Wat Khiriwong, perched high atop Mount Dawa Dung (or Khao Dawa Dung), towers over the city and is the most famous temple in Nakhon Sawan. It is undoubtedly a must-see for any visitor, both for the temple itself and for the breathtaking views it offers. Its name literally means "temple on the mountaintop," and it provides a spectacular panoramic view of the city, the confluence of the rivers that form the Chao Phraya, and the surrounding countryside. Wat Khiriwong in Nakhon Sawan is steeped in history. Once abandoned and in ruins, it is believed to have been built at the end of the Sukhothai period and remained empty for nearly 600 years before being rediscovered in 1961 by a pilgrim monk who undertook its restoration. Among the temple's main attractions is the Phra Chulamani Chedi, which sits atop Mount Daowadueng, rising four stories high. It houses a replica of the Buddha's footprints, adorned with the twelve signs of the zodiac, on a base featuring a dragon motif – the symbol of Nakhon Sawan province. Phra Phuttha Chinnasi is a stucco Buddha statue, approximately 10 meters high and 9 meters wide, in the "conquering Mara" pose. The statue uniquely combines three ancient art styles: the Chiang Saen style for the upper part (lotus bud halo and slanted yellow robe), the Sukhothai style for the face and arms, and the Rattanakosin style for the altar. The temple is especially popular at sunset, but its 360-degree panoramic view makes it worthwhile at sunrise as well – although it is not officially open then.

Wat Khiriwong is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Admission is free. You can combine your visit with the Nakhon Sawan observation tower, which is located on the same hill.

There appears to be a local songthaew (shared taxi) that goes up to the summit of Khao Dawa Dung Mountain, where the temple is located. However, it's unclear where in town you can board it. You'll need to inquire locally.

Wat Khiriwong 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 you get to Wat Khiriwong? Apparently, a local songthaew (shared taxi) goes up to the summit of Khao Dawa Dung Mountain, where the temple is located. However, it's unclear exactly where in town you can board. It's best to ask locally for the exact pick-up points.