Golden Buddha




The large golden Buddha is at Wat Khao Chedi Wisai Tri Rattanaram some 20km south of Chumphon town. It is easy to see as it's sitting on a small hill overlooking Highway 41 (Asian Highway 2), some 10km after the Thung Kha PTT gas station.
There is a concrete road at the back of the hill so it is possible to drive up to the Buddha. At the front of the hill are steps if you feel more energetic. Not a big climb, about 50 steps.
At the top it is possible to walk all the way around the Buddha. 
Behind the Golden Buddha are these Monk statues.
At this elevated position you get a good view over the plantations eastwards, looking towards the sea.
A number of years ago work started a the side of the Golden Buddha building what looked like a giant offering bowl. It remained unfinished for a number of years and was eventually demolished. The based however remains and that's been made into a viewing platform.
If you still have energy after those steps it is possible to have a nice walk all the way around the hill at the lower level. Most of the way is under trees giving shade from the sun.
The best view of the golden Buddha is by going down road No. 2010 for about 400m.
Not too sure how old the Buddha statue is but it was not always golden. This photo is from 2003.
Found these rather good aerial shots on the Net.

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