“Khao Doi Chedi is a secret temple on a high mountain in Theparak District, Nakhon Ratchasima. It stands out with its pure white chedi situated on a stone button field, a remarkable natural phenomenon. Inside the temple, there is a peaceful and shady atmosphere, and there are traces of Luang Por Khun's ascetic walks.”
Khao Doi Chedi is not just a scenic spot but a quiet center for Buddhist meditation and practice (Samnak Patibat Tham) deeply embedded in the pristine mountain forests of Thepharak district, Nakhon Ratchasima. The surrounding geography is strikingly unique, as the temple is situated atop a series of complex mountains that maintain an almost untouched natural state. The temple grounds are a rich habitat for various types of rare medicinal plants that thrive naturally.
The most compelling natural feature is the expansive "Pimpled Stone Field" (Larn Hin Pum). This is a significant geological phenomenon resulting from the Earth's crust movement and prolonged erosion, which has sculpted the rock surface into thousands of unique, rounded, button-like shapes. Visitors can walk around this stone field to admire the impressive geological traces. The pure white stupa (Chedi) is centrally located in this field, imparting a profound sense of peace and sanctity to all who visit. Due to its mountaintop location, it offers clear panoramic views of the surrounding green forests and the massive wind turbines located nearby.
Beyond its natural beauty, the site holds deep spiritual importance, particularly due to its connection with Luang Por Koon Parisuttho, the highly revered monk. It is believed that he once practiced Tudong (a wandering ascetic practice) in this area. Pilgrims highly respect this location and come to pay homage to the traces and the statue of Luang Por Koon in the Tudong posture carved into the rock, seeking blessings. Nearby, there is a Sacred Pond (Boh Nam Sak Sit), a small waterhole on the rocky plateau that miraculously never dries up, even during severe drought periods, leading locals to believe it is a source of sacred energy. Furthermore, the temple compound also houses the Vihara of 28 Buddhas and other sacred objects, inviting all with faith to visit and practice meditation for inner peace.
How to Get There
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The journey is quite rugged in some parts, especially the dirt road that cuts through the mountains. It is recommended to travel by private car or pickup truck with good performance, as the route is quite mysterious and not on the main route.
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Location: Travel via Huai Bong, passing the area of the large wind turbine in Theparak District.
Travel Tips
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Prepare your vehicle: As some roads are gravel and uphill, it's best to use a vehicle suited to the area.
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Best time to visit: Visit in the morning or evening to avoid the intense sun, as the area is open and rocky.
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Dress appropriately: As this is a meditation site, dress appropriately.
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Bring drinking water: There may not be many shops or water sources on the mountain, so be sure to bring drinking water.
Admission Fees:
- No Admission Fees.
Opening Hours:
- Open all day (open for viewing and meditation 24 hours a day)