Sukhothai Day Trip and Getting Around Phitsanulok
Phitsanulok is the transport hub of the lower north, and its greatest day trip is one of Thailand's greatest sights: Sukhothai Historical Park, the 13th-century first capital of Siam, about 55–60 km west. The Sukhothai Day Trip Getting there: Buses and minivans leave Phitsanulok's bus terminals for Sukhothai (new town) roughly every hour in the morning; the ride takes about 1 hour and typically costs ฿60–100. From Sukhothai new town, a songthaew (about ฿30–50) or shared shuttle runs the 12 km to the Historical Park at Muang Kao (old town). A rental car from Phitsanulok (฿900–1,200 a day) gives the most freedom; the road is a good dual carriageway. At the park: The central zone holds Wat Mahathat, Wat Si Sawai and the Ramkhamhaeng Monument. Rent a bicycle at the gate (about ฿30–50 a day) — the park is flat, shaded and made for cycling. Zone entry fees for foreign visitors are typically ฿100 per zone (central, north, west), Thai visitors much less; check current signs. Do n...