On the outskirts of Pak Chong, 90 kilometers from Nakhon Ratchasima (also known as Korat), Wat Khao Wan Chainawarat temple sits atop a hill. It is believed to have been built in 1941. Particularly noteworthy is its sandstone castle, added in 2006, featuring a weatherproof wooden frame surrounded by a deep blue pool. The temple's architecture, though constructed of sandstone, evokes the style of a traditional wooden house. The upper floor houses a Buddha statue and another of the revered monk Luang Phu Cha. The ground floor features a circular gallery with several Buddha statues, but the most beautiful part of the temple is reached by a staircase. The view from the sandstone building itself is somewhat limited. However, the first ordination hall, near the parking area, offers a magnificent panoramic view of the valley and the town of Pak Chong – a far more rewarding experience.

Free admission. Open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. When visiting Wat Khao Wan Chainawarat, be sure to stop by the nearby Waterside House restaurant. While the food isn't anything special, the ambiance—a veritable museum filled with jewelry and figurines of all kinds right on the canal—is simply breathtaking!

Wat Khao Wan Chainawarat is located just over a kilometer from Pak Chong Station. The walk there takes about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take one of the shared taxis (songthaews) in front of the station. Booking via Grab also seems to be possible.

Wat Khao Wan Chainawarat is a temple, and when visiting a temple in Thailand there are some rules to follow: appropriate clothing (knees and shoulders should be covered), take off your shoes when entering the building, be quiet, do not hug or kiss, do not point your feet at the Buddha statue, do not smoke.

How to get there

How do I get to Wat Khao Wan Chainawarat? Wat Khao Wan Chainawarat is located just over a kilometer from Pak Chong Station. It takes about 20 minutes to walk from the station. Alternatively, you can take one of the shared taxis (songthaews) that park in front of the station. It also seems possible to order a ride there via Grab.