It is with the paintings of Wat Phumin, the another unmissable place to any visit to Nan. More than the very modest temple, it is the 9 meters high golden statue of Lord Buddha walking watching over the city of Nan from its little hill that makes Wat Phra That Khao Noi very popular. From there you have a beautiful view on the valley and the mountains. This is one of the images that illustrate the most Nan in the guide books and articles about the city. People come here especially to watch the sunset over the valley with the Golden Buddha as a witness. But it's at dawn, the sun rising opposite sometimes on a sea of mist, that, for me, this place can become magical!
The small hill (Khao Noi) where the statue is perched is located a few kilometers from the city. Wat Phra That Khao Noi temple was built in 1487 and houses a relic of Buddha in its main chedi. Its iconic Bouddha statue was erected in honor of His Majesty the King of Thailand on 5 December 1999.
An annual fair is held at the temple (usually in May) every year.
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The hill on which the temple is located is a few kilometers southwest of Nan bus station. It's pretty easy to find. There are many signs on the road. Unless you have your own transportation mean, the easiest way to get to Wat Phra That Khao Noi is by hiring a tuk-tuk or a songhthaew. It is also easy by bicycle, but if there is no light on the road, so if you go there for the sunset, come back before dark.
You can access to the top by road or walk a long staircase.