Sukhothai (, ) was the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom (also known as the Kingdom of Siam). Sukhothai is a historic city in north-central Thailand and the former capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom, one of the earliest major Thai states. It flourished during the 13th and 14th centuries and is widely regarded as an important center in the development of Thai politics, religion, art, and urban planning. Sukhothai was the capital of the Thai Empire for approximately 140 years.
Founding of the Kingdom
Sukhothai was founded in the mid-13th century, when local Tai rulers broke away from Khmer rule and established an independent kingdom in north-central Thailand. According to historical accounts, the kingdom began as a small regional power, but its location allowed it to grow into an important political center.In the early period, Sukhothai developed both as a royal capital and as a religious center, with temples, moats, reservoirs, and defensive walls forming the core of the city. In the 13th and 14th centuries, it developed into a major political and cultural center, and its location helped connect it with surrounding settlements and regional networks in mainland Southeast Asia.
Administration
Sukhothai served historically as the political and administrative center of the Sukhothai Kingdom, one of the earliest major Thai states in mainland Southeast Asia. This municipality functions as a local administrative unit responsible for urban management, public services, and local governance within the provincial administrative structure. The celebration is held annually to honor the water goddess, Phra Mae Khongkha, and symbolizes the act of letting go of misfortune while expressing gratitude for water.
Most long-distance buses arrive at the Sukhothai Bus Terminal in New Sukhothai, which provides connections to cities such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phitsanulok.