Sukhothai - 19th - 21st March

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Once the capital city of Siam, Sukothai's old city is now laid out like an historical park, which one can cycle around and stop off to explore the various ruins as one goes.  Not everyone finds these sorts of sites interesting and for that reason, we have not overloaded the blog with pictures.  That said, we both found the ruins of these old temples awe-inspiring and majestic in their presence; not least, because most of them date from around the 13th century and it is clear that highly skilled craftsmen were responsible for their creation.  As in all of the countries that we have visited, the Thais are mainly Buddhist.  The image of Buddha is everywhere and he is most often, (not always), represented with his hands in the position as shown in the picture.  This position indicates the stage of Enlightenment, so Mary is hoping that she, too, might see the light.   Elephants also figure greatly in the historical consciousness of Thailand: they have carried emperors, kings and members of royalty for thousands of years; in ceremonies, in warfare and, as a means of transport.  Although they continue to play their part in modern day Thailand, there are now other forms of transport available, one of which is demonstrated by the ever versatile Peter; who can, of course, ride both.

Training for LeJog