New City

Sukhothai New City (Mueang Mai) sits 12 km east of the Historical Park and functions as the province's commercial and transport centre. It lacks the grandeur of the ruins but provides everything a visitor needs: bus connections, banks, pharmacies, local restaurants, and the widest range of budget and mid-range accommodation in the area. The night bazaar along Jarot Withithong Road is excellent for inexpensive Thai food and local interaction. The Yom River runs through the town and the riverside area has some pleasant cafes and small guesthouses. Most travellers treat the New City as a base for day visits to the ruins, though staying near the park itself (where a few resort-style guesthouses exist) gives a more atmospheric experience.