A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sukhothai vs. Mount Aspiring National Park for Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Sukhothai and Mount Aspiring National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a historical, cultural, and under-rated city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Sukhothai travel costs.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a breathtaking, undeveloped, and remote national park. Mount Aspiring National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Mount Aspiring National Park travel costs.

Sukhothai and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sukhothai. Although Sukhothai and Mount Aspiring National Park are popular destinations, Sukhothai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sukhothai is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Mount Aspiring National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Sukhothai is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is popular for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam. It is also well known for Wat Si Chom in the Sukhothai Historical Park. Mount Aspiring National Park is famous for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Sukhothai different from Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mount Aspiring National Park and Sukhothai. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Sukhothai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sukhothai is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Sukhothai can be an interesting and educational experience. Although many visitors overlook Sukhothai, the Sukhothai Historical Park is one of the area's most impressive historical and cultural sights. There are countless historical landmarks both within the old walled city and in the surrounding area.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sukhothai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sukhothai is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Sukhothai. Tourists visit specifically to try the area's famed spicy noodle dish - kuaytiaw Sukhothai. The city is filled with a range of dining options, from noodle joints to Thai eateries, as well as tourist-friendly restaurants.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Sukhothai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sukhothai is a nice place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Sukhothai. This is more of a historical area than a nightlife destination, but you'll find tourist-oriented bars where you can grab a cold beer, or local cafes with live music.

Mount Aspiring National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing is the best nightlife in the area.

Is Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for its Old Town?

Sukhothai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sukhothai is a well-known place for its old town. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Sukhothai to see the historical old town. The Sukhothai Historical Park is an impressive World Heritage Site. There are 21 historical sites and four large ponds within the old walls. Outside of the walls there are another 70 sites within a 5 kilometer radius.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Sukhothai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its hiking trails. However, Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Mount Aspiring National Park specifically for its hiking. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Sukhothai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sukhothai is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Sukhothai is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are a number of markets and handicraft studios nearby. Check out Tra Phang Thong Market for local foods and products or Suntree Thai Weaving for handwoven items. There's also Suthep Sangkalok where you'll find traditional ceramics.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park More Beautiful?

Sukhothai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Sukhothai is not a destination known for its beauty.

Mount Aspiring National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The stunning mountain scenery and pristine, rugged hikes make this a truly spectacular alpine setting.

Sukhothai is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Sukhothai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very family-friendly destination. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Sukhothai. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Sukhothai Historical Park and other nearby temples. The less touristy side of this area makes it great for families who need a break from Thailand's tourist crowds. It's also a fun place to explore by bike.

Is Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Sukhothai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Mount Aspiring National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.

Sukhothai makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For couples who want to get away from the tourist crowds, this cultural and historical area is filled with temples and interesting sights.

Is Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sukhothai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Mount Aspiring National Park. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

It's common for backpackers to visit Sukhothai. For many backpackers, its not part of the typical Southeast Asian tourist trail, but for some, that is the appeal.


Is Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sukhothai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Sukhothai is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Sukhothai has a few public transit options. There are tuk tuks and local shuttle buses around the town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.

Is Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Sukhothai
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is very good for its walkability. However, Sukhothai is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Mount Aspiring National Park is somewhat walkable. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.

Sukhothai is generally not very walkable. This isn't the most walkable area, and the historical sites are spread out so you'll really need a bike, motorbike, or some other form of transportation to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Sukhothai Worth Visiting? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

In either Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park than Sukhothai because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Sukhothai, and 2-5 days is enough time in Mount Aspiring National Park .

Families should spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park than Sukhothai. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Mount Aspiring National Park , it's a great place to visit with the whole family.


  • How many days in Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sukhothai 2-3 
    Mount Aspiring National Park  2-5

One day in Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

The cultural destination of Sukhothai offers shopping and museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find around the national park of Mount Aspiring National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sukhothai. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sukhothai has to offer.

You'll find around the undeveloped destination of Mount Aspiring National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Sukhothai is a fun place to experience. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find around the remote national park of Mount Aspiring National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.

A week in Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

You'll find food and shopping around the historical city of Sukhothai. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, and The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Mount Aspiring National Park or Sukhothai?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Sukhothai Prices
    Thailand Prices
    Mount Aspiring National Park Prices
    New Zealand Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Sukhothai $82
    Mount Aspiring National Park $122

The average daily cost (per person) in Sukhothai is $82, while the average daily cost in Mount Aspiring National Park is $122. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Sukhothai and Mount Aspiring National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sukhothai $26
    Mount Aspiring National Park $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sukhothai $52
    Mount Aspiring National Park $116
Compare Hotels in Sukhothai and Mount Aspiring National Park

Looking for a hotel in Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Sukhothai


Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Sukhothai Hotel Prices and Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sukhothai $19
    Mount Aspiring National Park $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Sukhothai or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Prices for flights to both Mount Aspiring National Park and Sukhothai change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Sukhothai $36
    Mount Aspiring National Park $32

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sukhothai $38
    Mount Aspiring National Park $29

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sukhothai $14
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.07


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sukhothai and Mount Aspiring National Park , we can see that Mount Aspiring National Park is more expensive. And not only is Sukhothai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Sukhothai is in Asia and Mount Aspiring National Park is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Sukhothai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sukhothai and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Mount Aspiring National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mount Aspiring National Park than you might in Sukhothai.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Sukhothai Expensive? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Expensive?.