Wat Sangkat Rattana Khiri

History & Significance

Wat Sangkat Rattana Khiri is an ancient temple of great historical importance to Uthai Thani. It is home to "Phra Phuttha Mongkhon Saksit," a highly revered bronze Buddha image in the Mara Vichaya posture with a lap width of 1.5 meters. Cast during the reign of Phra Maha Thammaracha I (Phraya Lithai) of the Sukhothai Kingdom, the head and body of this statue were originally separate pieces. During the reign of King Rama I, damaged Buddha images were distributed to various provincial towns, and Uthai Thani received three of them. This particular image was initially kept at Wat Khwit. When Wat Khwit was merged with Wat Thung Kaeo, the statue was relocated to Wat Sangkat Rattana Khiri, where holy relics of the Buddha were enshrined inside its head.

Highlights & What to See

The temple offers several key attractions for visitors:

• Phra Phuttha Mongkhon Saksit: Enshrined inside the main vihara, this sacred Buddha image is the spiritual center of Uthai Thani.
• The 449-Step Staircase: A prominent staircase leads from the temple grounds up to the peak of Sakae Krang Hill.
• Sakae Krang Hill Peak: At the summit, visitors will find a Mondop housing a replica of the Buddha's footprint, which was relocated from Wat Chantharam in 1905. In front of the Mondop stands a large sacred bell cast in 1900 by Phra Palat Jai and local residents.
• Royal Monument: The hilltop also features the monument of Somdet Phra Pathom Borommahachanok (Thongdee), the father of King Rama I, the founder of the Chakri Dynasty.
• Panoramic Views: The summit offers sweeping, scenic views of Uthai Thani town. Every year on April 6th, a tribute ceremony is held here when the yellow Suphannika (Yellow Silk Cotton) flowers are in full bloom across the hill.

Visitor Information

Wat Sangkat Rattana Khiri is open daily from 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM. Admission is free. Visitors are advised to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as it is an active place of worship. Parking facilities are available on-site.

How to Get There

The temple is located at 125 Moo 3, Tha Chang Road, Tambon Nam Suem, Amphoe Mueang Uthai Thani, Uthai Thani Province, right at the foot of Sakae Krang Hill. It is situated opposite the Uthai Thani Provincial Community Hall and is easily accessible by local transport or private car.