Visit Wat Khiriwong (Nakhon Sawan)

Overlooking the city from the top of Mount Dawa Dung (or Khao Dawa Dung), Wat Khiriwong is the most iconic temple in Nakhon Sawan. It is undoubtedly a must-visit attraction, both for the temple itself and for the breathtaking view from above. Its name literally means "the temple on top of the mountain," and it offers a spectacular panoramic view over the city, the confluence of the rivers forming 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 deserted for nearly 600 years before being rediscovered in 1961 by a pilgrim monk who initiated its restoration.

The temple’s main highlights include:

• Phra Chulamani Chedi, erected atop Mount Daowadueng and rising four stories high. It houses a replica of the Buddha’s footprints decorated with the twelve zodiac signs, placed on a base featuring a dragon motif — the symbol of Nakhon Sawan Province.
• Phra Phuttha Chinnasi, a stucco Buddha image in the “subduing Mara” posture, measuring about 10 meters high and 9 meters wide. The statue uniquely combines three ancient artistic styles: the Chiang Saen style for the upper parts (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 view also makes it worth visiting at sunrise — even though it’s not officially open yet at that time.

It appears that there is a local songthaew (shared pickup truck) that goes up to the top of Khao Dawa Dung Mountain, where the temple is located, but it’s unclear where to board it in the city. You’ll need to ask for information once there.

Wat Khiriwong is a temple and when you visit a temple in Thailand there are some rules to know and follow:

• Dress properly (knees and shoulders should be covered)
• Take off your shoes when entering the buildings
• Be quiet
• Don't hug or kiss
• Don't point your feet to Buddha's image
• Don't smoke