Wat Woranat Banphot (Wat Khao Kob)

History & Significance

Wat Woranat Banphot, originally known as Wat Kob, Wat Khao Kob, or Wat Pak Phra Bang during the Sukhothai period, is a historic third-class royal temple. According to historical evidence and stone inscriptions, the temple was established in 1419 AD (1962 BE) by Phraya Ban Mueang. It was built to dedicate merit to his younger brother, Phraya Ram, who passed away during a military campaign in Mueang Phra Bang (present-day Nakhon Sawan). In 1921 AD (2464 BE), Prince Damrong Rajanubhab officially discovered the temple. It was later recognized as an exemplary development temple by the Department of Religious Affairs and the Sangha Supreme Council in 1966 AD (2509 BE).

Highlights & What to See

The temple is situated on Khao Kob, rising about 185.50 meters above sea level, and houses several priceless historical treasures:

• Replica of Buddha's Footprint: Located on the hilltop, this Sukhothai-era replica was brought from Sri Lanka during the reign of King Li Thai (the 5th king of Sukhothai) as a tribute and enshrined here.
• Sukhothai-style Chedi: A large ancient pagoda containing sacred Buddha relics. The Fine Arts Department has inscribed the temple's history at the base of this chedi.
• Luang Pho Thong Statue: The highly revered statue of Luang Pho Thong, a strictly disciplined and respected monk of Nakhon Sawan, is enshrined in the vihara next to the large chedi.
• Ancient Buddha Images: The temple features a Chiang Saen-style stone Buddha statue under Naga (Naga Prok) and a Reclining Buddha measuring over 10 wa (approximately 20 meters) in length.
• Temple Grounds: Historically, the site included a dug pond (trapang) planted with lotuses as offerings and a Sri Maha Bodhi tree planted within the monastery grounds.

Visitor Information

Wat Woranat Banphot is open daily to visitors from 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM. Admission is free. Visitors are advised to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as it is an active royal temple. For inquiries, you can contact the temple at 0 5633 6094 or visit their website at www.watkob.com.

How to Get There

Located at 188 Thanon Thamwithi, Tambon Pak Nam Pho, Amphoe Mueang Nakhon Sawan. There are two ways to reach the hilltop temple:

• By Foot: For those seeking a physical challenge or pilgrimage experience, there is a staircase with 437 to 439 steps leading up to the summit.
• By Car: An asphalt road leads directly to the top of Khao Kob. Please drive carefully as the road features several sharp hairpin curves. Parking is available on-site.