Bangkok to Chiang Mai

18 Mar BANGKOK TO CHIANG MAI

We fly from Bangkok to Pitsanolok.  first we stop at Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, commonly called by the inhabitants as Wat Yai. This is the most important monastery of Pitsanulok, located at the foot of Naresuan Bridge on the city side of the river. The monastery was built in the reign of Phra Maha Thamma Racha I In 1357 CE. It houses the Phra Buddha Chinnarat regarded as the most beautiful Buddha image in Thailand. Phitsanulok has long been an important center for political and strategic reasons, and a major center of recruitment when waging war with Burma. It was the capital of Thailand for 25 years during the 1448-1488 CE reign of Ayuthayaos King Boromtrailokanat.

After our visit we continue to Sukhothai an early kingdom in the area around the city Sukhothai, in north central Thailand. It existed from 1238 until 1438. The old capital, now 12 km outside of new city, is in ruins and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage historical park.  We visit the Ramkhamhueng National Museum, an excellent introduction to the historic city, including much in the Sukhothai style. From here we proceed to Wat Mahatat, dominated by a 14th Century lotus-bud tower and encircled by a moat. Some of the best architectural ornamentation is found in the main tower. We also visit the remains of the Royal Palace and other temples. We ride through this wonderful place on bicycles which give a quiet calm to the experience.

We continue our long drive to Chiang Mai, arriving around 6 pm having started a 3 am in Bangkok we are beat. We check into the Empress Hotel and collapse for the night.