Wat Thep Phithak Punnaram is more than just a sacred site; it's also a significant landmark of Nakhon Ratchasima Province, steeped in a fascinating and cherished history. Founded in 1971 by Phra Ajahn Boonliang Thammarato, the temple enshrined a large Buddha image in the blessing posture atop Bandai Ma Hill, a small hill in Sikhio District.

This massive Buddha image boasts a striking and beautiful appearance, standing 45 meters tall, including its base, and 27 meters wide across its lap. It is the largest Buddha image in Nakhon Ratchasima Province. The Buddha image faces east, clearly visible from afar on Mittraphap Road, and has become a prominent landmark for those traveling through the northeast.

The key to a visit to this temple is conquering the 1,250 concrete steps leading from the ground to the base of the Buddha image atop Bandai Ma Hill. The number 1,250 carries profound Buddhist significance. Symbolizing the number of Arahants who gathered spontaneously on Makha Bucha Day, climbing the stairs is not just exercise but also a form of Dhamma practice, requiring diligence and strong faith. Along the way, visitors can stop at various resting points and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the surrounding landscape, including rice fields, forests, and majestic limestone mountains below. The cool morning air is especially refreshing, making the ascent particularly refreshing.

In addition to the large Buddha image, the temple grounds are also occupied by buildings and pavilions for meditation and religious ceremonies. This temple serves as a spiritual center for local Buddhists and is an ideal destination for those seeking both mental peace and physical challenge. Paying homage to the Luang Por Khao statue atop the mountaintop is considered auspicious and a successful conclusion to this pilgrimage.

• Private Car: From Bangkok, take Mittraphap Road (Highway 2) towards Nakhon Ratchasima Province. When you reach Sikhio District, before reaching the entrance to Muak Lek, look for the temple entrance sign on the left.

• Public Transportation: Take the Bangkok-Korat bus and get off at the temple entrance. From there, take a motorcycle taxi to the temple (approximately 2-3 kilometers).

• Preparation: Bring plenty of water, get plenty of rest, and wear breathable clothing and shoes suitable for climbing the numerous stairs.

• Best Time to Visit: Visit early in the morning (before 9:00 AM) or late in the evening (after 3:00 PM) to avoid the intense daytime heat.

• Dress Code: Dress appropriately and modestly, as is customary for temple visits.

Admission Fees:

• Free admission

Opening Hours:

• Opening hours: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM (approximately)