Sareedphong Dam is an ancient reservoir or earthen dike that demonstrates the brilliant water management skills of the Sukhothai people. The name Sareedphong originally means water storage or a dam. In ancient times, Sukhothai city was located on a plain that faced significant water problems. During the rainy season, there were heavy floods, but in the dry season, there was a severe water shortage and the land became parched. The people of Sukhothai, therefore, had to invent ways to control and manage water for daily use and agriculture.

The ancestors of Sukhothai decided to build a large earthen wall to act as a dam, blocking the gap between two mountains: Khao Phra Bat Yai and Khao Kiu Ai Ma. This method caught natural water flowing down from the mountains and the Khao Luang range, storing a vast amount of water in a large reservoir before it could flow away wastefully or cause damage below. Choosing this location to build the dam proves that the people of the past had an excellent understanding of land elevation and the direction of water flow.

The most amazing part of this system was how they sent water from the dam into Sukhothai city, which was located further away. They used a clever method by relying on the different levels of the terrain so that gravity helped the water flow from high to low areas through canals and ancient clay pipes. This water was transported to fill large ponds known as Trapang, which were dug around temples, palaces, and important spots throughout the city. This ensured that the people of Sukhothai had enough clean water for consumption all year round, even during months with no rain.

Additionally, Sareedphong Dam played a crucial role in controlling water volume during the flood season by slowing down the water flow so it would not flood the old city directly. This irrigation system was like a vital foundation that made the Sukhothai Kingdom fertile and stable, as recorded in historical stone inscriptions that the city had convenient water for use. Today, Sareedphong Dam remains a living historical piece of evidence, showing that the effort to overcome nature with wisdom can create a good quality of life for people for many hundreds of years.

• Private Car: From the entrance of Sukhothai Historical Park, drive west (the same way to Wat Pa Mamuang). There are clear signs pointing to Sareedphong Dam along the route. The road provides easy access to the dam.

• Public Transport: You can rent a bicycle from the front of the park and ride along the outer old city route or use the park's electric tram service that tours the western historical sites.

• Recommended Time: It is best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon before sunset. The soft sunlight hitting the water and reflecting the mountain shadows is very beautiful, and the weather is not too hot.

• Apparel: Wear breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes, as the dam area is an open outdoor space.

• Conservation: Please help keep the area clean. Do not throw trash or objects into the reservoir to preserve the scenery and the quality of this ancient water source.

Admission Fees:

• Included in the Sukhothai Historical Park entry fee: Thai Citizens 20 THB / Foreigners 100 THB.

Opening Hours:

• Open Daily: 06:00 AM – 06:00 PM.