Phra That Phanom

Phra That Phanom Review

Between Nakhon Phanom (50 km/31 mi south) and Mukdahan (40 km/25 mi north) is the laid-back village of That Phanom, of note mainly as the site of northeast Thailand's most revered shrine. No one knows just when Phra That Phanom was built, though archaeologists believe its foundations were in place by the 5th century. The temple has been rebuilt several times, most recently after it completely collapsed in 1975. Its chedi now stands 171 feet high, with a decorative tip of gold that weighs more than 20 pounds. The shape of the structure is characteristic of Lao Buddhist architecture. A small museum houses the shrine's ancient bells and relics, including the supposed collarbone of the Buddha. Droves of devotees attend an annual festival, usually held in February. The normally sleepy town comes to life as thousands fill the narrow streets. The town of That Phanom has lovely Mekong views and friendly riverside restaurants. Few tourists make it here, so those who do are warmly welcomed.

From Nakhon Phanom, buses run from the bus station to That Phanom hourly (B50; 1 hour).