Ban Dan Lan Hoi’s cultural traces reach far back in time. The Wang Hat archaeological site is located in Tambon Taling Chan, in Amphoe Ban Dan Lan Hoi, Sukhothai Province, and dates back to the late Iron Age.

Archaeological traces at Wang Hat

Finds include bronze objects, pottery and multicoloured beads. Weaving tools, jewellery made from semi-precious stones and glass beads have also been discovered. Two skeletons were found at the site; their age has been provisionally estimated at about 2,500 years. This approximate age estimate applies to the skeletons, while the dating to the late Iron Age applies to the site. The time references can therefore be distinguished: one dates the site, while the other gives a provisional age estimate for the two skeletons.

Cultural tradition and prehistoric settlement

In Ban Choeng Khiri, the Chuchok performance tradition has existed for hundreds of years; its venue is Wat Choeng Khiri in Tambon Lan Hoi. Ban Wang Hat, also in Amphoe Ban Dan Lan Hoi, is cited as evidence of prehistoric settlement in Sukhothai. The cultural context thus ranges from archaeological traces to a performance tradition that has endured over a long period.

Flat terrain and nature destinations

The terrain of Ban Dan Lan Hoi is flat; the district lies west of Ramkhamhaeng National Park. Huai Nong Khao Reservoir is promoted as a place for excursions and recreation, as well as fishing. Khao Fang Cave is promoted as a destination for excursions and learning about nature—two distinct options for travellers interested in nature.

Tham Chao Ram is a large cave with an expansive interior and an opening in the ceiling through which sunlight enters. It is home to several species of insect-eating bats. Visitors come to watch several species of bats emerge from the cave at around 6:00 p.m.; seasonal conditions may affect visibility.

Sukhothai as the broader cultural context

In the wider destination of Sukhothai, the history of the capital opens up a further time horizon: Sukhothai was the political and administrative capital of the first Kingdom of Siam in the 13th and 15th centuries. Wat Si Chum houses the so-called Talking Buddha in a mondop, of which only four walls remain. Wat Mahathat has a pagoda-shaped stupa, described as a distinctive form of Sukhothai art.

Si Satchanalai Historical Park provides visitors with educational and tourism information, as well as directions to the paths within the park. Si Satchanalai also has a long-established tradition of Chinaware craftsmanship. At Sukhothai Historical Park, visitors can get around on foot, by bicycle or by electric tram; bicycles can be rented there. Check these visitor arrangements locally before your trip, as they may change.

For the broader travel overview: Sukhothai.