Travel from Chiang Mai to Bangkok
Bangkok Here We Come
The direct drive from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is 427 mi (687 km) and should take 8 hrs 26 mins in regular traffic.
We decided to try visiting the most heritage historic park we could in 2 days on our way there.
Travel From Chiang Mai To Bangkok
Two-Day Drive from Chiang Mai to Bangkok | Heritage Parc, Temples
Day 1
Ceramic Shop
There are many shops along the road to choose from. I enjoy browsing through the shops.
This store offers over 10,000 items for sale, including tableware, plates, and plant pots. All are of excellent quality with various pieces and glazes. The prices are pretty reasonable, and you’ll likely make a purchase. Additionally, they take great care in packaging your items when you take them home.
Mueang Kao Heritage Site
We made our first stop at the Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the main attraction of Mueang Kao Sukhothai. The architecture is remarkable, and we were pleasantly surprised that it was relatively quiet with tourists, perhaps due to the heat.
Sukhothai is filled with history, art, and culture. Did you know that Sukhothai was Thailand’s first legitimate empire?
The old town of Sukhothai conceals many such historical facts and mysteries.
It is located midway between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, Sukhothai. Its status as one of Thailand’s most beautiful historical ruins makes it appealing for history buffs and heritage enthusiasts like you and me.
Nonetheless, it’s a must-see.
Stop for the night
Hotel
Chakungrao Riverview
We arrived at our hotel for the night, near the waterfront and the night market.
Although the market wasn’t particularly impressive, a stroll by the water was enjoyable.
Golden Crab Restaurant
This restaurant is located a few doors down from the hotel. The food was excellent, and the price was reasonable, but no one on staff spoke English, so a customer kindly helped us communicate.
Day2
Kamphaeng Phet And Sukhothgai Historical Park
Kamphaeng Phet is a historic city located in the southern part of Thailand. The Sukhothai Kingdom ruled this area from the 13th to the 15th century.
Sukhothai Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the ancient glory.
The park is renowned for its unique architectural features, indigenous design, and exquisite craftsmanship. Encompassing an expansive area of 70 square kilometres, it is home to over 190 ruins of temples, palaces, monuments, and statues. These are all nestled amidst moats, lakes, and trees, creating a truly enchanting setting.
The park includes various temples and sites, such as Wat Phra That, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Singha, Wat Chang Rop, Wat Phra Non, and more.
The park is designed with visitor comfort in mind. Each temple is accompanied by a signboard that provides detailed information about its history, construction, and distinctive features. Nestled within a shaded forest, the park offers visitors a relaxed and comfortable environment, even on hot days. It took us about two hours to explore the park, which was sufficient to see most of the attractions. Despite the presence of some stray dogs, they are well-behaved and do not disturb the visitors.
The park is divided into three main zones: the Central Zone (where the Songthaew drops you off), the Northern Zone, and the Western Zone. Because Sukhothai is extensive, we explored the site using an electric cart. It’s handy when we are on a tight schedule and want to see everything.
*The entrance fee for one park section is 100 THB ($3.75), while a ticket for both sections is 150 THB ($5.60ca). Additionally, there is a 50 THB($1.75) fee for car entry.
Nakhon Sawan
When you ascend the mountain, you’ll see the enormous gold Buddha statue. You can drive your car to within 50 meters of the front of the temple and enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Nakhon Sawan.
The giant Buddha statue, surrounded by trees, buildings, and the river from the hill in the Muang district of Nakhon Sawan Province, Thailand, is truly breathtaking.
While the temple and statues with monks may seem typical, the attraction’s main advantage lies in its stunning view.
Wat Nok
Wat Nok is a restored monastery within the Ayutthaya Historical Park. It is easily found on the southwestern corner of Wat Maha That. Given its close location, Wat Nok is sometimes mistaken for Wat Maha, though it has its distinct style and history.
Wat Nok, a monastery that stood tall in the Ayutthaya period before 1574 CE, witnessed the fall of Ayutthaya in 1767 CE, a significant event in Thai history that left it deserted.
In the late Ayutthaya period, Thai shops and Mon sold bowls, trays, salvers, and brassware behind Wat Nok and in front of Wat Phong.
Wat Mahathat, “the temple of the Great Relic,” was one of the most important temples in the Ayutthaya Kingdom. The large monastery is on the historical island and features a vast central prang. The upper part of its once massive central prang has collapsed; today, only the base remains.
The Place We Stay
Chakungrao Riverview
Chakungrao Riverview Hotel offers a minibar, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi during the stay.
The hotel is clean, and the price is very affordable. It is conveniently located within walking distance of restaurants, the night market, and the waterfront.
**When we arrived at the hotel, other passengers were served before us, and the staff forgot about us. This is not a good practice for the hotel.
Plan And Book Your Trip
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More of our Family Trip To Asia
Hong Kong
Chiang Mai
Dois Park
