Hail to the King

Although no-one really knows exactly when the historic city of Sukhothai – which means Dawn of Happiness – was founded in central Thailand, most guesses estimate it was during the 13th century, somewhere between 1238 and 1257. 

What’s known more precisely is that this first true Thai kingdom after the defeat of the Khmers enjoyed a golden age under its third king, King Ramkhamhaeng, and he’s still honoured today in an annual festival held every January. 

Local people mark the occasion by making merit with gifts of food to Buddhist monks and celebrate with cultural shows, processions, entertainment and firework displays.

Source: tourismthailand.org