Perched atop a small, 200-meter-high hill is Saphan Hin Temple, arguably the most interesting and only truly remarkable temple in the wooded area of ​​Sukhithai Historical Park (west sector). It is particularly famous for its 12.5-meter-high Buddha statue, which stands amidst the few remaining ruins of the former temple. To reach the temple, one must climb a charming, irregular stone staircase. From the top, there is an interesting view of the surrounding landscape. A bicycle ride in this area is also recommended if you have the time, as it is the least visited, most peaceful, and best-integrated part of the park. However, Wat Saphan Hin does not reach the significance of the temples in the center or even those in the Wat Si Chum area.

Entry to this part of the historical park costs 100 THB, plus 10 Baht for bicycles. Open from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. There are no shops in this area, so please bring your own drinks.

The distance between the center of Sukhothai Historical Park and Wat Saphan Hin temple is approximately 3.5 km by bicycle, with the temple located near the center. It can be reached either via the main road NH12 or from the rear of the historical park by starting at Wat Pa Pai and cycling to Wat Saphan Hin. The route then passes Wat Si Chum and continues through the entire northern section. This is a circular route that covers all three areas of Sukhothai Historical Park.

Wat Saphan Hin 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 Saphan Hin? From the center of Sukhothai Historical Park to Wat Saphan Hin, it's about 3.5 km by bicycle, as the temple is located near the center. You can reach it either via the main road NH12 or from the far end of the historical park by starting at Wat Pa Pai and then continuing to Wat Saphan Hin, Wat Si Chum, and through the entire northern section. This is a circular route that takes you through all three areas of Sukhothai Historical Park.