Joanna James
Thailand is a land of history, rich culture and majesty. In order to truly feel the pulse of the nation, you need to explore its historical sites. Here are some of the most important historical sites in Thailand.
The island is kind of the historical centre of Bangkok. After staying at a Sukhumvit 5-star hotel and gallivanting about the area, a visit to Rattanakosin Island will feel like a walk through an entirely different planet save for the traffic. You can visit the majestic Grand Palace complex and explore the significant Buddhist cultural sites of the Golden Mount and Wat Suthat. The Chao Phraya River flanks one side of the area while artificial moats give it privacy from the rest of the city. Don't forget to check out the Giant (red) Swing which was used in an olden day ceremony for youth to swing annually to try and reach a pot of gold. Rattanakosin Island is located about a 30-minute drive away from Sukhumvit hotels such as the Emporium Suites by Chatrium.
The city of Ayutthaya was once a Siamese kingdom of glory and rich culture. The grand city was established in the 14th century but the Burmese razed it to the ground in 1767. Even though much of the historical sites are now in ruins, you can still get an impression of its former majesty. The main sites are scattered around the confluence of the rivers Chao Phraya, Lop Buri as well as Pa Sak. The Buddha head encased in tree roots is a famous attraction in the Wat Phra Mahatha temple. Wat Phra Si Sanphet is known for its numerous Chedis.
Sitting comfortably on the banks of Mekong River overlooking Laos and Myanmar, Chiang Saen is part of the Golden Triangle. It is one of Thailand's oldest cities. The city was built by Tai migrants from China in 545 AD. King Rama 1 brought about its ruin in the early part of the 19th century. The Wat Phra That Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Chao Lan Thong are impressive historic temples that still exist bringing back former majesty to the city. The Wat Phra That Chedi Luang temple is famous for its 88-meter high Chedi.
The Phimai Historical Park is full of treasured Khmer architecture. The area's temples mark the end of the historic Khmer Highway. While most sites pay tribute to the country's Buddhist heritage, there are some sites that signify the influence of Hinduism as well as Animism. The Phimai sanctuary lies inside the park with its Naga (serpent) Bridge, the pagoda and Gopura (entrance tower). You can also visit the largest Banyan tree (Sai Ngam) in the entire world while you tour the Phimai historical park.
One of the most significant cultural sites in Thailand, Sukhothai brings to life a glorious past when stonemasons were supremely talented, and royals liked waterways and ponds in their parks. The region is laden with an abundance of temples, impressive architecture and beautiful lakes. Green and massive trees shade the entirety of Sukhothai historical park with its ancient sculptures and sites.
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