About Wat Phra That Khao Noi
Wat Phra That Khao Noi is a historic Buddhist temple on a hilltop about 2 km west of Nan town in Mueang Nan District, Nan Province. Founded in 1487, it enshrines a sacred Buddha relic in its chedi and is known for its 9-metre standing Buddha image overlooking the town. The temple offers panoramic views of Nan town and the surrounding valley and is one of the province's most revered religious landmarks.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a hilltop temple complex reached by a paved road or a long Naga-flanked staircase. The compound includes a white chedi enshrining a Buddha relic, a large standing Buddha image facing east toward Nan town, a viharn and viewing terraces. The setting is open and elevated with panoramic views of Nan town, rice fields and mountains. Visitors can explore the courtyard, pay respects, take photographs and enjoy sunrise or sunset views.
Key highlights
- 01
Panoramic viewpoint over Nan town and Nan River valley
- 02
9-metre standing Buddha image Phra Phuttha Maha Utam Mongkhon Nanthaburi Si Mueang Nan
- 03
Historic chedi enshrining a Buddha relic dating to 1487
- 04
Naga staircase with 303 steps leading to the hilltop
- 05
Sunset and night views with town lights
History of Wat Phra That Khao Noi
Founded in 1487 during the reign of Chao Pu Khaeng, ruler of Nan, the temple was built to enshrine a relic of the Buddha in its principal chedi. The chedi has undergone several restorations, including major work in the 20th century, and exhibits Lanna-influenced architecture. It has long served as a sacred landmark for the Nan Kingdom.
Culture & Context
Revered as one of Nan's most sacred Buddhist sites, the temple houses a venerated Buddha relic and the prominent standing Buddha image erected in honour of the King. It functions as an active place of worship and a symbolic viewpoint representing the town, visited by pilgrims and visitors for merit-making and cultural appreciation.
Route
| By air |
|---|