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Khao Samo Khon in Lopburi Province is an important destination for historical, archaeological, and religious tourism in Thailand. Located in Khao Samo Khon Subdistrict, this area is widely referenced in Thai academic sources as a site rich in historical significance. The landscape is characterized by a mountain range filled with traces of the past and numerous important archaeological remains.

 

Khao Samo Khon is closely associated with “Sukkatanta Hermit”, who is believed to have been the teacher of King Ramkhamhaeng the Great of Sukhothai and Phaya Ngam Mueang of Phayao. Both rulers are said to have studied various disciplines at this location, making Khao Samo Khon regarded as an ancient center of learning.

 

The area consists of four important temples: Wat Bandai Sam Saen, Wat Tham Tako Phutthasopha, Wat Tham Chang Phueak, and Wat Khao Samo Khon. Each temple has its own distinctive architectural style and religious significance.

 

Wat Bandai Sam Saen features important ancient structures, including a vihara located in front of a cave and an old ordination hall built in the Ayutthaya period. Meanwhile, Wat Tham Tako Phutthasopha has an ordination hall constructed in 1914, with interior mural paintings influenced by Burmese art, along with a distinctive boat-shaped pagoda.

 

Wat Khao Samo Khon houses a twelve-cornered pagoda and a small cave known as the “Reclining Buddha Cave,” where a reclining Buddha image is enshrined. This site is a key attraction for both tourists and pilgrims who come to pay respect.

 

At the foot of the mountain, ancient earthen dams and reservoirs have been discovered, believed to date back to the 18th Buddhist century. These structures demonstrate advanced engineering knowledge and water management techniques of the past.

 

King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) visited this site during his royal journey in 1905, further emphasizing the national significance of Khao Samo Khon.

 

Getting There can be done by taking Highway 311 (Lopburi – Singburi) to kilometer marker 18, then turning onto Highway 3028 and continuing for approximately 12 kilometers. Alternatively, visitors can take public transportation to Tha Khlong Market and hire a local vehicle to reach the site.

 

 

A: It is located in Khao Samo Khon Subdistrict, Lopburi Province, Thailand.

 

A: It is a historical site associated with ancient hermits and early Thai kings, as well as religious and archaeological significance.

 

A: There are four main temples: Wat Bandai Sam Saen, Wat Tham Tako Phutthasopha, Wat Tham Chang Phueak, and Wat Khao Samo Khon.

 

A: You can travel via Highway 311, then continue on Highway 3028, or take public transport to Tha Khlong Market and continue locally.

 

A: It is suitable for history enthusiasts, cultural travelers, and those interested in nature and religious sites.