Phu Huai Isan view in Nong Khai province.

Experience religious destinations in Thailand’s Udon, Nong Khai provinces

A new 3-day, 2-night travel programme in Udon Thani and Nong Khai provinces in Thailand invites visitors to experience a spiritual anchor through an itinerary themed “Seek for luck, and travel to boost energy”.
Visitors can easily arrange their travel from Vientiane to Udon Thani and Nong Khai through the first Lao-Thai friendship bridge as well as Lao-Thai passenger trains from Vientiane (Khamsavath Station). 

Thepponpradittaram Temple in capital district, Nong Khai.

Bird’s eye view of Vat Pa Phu Kon.

The travel plan features a diverse and fascinating programme, comprising:
Day 1:
-  Worship at the Thai Arahant Stupa: Experience the breath of Arahants at the Thai Arahant Stupa Museum, which houses over 400 Arahant relics from across Thailand. The purpose is to pay homage to parents, teachers, and Arahants. The place allows the public to visit and worship for merit-making. This Unseen New Series attraction in Udon operates from 8am to 4:30pm, but is closed every Monday.
-  Phra That Bang Phuan: Worship at this sacred site, which features a replica of seven significant sites, one of three in the world related to Buddhist history.
-  Visit the Prako Community: Explore the ancient city of Prakho, known for the legendary love story of Nang Usa and Thao Baros. Participate in local activities such as making flower garlands for ancient Buddha images and crafting “swan floating lanterns” for love prayers. Enjoy local cuisine and shop for community products.
-  Thep Phon Praditaram Temple: An Unseen New Series site in Nong Khai, this ancient temple was once a prosperous city with beautiful remnants of Buddhist art, including twin stupas and stone markers. Thepponpradittaram Temple Viangkook, capital district, Nong Khai: the Unseen New Series of Nong Khai province. It is an ancient temple, located in Viangkook village which was once a city that flourished greatly, leaving behind beautiful remnants of Buddhist art, as well as ancient sites and cultural artefacts from the Lane Xang period, such as the twin stupas and stone markers.
-  Vat Phoan Pong Wanaram, capital district, Nong Khai province, features important highlights such as the ‘Sim Kham,’ the ordination hall that houses the Phra Buddha Mahajakkrapat, the largest Buddha statue in Nong Khai province, and the ‘Sim Isan’, which is adorned with beautiful golden patterns reflecting the cultures of Lane Xang and Lan Na.
-  Vat Tham Si Mongkhon in Sangkhom district, Nong Khai, is believed to be a link between the underwater city and the human world.
-   Watch the Sunset at SkyWalk, Vat Pha Tak Suea: This glass walkway extends over a cliff, offering a 180-degree view of the Mekong River.
Day 2:
- Sunrise at Phu Huai Isan: Take a tractor ride to see the sunrise from 5:30am-6am. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the peak. Have a meal in the forest and explore Khiri Wongkot village, surrounded by lush mountains in Nam Som-Na Young National Park. Experience local life through various activities like hiking and waterfall visits.
-  Vat Pa Pho Kon: A beautifully designed temple surrounded by mountains featuring a white marble reclining Buddha statue and intricate decorations depicting Buddha’s teachings.

Vat Tham Si Mongkhon in Sangkhom district, Nong Khai province.

Khiri Wongkot village.

- Phu Phra Bat Historical Park: A historical site showcasing unique rock formations and evidence of prehistoric human activities over an area of more than 3,000 rai.
Day 3:
- Morning almsgiving at Ban Jik Forest Temple. Every morning, people gather for almsgiving in front of this temple in Udon Thani.
-  Thai-Chinese Cultural Center (Poo-Yah Shrine): The exterior features a “24 Gratefulness Garden” amidst auspicious trees and a carp pond. Inside the museum, discover stories of Thai-Chinese immigrants who settled in Udon Thani 120 years ago, through a 3D film depicting their faith and historical trade activities.
-  Stop by Bobbin Craft, a community for craft lovers, which serves as a vibrant centre for weavers, dyers, and designers in the five provinces of the Isan region. It showcases the power of creativity, ready to keep pace with the world of art and fashion. Open daily from 10:30am to 8pm.
- Don’t forget to shop for fabric souvenirs at the Na Kha Market.

By Advertorial Desk
 (Latest Update August 30, 2024)