“The 449-step Naga staircase leading from the base to the summit, and Phra Phuttha Mongkhon Saksit, a sacred bronze Buddha image from the Sukhothai period.”
Sangkat Rattanakhiri Temple is an important temple of Uthai Thani Province that brings together faith, history, and beautiful scenery in one place. The temple area is divided into two sections: the foothill area and the summit of Sakae Krang Hill. The foothill area enshrines sacred Buddha images that serve as a spiritual center for devotees, while the hilltop houses a pavilion containing a replica of the Buddha’s footprint and a large bell constructed during the reign of King Rama V.
The most famous highlight of Sangkat Rattanakhiri Temple is the Tak Bat Devo ceremony, held on the first waning day of the eleventh lunar month, one day after the end of Buddhist Lent. During this event, more than 500 monks walk down from the hilltop along a staircase of 449 steps to receive alms from Buddhist devotees. This ceremony reenacts the moment when the Buddha descended from Tavatimsa Heaven and is filled with grandeur and deep spiritual devotion.
At the summit of Sakae Krang Hill, there is also a viewpoint offering a 360-degree panoramic view of Uthai Thani town and the Sakae Krang River. The atmosphere at the top is cool, peaceful, and ideal for quiet reflection. In addition, a statue of Somdet Phra Pathom Borom Maha Chanok, the father of King Rama I, is enshrined there in remembrance of the ancestor who founded the Chakri Dynasty, whose original residence was in Uthai Thani.
For tourists and photographers, Sangkat Rattanakhiri Temple offers a complete experience, including climbing the naga staircase or traveling up the paved road to the summit, learning about history and Buddhist art, and enjoying the harmonious blend of nature and sacred architecture.
Visitors are warmly invited to pay homage to the sacred sites and witness the grandeur of Buddhist traditions at Sangkat Rattanakhiri Temple, where faith, history, and the beauty of Uthai Thani can be experienced from the widest perspective.
How to Get There
By Private Car:
- You can comfortably drive up to the summit of Sakae Krang Mountain via a well-paved road, or park at the base of the hill to climb the stairs.
On Foot:
- For those who wish to exercise and soak up the atmosphere, you can climb the 449-step Naga staircase starting from the base of the mountain.
Travel Tips
Best Visiting Time:
- Early morning to witness the sunrise and enjoy the cool breeze, or late afternoon to see the city lights at night.
Activities:
- Pay respects to the sacred "Phra Phuttha Mongkhon Saksit" Buddha image, ring the massive bell on the summit, and enjoy the city view. If visiting during the end of Buddhist Lent, do not miss the grand "Tak Bat Devo" festival.
Attire:
- Please dress politely (cover knees and shoulders) as this is a significant religious site.
Admission Fee
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Free
Opening Hours
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Open Daily: 06:00 AM – 08:00 PM