Wat Saphan Hin, Sukhothai

On a hill overlooking the old city stands one of Sukhothai's most beautiful Buddha images, the Phra Attharot Buddha of Wat Saphan Hin. The temple's name translates to "stone bridge", which comes from the slate stone pathway that makes the climb to the top of the hill only slightly easier. The path is about 300 meters long. There is a stone platform with a small square stupa on it about two-thirds of the way up.

The large (about 12.5 meters high) Buddha images stands in the remains of a prayer hall at the crest of the hill. He gazes out over the old city with a face that displays a peaceful strength. According to the inscription on the stone pillar found by the future King Mongkut at Sukhothai, King Ramkamhaeng would ride his white elephant up to Wat Saphan Hin on the full moon to pay his respects to this Buddha.

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