Phu Thok - Bueng Kan

This trip was inspired by a desire to visit Wat Phu Thok and Bueng Kan province. This time, we traveled by bus with Air Udon company, taking the route that passes through Sri Wilai district. We departed from Mo Chit at 10:30 PM on a comfortable 3-row bus with large seats. The bus also provided meals.

The car first stopped in Udon Thani before continuing on to Sri Wilai District at 6:00 AM. The car conveniently parked in front of a convenience store, near which there were several restaurants. We stopped for breakfast before 6:30 AM. We spoke with Uncle Skylab, who agreed to take us to Wat Phu Tok and back for 200 baht. The distance from the entrance to the temple is approximately 20 kilometers.

Upon arriving at Phu Thok Temple, you will be greeted by this sign at the parking lot.

The Jetiyakhiri Wihan Temple, also known as Phu Tok, stands at a towering height of 460 meters from base to summit. Its ascent is marked by seven distinct levels, with the sixth level measuring 800 meters in circumference. Founded by Venerable Ajahn Juan Kulcheto, the temple marks the starting point for the arduous climb to the peak of Phu Tok. Pilgrims must ascend a wooden staircase, meticulously constructed over five years through the unwavering dedication of monks, novices, and local villagers.

The ascent requires caution due to slippery wooden planks. We arrived at 6:30 AM, and the wood was still wet. Please be aware that this is a temple, and visitors should adhere to the temple's regulations displayed on the sign before ascending.

Start walking on the 1st floor. Stairs to the 2nd floor.

The second floor remains a staircase to the third floor.

The third level, which begins as a circular bridge around the mountain, is densely forested with rocky outcrops and stone platforms. At the end of the third level, there is a fork in the path. The left path is a shortcut to the fifth level, which is very steep and passes through a tunnel-like gap in the rocks. The right path leads to the fourth level.

We opted for the challenging right path, which offered a steep but enjoyable climb. (We chose to descend via the other route on our return.)

The fourth floor is a skywalk that winds around the mountain.

The fifth floor houses a large pavilion, Buddha statues, monks' quarters, and the remains of Venerable Ajahn Juan. The area is suitable for meditation and religious practice.

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A natural stone bridge leads to a Buddhist temple housing relics. The bridge is formed by a detached rock that miraculously remains suspended, perfectly balanced against the ground. A wooden bridge now connects the stone bridge to the temple, offering a clear view of the majestic Phu Tok mountain range.

The 6th floor features a 400-meter-long wooden walkway that offers stunning panoramic views.

The seventh floor features a wooden staircase leading to a slightly cluttered area offering stunning panoramic views.

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Descending to the 5th floor, we opted for the opposite exit (on the other side of the entrance), offering a different perspective.

After descending, I walked around the temple again.

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The time had come to meet with Uncle Skylab. He drove me back to the original spot and even hailed a public bus for me, giving the driver all the necessary instructions. The bus fare to the city was 20 baht. From the bus stop, I walked to my accommodation, the Mae Nam Hotel, which is located on the banks of the Mekong River, separated only by a road. I got a room on the 3rd floor with a view of the Mekong River for 500 baht.

The view from the hotel room window clearly shows the Mekong River.

It's time to explore the Mekong River.

As dusk settled, we stumbled upon a charming cafe offering milk and toast. After placing our order, we settled in for a while. Soon, a large group of children arrived and opted for the riverside seating. Had they not chosen that spot, our wait would have been considerably longer.

After indulging in a sweet treat, we returned to our accommodation to freshen up and relax before heading down for dinner. The hotel's kitchen offered a convenient and affordable option for our evening meal. We opted for a simple yet satisfying spread, consisting of a spicy tom yum soup with prawns, a flavorful catfish dish, a side of stir-fried beef with oyster sauce, a bowl of rice, and a bottle of Coke. The total cost for this satisfying feast amounted to a mere 160 baht.

After a satisfying meal, I retired to my bed, feeling the exhaustion of the day melt away as I drifted into a peaceful slumber.

The next morning, we had time to walk along the Mekong River and visit the local market before it closed.

Most fresh markets are for fresh produce. We loved the Vietnamese pancake.

After satisfying their hunger, they continued exploring the city, starting with a visit to Wat Buppharam Ratchaworawihan.

Continue walking to Wat Si Sophan Thammatham.

Returned to the accommodation to collect belongings before continuing the journey to Nong Khai.

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