Phra Pathom Chedi is the dominant landmark of Nakhon Pathom province and one of the most important religious sites in Thailand. The stupa's orange-glazed dome rises 127 metres from its base — taller than St Paul's Cathedral in London — and can be seen from well outside the town. The surrounding temple complex (Wat Phra Pathom Chedi) is spacious and well-maintained, with four viharns at the cardinal points, a museum inside the base of the chedi, and numerous smaller shrines and spirit houses in the grounds.
The inner gallery that circles the base of the chedi contains a walking circuit with Buddha images at intervals, a cool and meditative space even when the outer grounds are busy. The museum inside the base holds archaeological finds from the site and artefacts relating to the early history of Buddhism in Southeast Asia. The chedi is active as a pilgrimage site, particularly on Buddhist holy days, when candle-lit processions circle the structure. Remove shoes before entering the inner temple areas.