Wat Khiriwong (Phra Chulamanee Chedi)

History & Significance

Wat Khiriwong is an ancient temple located in Pak Nam Pho Subdistrict, Mueang Nakhon Sawan District, Nakhon Sawan Province. Based on the ruins of old bricks, ancient boundary stones (Bai Sema), and Buddha images, it is assumed that the temple was originally constructed during the late Sukhothai period. It was later abandoned and left in ruins amidst the forested hills.

In 1961, a pilgrimage monk rediscovered the site. In 1964, the Department of Religious Affairs surveyed the area, revealing a 600-year-old pagoda, ancient boundary stones, and the foundation of an old ordination hall. In 1965, a restoration committee led by Mr. Pengsong Sae-tang requested a monk from Wat Nakhon Sawan to help rebuild the temple. Phra Maha Boonrod Panyawaro was sent to lead the reconstruction. Wat Khiriwong was officially established as a temple on June 8, 1976, and received its royal boundary (Wisungkhamsima) on November 11, 1977. Today, it also serves as the Center for Buddhism Propagation of Nakhon Sawan Province and a provincial Dhamma practice center.

Highlights & What to See

The main highlights of Wat Khiriwong include:

• Phra Chulamanee Chedi: This massive four-story pagoda is situated on the peak of Daowadung Hill. Inside, the first floors house replicas of famous Buddha images, including the Emerald Buddha and Phra Phuttha Chinnarat, as well as statues of highly revered monks. A replica of the Buddha's footprint of the 12 zodiac signs is set on a dragon base, which represents the symbol of Nakhon Sawan. The top floor enshrines a replica of Phra Phuttha Chinnarat and sacred Buddha relics (Phra Borommasaririkathat), adorned with beautiful murals depicting the life of Buddha. Outside stands a statue of Luang Pho Maha Boonrod, the builder of the chedi.
• Panoramic Viewpoint: From the Phra Chulamanee Chedi, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view of Nakhon Sawan, including Khao Kob, Bueng Boraphet, Pak Nam Pho Market, Sawan Park, the origin of the Chao Phraya River, Dechatiwong Bridge, and the surrounding mountain ranges. It is also a spectacular spot to watch the sunset.
• Phra Phuttha Chinnasee: A beautiful stucco Buddha image in the Mara Vichaya (subduing Mara) posture, sitting in a diamond cross-legged position. It features a unique blend of Chiang Saen, Sukhothai, and Rattanakosin art styles.
• Other Structures: The temple grounds also feature an ordination hall, a replica of Somdej Phra Phuttha Kodom, Sala Phutthanuphap, and Wihan Luang Pho To.

Visitor Information

Wat Khiriwong is open daily from 08:00 to 18:00. Admission is free. Visitors should dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as it is an active sacred site and a Dhamma practice center.

How to Get There

The temple is located on Matuli Road and Daowadung Road, opposite the Nakhon Sawan Vocational College in Pak Nam Pho, Mueang District, Nakhon Sawan Province. Parking is available for visitors traveling by private vehicle.