Khao No – Khao Kaeo is located along the Phahonyothin Road (Asian Highway) between Nakhon Sawan and Kamphaeng Phet, in Ban Dan Subdistrict, Banphot Phisai District, approximately 45 kilometers from Nakhon Sawan city and about 2 kilometers from the main road. This group of distinctive limestone mountains is easily recognizable from afar.

Khao No consists of two main sections. The first is Khao Nang Phanthurat (the smaller peak), featuring a staircase leading to a cave enshrining Buddha images. The second and most prominent is Khao Phra Phutthabat (the main peak). At the foothill stands Wat Khao No, and a long staircase ascends to a cave near the summit, where a large reclining Buddha image is enshrined at the cave entrance.

The ascent to Khao Phra Phutthabat is famous for its extremely steep steel staircase, with some sections approaching nearly 90 degrees, making it a thrilling challenge for adventurous visitors. At the summit, visitors will find four overlapping sacred Buddha’s Footprints, sheltered by an ancient mondop, alongside an old chedi located at the highest point of the mountain. Nearby stands a large frangipani tree, believed to be over 100 years old, remarkable for blooming throughout the year regardless of season.

Historically, Khao No holds great significance as His Majesty King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V) once visited this area during his northern journey via the Ping River waterway, where he stayed overnight. A royal statue was later constructed as a memorial to commemorate his visit.

At the foothill of Khao No, a large population of monkeys inhabits the area, commonly seen interacting with visiting tourists, adding a lively atmosphere to the site.

Khao Kaeo, located nearby, is home to Wat Khao Kaeo and several caves that serve as habitats for vast numbers of bats. In the early evening, near dusk, a remarkable natural phenomenon occurs as millions of bats emerge from the caves to forage, forming long black streams across the sky. The spectacle lasts for over 30 minutes, and the bats continue to emerge without interruption, creating one of the most impressive bat-viewing experiences in Thailand.

By Private Car:

• From Nakhon Sawan city, take Highway No. 1 (Asian Highway) toward Kamphaeng Phet for approximately 45 kilometers. Khao No will be clearly visible on the left-hand side, with a well-marked turnoff to Wat Khao No.

• Climbing preparation: Be physically prepared, wear shoes with good grip, bring sufficient drinking water, and aim to reach the summit before 10:00 AM to avoid strong heat.

• Beware of monkeys: Many monkeys live around the foothill area. Keep valuables secure and avoid feeding them in unauthorized areas.

• Best time to see bats: Visit between 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM for the most spectacular bat emergence.

Admission Fee:

• Free admission

Opening Hours:

• Open 24 hours (For safety reasons, climbing is recommended between 06:00 – 18:00)