", a royal temple of historical significance. The Chedi of Mueang Chaliang is believed to be an ancient Khmer sanctuary, built with laterite bricks. Upon entering through the archway, one encounters a large "Phra Prang". The front features a seven-chambered hall constructed with laterite bricks, with small windows mimicking wooden structures.

Inside the viharn, there is a large Buddha statue in the attitude of subduing Mara. On the right side of the main Buddha statue in the viharn, there is a Buddha statue in the attitude of walking, which is considered to be one of the most beautiful stucco Buddha statues in the Sukhothai art style.

We then headed to the **"Si Satchanalai Historical Park"**, a significant historical learning center in Sukhothai. This ancient city held importance from the Sukhothai period until the Rattanakosin era. Due to its location on a site rich in history and archaeological remains, it was recognized as a World Heritage Site, along with Sukhothai Historical Park and Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park in 1991. The evident architectural masterpieces showcase the park's significance as a representative of early Thai art and the origin of nation-building.

Nestled within the lush greenery of the Sri Satchanalai Historical Park, towering trees and verdant foliage create a serene atmosphere. This idyllic setting invites visitors to embark on a captivating journey through time, exploring ancient ruins by bicycle, on foot, or aboard a tram with knowledgeable guides. Embracing the spirit of adventure, "ดินสอขอเขียน" opted for a nostalgic cycling expedition with friends, venturing into the heart of the park. Their first stop was the awe-inspiring "Jededi Chedi," a magnificent temple adorned with seven rows of stupas.

**"Wat Chedi Chet Thaew"** is a temple renowned for its diverse collection of stupas, showcasing both pure Sukhothai and Srivijaya-influenced Sukhothai art. The temple's most prominent landmark is the **"lotus bud-shaped main stupa"**, situated behind the viharn. The complex boasts an impressive 33 stupas and other smaller structures, each with its unique architectural style.

We then cycled to "Wat Chang Lom", which features a bell-shaped Lanna-style stupa as its main structure. The base of the stupa is adorned with stucco elephants, 32 in total, standing half-submerged and supporting the structure.

The symbolic use of elephants in this context may allude to their auspicious nature in Buddhist tradition, where they are seen as guardians of the faith. This symbolism could also represent the elephants' role in supporting Mount Meru, the mythical center of the universe, which is analogous to the main stupa. The architectural style of the elephant-encircled temple is found in both Sukhothai and Si Satchanalai districts.

In addition, there are interesting temples such as Wat Khao Phra Nom Phloeng, Wat Suwannakiri, Wat Nang Phaya, Wat Suan Kaew Uthayan Noi, Wat and Suan Kaew Uthayan Yai, which you can cycle to visit. However, the group of "ดินสอขอเขียน" and friends decided to end their cycling trip here. Let's go on a trip together again.

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General Information

Location: Si Satchanalai District, Sarachit District, Nong O District, and Tha Chai District, Sukhothai Province.

Phone: 0-5567-9211

Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Entrance Fee: Thai citizens 20 baht, foreigners 100 baht.