Si Satchanalai
The town of Si Satchanalai, located about 70 kilometers North of old Sukhothai was a Khmer outpost until halfway the 13th century. Parts of the Chaliang area defensive system built by the Khmer can still be seen today. The area’s oldest ruins like the Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat temple with its large Khmer style prang were built before the founding of the Sukhothai empire.
During the Sukhothai era the town acted as a second capital of the Kingdom. Around mid 15th century when Ayutthaya took over power from Sukhothai, Si Satchanalai was renamed to Sawankhalok and the town lost its importance. After the sacking of Ayutthaya in 1767, Si Satchanalai was deserted.
Kamphaeng Phet
The town of Kamphaeng Phet about 75 kilometers South of old Sukhothai played a military role in the Sukhothai Kingdom. It served as a garrison town or “wang” to protect the capital Sukhothai from invasion from the West. The town was situated in a strategically important location. It was well protected with moats, city walls, fortresses and watch towers. The town’s name translates to “wall of diamonds”. During the reign of King Luethai the town was moved to the East of the river and its name changed to Cha Kang Rao. After Sukhothai had become part of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, Kamphaeng Phet served as a garrison town to protect its capital Ayutthaya.