Wat Sorasak
A well-preserved elephant-base chedi within the Sukhothai Historical Park, rich in ancient Khmer-influenced artistry.
Plan your visit
- Hours
- Open 24 hours daily
- Dress Modestly
- Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Tours that include Wat Sorasak
Skip-the-line entry, guided visits and day-tour combos around Wat Sorasak.
This placeWat Sorasak: tickets, guides & combos
Most bookings cancel free up to 24 hours ahead
See prices
Day toursSukhothai temple & city day tours
Most bookings cancel free up to 24 hours ahead
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EveningSukhothai night & food tours
Most bookings cancel free up to 24 hours ahead
See pricesWhy go, and how to do it well
Wat Sorasak sits within the remarkable Sukhothai Historical Park, one of Thailand's most significant archaeological sites, and stands out for its distinctive square-based chedi ringed by a row of elephant sculptures at its foundation. This style of construction reflects the Khmer and Sri Lankan architectural influences that shaped the Sukhothai kingdom during its golden era in the 13th and 14th centuries. The elephants, carved in relief around the base, are a defining feature of the temple and give it an immediately recognisable character among the many ruins scattered across the park.
Visitors can expect a quiet, open-air experience with the ruins set against a landscape of ponds, manicured grounds, and other nearby temples. The atmosphere is contemplative and unhurried, making it well-suited to those who appreciate history and ancient craftsmanship. The site is accessible on foot or by bicycle, which is one of the most popular ways to explore the broader historical park.
Wat Sorasak appears to be accessible at any hour, though visiting during the cooler morning hours is recommended, particularly between November and February when temperatures are more comfortable. As with all temple sites in Thailand, visitors should dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees out of respect. Bringing water and sun protection is advisable, as the site is largely open and exposed to the elements.
Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Sep 2026 · How we check places
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wat Sorasak, round out your day in Sukhothai with contrasting stops nearby.
2PF3+5VQ, Mueang Kao, Mueang Sukhothai District, Sukhothai 64210, Thailand
Open in Google MapsMore temples & culture nearby
All within 6 min walk of Wat Sorasak.

King Ramkhamhaeng Monument
A revered monument honouring Sukhothai's greatest king, set within the historic old city.

Wat Maechon
A tranquil Buddhist temple tucked within the historic Sukhothai region, offering quiet cultural immersion.

Wat Chana Songkhram
A historic Buddhist temple in Sukhothai's old city zone, open around the clock for visitors.

Sukhothai Historical Park
Rent a bike, get there at opening, and let the 13th-century ruins have you to yourself for an hour.
Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Go Early Morning
Major temples like Wat Pho and Wat Arun are dramatically less crowded before 9 AM. You'll also avoid the worst of the midday heat and get softer light for photos.
Wat Sorasak: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wat Sorasak worth visiting?
Wat Sorasak holds a 4.5★ rating from 146 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Sukhothai.
What are the opening hours of Wat Sorasak?
Wat Sorasak is open 24 hours a day — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit Wat Sorasak?
The best months to visit Sukhothai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in Loy Krathong (November) — the festival's birthplace — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: March – May (extreme heat on exposed ruins).
Where is Wat Sorasak located?
Wat Sorasak is at 2PF3+5VQ, Mueang Kao, Mueang Sukhothai District, Sukhothai 64210, Thailand, in Sukhothai. Getting around Sukhothai: Bicycle — the classic way around the Historical Park (฿50/day at the gate); Songthaews between the new town and the park (30 min, ฿30).
Also popular in Sukhothai

Thai Thai Sukhothai Resort
Stay this close to the old city and you can be among the ruins before the tour buses wake up.

Sukhothai Treasure Resort and Spa
A calm, comfortable base for the ruins, with a pool to come back to when the heat wins.

Ramkhamhaeng National Park
A mountainous national park near Sukhothai combining jungle hiking, ancient ruins, and native flora.

Legendha Sukhothai Historical Park Resort
A refined boutique resort inside Sukhothai Historical Park, featuring Thai-style rooms and a saltwater pool.
Similar Temples & Culture across Thailand

Wat Phra Kaew
Go at 08:30 or don't bother, the Emerald Buddha's courtyards fill up fast and stay full until closing.

Doi Suthep Temple
Go at first light, before the tour vans arrive, and the golden chedi and the whole Chiang Mai valley are yours.

The Grand Palace
Go at 08:30 sharp, cover your shoulders and legs, and give it three hours rather than one.

The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A hand-carved wooden giant still under construction, and watching the carpenters work is half the point.