If you drive south of Hua Hin along Phetkasem Road, just after going passed Vana Nava Water Jungle you’ll see a temple high up on a hill on your left. It’s easy to spot because of all the flags flying around it. This is Wat Khao Sanam Chai, and is known for its awesome views.
The entrance to the temple is just before Hua Hin Soi 95. You’ll see the following sign for the temple at the entrance.
You can drive up to the temple, although the parking at the top is very limited. The road up is quite steep. If you walk up from the main road it should take about 10-15 minutes.
Once you get to the main area, the ubosot (ordination hall) will be on one side, while the chedi (a Buddhist stupa) will on the other side at the end of a long path. The main viewing point is near the chedi,
To get to the chedi, just follow the colorful flags. There is a concrete path that goes all the way, so it’s an easy walk for almost everyone.
Along the way you’ll see this shrine on your right. The chedi is just a little further along.
Unfortunately, the chedi was being painted when we visited, so it was covered in scaffolding. We’ll head back at a later date to take a photo without the scaffolding.
Next to the cgedi is a small shrine with what we were told was a Buddha footprint.
From the chedi platform you can see the ubosot in the distance.
The tall building on the right hand side of the ubosot is Holiday Inn hotel.
At the bottom of the step leading up to the chedi you’ll see the sign for the view point. Be very careful in this area, as it can get quite windy and there is a huge drop. Stay away from the edges of the rocks.
The views from here are amazing. Above you can see the Khao Takiab area. The hill is Khao Takiab, and there is also a temple at the top that we plan to visit later this week.
Above is a close view of Khao Takiab and the Gulf of Thailand beyond.
Above is Hua Don Bay, which is just south of Khao Takiab hill. There are two small islands just offshore.
Bonus Find – Oriental Whip Snake
On our walk to the chedi we saw a beautiful Oriental Whip Snake. Click the link to see more images and a video of the snake.
Wat Khao Sanam Chai Views
The main reason many visit this temple is for the amazing views, so here are three videos of what you can see. A popular time to visit is at sunset, as the views are said to be pretty exceptional.
If you want fantastic views of Hua Hin, Wat Khao Sanam Chai is the place to head to.