Bangkok Airways Round Up
- Wat Saphan Hin is one of the must-visit spots in Sukhothai Historical Park, which leads to the sacred standing Buddha image “Phra Attharot.” This ancient statue is deeply revered for blessings and good fortune.
- Wat Saphan Hin is also renowned as one of the best sunrise viewpoints in Sukhothai Historical Park. From its hilltop perch, rising over 200 meters, you are rewarded with breathtaking views of the sun slowly rising over the vast plains of Sukhothai.
Sukhothai Historical Park is filled with stories waiting to be explored. Among its many cultural treasures, Wat Saphan Hin stands out as one of the most stunning viewpoints and a place not to be missed. Bangkok Airways invites you to discover this unique experience before packing your bags and setting off on your journey to the timeless charm of Sukhothai.
Experience the Charm of Sunrise at Wat Saphan Hin
Wat Saphan Hin is a must-visit when exploring the ancient city of Sukhothai. Rising about 200 meters above the plain, the hilltop temple greets travelers with a breathtaking sight. Here stands a majestic Buddha in the Gesture of Forgiveness, enshrined in an open-air vihara surrounded by lush greenery.
Many believe this image to be the very “Phra Attharot” mentioned in King Ramkhamhaeng’s first stone inscription, which records the site as a place of great spiritual importance during the Sukhothai era.
The charm of Wat Saphan Hin begins right on the ascent. Along the climb, beyond the refreshing shade of nature, travelers will encounter a small lotus-bud chedi, standing quietly beside the stone pathway. This architectural style is a distinctive hallmark of Sukhothai art, with roots in Khmer influence that gradually evolved into the graceful and unique form that defines Sukhothai’s cultural identity.
Travelers will encounter a small lotus-bud chedi, standing quietly beside the stone pathway. This architectural style is a distinctive hallmark of Sukhothai art, with roots in Khmer influence that gradually evolved into the graceful and unique form defining Sukhothai’s cultural identity.
When you reach the hilltop, you will see the remains of a five-room viharn, still beautiful even after seven hundred years. Its base is made of strong brick, and its tall laterite pillars face east to greet the morning sun. The highlight of Wat Saphan Hin is Phra Attharot, a standing stucco Buddha image in the Gesture of Forgiveness. It rises more than 12 meters high, with the right hand raised in blessing for visitors who come to pay their respects.
Above all, the best part of Wat Saphan Hin is an early visit to catch the first light of the day. Make sure to be there at dawn to capture the beautiful sunrise over the endless flat plains, regarded as one of the most beautiful sunrise-watching spots in Sukhothai.
Best Time to Visit Wat Saphan Hin, Sukhothai
The best time to visit Wat Saphan Hin is during the cool season from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for walking uphill to enjoy the first light of the day. The rainy season from June to October also has its charm, as the surrounding nature along the pathway and around the temple turns lush and full of life.
Q&A about Wat Saphan Hin, Sukhothai Historical Park
How tall is the standing Buddha image at Wat Saphan Hin?
The standing Buddha image at Wat Saphan Hin, known as Phra Attharot, is 12 meters tall.
Is there an entrance fee for Wat Saphan Hin?
Wat Saphan Hin is located in the western zone of Sukhothai Historical Park, with an entrance fee of 120 THB or a combined ticket of 400 THB for access to all zones of the park.
Is the climb to Wat Saphan Hin difficult for visitors?
The climb to Wat Saphan Hin is not difficult. It’s a short 200-meter walk, and most visitors reach the top in about 10-15 minutes at a relaxed pace.
Why is Wat Saphan Hin significant in Sukhothai?
Wat Saphan Hin is significant because it is one of Sukhothai’s most iconic hilltop temples and is also famed as one of the best viewpoints to watch the sunrise over the historical park.
Find More Hidden Gems in Sukhothai, Thailand
- Sukhothai Historical Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site Worth Visiting
- Inspiring Things to Do in Sukhothai, Thailand’s First Capital
- Ramkhamhaeng National Park: Where Every Step Leads to Serenity
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