Travel Like the Wind : Suchart Choolee
The Laterite World Heritage, Stronghold of the Sukhothai Kingdom
I stand in awe before the restored laterite pillars of ancient temples, a profound testament to the effort and faith that fueled the creation of these wonders by our ancestors. The ruins are a powerful reminder of our roots—of how a city blossoms into prosperity through the power of collective faith that forges a unified spirit. Here, a center of power was formed, giving rise to a key fortress city of the Sukhothai Kingdom during the 14th-15th centuries CE, enveloped by dark laterite walls, sanctuaries, and citadels.
As if carried by the winds of time, I find myself in this land—a former frontier city whose name perfectly captures its essence: “The Diamond Wall.” This is Kamphaeng Phet, a historic city and satellite town of Sukhothai.
A visit here is a journey through two distinct yet interconnected historical realms. It begins within the “Inner Walled City Zone,” the former heart of governance and religion, where Wat Phra Kaeo and Wat Phra That still echo with vibrant traces of faith. Then, stepping beyond the walls, you are carried into the serene tranquility of the “Aranyik Zone,” or the forest monastery area. This is home to Wat Chang Rob, where 68 magnificent elephant sculptures surround the main chedi, as if shouldering the very weight of time. Nearby, Wat Phra Si Iriyabot features a mandapa that narrates the Buddha’s life through four exquisite, graceful postures.
Every step within Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park is not merely sightseeing. It is an invitation to let your imagination drift on the wind, to listen to the whispers of prosperity, faith, and wisdom that our ancestors embedded in every block of laterite. It is here you can hear the echoes of a past that time can never erase.
Kamphaeng Phet, from Frontier City to World Heritage
Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park
Encompasses three significant ancient towns: Chakangrao (the central city of Kamphaeng Phet), Nakhon Chum, and Trai Trueng. It is believed to have been founded during the reign of King Lertai of Sukhothai in the 14th-15th centuries CE as a crucial southwestern outpost, defending the kingdom from invasions and controlling trade routes.
In 1991, Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the historical parks of Sukhothai and Si Satchanalai, under the title “Historic Town of Sukhothai and Associated Historic Towns.” The key reasons for its inscription are:
- A Testament to a Flourishing Civilization: This group of historic towns provides exceptional evidence of the Sukhothai Kingdom, the first great Thai state, showcasing its achievements in governance, religion, and culture.
- A Masterpiece of Creative Genius: The architecture and art, particularly the “Sukhothai style,” are considered an original and masterful creation, representing a unique Thai artistic identity.
- Unique Architectural Identity: Kamphaeng Phet is distinguished by its extensive use of laterite as the primary building material for its large-scale monuments, setting it apart from other cities and demonstrating ingenious use of local resources.
Highlights of Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park
The park is divided into two main areas of interest:
- Inner Walled City Zone: The administrative and religious center. Key sites include Wat Phra Kaeo, which once housed the Emerald Buddha, and Wat Phra That, with its iconic bell-shaped chedi.
- Outer City Zone (Aranyik Zone): The forest monastery area for monks who practiced meditation. The atmosphere is serene and tranquil. Must-see sites include Wat Chang Rob, with its bell-shaped chedi supported by 68 half-elephant sculptures, and Wat Phra Si Iriyabot, featuring a mandapa with Buddha images in four postures: walking, sitting, standing, and reclining.
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🕒 Opening & Closing Times
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Hours: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (08:30 – 16:30)
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Days: Open every day of the week, including national holidays.
🎟️ Ticket Prices
The park is divided into two main zones, and the ticket price is usually for entry into one zone. The most visited zone that requires a ticket is the Khet Aranyik (Forest Zone).
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Foreign Adults: 100 THB
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Thai Nationals: 20 THB
Where to Buy: You can purchase tickets at the ticket booth located at the entrance to the main Khet Aranyik zone.
⭐ Excellent Value: Combined Ticket
If you are planning to visit the other UNESCO World Heritage sites in the area, consider buying the combined ticket.
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What it covers: Admission to all three historical parks: Sukhothai, Si Satchanalai, and Kamphaeng Phet.
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Price: 350 THB
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Validity: The ticket is valid for 30 days from the date of purchase.
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Where to Buy: You can buy this pass at the ticket office of any of the three parks. It’s a fantastic deal if you plan to see all of them.
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Getting Around: The park is large and the two main zones are separated. Renting a bicycle is the most popular way to explore. Rentals are cheap (around 30-50 THB) and available near the park entrance.
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Park Zones:
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Khet Aranyik (Forest Zone): This is the main ticketed area, located north of the old city walls. It contains the most impressive and famous ruins, like Wat Phra Si Iriyabot and Wat Chang Rob.
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Khet Nai (Inner City Zone): This area is within the old city walls and has several temple ruins, including the Royal Temple (Wat Phra Kaeo).
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Best Time to Visit: Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the intense midday sun and heat.
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What to Bring: Water, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes are essential.
Credit Video : thaipost
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