Readme before you journey
"The view is ours, the mountains belong to Laos."
Having reviewed many travel destinations, today I would like to take you on a tour of my hometown. It may be a long read, but I assure you it will be comprehensive and enjoyable.
If you have the opportunity to visit Nakhon Phanom, you will surely fall in love with this small town on the banks of the Mekong River. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains in Laos across the river. Nakhon Phanom is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the cool season, from November to February.
For those seeking spiritual merit, Nakhon Phanom offers both the Phra That for the Year of the Monkey and the Phra That for each of the seven days of the week, allowing you to pay respects and make offerings to enhance your auspiciousness and well-being.
Travel
Transportation options include airplanes and buses. You can also drive your own car or rent one here.
There are also vans available for one-day temple tours.
Accommodation
There are now many affordable hotels and accommodations to choose from. You can select your preferred location.
As a local, I recommend staying at a place by the Mekong River. Not only can you enjoy the sunrise, but there are also other activities to do, such as offering sticky rice to monks, jogging in the morning or evening, or cycling (there are rental shops nearby).
With a dedicated cycling lens for cyclists, I must say the atmosphere is fantastic.
For photography enthusiasts, we have a recommended spot. In the morning, drive out of the city on the Nakhon Phanom-Tha Uthen road. You will find the 3rd Mekong River Bridge (Nakhon Phanom - Kham Muon). Turn right and go under the bridge.
This angle
Approximately 100 meters after the bridge on the main road, there will be a gravel path on the left-hand side.
Approximately 300 meters ahead, you will find a left turn. This is the location where the image was captured.
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Returning to the city's riverfront in the morning, you will be greeted by this kind of atmosphere.
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For those who wish to visit various sacred relics, a one-day trip is sufficient. However, if time permits, consider dedicating one day to exploring the surrounding districts and another to experiencing the city center. This allows for a more leisurely pace and ample time to browse the local markets for traditional clothing and OTOP products. Notably, the areas around Wat Phra That Phanom and Wat Phra That Renu offer a particularly wide selection of such goods.
"Phra That Phanom"
Buddha Relics for Sunday Birthdays
Located in That Phanom District, 53 kilometers from the city center, the temple is the designated sacred site for those born in the year of the monkey. It serves as a symbol of the city and a spiritual center for the people of Nakhon Phanom, as well as for residents of Isan and Laos, who visit to pay respects and seek blessings for auspiciousness and prosperity in their lives.
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Throughout the day, a large number of Thai and Lao Buddhists came to pay their respects.
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"Relic of the Lord Buddha"
Birthplace of the Buddha on Monday
A replica of the original Phra That Phanom, but smaller in size. Inside, it contains the Tripitaka, Buddha statues, and valuable ancient artifacts. It is located at Wat Phra That Renu in Renu Nakhon District, approximately 14 kilometers from Phra That Phanom.
It is believed that those who come to pay respects will be charming, beautiful, and radiant.
People in Loei prefer to wear local cotton clothing. In front of Phra That Loei Temple, there are many community shops selling local clothing at reasonable prices. Don't forget to stop by and support them.
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If you visit the city of Roi Et, be sure to try the local dishes "Khao Pun Pla Dag Nua" (rice noodles with spicy fish sauce), "Khao Pun Nam Ga Pi" (rice noodles with shrimp paste soup), or "Khao Chin Nam Pla Ra-Ga Pi" (rice noodles with fermented fish and shrimp paste soup). These dishes are especially recommended for those who enjoy Som Tam Pla Ra (spicy papaya salad with fermented fish) or have tried Tam Dong Daeng (spicy papaya salad with fermented fish and shrimp paste) from Loei province.
"Sri Khun Pagoda"
The Reliquary for Those Born on Tuesday
This sentence refers to a specific Buddhist reliquary associated with individuals born on a Tuesday.
Located in Na Kae district, approximately 25 kilometers from Wat Phra That Renu, the stupa enshrines the relics of the Arahant Sariputta and Moggallana, the chief disciples of the Buddha.
It is believed that those who pay their respects will receive multiplied blessings and strengthen their fighting spirit.
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"Great Victory Pagoda"
Relic for Wednesday's Birthdays
The pagoda is located at Wat Khositharam in Pla Pak district, approximately 40 kilometers from Nakhon Si Thammarat city. Inside, it enshrines the relics of the Buddha and the Arahant Sariputta, the first ordained monk in Buddhism. King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit presided over the ceremony to enshrine the relics in 1975.
It is believed that those who pay homage to the Phra That Mahachai will experience victory in life, have eloquent speech, successful trade, and be trusted by others.
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This temple houses the remains of Luang Pu Kham Pan, a respected Vipassana meditation master in Nakhon Phanom. It also features a magnificent ordination hall.
Translation:
A Buddha statue in the attitude of pacifying relatives, carved from the wood of the sweet neem tree.
Phra That Prasit
Relic for those born on Thursday
Located at Wat Phra That Prasit in Na Wa district, approximately 90 kilometers from Nakhon Si Thammarat city.
The ancient pagoda was discovered by the Yao people, who fled from the war and jointly restored it in 1569. They named it "Phra That Phrasit".
It is believed that those who pay their respects will be blessed with success in their careers.
The Holy Relics of Tha Uthen
The Holy Relics of Tha Uthen
Relic for those born on Friday
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The temple is located at Wat Phra That Tha Uthen, Tha Uthen District, approximately 26 kilometers from Nakhon Si Thammarat city. Inside, it enshrines Buddhist relics invited from Yangon, as well as Buddha statues and valuables offered by devotees. It is believed that those who pay homage to this stupa will have a prosperous life, like the rising sun at dawn.
The Holy Relics of Nakhon Si Thammarat
Relic of the Saturday
The Phra That Maha That is located in the city center and follows the design of the original Phra That Phanom. Inside, it houses the relics of the Arahant, along with a golden Buddha statue and various valuables donated by the faithful.
It is believed that those who pay homage to this sacred relic will be blessed with merit and power, and will become leaders of people.
Whether you stay in the city center or not, you can visit this temple first or last, depending on your convenience.
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Since you are already in Nakhon Phanom, you should try taking a boat across the river to visit Thakhek, Khammouane Province, Laos.
The pier is located opposite the Indochina Market. For those without a passport, a Border Pass can be obtained for 30 baht. The boat ticket costs 60 baht, and the landing fee in Laos is 100 baht. The last return boat departs at 6 pm.
It's up to you when you want to go.
This is a typical passenger ferry.
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"Sri Kotabaong Reliquary"
In the town of Thakhek, there is a sacred stupa that is a symbol of the Khamouane Province, known as the "Phra That Sri Kotabong" or "Phra That Muang Kao." This stupa is considered the sister stupa of Phra That Phanom and is located approximately 5 kilometers from the center of Thakhek. To reach the stupa, visitors can hire a three-wheeled motorbike, locally known as a tuk-tuk. The fare is negotiable, and the author paid 500 baht after initially being quoted 800 baht.
For Thai citizens, there is an entrance fee for this temple.
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The principal Buddha image in the ordination hall
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An evening atmosphere at the rim of the dam in Mueang Tha Khaek.
The view of the Nakhorn Phanom Pagoda and the Nakhorn Phanom side during sunset is truly breathtaking.
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The last boat leaves at 6 pm.
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The walking street is located right at the pier across the river. It is open every Friday to Sunday.
The cuisine features Vietnamese and local dishes at affordable prices.
Fried spring rolls
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Fresh Spring Rolls
This is steamed herbal rice.
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"Phraya Sri Satta Naracha"
Legends from the banks of the Mekong River tell of the seven-headed serpent king, Phaya Sri Satta Na Krarach, who reigns over the Laotian side of the river, and the single-headed serpent king, Phaya Sri Sutho Na Krarach, who rules over the Thai side. The people of Nakhon Phanom believe that these serpent kings protect the people on both sides of the Mekong River.
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"Vietnamese Memorial Clock Tower"
The clock tower was built by Vietnamese residents of Nakhon Phanom province in 1960 as a memorial before returning to Vietnam following Ho Chi Minh's orders after winning the civil war when the French were defeated in the Battle of Dien Bien Phu. The area is also home to a walking street on Fridays and Sundays and is a popular nightlife spot for young people in the area.
Skylab tuk-tuks, a symbol of Nakhon Ratchasima city.
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The King in Our Hearts
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Old Governor's Residence Museum
Located on Sunthonvichit Road (along the Mekong River Road)
Opening hours: Wednesday - Sunday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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The Governor's Residence Museum of Nakhon Phanom: A Legacy of Western Architectural Influence
The Governor's Residence Museum of Nakhon Phanom stands as a testament to the region's historical ties with Western architectural styles. Built between 1912 and 1914, the building reflects the influence of French colonial architecture, prevalent during the Indochina Wars. Originally the private residence of Phraya Adundetcharat Siammethesworaphakdiphiriyapha (Ui Nakornthap), the first governor of Nakhon Phanom, the structure showcases unique construction techniques.
Crafted by Vietnamese artisans, the building's upper and lower floors are devoid of pillars, relying instead on traditional wooden joinery techniques. This intricate approach, known as "entering the wood," eliminates the need for nails, highlighting the ingenuity and craftsmanship of its builders.
Subsequently, Phraya Adulyadet sold this building to the Ministry of Interior for use as the governor's residence in 1927 for 20,000 baht. Between November 12-13, 1955, King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit visited the people in the Northeast. The province therefore arranged for this mansion to be their overnight accommodation.
"Church of Saint Anne, Nong Saeng"
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The Church of Saint Anne is a distinctive twin-towered Christian church with soaring spires visible from afar. Built in 1926 by Father Édouard Namlap, the church originally had a side building used for religious ceremonies. However, during the Franco-Thai War, French bombs damaged the building. Subsequently, a new church was constructed to continue serving the religious needs of the Christian community, which remains in use today.
Open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
For stunning photos with clear skies and minimal glare, mornings are highly recommended.
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Alternatively, you could capture the sunset.
Uncle Ho's House or Ho Chi Minh's House
Located in Ban Na Chok, approximately 4 kilometers from the city center.
(Open 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM, free admission, donations welcome)
Translation:
During the years 1928-1929, former President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh, resided in this house. The house belonged to a close friend and comrade from Vietnam who had a family in Thailand. Uncle Ho used this house as a base to plan and recruit supporters for Vietnam's struggle for independence from France during the war.
Seeing this made me realize how simple a person you are. The caretaker told me that you enjoy planting trees.
The area around this house is shaded by trees.
Inside Uncle Ho's residence, there are three rooms: two bedrooms and one living room. Currently, there are many household items from the past, such as a desk, bedroom, and opium pipe. Inside, there are also pictures related to the biography of President Ho Chi Minh.
The mortar and pestle were used by people in the past to pound rice husks.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Located approximately 500 meters from the house where Uncle Ho once resided.
Following a significant event in 2014, the Vietnamese government allocated 30 billion VND (approximately 45 million THB) to Nakhon Phanom province and the Thai-Vietnamese Association for the construction of the "Ho Chi Minh Memorial." This monument serves as a tribute to President Ho Chi Minh's legacy.
Gate archway
Traditional Chinese costumes are available for rent and purchase for photo shoots at a cost of 100 baht per set.
The props include a hat and a veil.
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Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Inside, there is a statue of President Ho Chi Minh.
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In addition, there is a building exhibiting Ho Chi Minh's biography and wax figures, as well as a replica of his original house.
Giant Rain Tree at Chom Si Temple
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A new unseen attraction in Krapong Nom, located in Ban Nam Khao, approximately 26 kilometers from the city center.
Using my brother as a Hipster model. 5555
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"Eating place"
Nong Khai offers a culinary experience that blends the flavors of the Mekong River with Vietnamese influences. While home cooking is prevalent, the local market provides a variety of options for those seeking authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Among the popular dishes are "ปากหม้อญวน" (steamed rice rolls), "ปอเปี๊ยะสด" (fresh spring rolls), and "ปอเปี๊ยะทอด" (fried spring rolls). A highly recommended establishment is "ร้านสองอนงค์," a market stall specializing in these delicacies.
If you're looking to take your friends out for a meal, R-Restaurant is a great option. The food is delicious and the prices are reasonable.
Note: The Vietnamese kitchen closes at 3 pm. If you'd like to try Vietnamese pizza, Vietnamese pancakes, or Vietnamese spring rolls, come early. Other Thai dishes are available as usual.
Souvenir shop
Our go-to shop for delicious "Moo Yor" (Northern Thai fermented pork sausage). The quality is exceptional, as evidenced by the high demand reflected in the large pile of products on the right-hand side. Don't miss out on this culinary gem!
To conclude our review, we encourage you to support local products and OTOP goods to help the people of Nakhon Phanom earn a living in their hometown. We highly recommend visiting Nakhon Phanom, as it is a city you should not miss. Don't forget to wear stylish Thai clothes and walk along the Mekong River in style. Thank you.
Justsmile
Wednesday, February 26, 2025 9:12 PM
