According to the signs in the Historical Park, the correct spelling is "Ariyabot," but some guidebooks and brochures use the name "Iriyabot." Little remains of this temple, only traces of the main building: the floor, steps, pillars, and presumably a seated Buddha statue. The most interesting part is located at the rear: a damaged building that once housed two seated Buddha statues back-to-back on all four sides, of which almost nothing remains, and two standing Buddha statues, only one of which is nearly complete. Along with the statues from Wat Phra Kaew in another part of the Historical Park, this is the most recognizable symbol of Kamphaeng Phet Park. Be warned, it's almost hidden. You only see it if you enter the temple and walk around the structure behind it. The Buddha is enormous, but a visitor in a hurry could easily miss it.

It is located in Aranyik Historical Park (the spelling varies depending on the sign). There are two entrances: one at Ratchadamnoen 2, where the information center is also located (the bus to the historical park stops there), and one on a side street (GPS N16°29'51.92" E99°30'57.00"). We don't know the name of the side street, but it is well signposted from Ratchadamnoen 2 in the direction of Kamphaneg Phet. Entry costs 100 THB, or 150 THB for a combined ticket for both areas. Bicycles can be rented at the entrance for 30 THB. Access by vehicle, including bicycles, is possible for a fee of 10 to 50 THB (depending on the type of vehicle).

I myself rode a bicycle I had rented from a guesthouse to this part of the park, but you can also get there by tuk-tuk. You can easily find one near the market.

Wat Phra Si Ariyabot (or Si Iriyabot) is a temple. When visiting a temple in Thailand, there are some rules to observe: appropriate clothing (knees and shoulders should be covered), remove shoes upon entering the building, be quiet, no hugging or kissing, do not point your feet at the Buddha statue, and do not smoke.

How to get there

How do you get to Wat Phra Si Ariyabot (or Si Iriyabot)? I personally went there by bicycle that I rented from a guesthouse. Alternatively, you can also take a tuk-tuk. You can easily find them near the market.