Ancient City of Vesali (Mueang Kao Vesali)

History & Significance

Surveys conducted by the Fine Arts Department in 1968 revealed that the Ancient City of Vesali was established during the Dvaravati period, with evidence showing human settlement dating back to the late prehistoric era. Between 1100 and 1400 BE (6th to 9th centuries CE), during the expansion of Khmer power across Suvarnabhumi, Vesali functioned as a small outpost town for the Lavo Kingdom alongside contemporary towns such as Sukhothai, Yonok, Okhaburi, and Si Thep.

After coming under Sukhothai rule, the city was deserted for nearly 400 years until 2199 BE (1656 CE) during the reign of King Narai the Great of Ayutthaya. Recognizing the strategic value of the fertile lowland for rice cultivation and defensive staging against Lanna and Burmese forces, the city was restored. Archaeological excavations in 1996 unearthed structural ruins on the eastern side of the town dating to the late Ayutthaya period.

Highlights & What to See

The city layout forms a rounded rectangle measuring approximately 700 meters in length and 500 meters in width, bounded by double earthen ramparts with a central moat. Historical artifacts and structural traces discovered at the site include ancient Khmer Buddha images, a prang, and a library (hor samut). On the eastern section, visitors can observe late Ayutthaya-style ruins including an ubosot (ordination hall), mondop, vihara, and chedi.

Visitor Information

• Opening Hours: Open daily from 06:00 to 18:00.
• Admission Fee: Free entry.
• Facilities: Parking available on site.
• Contact Phone: 0 5651 4651

How to Get There

The Ancient City of Vesali is located at Moo 5, Phaisali District, Nakhon Sawan Province.