Sri Satchanalai Historical Park
| Located on the banks of Yom River in Sukhothai province is one of the valuable representation of ancient human life called as the Satchanalai Historical Park. |
Declared by UNESCO as a world heritage site, Satchanalai Historical Park houses some of the ancient remnants and relics depicting human life, their culture and traditions during Sukhothai and Ayutthaya periods.
Situated 50 kilometer north of Sukhothai city, Satchanalai Historical Park is spread over an area of almost 800 acres and it is located on the outskirts of Si Satchanalai city. Major attractions include ruins of various temples and kilns. Some important temples present inside the park are Wat Chang Lom, Wat Nang Phya, Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat and Wat Chedi Chet Taeo. Lotus Bud Chedi at Wat Chedi Chet Taeo is believed to contain the ashes of Sri Satchanalai viceroys. Most of the temples present in this park are believed to have been built during the reign of King Li Thai and present a true depiction of Sri Lankan style of architecture. There are some temples like the Khao Suwan Khiri Temple that was constructed by the King Ramkhamhaeng the Great.
There are several kilns scattered around the park indicating the fact that Si Satchanalai was once an important center for ceramic production. Pottery during this era was known as Sawankhalok.
Located 3 kilometers from the city of Si Satchanalai is another ancient town known as Chaliang. It is believed that the town existed during the Khmer rule. Hence, Chaliang is much older than Si Satchanalai. An interesting museum is situated in Chaliang that houses all the remnants that were excavated from the ruins inside the park.
The park is open to visitors from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm, and it costs 40 bahts to get in.
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