Sukhothai

Sukothai is the major Thailand archaeological site. There's a lot of history that goes with Sukothai, but my memory might not be quite, but I'll take a shot at describing some of it. Once upon a time, Sukothai was ruled by a dude and Si Satchanalai (about 40km away) was ruled by his brother. As the strength of Ayuttaya increased, it's kingdom began to gobble up the smaller ones around it. Sukothai was treated nicely given that it bowed to Ayuttaya without resistance, Si Satchanalai was really at the edge of the kindom. However, when Ayuttaya came under pressure from the Burmese and Khmer, the links between Sukothai and sister city  Si Satchanalai were broken. Si Satchanalai was over-run by the Lanna (northern thai kindom) in an attempt to defend again the Burmese and Khmer. So, Sukothai has ruins in relatively good nick, but Si Satchanalai is more delapidated.

When you arrive at Sukothai you'll be herded to Garden House for sure, whether or not you ask for a different hotel. Aside from treating tourists like sheep, the place is actually quite nice and even the food is OK. You can get around both historic parks and surrounds in a day on a m.bike. For experienced watters, try the fun game below (no offense intended):

From Sukothai historic park, in pairs, one bike and camera per pair. You have 3hrs (adjust if less time) to photograph as many different watts as possible. 3 points per unique watt, 1 point for each other, and 1 extra point for remembering the name of each watt. 10 points for the longest and least pronounceable name.

Seriously, we did whip around a bit fast, but there are some amazing Buddhist images here, including my favorite in all of Thailand - much better than ayutthaya. Pictures to come.