Ayuthaya Vs Sukothai

Many people ask me which I prefer, Ayuthaya or Sukothai. Both are former capital cities and contain many ruins of temples dating from hundreds of years ago when the cities were in their prime. But it's hard to directly compare the two.

A lot of people visiting Thailand are often looking for a day trip out of Bangkok and often don't have a lot of time to spend travelling. In this case Ayuthaya is the clear favourite because it's within easy reach of Bangkok, about 1-2 hours depending on traffic. If you have more time to spare then I would recommend Sukothai every time, not that I dislike Ayuthaya, but Sukothai is just...well...better!

Firstly, Sukothai is a lot further north from Bangkok. It's around about a 6-8 hour drive, depending on your form of transportation and the traffic. Thus it will take a few days out of your schedule, but can be done as a stop off on the way to Chiang Mai. But because of it's slightly more remote location, it receives far less visitors than Ayuthaya, which is a very popular day trip location for tourists and locals. On any given day you're likely to find coach loads of the local school children milling around the temples of Ayuthaya.

This makes Sukothai a far more peaceful place to visit, and so it's easier to get clear photos. On my visit here, over half a day I guess I probably only encountered a hundred or so other visitors. The temples are set in a historical park in well kept and fairly expansive grounds. It is completely separate from the main modern-day town. Although you can drive in the park, because it's off the main roads there is no traffic noise or the associated dust and pollution. Sukothai has plenty of trees and so plenty of chances to get in the shade.

As I said earlier, a lot is going to depend on your circumstances and how much time you have to spare. Ayuthaya is great if you can only spare a day or two and are based out of Bangkok. It's easy to get to and there are numerous tours. If you can spare the time, or are en-route to Chiang Mai then go for Sukothai.

Check out my website, linked below for some photos.

Matthew's Travel Website, http://www.matthewt.co.uk
My blog, http://matthewted.blogspot.com

By Matthew Tedstone

History Of Thailand

Thailand’s history is enticing as well as fascinating. Delving deep into the history will help you to understand how culture, religion, and people have evolved in Thailand over a period of time.
Due to lack of any proper written records, many contemplate on the kind of culture that was prevalent in Thailand before the Christian period. However, according to archeological evidences, there were traces of life in the north of Nakorn Ratchasima around 4000 years ago. It is said that people practicing agriculture settled in areas of southern Thailand during 6th century AD. The religion of Buddhism that is now practiced by the Thais came into the picture around 3rd century BC when missionaries from India were sent to regions like Burma and Thailand to spread the learning’s of Buddha.
The 11th, 12th, and 13th centuries of Thailand were quite eventful periods. During the 11th century, came the Dvaravati period, which soon collapsed with the invasion of Khmers. Around 12th and 13th century, the Khmers toppled and the Sukhotai kingdom gained independence. The 14th and the 15th centuries were marked with the powerful emergence of the Thai kings of Ayuthaya.
A series of incidents ensued during which Burma tried to capture Thailand but the Thais were able to recover from the attacks. In 1782, Rama I became the king of Thailand and this marked the beginning of the Chakri dynasty. During his era, Bangkok was made the capital of Thailand. He was succeeded by his descendants who were largely responsible for encouraging trade relations with neighboring countries such as China. Others made progressive reforms such as modernization of the legal and administrative systems and the construction of railways. Another descendant made further reforms by making education compulsory in the country. A series of succession followed ultimately leading to the reign of the king who was the ruler of Thailand until the sudden coup occurred in September 2006.

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