Besides the paintings at Wat Phumin, Wat Phra That Khao Noi is another must-see when visiting Nan. But more than the rather simple temple itself, it's the nine-meter-high golden Buddha statue, which watches over the city from its small hill, that makes Wat Phra That Khao Noi so popular. From there, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the valley and the mountains. This image is one of the most recognizable in travel guides and articles about the city. Many come here to experience the sunset over the valley with the golden Buddha as a witness. But it's at dawn, when the sun sometimes rises above a sea of ​​mist, that this place truly unfolds its magic! The small hill (Khao Noi) on which the statue stands is located a few kilometers outside the city. Wat Phra That Khao Noi was built in 1487 and houses a Buddha relic in its main chedi. The famous Buddha statue was erected on December 5, 1999, in honor of His Majesty the King of Thailand. A fair is held annually at the temple (usually in May).

The hill on which the temple is located lies a few kilometers southwest of Nan bus station. It is easy to find, as the road is well signposted. If you don't have your own vehicle, the easiest way to reach Wat Phra That Khao Noi is by tuk-tuk or songthaew. Cycling is also a viable option, but if the roads are unlit—especially at sunset—you should return before nightfall. The summit can be reached either via a road or a long staircase.

Wat Phra That Khao Noi is a temple, and when visiting a temple in Thailand there are some rules to follow: appropriate clothing (knees and shoulders should be covered), remove 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 Phra That Khao Noi? The hill on which the temple sits is located a few kilometers southwest of Nan bus station. It's easy to find, as the road is well signposted. If you don't have your own vehicle, the easiest way to reach Wat Phra That Khao Noi is by tuk-tuk or songthaew. Cycling is also a viable option, but if the roads are unlit—especially at sunset—you should return before nightfall. The summit can be reached either via a road or a long staircase.