Sukhothai City Pillar Shrine is located north of Mahathat Temple within the inner city walls of Sukhothai, often referred to as the Old City. This site is considered one of the most significant sanctuaries in terms of governance and spirituality since antiquity. Its history is deeply intertwined with the City Foundation belief (City Pillar Installation), a traditional custom in Thailand and Southeast Asia. According to this tradition, establishing a stable and prosperous capital required a ritual to install a city pillar as an auspicious landmark and a symbol of the kingdom's longevity. A strategic central point within the city walls was chosen to enshrine the guardian spirits to protect the city and ensure the peace and well-being of its citizens.

The most prominent and valuable archaeological evidence at this site is the original city pillar made of laterite, which was the primary material used in the architecture of that era. The pillar reflects the high craftsmanship of Sukhothai art, particularly the intricate carving at its top in the shape of a Lotus Bud. This design is regarded as the "signature of the era" and the most flourishing artistic hallmark of the Sukhothai Kingdom. The lotus bud also symbolizes purity and enlightenment in Buddhist philosophy, which was integrated with Brahman-Hindu beliefs during the installation of city pillars. This laterite pillar is a vital antiquity that has endured for centuries, serving as historical evidence that confirms the center of faith and prosperity of the city in the past.

During the Sukhothai period, this area was considered a highly sacred zone, equal in symbolic importance to the royal temple, Wat Mahathat. Although time passed and the kingdom eventually fell into decline and was left abandoned for a long period, the faith and reverence for Chao Pho Lak Mueang Sukhothai never faded. Instead, it remained deeply rooted in the hearts and memories of the local people, passed down through many generations. Stories have been told of the sacredness and miracles performed by the guardian spirit in protecting the city, shielding the people from natural disasters and wars, and bestowing peace and abundance upon the land.

Regarding modern management, the original laterite city pillar still stands prominently on its original base within the Sukhothai Historical Park, under the excellent care of the Fine Arts Department to preserve its most complete condition. This shrine is significantly important as a "link" between the glorious past of Thailand's first capital and contemporary life. The fact that the city pillar remains in its original position amidst the World Heritage site allows historians and tourists to visualize the ancient urban structure, where the city pillar's placement was systematically aligned with cosmological beliefs.

The most important historical distinction of this shrine is its status as The Living Pillar. Even though the ancient city has been designated as a Sukhothai Historical Park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Sukhothai City Pillar Shrine continues to serve as the spiritual center for the people of Sukhothai. Traditional rituals, faith, and daily acts of worship continue uninterrupted. This proves that the site is not merely a collection of ruins or a stagnant archaeological monument, but a strong spiritual foundation that continues to drive the community's culture forward with grace.

• Private Car: From Sukhothai city, take Highway 12 (Sukhothai-Tak route) to Sukhothai Historical Park. The shrine is located near the Tourist Service Center and Wat Mahathat.

• Public Transport: Take a local bus from Sukhothai city to the front of the park, then use the tram service or rent a bicycle to explore the area.

• Dress Code: Please dress respectfully, as this is a sacred site highly revered by the locals.

• Cleanliness: Do not litter or write/graffiti on any artifacts or the shrine structure.

• Recommended Time: Visit during the early morning or late afternoon before sunset for beautiful lighting and cooler weather.

Admission Fees:

• Thai Citizens 20 THB / Foreigners 100 THB 

Opening Hours:

• Open Daily for worship: 06:30 AM – 07:30 PM.