“Worship the bas-relief Buddha footprint carved from red sandstone over a thousand years ago, admire the beautiful Thai-style Mondop on the peak, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere with scenic views.”
Khao Dee Salak Temple is a religious site of great historical and archaeological significance, located on a small mountain range in U Thong District, Suphan Buri Province. The temple is renowned as one of the most complete sites where evidence of the Dvaravati civilization has been discovered, reflecting the prosperity of Buddhism in the Suvarnabhumi region more than a thousand years ago. Today, it has been developed into a valuable cultural tourism destination and an important historical learning site.
The main highlight and spiritual heart of the temple is the Buddha’s Footprint of Khao Dee Salak Temple, enshrined with great reverence inside a four-gabled Thai-style pavilion on the hilltop. This footprint is a bas-relief carving on red sandstone, measuring approximately 65.5 centimeters in width_ and 141.5 centimeters in length. At the center of the sole is a Dharmachakra motif, surrounded by 108 auspicious symbols intricately carved in detail. Archaeologists believe that this sacred footprint dates back to the 14th–16th Buddhist centuries, serving as significant evidence of religious devotion and artistic achievement during the Dvaravati period.
The area surrounding the hilltop pavilion is one of the most beautiful panoramic viewpoints in Suphan Buri. Visitors can enjoy a full 360-degree view, overlooking vast green rice fields and fertile plains stretching endlessly toward the horizon, contrasted with the layered mountain ranges of U Thong District. The cool breeze that flows throughout the year creates a serene and relaxing atmosphere, making it an ideal place for meditation, worship, and spiritual retreat in close harmony with nature.
In addition to the Buddha’s Footprint, the temple grounds also feature several important historical structures, including ancient stupas and cave chambers where archaeological artifacts were discovered in the past. The long naga staircase leading up to the hilltop symbolizes strong faith and devotion and is a popular spot for photography. Together with the elegant white pavilion set against the bright sky, Khao Dee Salak Temple offers a perfect destination for tourists, photographers, and history enthusiasts alike.
Visitors are warmly invited to experience timeless faith, pay homage to a precious legacy from the Dvaravati era, and admire the scenic beauty of Suphan Buri from above at Khao Dee Salak Temple.
How to Get There
Private Car:
- From Suphan Buri city center, take Highway 321 (Malaiman Road) towards U Thong. Head north of the ancient U Thong city for about 11 km, then turn onto Highway 3019 following the signs to the temple. There is a well-paved road to the summit.
Public Transport:
- Take a Bangkok-U Thong van, get off at the U Thong station, and take a local taxi to Wat Khao Dee Salak.
Travel Tips
Best Visiting Season:
- Can be visited year-round. Morning or late afternoon is recommended for beautiful sunrise or sunset views. If visiting during the End of Buddhist Lent, there is a grand Tak Bat Devo festival.
Attire:
- Dress politely to enter the Mondop. Wear comfortable shoes as the summit area has several walking points.
Photography:
- The balcony around the Mondop is a must-visit spot for panoramic photos, but please remain quiet as it is the enshrinement site of the Buddha footprint.
Additional Activities:
- You can combine this trip with "Phra Phuttha Pusaya Khiri Sri Suvarnabhumi" (The Great Rock-cut Buddha), located in the same district.
Admission Fee
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Local and Foreign visitors: Free entry
Opening Hours
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Daily: 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM