“Admire the exquisite and rare bas-relief Buddha footprint featuring 108 auspicious patterns and enjoy the stunning 360-degree views from the Mondop's observation deck.”
Buddha’s Footprint at Khao Dee Salak Temple is regarded as a masterpiece of ancient artifacts and the spiritual heart of Wat Khao Dee Salak in Suphan Buri Province. This sacred footprint was discovered by chance during an exploration of the hilltop area and was later examined and officially confirmed by the Fine Arts Department as an authentic and original Buddha’s footprint of national historical and archaeological significance. It stands as important evidence reflecting the prosperity of Buddhism in the Suvarnabhumi region more than a thousand years ago.
The most remarkable feature that attracts the attention of historians and Buddhists alike is its artistic style from the late Dvaravati period, dating approximately to the 14th–16th Buddhist centuries. The footprint is a low-relief sculpture carved onto a large slab of red sandstone, with the form raised from the stone surface. This technique differs from later periods, in which Buddha’s footprints were typically carved deeply into rock. Such characteristics clearly reflect the artistic concepts and religious beliefs of Dvaravati society.
The details of the footprint are exquisite and rich in spiritual meaning. At the center of the sole is a carved wheel symbol, representing the Dharmachakra or the Wheel of the Buddha’s teachings, surrounded by auspicious motifs based on the belief in the 108 auspicious symbols. The patterns remain well preserved and clearly defined, demonstrating the refined craftsmanship of ancient artisans and the deep devotion of the creators toward Buddhism.
Today, the Buddha’s Footprint of Khao Dee Salak Temple has been enshrined with great reverence inside a newly constructed Thai-style quadrangular pavilion at the highest point of Khao Dee Salak. The pavilion is elaborately designed and harmoniously integrated with the surrounding landscape, allowing visitors and devotees to pay respect, make offerings, and seek blessings in a dignified and appropriate setting.
Beyond its religious and historical value, visiting this sacred footprint also offers an impressive scenic experience. Located on a high hilltop, the area around the pavilion serves as one of the finest 360-degree panoramic viewpoints in U Thong District. Visitors can enjoy sweeping views of mountain ranges and vast green rice fields across Suphan Buri Province. The peaceful atmosphere and cool breezes make it an ideal place for meditation, spiritual reflection, and appreciation of ancient Buddhist art in harmony with nature.
The Buddha’s Footprint at Khao Dee Salak Temple is therefore not only a sacred site for worship but also a lasting testament of faith that connects the past with the present. It is a precious cultural heritage worthy of preservation and continued study for future generations.
Visitors are warmly invited to pay homage to this invaluable sacred relic left by our ancestors as a legacy of faith and to absorb the tranquil spiritual energy at the summit of Khao Dee Salak.
How to Get There
Private Car:
- From U Thong District, take Highway 321 (Malaiman Road) north for about 11 km. Turn onto Highway 3019 following the signs to the temple. There is a well-paved road leading directly to the Mondop at the summit.
On Foot:
- For those wishing to gain merit and exercise, you can choose to climb the Naga staircase from the base of the hill to the top.
Travel Tips
Best Visiting Season:
- Recommended in the early morning or late afternoon before sunset to see the golden light hitting the Mondop and to avoid the midday heat.
Etiquette:
- As this is a sacred site, please dress politely and remove your shoes before entering the Mondop.
Recommended Activities:
- After paying respects, take a walk around the Mondop's balcony and visit the nearby ancient stupas.
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